Indiana offers 4 PMHNP programs with tuition ranging from $446.94 to $675 per credit hour.
Program durations range between 14 months to 5 years depending on program track and enrollment status.
Quick Summary Table for IN PMHNP Schools
| School | Est. Cost Range (IN Residents) | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana State University | Certificate: ≈ $13K | – post-master’s certificate: about 1–2 years full-time. – sequential psychopharmacology, assessment, diagnosis, & management courses – clinicals in community settings – graduate tuition listed at about $462 per credit hour |
| Indiana University | BSN→DNP: ≈ $25K | – 66 credits & about 3 years full-time (4 years part-time available). – about 1,005 total clinical hours with 750 direct care hours – plus DNP project practice hours – strong DNP core in data analysis, leadership, health policy & informatics |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | MSN: ≈ $34K Certificate: ≈ $22K BSN→DNP: ≈ $66K ASN→MSN: ≈ $38K | – locked tuition for the length of enrollment. – min 525 PMHNP practicum hours, with up to 820 hours in ASN→MSN pathway – hours completed locally under qualified preceptors – faith-informed curriculum with neuro-psychopharmacology – features live OSCE psychiatric evaluations with trained actors |
| University of Southern Indiana | MSN: ≈ $22K Certificate: ≈ $13K BSN→DNP Family PMHNP: ≈ $40K | – delivered mainly online. – MSN track is 44 credits with 2–3 year timeline; – certificate is 26 credits over 1–2 years; – BSN→DNP is 80 credits over about 4–5 years – complete direct-care clinical hours in their home communities – base online tuition around $496.94 per credit hour |
Options for PMHNP Degrees in Indiana
In addition, the list includes national online programs to provide you with even more options (particularly during open enrollment).
Indiana State PMHNP Program
Terre Haute | $462 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Indiana State University offers an online MSN with a PMHNP specialization and a Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificate that prepare nurses to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. The plan combines courses in psychopharmacology, assessment, diagnosis, and management with supervised clinical practicum in community agencies, hospitals, offices, and treatment centers. The MSN path runs about 28 months (roughly 2.5 years) across 16 online courses and includes service-learning projects with support from experienced faculty. The program holds continuous ACEN accreditation, and graduates are eligible for national PMHNP certification...read more.
Indiana University PMHNP Program
Bloomington | $269 cpc | Certificate / DNP
Indiana University School of Nursing offers a BSN-to-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) track that prepares nurses to deliver mental health care across settings. The three-year plan (66 credits) combines evidence-based coursework with a DNP project focused on population health. Students complete 1,005 clinical hours, including 750 hours of direct patient care under supervision in community clinics, hospitals, government agencies, private practices, and ambulatory settings. Graduates qualify for ANCC PMHNP certification, and a post-master’s PMHNP certificate is available for experienced nurses...read more.
Indiana Wesleyan University PMHNP Program
Marion | $675 to $860 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / MSN / DNP
Indiana Wesleyan University’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP portfolio offers four flexible pathways—MSN (49 credits), Post-Graduate Certificate (32), BSN-to-DNP (76), and ASN-to-MSN (66)—with locked tuition throughout enrollment. Programs are primarily online and include brief on-site residencies, live OSCE psychiatric evaluations, and local precepted clinicals (most tracks ≥525 hours; ASN-to-MSN 820 hours). Graduate tuition is ~$675/credit (doctoral $859/credit; ASN-to-MSN blends $455 undergrad + $675 grad), aligning with the total program costs and timelines shown above...read more.
Purdue PMHNP Programs
Indianapolis | $470 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Purdue University School of Nursing offers three PMHNP options: an MS (49 credits), a DNP with PMHNP concentration (78 credits), and a Post-Master’s Certificate (17 credits). Delivery is hybrid, blending online coursework with on-campus learning. The program highlights systems engineering, evidence-based psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology, with interdisciplinary study in Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Gerontology, and Management. Priority application review starts April 1 and continues until clinical placements fill...read more.
South College PMHNP Programs
Indianapolis | $310 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Indiana students can complete the PMHNP program online while fulfilling clinical rotations at approved Indiana sites. The MSN and certificate tracks offer a structured curriculum covering psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and lifespan mental health care. Graduates are prepared to advance into mental health nurse practitioner roles and sit for ANCC certification.
University of Southern Indiana PMHNP Program
Evansville | $446.94 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
The University of Southern Indiana offers 100% online PMHNP pathways—MSN (44 credits), Post-Master’s Certificate (26 credits), and BSN-to-DNP (80 credits)—with CCNE accreditation and flexible full-time or part-time pacing. Students complete clinical hours near where they live with university-approved preceptors, avoiding relocation. Estimated tuition aligns to about $497/credit (base online rate), with total program estimates of $21,865 (MSN), $12,920 (Certificate), and $39,760 (BSN-DNP)...read more.
Walden University PMHNP Programs
Fully Online | $775 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Indiana nurses can enhance their psychiatric nursing expertise through Walden University’s flexible online PMHNP programs, designed to fit busy schedules while maintaining clinical excellence. The programs cover comprehensive topics including psychopharmacology, psychopathology, and lifespan care, supported by practicum placement assistance. With pathways from MSN to DNP, students develop leadership skills essential for advancing mental health services in Indiana. This program prepares nurses to serve Indiana’s mental health needs with confidence and advanced skills.
Chamberlain MSN PMHNP Program
online | $735 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Chamberlain University’s CCNE-accredited PMHNP pathways include a 45-credit MSN and a 35-credit Graduate Certificate delivered through 100% online coursework with two required on-site immersion experiences. Both tracks include 650 supervised practicum hours, and Chamberlain’s Practicum Commitment helps secure qualified preceptors. Estimated tuition is $33,075 for the MSN (~2.5 years full-time) and $25,725 for the certificate (~1.5 years full-time), with over 90% of students receiving financial aid. Institutional accreditation is through the Higher Learning Commission...read more.
Post University PMHNP Programs
online | $604 cpc | MSN
Post University’s 100% online MSN–PMHNP lets you take one 8-week course at a time with monthly starts, balancing study with work and life. The 51–54 credit plan includes 36 didactic credits plus 630 precepted clinical hours across five targeted practicums. Expect evidence-based psychopharmacology, lifespan psychiatric assessment, and certification prep—finishing in about 34 months for roughly $31,000.
Purdue Global PMHNP Programs
online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
The Purdue Global PMHNP program is authorized for enrollment in Indiana, offering residents a fully online route to an advanced practice degree with CCNE accreditation. Students can enroll in the Post-Graduate Certificate, the MSN with PMHNP focus, or the MSN to DNP pathway, with the MSN portion costing an estimated $32,760 for full-time completion. All options prepare graduates to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions using evidence-based practice and immersive VR technology.
WGU PMHNP Programs
online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN
Western Governors University’s Leavitt School of Health offers two fully online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs: a BSN-to-MSN and a Post-Master’s Certificate. Both emphasize a competency-based learning model, enabling nurses to advance by demonstrating mastery rather than completing set credit hours. Students complete 650 supervised clinical hours in their local communities, with the MSN track lasting about 2.5 years and the certificate approximately 1.5 years.
Wilkes University PMHNP Programs
online | $751 cpc | Certificate / MSN / RN to MSN
Wilkes University’s online PMHNP programs give Indiana nurses MSN, post-graduate certificate, and DNP options built around 12‑week courses and three annual start dates, making them workable alongside full-time practice. Indiana students benefit from complimentary clinical placement support that helps them secure preceptors and sites close to home while completing the required 500+ supervised hours. The PMHNP curriculum emphasizes psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diagnostic reasoning, and care for rural and underserved populations, preparing graduates for advanced psychiatric roles across Indiana.
Choosing the Best PMHNP Program for You in Indiana
TLDR: Quick Program Selection Guide
Choose University of Southern Indiana if you want the lowest online tuition ($496.94/credit regardless of residency), U.S. News ranked programs, and clinical placements in your geographic area eliminating relocation needs.
Choose Indiana State University if you want the most affordable certificate-only option ($462/credit for Indiana residents, $12,474 total), twice-yearly admissions (January and August), and diverse clinical settings including substance abuse treatment centers.
Choose Indiana University if you want a DNP-exclusive program from Indiana’s nursing leader of 100+ years, annual fall cohorts, 1,005 total clinical hours, and ANCC certification eligibility upon graduation.
Choose Indiana Wesleyan University if you want locked tuition rates preventing increases during enrollment, multiple pathway options (MSN, DNP, ASN-to-MSN, Certificate), live OSCE psychiatric evaluations with trained actors, and Christ-centered values integration.
DNP-PMHNP Programs Comparison
University of Southern Indiana offers the lowest-cost DNP program ($39,760 for 80 credits) while Indiana University provides the most established DNP-exclusive pathway from Indiana’s century-old nursing leader. Indiana Wesleyan is the only school offering direct ASN-to-MSN advancement alongside traditional DNP tracks.
| School | Track | Total Cost | Credits | Cost/Credit | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana University | BSN-to-DNP | $24,600 | 66 | $372.73 | 3 years FT | 1,005 (750 direct patient care) |
| Indiana Wesleyan | BSN-to-DNP | $65,284 | 76 | $859 (doctoral) | 48 months | Extensive practicum hours |
| Indiana Wesleyan | ASN-to-MSN | $37,170 | 66 | $455 (UG) / $675 (grad) | 45 months | 820 |
| University of Southern Indiana | BSN-to-DNP | $39,760 | 80 | $496.94 (online) | 4-5 years | Extensive direct/indirect hours |
Key Differentiators:
- Indiana University: DNP-only program (no standalone MSN); annual fall cohorts; 100+ year nursing leadership; cooperative student/faculty clinical placement arrangements; evidence-based DNP project addressing population health
- Indiana Wesleyan BSN-to-DNP: Locked tuition rates; live OSCE psychiatric evaluations with trained actors; faith integration; virtual reality and concept mapping technologies
- Indiana Wesleyan ASN-to-MSN: Only Indiana program accepting associate degree RNs directly to master’s level; combines undergraduate foundations (transcultural healthcare, leadership, population health) with graduate PMHNP coursework; focus one course at a time
- University of Southern Indiana: U.S. News ranked; same online tuition for all students ($496.94/credit); 48 BSN-to-DNP nursing credits + 6 DNP project credits + 9 clinical core credits + specialty courses
MSN-PMHNP Programs Comparison
University of Southern Indiana offers the lowest MSN tuition ($496.94/credit online for all students) with U.S. News ranking and flexible 2-3 year completion. Indiana Wesleyan provides locked tuition rates preventing cost increases during enrollment.
| School | Total Cost | Credits | Cost/Credit | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana Wesleyan | $33,075 | 49 | $675 | 28 months | 525 |
| University of Southern Indiana | $21,865 | 44 | $496.94 (online) | 2-3 years | Direct patient care hours |
Notable Distinctions:
- Indiana Wesleyan: Locked tuition rates throughout enrollment; live OSCE psychiatric evaluations; onsite advanced health assessment residency + two intensive experiences; virtual reality, video discussions, concept mapping technologies; Christ-centered values integration; 500 hours direct patient contact within prior year required
- University of Southern Indiana: Lowest online tuition in Indiana ($496.94/credit for all students); U.S. News ranked; 18 MSN core hours + 26 PMHNP specialty hours; clinical competency demonstrated through campus visits, virtual sessions, or faculty site visits; no relocation needed for clinical placements
Post-Graduate Certificate Programs Comparison
Indiana State University offers the lowest certificate cost ($12,474 total) as a certificate-only institution with twice-yearly admissions. University of Southern Indiana provides the second-lowest cost with transfer credit options.
| School | Total Cost | Credits | Cost/Credit | Duration | Clinical Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana State | $12,474 | 27 | $462 (in-state) | 1-2 years | 500 |
| University of Southern Indiana | $12,920 | 26 | $496.94 (online) | 1-2 years | Matches MSN requirements |
| Indiana Wesleyan | $21,600 | 32 | $675 | 22 months | 525 |
Key Differentiators:
- Indiana State: Certificate-only institution; twice-yearly admissions (October 1 for January, March 1 for August, Fall 2025 extended to July 15); requires advanced pharmacology/pathophysiology/assessment prerequisites (minimum “B”, within 5 years); $100 non-refundable seat fee; diverse clinical settings including substance abuse treatment centers
- University of Southern Indiana: Transfer up to 9 graduate credits with “B” or better; transfer considerations for advanced pathophysiology/pharmacology/physical assessment within 5 years; identical specialty coursework to MSN track; clinical placements in student’s geographic area
- Indiana Wesleyan: Locked tuition rate; professional role development emphasis; neuro-psychopharmacology; three sequential psychotherapeutic modalities courses; virtual reality and video discussion technologies; onsite residency and intensive experiences
Specialty Curriculum Focus
Indiana State University structures training through 27-credit certificate sequence featuring dual Psychopharmacology courses (I and II), Psychiatric Mental Health Assessment & Diagnosis with 100 clinical hours and DSM criteria emphasis, Theoretical Frameworks for Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Practice, three progressive diagnosis and management courses (150+100+150 clinical hours), and Role of the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse seminar refining personal clinical style.
Indiana University delivers 66-credit BSN-to-DNP curriculum with comprehensive DNP core covering Data Analysis for Clinical and Administrative Decision Making, Trans-Disciplinary Approaches to Influencing Health Policy, Strategic Resource Leadership in Nursing and Health Systems, Leading Patient-Centered Interprofessional Collaborative Practice Environments, and Population Health Surveillance and Management, preparing clinical scholars for systems-level leadership with 1,005 total hours (750 direct patient care) plus evidence-based DNP project.
Indiana Wesleyan University provides Christ-centered education across multiple pathways featuring Neuro-Psychopharmacology, three sequential Psychotherapeutic Modalities Across the Lifespan courses (I, II, III) with 175 clinical hours each, Advanced Health Status Assessment for PMHNP with 75 practicum hours, Interprofessional Development with live OSCE psychiatric evaluations using trained actors, virtual reality learning, and Diagnostic Reasoning building systematic clinical judgment skills.
University of Southern Indiana emphasizes family-centered psychiatric care through 44-credit MSN with 18 core hours (evidence-based practice, theoretical foundations, population-based care, healthcare informatics, nursing leadership) plus 26 PMHNP specialty hours featuring Psychopharmacology integrating neuropharmacology with psychotropics across lifespan, and three sequential Psychiatric Mental Health Care of Families Across the Lifespan courses building from family-based assessment models through independent practice and comprehensive family-centered care.
Admissions Requirements Comparison
| School | Minimum GPA | Application Deadline | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana State | 3.0 (graduate) | – Oct 1 (Jan start); – Mar 1 (Aug start) – Fall 2025: Jul 15 (extended) | – advanced pharmacology & pathophysiology prerequisites – $100 seat fee; – 4-6 weeks processing; possible interview |
| Indiana University | 3.0 (BSN) | -Cycle I: Jul 15-Oct 15 – Cycle II: Oct 16-Jan 15 – Cycle III: Jan 16-Mar 15 | – 1 year full-time RN experience (1,800 hours); – active Indiana/Compact license; – annual fall cohorts; |
| Indiana Wesleyan | 3.25 (UG) or 3.0 (grad) | Rolling | – 500 hours direct patient contact within prior year (MSN); – locked tuition rates; – criminal background + drug screening |
| University of Southern Indiana | 3.0 | Rolling | – 1 year full-time RN or 2,000 hours recommended (DNP); – undergraduate statistics with C or better; – up to 9 transfer credits accepted (certificate) |
All programs require:
- BSN from CCNE/ACEN accredited institution (MSN for certificate programs)
- Current, unencumbered RN license
- Official transcripts
- Professional references
- Background checks
Special Notes:
University of Southern Indiana accepts rolling admissions and offers same online tuition ($496.94/credit) regardless of residency status
Indiana State is certificate-only with twice-yearly admissions and 4-6 week processing time
Indiana University requires 1,800 hours (1 year full-time) RN experience and admits fall cohorts only through three application cycles
Indiana Wesleyan requires 500 hours direct patient contact within prior year for MSN track and offers locked tuition rates
Admissions Tip
Almost all Indiana programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA and an active, unencumbered Indiana or Compact RN license. If you are applying to the Certificate programs, pay close attention to the “3 Ps” (Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Physical Assessment) requirements, as most schools require these to have been completed within the last 5 years.