California offers 11 PMHNP programs with local campus presence, spanning costs from approximately $12,600 to $170,170 depending on degree type and institution. Whether you’re seeking an affordable certificate, a comprehensive MSN, or a doctoral-level DNP, California provides diverse options across prestigious universities and specialized nursing schools.
Azusa Pacific University PMHNP Programs
Azusa | $895 cpc | Certificate
Azusa Pacific University offers two PMHNP pathways: a Postgraduate Certificate and an Entry-Level Master’s (ELM-MSN) with a PMHNP specialty. The certificate costs about $38,485 and takes about 1.5 to 2 years part-time, while the ELM-MSN costs about $48,330 to $50,120 and takes about 2 to 3 years including prelicensure coursework. Both options use a 43–56 unit plan that covers advanced practice core content, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, and embedded clinical training across the lifespan...read more.
Charles R Drew PMHNP Programs
Los Angeles | $722 cpc | Certificate / MSN
These PMHNP programs focus on training clinicians to serve underserved populations with clinical placements at sites such as Kedren Acute Psychiatric Hospital, UCLA Neuropsychiatry, KECK USC, and Harbor UCLA. The MSN PMHNP track uses a five-semester plan and includes 630 clinical hours that increase each term as students move into deeper psychotherapy and practicum work. The post-master’s PMHNP certificate offers a similar clinical progression and credential preparation in a shorter timeline for eligible students, using weekend-intensive instruction and a 4–5 semester plan...read more.
Fresno State PMHNP Programs
Fresno | $600 cpc | Certificate
California State University, Fresno offers a one-year, fully online Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificate of Advanced Study that costs about $12,600 and spans three semesters from January to December. The 21-unit, cohort-based curriculum combines four theory courses and three practicum courses focused on psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, primary care mental health, and management of psychiatric conditions across the lifespan, including special populations. Students complete 540 supervised clinical hours (mostly direct patient care) in diverse settings such as outpatient and inpatient psychiatry, rehab centers, correctional facilities, and telehealth sites, typically scheduling 12–16 clinical hours per week. The program is CCNE-accredited, BRN-approved, requires applicants to hold an MSN or higher with advanced 3P courses and active California NP/RN licensure, and prepares graduates for national PMHNP certification through AANP or ANCC...read more.
National University PMHNP Programs
San Diego | $450 cpc | Certificate / MSN
National University’s CCNE- and WSCUC-accredited PMHNP pathways are delivered 100% online with flexible pacing, paired with in-person, precepted practicums arranged at faculty-approved sites. Learners complete one on-site meeting for each NP practicum course and 3–4 one-day OSCEs (virtual or at the Costa Mesa campus), while building competencies in advanced assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifespan psychiatric care. The curriculum culminates in a PMHNP capstone and prepares graduates for national certification and contemporary, technology-enabled behavioral health practice...read more.
San Diego University PMHNP Programs
San Diego | $2,210 cpc | DNP
The MSN PMHNP plan includes MSN core, APRN core, and PMHNP specialty courses that cover assessment, pharmacology, and psychotherapy skills, plus 768 clinical hours across four practicums. The BSN-to-DNP PMHNP adds DNP coursework and a scholarly project focus, with 1,000 total clinical hours that include direct care and project-related hours. The Post-Master’s to DNP track targets master’s-prepared nurses who want doctoral training in clinical and translational science and health system change, without NP or CNS certification...read more.
Touro University PMHNP Programs
Vallejo | $1,090 cpc | Certificate
Touro University California offers a Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificate in a hybrid format that is about 90% online with periodic on-campus intensives. The 37–38 credit program costs an estimated $40,420–$41,420, takes about 20–22 months to complete, and includes 750 clinical hours across inpatient, outpatient, emergency, community, and specialty behavioral health settings. Graduates are prepared to care for psychiatric patients across the lifespan, meet NONPF PMHNP competencies, apply for California NP certification with furnishing privileges, and sit for national PMHNP board exams...read more.
UC Davis PMHNP Programs
Sacramento | $956.77 cpc | Certificate
UC Davis offers a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Postgraduate Certificate through its School of Nursing in Sacramento, California. The 12-month hybrid program costs about $45,925 and uses asynchronous online courses, three virtual immersion sessions, and UC-coordinated clinical placements across California. The 48-unit plan emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy skills, role development, and a PMHNP clinical residency, with at least 500 supervised clinical hours completed over about 11 months. The UC-wide program was developed with UC Irvine, UCSF, and UCLA to help reduce California’s mental health provider shortage and prepare APRNs for ANCC PMHNP board certification...read more.
UCLA PMHNP Programs
Los Angeles | $440 cpc | Certificate
UCLA School of Nursing, in collaboration with UC Davis, UC Irvine, and UCSF, offers a 12-month hybrid PMHNP Post-Graduate Certificate delivered primarily online with three virtual immersions and weekly clinical case conferences. The 48-unit, full-time program spans four consecutive quarters and covers psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, psychotherapy modalities, sociocultural and structural determinants of mental health, and telehealth practice. Students complete at least 500 supervised clinical hours in regional placements across California and graduate prepared to sit for the ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Across the Lifespan) board certification exam...read more.
UCSF PMHNP Programs
San Francisco | $950 cpc | Certificate / DNP
UCSF School of Nursing offers a BSN-entry DNP PMHNP track and a UC collaborative PMHNP Post-Master’s Certificate, combining online coursework with in-person or regional clinical placements across California. The BSN to DNP PMHNP program uses an 11-quarter hybrid format with 43–71 required units, core DNP leadership and evidence-based practice courses, specialty PMHNP content, and a DNP Project built across several quarters plus at least 1,000 post-baccalaureate practice hours. The 12-month UC PMHNP Certificate includes 48 units of advanced psychiatric coursework, three virtual immersion sessions, weekly virtual case conferences, and coordinated clinical experiences for APRNs seeking PMHNP certification...read more.
University of San Francisco PMHNP Programs
San Francisco | $1,635 cpc | BSN to DNP / DNP
University of San Francisco offers three PMHNP pathways through its School of Nursing & Health Professions: a BSN-to-DNP, an MSN-to-DNP, and a Post-Doctoral PMHNP Certificate. Programs use a hybrid format with twice-monthly Teaching Weekends on the San Francisco campus combined with online coursework. The BSN-to-DNP and MSN-to-DNP tracks focus on advanced psychiatric care, leadership, and evidence-based practice, while meeting national PMHNP certification requirements. Students may also add a concurrent MPH option to complete both the DNP and MPH in five years...read more.
Vanguard University PMHNP Programs
Costa Mesa | $1,700 cpc | Certificate
Vanguard University offers a post-graduate PMHNP Certificate that is approximately $47,600 (28 units at $1,700/unit) and typically takes 1.5–2 years to complete full time. The 28-unit curriculum combines theory and practicum courses across the lifespan, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacology basics, and focused care for adults, older adults, children, young adults, and select high-need populations, with 16 units of clinical practicum embedded. Applicants must hold an MSN or DNP from an accredited institution, have an active, unencumbered California RN license, a minimum 3.0 graduate GPA, recent RN experience, completion of the three APRN core courses (or be in progress initially), and meet requirements such as BLS, immunizations, background check, references, and an interview. The CCNE-accredited APRN certificate prepares graduates for advanced psychiatric mental health practice in California and strengthens eligibility for national PMHNP certification...read more.
Walden University PMHNP Programs
Fully Online | Certificate / MSN / DNP
California nurses can pursue a Walden University PMHNP through fully online coursework that meets California’s board requirements for nurse practitioner programs. The Practicum Pledge and field office guide California students in arranging in-state clinical placements, while virtual skill labs foster hands-on competencies for patient assessment, therapy, and medication management. Graduates emerge eligible for national PMHNP certification and advanced practice roles in diverse California settings.
Western University PMHNP Programs
Pomona | $1,129 cpc | MSN / DNP
WesternU offers two PMHNP paths in a hybrid format with online coursework and regular on-campus seminar intensives in Pomona, CA. The DNP/PMHNP spans three years with a 71-credit plan and integrated clinical hours across diverse mental health settings. The Post-Master’s Certificate provides a 25-credit route to PMHNP certification in about 16 months for master’s-prepared nurses...read more.
Chamberlain MSN PMHNP Program
online | $735 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Chamberlain University offers two CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways—an MSN (~2.5 years) and a Graduate Certificate (~1.5 years)—delivered 100% online with 650 supervised practicum hours and dedicated preceptor support through the Practicum Commitment. California learners can tap on-the-ground resources at Chamberlain’s Sacramento campus (10971 Sun Center Dr., Rancho Cordova, CA 95670) and Irwindale campus (4910 Rivergrade Road, Irwindale, CA 91706) for student services, skills support, and regional clinical connections. The curriculum integrates advanced pathophysiology, psychopharmacology, psychiatric assessment/diagnosis, and psychotherapy, plus two required in-person immersions to build hands-on readiness for PMHNP practice.
How to Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in California
TL;DR: Quick Decision Guide
Choose CSU Fresno (Fresno State) if you want the most affordable certificate at $12,600 for one year with 540 clinical hours and current NP licensure.
Choose Azusa Pacific University if you need flexible certificate options at $38,485 with customizable clinical schedules for working professionals.
Choose National University if you want an accelerated MSN completion in 12-18 months with 100% online coursework and monthly campus OSCEs.
Choose UC Davis if you’re a licensed APRN seeking a prestigious UC Certificate in just 12 months with faculty-coordinated clinical placements statewide.
Choose University of San Diego if you want a 2-year MSN with 768 clinical hours and access to comprehensive clinical sites throughout Southern California.
Choose Western University if you need a DNP with 1,000 practice hours and pioneering web-based education designed for working professionals.
Choose UCSF if you want the prestige of a top-ranked nursing school with BSN to DNP or certificate options and Bay Area clinical placements.
Post-Graduate PMHNP Certificate Programs
Cost Overview
Certificate programs in California range from $12,600 to $47,600, with completion times between 12 months and 2 years depending on previous coursework and APRN status.
Most Affordable Certificates
CSU Fresno (Fresno State) offers the lowest-cost certificate at $12,600 for 21 units over one year (3 semesters). This program requires active California NP licensure with DEA authorization and includes 540 clinical hours. The cohort-based program runs January through December with mandatory on-campus intensive sessions.
Azusa Pacific University provides excellent value at $38,485 for 43 units over 1.5-2 years with flexible clinical placements at Azusa Main Campus and Inland Empire locations. The program accommodates working professionals’ schedules.
Touro University charges $40,420-$41,420 for 37-38 credits over 20-22 months (5 semesters) with 750 clinical hours across diverse behavioral health settings including street medicine and addiction treatment.
Fastest Certificate
CSU Fresno (Fresno State) and UC Davis both complete in 12 months full-time, making them the quickest certificate options.
Certificate Program Comparison
UC System Collaborative Certificate:
UC Davis, UCLA, and UCSF participate in a collaborative 48-unit certificate requiring 500+ clinical hours over 12 months. Costs range from $21,115 (California residents at UCLA) to $50,000-$60,000 (UCSF estimates). This program requires active California APRN licensure and features primarily online coursework with three virtual immersion sessions and faculty-coordinated statewide clinical placements.
National University offers 60 quarter units (approximately $40,740) over 12-18 months with 540-555 clinical hours. The hybrid program includes quarterly on-campus OSCEs in Costa Mesa and 100% online coursework.
Vanguard University provides 28 units for approximately $47,600 over 1.5-2 years with 16 clinical practicum units. Requires two years of RN experience and active California RN license.
Western University charges $31,801 for 25 credits over 16 months (4 semesters) with 675 precepted clinical hours. Features hybrid/online learning with intensive clinical simulation days.
MSN PMHNP Programs
Cost Overview
MSN programs range from $51,300 to $119,340 total, with completion times between 2-3 years.
MSN Program Analysis
National University costs approximately $51,300 for 87 quarter units (approximately 58 semester credits) over 2 years, though degree completion is possible in 12-18 months depending on course load. The program includes 510 practicum hours with 3-4 on-campus OSCEs and 100% online coursework.
University of San Diego charges approximately $119,340 (54 units × $2,210 per unit) for a 2-year MSN with 768 clinical hours. The program admits only California residents and provides comprehensive clinical placement support throughout Southern California.
Charles R. Drew University offers a 59-credit MSN for $106,500 over 2.5 years (5 semesters) with 630 clinical hours at prestigious facilities including Kedren Acute Psychiatric Hospital, UCLA Neuropsychiatry, KECK USC, and Harbor UCLA. The cohort-based program features Fall, Spring, and Summer start dates.
Fastest MSN Program
National University offers the fastest completion at 12-18 months depending on course load, making it significantly quicker than traditional 2-year programs.
DNP PMHNP Programs
Cost Overview
DNP programs range from $80,217 to $170,170 with completion times between 3-4 years.
Most Affordable DNP Programs
Western University offers the most affordable DNP at approximately $80,217 for 71 credits over 3 years with 1,000 total practice hours (675 PMHNP clinical + additional DNP hours). Features hybrid/online format with twice-per-semester practice intensives.
UCSF charges approximately $94,339 for California residents for BSN to DNP (11 quarters, approximately 2.75 years) with minimum 1,000 post-baccalaureate practice hours. The program is currently under California BRN review.
DNP Program Comparison
University of San Francisco costs $126,126 for BSN to DNP (77 units over 4 years) or $117,720 for MSN to DNP (72 units over 3 years). Both programs require 1,000 clinical hours and include DNP scholarly projects. Concurrent MPH degree available, completing both in 5 years.
University of San Diego charges approximately $170,170 (77 units × $2,210 per unit) for BSN to DNP over 3 years full-time (4 years part-time) with 1,000 supervised clinical hours. MSN to DNP costs $75,140 (34 units) over 2 years. Campus-based program requires minimum two days on-campus weekly.
Program Format Comparison
California-Based Programs with Campus Requirements
California institutions require California RN licensure and provide on-campus components including simulation labs, OSCEs, immersions, and clinical evaluations. These programs offer direct access to California clinical sites and state-specific APRN preparation.
Key California institutions: Azusa Pacific, Charles R. Drew, CSU Fresno, National University, University of San Diego, Touro University, UC Davis, UCLA, UCSF, University of San Francisco, Vanguard University, Western University.
Most California programs feature hybrid formats combining online coursework with periodic on-campus requirements:
- National University: Quarterly OSCEs in Costa Mesa
- CSU Fresno: One 8-hour on-campus intensive in January
- UC System: Three virtual immersion sessions
- Western University: Twice-per-semester practice intensives
Clinical Placement Support
California programs generally provide stronger clinical placement support than national online programs:
- UC System Collaborative: Faculty coordinate placements statewide
- Charles R. Drew: Established relationships with UCLA, USC, Harbor UCLA
- University of San Diego: Works closely with students for geographically accessible rotations
- National University: Faculty-approved sites with designated preceptors
- Western University: Placements arranged close to home throughout California
Special Considerations for California
California BRN Requirements: All programs must meet California Board of Registered Nursing standards for APRN certification and furnishing (prescribing) privileges.
Clinical Hour Requirements: Range from 500-768 hours for certificates/MSN to 1,000+ hours for DNP programs.
APRN Prerequisite: Several certificate programs require current California NP/APRN licensure (CSU Fresno, UC System), while others accept MSN-prepared nurses without APRN status.
Residency Restrictions: Most programs admit only California residents or those with California RN licensure, though some accept out-of-state students who can obtain California licensure.
National Online Options
Chamberlain University and Walden University accept California students for MSN and DNP programs with fully online coursework and local clinical placements. These programs offer asynchronous learning and established practicum support systems, typically requiring students to secure clinical sites with university support.
Chamberlain costs approximately $33,075 for MSN (2.5 years, 650 hours) or $25,725 for certificate (1.5 years). Walden charges $44,705 for MSN or $69,225-$74,405 for DNP programs with Practicum Pledge guarantees.