Connecticut PMHNP Programs

Connecticut offers 6 on-campus PMHNP programs alongside several national online options. Total program costs range from approximately $13,332 to $110,818 depending on your starting point (certificate vs. full degree) and institution choice.

List of Schools with Program Summaries for CT

Fairfield University PMHNP Programs

Fairfield | $1,100 cpc | MSN / DNP

Fairfield University offers two PMHNP tracks: a 59-credit MSN (~$60,770; ~3 years part-time) and a 78-credit DNP (~$91,650; ~3–4 years). Both are delivered on campus with state-of-the-art simulation and extensive clinical placements across Connecticut, totaling ~750 hours for the MSN and ~1,000 hours for the DNP. The programs emphasize holistic, trauma-informed care and hold strong national rankings, including a top-ranked MSN in the state...read more.

Goodwin University PMHNP Program

East Hartford | $949 cpc | MSN

Goodwin University’s CCNE-accredited MSN-PMHNP is a 50-credit, online program with two immersion weekends and 600 clinical hours, typically completed part-time in seven semesters (~3.5 years). Estimated tuition is about $52,000 ($949/credit), and eligible students may receive up to $10,000 in CT Health Horizons scholarships; no GRE is required. Designed for Connecticut RNs, the program blends flexible coursework with diverse clinical placements to prepare graduates for psychiatric mental health practice across the lifespan...read more.

Quinnipiac University PMHNP Programs

Hamden | $995 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Quinnipiac offers two PMHNP tracks delivered 100% online with three one-week on-campus immersions. The MSN requires 57 credits and allows a seamless DNP transition within two years; the certificate requires 34 credits for practicing NPs. The School reports strong outcomes and national recognition, and both tracks provide flexible pacing for working nurses...read more.

Sacred Heart University PMHNP Program

Fairfield | $955 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Sacred Heart University’s College of Nursing in Fairfield, Connecticut offers two CCNE-accredited Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner pathways: a 42-credit MSN track and a 21-credit Post-Master’s Certificate. Both programs are delivered online with small class sizes and include mandatory in-person residency components and 540 total clinical hours. The MSN track takes about 2.5 years full time, while the certificate can be completed in roughly 15 months. Graduates are prepared for national PMHNP certification and advanced practice licensure...read more.

University of Saint Joseph PMHNP Programs

West Hartford | $1,111 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP

The University of Saint Joseph offers hybrid PMHNP pathways—MSN, three post-master’s certificates, and a post-master’s DNP—with evening classes (4–6:30 p.m.) and 750+ clinical hours. Training uses a high-fidelity simulation center, a 1:6 faculty-to-student clinical ratio, and placements at partners like Saint Francis, Hartford Hospital, and Yale-New Haven. USJ is CCNE-accredited, charges $1,111 per graduate nursing credit (plus select clinical fees), and offers a 20% alumni tuition discount starting Summer 2025...read more.

Walden University PMHNP Programs

Fully Online | Certificate / MSN / DNP

Walden University’s CCNE-accredited, 100% online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs offer Connecticut nurses four convenient pathways (BSN-to-DNP, MSN-to-DNP, MSN-PMHNP, and Post-Master’s Certificate) to gain the skills needed to address the state’s mental health crisis. The innovative Practicum Pledge ensures that busy Connecticut nurses receive personalized assistance securing local preceptors in areas like Hartford, New Haven, and Fairfield County. Fully equipped with virtual skills labs and comprehensive psychopharmacology training, graduates are ready to provide high-quality psychiatric care from Stamford to the Quiet Corner.

Western Connecticut State PMHNP Program

Danbury | 1,671 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Western Connecticut State University offers two PMHNP tracks—an MSN and a Post-Master’s Certificate—tailored for working RNs with evening, online/hybrid formats. Both include 540 supervised clinical hours across diverse psychiatric settings and emphasize strong certification outcomes. Tuition is competitive, with the MSN estimated at $31–40k over 3–4 years and the certificate at $15–25k over 1–2 years, depending on prerequisites...read more.

Yale PMHNP Programs

New Haven | $2,071 cpc | Certificate / MSN

Yale offers Hybrid, Residential, and Post-Master’s PMHNP tracks with CCNE accreditation. The Hybrid program is live-online, part-time only, and includes three on-campus immersions; the Residential option is full-time on campus. All tracks prepare students for ANCC PMHNP certification and use simulation, telehealth, and faculty-supported clinicals to build competency across the lifespan...read more.

Purdue Global PMHNP Programs

online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP

Purdue Global's PMHNP programs are authorized in Connecticut, providing three online pathways: a Postgraduate Certificate (48 credits, $20,160), MSN with PMHNP Population Focus Area (78 credits, $32,760), and MSN-DNP bridge program. Connecticut-based students complete faculty- and preceptor-supported clinical experiences in local communities, with all programs accredited by CCNE and featuring innovative VR technology for telehealth training. Graduates are prepared to practice in diverse settings including hospitals, community mental health centers, prisons, and private practices throughout Connecticut.

WGU PMHNP Programs

online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN

WGU delivers an online PMHNP MSN and a Post-Master’s Certificate using competency progression. Students fulfill 650 clinical hours near home, or 750 if starting in Kansas after March 1, 2025. One-to-one mentoring and term pricing support a 2.5-year minimum for the MSN and 1.5-year minimum for the certificate.

Wilkes University PMHNP Programs

online | $751 cpc | Certificate / MSN / RN to MSN

Wilkes University's Passan School of Nursing provides three online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) tracks with dedicated clinical placement services and a high ANCC board pass rate of 95.4%. The university confirms its online MSN and Post-Graduate Certificate programs are authorized to enroll students located in Connecticut, having determined the curriculum meets the state's educational requirements for APRN licensure. These flexible, online programs prepare registered nurses with an unencumbered license for advanced practice in psychiatric/mental health care across diverse populations.

Choosing the Best PMHNP Program in Connecticut

Quickest PMHNP Programs in Connecticut

Certificate Programs (Shortest Duration):

MSN Programs:

Most Affordable PMHNP Programs in Connecticut

Certificate Programs:

MSN Programs:

PMHNP Programs Ranked by Minimum GPA Requirement

2.5 GPA Minimum:

3.0 GPA Minimum:

No Specific GPA Listed:

  • Yale (competitive admission)

Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificate Programs

Certificate programs allow nurses with existing MSN degrees to add PMHNP specialty certification.

Connecticut-Based Programs:

University of Saint Joseph offers three certificate tracks based on current credentials:

  • Current Psychiatric CNS: $13,332, 1-2 years, 12 credits, 250 clinical hours
  • Current NPs in Other Specialties: $22,220, 1.5-2 years, 20 credits, 500 clinical hours
  • RNs with M.S. in Nursing: $35,552, 2.5-3 years, 32 credits, 750 clinical hours

Quinnipiac University

  • Post-Master’s Certificate: $33,830, 1.5-2 years, 34 credits.
  • Accepts students from CT, MA, NY, NJ, RI, NH, VT, ME, PA.
  • Clinical placement assistance only in Connecticut—out-of-state students identify own sites.

Sacred Heart University

  • Post-Master’s Certificate: $20,055, 15 months, 21 credits, 540 clinical hours.
  • Up to 6 transfer credits accepted.
  • Requires Advanced Pathophysiology, Health Assessment, and Pharmacology prerequisites.

Western Connecticut State

  • Post-Master’s Certificate: $15,000-$25,000 (varies by prerequisites needed), 1-2 years.
  • Requires completion of 3Ps (Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Physical Assessment) within 5 years or retake requirement.
  • 540 clinical hours.

Yale University

  • Post-Master’s Certificate: $2,071/credit (variable total cost), individualized duration.
  • Plan determined through gap analysis of previous coursework.
  • Clinical hours based on previous experience assessment.

National Online Programs:

Purdue Global PMHNP Certificate: $20,160, 1.5 years full-time, 48 quarter credits.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) PMHNP Programs

MSN programs prepare RNs with BSN degrees for PMHNP practice.

Connecticut-Based Programs:

Western Connecticut State

  • MSN-PMHNP: $31,000-$40,000 (residency dependent), 3-4 years part-time, 47 credits, 540 clinical hours.
  • Requires 1 year RN experience before program start, 2 years before clinical courses.
  • Evening classes on Tuesdays or Thursdays.

Sacred Heart University

  • MSN-PMHNP: $40,110 ($955/credit), 2.5 years full-time, 42 credits, 540 clinical hours.
  • Annual in-person residencies required. One start date per year.

Goodwin University

  • MSN-PMHNP: ~$52,000 ($949/credit), 3.5 years part-time (7 semesters), 50 credits, 600 clinical hours.
  • Online program limited to CT residents.
  • Scholarships up to $10,000 available through CT Health Horizons initiative.
  • No GRE required. Minimum 2+ years direct patient care experience required.

University of Saint Joseph

  • MSN-PMHNP: $52,217 ($1,111/credit), 3.5 years part-time (7 semesters), 47 credits, 750 clinical hours.
  • Weekly evening sessions on Tuesdays or Thursdays.
  • Strong partnerships with Hartford Hospital, Saint Francis, Yale-New Haven. 100% NCLEX pass rate for 2023 cohorts.
  • 20% alumni discount for graduates enrolling in additional programs.

Quinnipiac University

  • MSN-PMHNP: $56,715 ($995/credit), 2+ years, 57 credits.
  • Flexible seven-week course formats.
  • Three mandatory one-week on-campus immersions.
  • Clinical placement assistance only in Connecticut.
  • Accepts students from CT, MA, NY, NJ, RI, NH, VT, ME, PA (NY students cannot complete clinicals in NY).
  • Rolling admissions.
  • Seamless DNP transition option within two years.
  • U.S. News ranked among best graduate online nursing programs.

Fairfield University

  • MSN-PMHNP: $60,770 ($1,030/credit), ~3 years part-time, 59 credits, 750 clinical hours.
  • On-campus delivery with state-of-the-art simulation facilities.
  • Ranked #2 Master of Science in Nursing in Connecticut by U.S. News & World Report.
  • Holistic trauma-informed care approach.
  • Clinical placements with seasoned PMHNPs statewide. Includes CYCLE (Community Youth Collaborative Education) clinical hours for vulnerable population experience.

Yale University offers two MSN-PMHNP tracks:

  • Hybrid MSN-PMHNP: $110,818 ($2,071/credit), 3 years part-time only, 51.5 credits, 750 clinical hours.
    • 100% live interactive online classes.
    • Three mandatory 3-4 day on-campus immersions.
    • Spring 2026 start, cohort size 30.
  • Residential MSN-PMHNP:
    • $107,799-$110,328, 2 years full-time, 52.5 credits, 774 clinical hours.
    • Full on-campus experience.
    • Part-time option available.

National Online Programs:

Purdue Global

  • MSN with PMHNP Focus: $32,760 ($420/quarter credit), 2 years full-time, 78 quarter credits.
  • Faculty-guided clinical placement support.
  • Seamless DNP transition option.

WGU MSN-PMHNP

  • $35,775 ($6,955/term), minimum 2.5 years, 51 competency units, 650 clinical hours (750 for Kansas).
  • Competency-based model allows acceleration through known material.
  • Dedicated Program Mentor throughout.
  • 95.4% ANCC pass rate vs. 90% national average.

Wilkes University

  • MSN-PMHNP: $31,542 ($751/credit), 2.3 years, 42 credits, 500 clinical hours.
  • Complimentary clinical placement services included.
  • 95.4% ANCC pass rate.
  • Up to 9 transfer credits accepted (3.0 grade minimum).
  • No GRE/GMAT required.
  • Yellow Ribbon program participant.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) PMHNP Programs

DNP programs provide terminal degree preparation for advanced psychiatric nursing practice and leadership.

Connecticut-Based Programs:

Fairfield University DNP-PMHNP:

  • $91,650 ($1,175/credit), 3-4 years (FT/PT), 78 credits, 1,000 total practicum/immersion hours (including 750 PMHNP clinical hours).
  • On-campus delivery.
  • Integrates MSN coursework with additional DNP core courses including leadership, policy analysis, finance, research translation, and DNP Project.
  • Enhanced clinical experience in inpatient psychiatry, psychiatric ERs, integrated behavioral health, substance misuse programs, skilled nursing, juvenile/criminal justice, crisis units, intensive outpatient, partial hospitals, federal facilities, and private practices.

University of Saint Joseph

  • DNP Post-Master’s: $19,998 ($1,111/credit), 1.5 years (3 semesters), 18 credits.
  • Designed for M.S. PMHNP graduates enrolled within 3 years of master’s completion.
  • Focuses on advanced practice leadership, healthcare systems improvement, and evidence-based practice implementation.
  • Builds doctoral-level competencies in organizational leadership and innovation.

National Online Programs:

Purdue Global

  • MSN to DNP with PMHNP Focus: $32,760 for MSN portion ($420/quarter credit for MSN, $700/quarter credit for DNP core), 2 years for MSN then seamless DNP transition, 78-90 quarter credits for MSN.
  • Allows students to earn both degrees without losing credits or duplicating coursework.
  • MSN-DNP pathway begins with evidence-based project proposal during master’s portion.
  • All MSN clinical hours apply toward doctorate.

Programs with Connecticut Campus Presence

Six institutions offer PMHNP programs with physical Connecticut locations:

Fairfield University (Fairfield)

  • MSN and DNP programs with on-campus delivery, state-of-the-art simulation facilities, and statewide clinical partnerships.
  • Strong emphasis on trauma-informed care and holistic approaches. #2 ranked MSN in Connecticut.

Goodwin University (East Hartford)

  • Online MSN program limited to Connecticut residents with local support infrastructure.
  • CT Health Horizons scholarships available.
  • CCNE-accredited through 2030. SARA member institution.

Quinnipiac University (Hamden)

  • MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate with U.S. News recognition as top graduate online nursing program.
  • Three mandatory one-week on-campus immersions.
  • Accepts students from nine northeastern states.
  • 100% employment/graduate school placement within 6 months for 2024 graduates.

Sacred Heart University (Fairfield)

  • MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate with annual in-person residencies.
  • CCNE-accredited.
  • One annual start date.
  • Competitive pricing at $955/credit.

University of Saint Joseph (West Hartford)

  • MSN, multiple certificate tracks, and Post-Master’s DNP.
  • Strong partnerships with Hartford Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital, Yale-New Haven Hospital.
  • State-of-the-art Nursing Education and Simulation Center.
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate for 2023 cohorts.
  • 20% alumni discount for graduates.

Western Connecticut State (Danbury)

  • MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate with evening classes on Tuesdays or Thursdays.
  • Most affordable Connecticut option at $31,000-$40,000.
  • Part-time focus accommodates working nurses.
  • CCNE-accredited. Flexible clinical timing.

Yale University (New Haven)

  • Hybrid and Residential MSN tracks plus Post-Master’s Certificate.
  • Prestigious program with comprehensive psychiatric training (774 clinical hours for residential track).
  • Clinical Support Unit assists with placement.
  • Competitive merit and need-based scholarships.
  • Lifespan PMHNP preparation through ANCC.

National Online PMHNP Programs Accepting Connecticut Residents

Purdue Global

  • Certificate, MSN, and MSN-DNP pathway.
  • CCNE-accredited.
  • Faculty-guided clinical placement.
  • Flat $420/quarter credit for master’s courses.
  • 93.7% average certification pass rate for 2024 graduates.
  • Clinical experiences completed in local communities, including student’s workplace. HLC institutional accreditation.

WGU

  • MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate.
  • CCNE-accredited.
  • Competency-based model with flat-rate tuition ($6,955/term).
  • Dedicated Program Mentor.
  • 95.4% ANCC pass rate significantly exceeds 90% national average.
  • Complimentary clinical placement support.
  • Average student loan debt less than half national average.
  • Yellow Ribbon program participant.

Wilkes University

  • MSN, RN-to-MSN, and Post-Graduate/APRN Certificate.
  • CCNE-accredited.
  • Complimentary clinical placement services (no extra cost).
  • 95.4% ANCC pass rate.
  • No GRE/GMAT required.
  • Up to 9 transfer credits accepted.
  • Yellow Ribbon program.
  • Dedicated Student Success Counselor enrollment through graduation.
  • $751/credit competitive pricing.

Key Selection Factors

Program Duration:

Certificate programs range 1-2 years, MSN programs 2-4 years, and DNP programs 1.5-4 years depending on enrollment status and starting credentials.

Clinical Hours:

  • Requirements range from 250 hours (USJ Current Psychiatric CNS) to 1,000 hours (Fairfield DNP).
  • Most MSN programs require 500-750 hours.
  • Certificate requirements vary based on previous NP experience.

Clinical Placement Support:

Some programs provide comprehensive placement assistance (Wilkes, WGU, Purdue Global) while others require students to secure sites, especially out-of-state (Quinnipiac). Connecticut-based programs offer stronger in-state placement networks.

Residency Requirements:

Several programs mandate on-campus immersions ranging from annual residencies to three week-long sessions. Consider travel costs and schedule flexibility.

Accreditation: All programs maintain CCNE accreditation for nursing programs, ensuring quality standards and certification exam eligibility.

Admission Requirements:

Most require 3.0 GPA minimum, current RN license, and 1-2 years nursing experience. GRE/GMAT not required by any Connecticut programs. Prerequisites vary—verify 3Ps (Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Physical Assessment) requirements and recency limits.

Cost Considerations:

Per-credit rates range from $420 (Purdue Global) to $2,071 (Yale). Factor in fees, clinical placement fees ($1,350+ at some schools), background checks, drug screens, immunizations, malpractice insurance, and travel for residencies.

Specialty Focus:

  • Connecticut programs emphasize diverse approaches—Fairfield’s trauma-informed care, Goodwin’s vulnerable population focus through CYCLE hours, Yale’s interprofessional medical collaboration, and USJ’s strong hospital partnerships.

Flexibility:

Part-time options accommodate working nurses (Western Connecticut State, USJ, Fairfield, Quinnipiac). WGU’s competency-based model allows acceleration. Goodwin and Purdue Global offer fully online delivery with local clinical placement.

Population Preparation:

All programs prepare for lifespan certification, but clinical experiences vary. Review whether programs emphasize specific populations (pediatric, geriatric, forensic, addiction) matching your career goals.