Pennsylvania offers 8 PMHNP programs with on-campus components or hybrid formats. Additionally, many national online programs serve Pennsylvania residents. Total program costs range from approximately $21,465 to $113,920 depending on degree level, institution, and residency status.
Drexel University PMHNP Programs
Philadelphia | $1,525 cpc | Certificate / MSN
Drexel University’s PMHNP options include a 52-credit online MSN and a 34-credit online Post-Master’s Certificate, both built on a quarter system with required on-campus intensives and 640 clinical hours. The curriculum blends core graduate nursing content, advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and health assessment with psychopharmacology and four progressive PMHNP practica. Admissions emphasize accredited prior nursing degrees, at least one year of psychiatric nursing experience, active RN licensure, and a detailed application that includes recommendations, a personal statement, and a resume...read more.
Jefferson University PMHNP Program
Philadelphia | $1,337 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Thomas Jefferson University PMHNP Program (Philadelphia, PA) offers MSN, DNP (post-bacc entry), and Post-Graduate Certificate pathways designed for working nurses who want flexible online or hybrid study. Students complete 750 supervised clinical hours with lifespan training and added depth in substance use disorders and integrated care settings. Faculty are active clinicians and scholars, and graduates report a 98% job placement rate with certification pass rates above national averages. Clinical placements are arranged through student–faculty partnerships to ensure robust mentorship and site variety...read more.
Penn State PMHNP Programs
University Park | Certificate / BSN to DNP / DNP
Penn State’s Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing offers BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and Post-Master’s PMHNP certificate options that share a hybrid design with key on-campus intensive experiences. The PMHNP curriculum blends DNP core coursework, advanced psychiatric assessment, psychotherapy, and neuropsychopharmacology with 600 or more supervised clinical hours and structured DNP project work. Admission standards emphasize strong academic performance, RN licensure, prior chemistry and statistics, and a full application package that includes references, a writing sample, and an interview...read more.
South College PMHNP Programs
Pittsburgh | $310 cpc | Certificate / MSN
South College offers Pennsylvania learners an online PMHNP pathway that blends asynchronous coursework with required clinical hours at approved Pennsylvania practice sites. Students choose between the MSN degree and Post-Graduate Certificate depending on their academic background. The curriculum equips graduates with assessment, diagnostic, and therapeutic skills aligned with PMHNP certification standards.
University of Pennsylvania PMHNP Programs
Philadelphia | $7,400 per course unit cpc | MSN
Penn’s MSN Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is an in-person, top-ranked advanced practice track that blends neuroscience, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology to prepare RNs to care for patients with mental health needs across the lifespan. The 14-CU program can be completed in about 14 months full time (or up to three years part time) and includes a structured three-semester clinical practicum with school-arranged placements plus coursework in advanced assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, research, and a full suite of PMHNP theory and clinical courses. Estimated total cost is about $103,500 (roughly $7,400 per CU with fees), and applicants need a BSN with at least a 3.0 GPA, an active RN license, and a college-level statistics course, with some students eligible for the Leonard A. Lauder Community Care NP Fellowship...read more.
University of Pittsburgh PMHNP Programs
Pittsburgh | $1,000 cpc | Certificate / BSN to DNP / DNP
The University of Pittsburgh offers 3 PMHNP tracks: BSN to DNP (89 credits, 3 years), MSN to DNP (36-45 credits, 2 years), and a Post-Professional Certificate (34 credits, 12-24 months). The BSN to DNP is available onsite while the MSN to DNP offers both onsite and online options, and all programs prepare graduates for ANCC or AANPCB national certification. Program costs range from approximately $34,000 for the certificate to $89,000 for the BSN to DNP track, with the programs accredited by CCNE through 2034. Note:Note: The applications status of these programs is unclear currently, with upcoming changes announced for their Nurse Practitioner programs. ..read more.
University of Scranton PMHNP Programs
Scranton | $965 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
University of Scranton offers three online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner pathways at the MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate levels, all built around shared core PMHNP coursework and 750 supervised clinical hours. The DNP adds leadership, health policy, and scholarly project courses, while the MSN and certificate options focus more tightly on advanced assessment, psychotherapeutics, and psychopharmacology. Across tracks, students benefit from synchronous and asynchronous online learning, on-campus clinical intensives, and precepted practicum experiences with PMHNP or psychiatrist preceptors...read more.
Walden University PMHNP Programs
Fully Online | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Pennsylvania Walden University provides multiple entry points, including MSN and Post-Master's Certificate tracks, for nurses in Pennsylvania looking to specialize in psychiatric mental health. The program leverages a sophisticated virtual skills lab to provide interactive assessments and faculty guidance, preparing future Pennsylvania PMHNPs for complex clinical scenarios. This online format ensures maximum scheduling flexibility while delivering the advanced clinical knowledge needed for mental health wellness across the lifespan.
York College PMHNP Programs
York | $665 cpc | Certificate / MSN
York College of Pennsylvania offers two online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner tracks (MSN and Post-Master’s Certificate) with flexible scheduling, six start dates per year, and 784 required clinical hours. The MSN-PMHNP program includes 50 credits (23 core and 27 PMHNP concentration credits), covers advanced assessment, pharmacology, psychopathology, and psychotherapeutic treatment across the lifespan, and prepares graduates for national PMHNP certification. The Post-Master’s Certificate consists of 27 PMHNP-specific credits with a gap analysis to account for prior graduate work, shared clinical hour requirements, and admission criteria that emphasize accredited nursing degrees, recent advanced pharmacology, and readiness for prescriptive practice...read more.
Post University PMHNP Programs
online | $604 cpc | MSN
Nurses in Pennsylvania can earn their MSN with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialization entirely online through Post University’s American Sentinel College. The program features 51–54 credit hours, 630 clinical hours, and 8-week courses with monthly start dates tailored for working professionals. At an estimated cost of $31,000 over 34 months, the curriculum blends psychopharmacology, diagnostic reasoning, and patient-centered psychiatric care.
Purdue Global PMHNP Programs
online | $400 to $720 cpc | Certificate / MSN / DNP
Purdue Global offers three PMHNP paths online: Certificate, MSN focus, and MSN-to-DNP. Plan on ~$20,160 for the certificate (~1.5 years) and ~$32,760 for the MSN (~2 years), with the MSN-to-DNP continuing beyond the master’s. The university is authorized to offer these programs to Pennsylvania residents.
WGU PMHNP Programs
online | flat rate cpc | Certificate / MSN
WGU’s PMHNP pathways deliver a streamlined, career-friendly route to advanced practice: two online tracks, clinicals close to home, and a mentor from day one. The MSN option typically spans at least 2.5 years; the certificate about 1.5. Rounded program pricing places the MSN near $36K and the certificate near $22K overall.
Wilkes University PMHNP Programs
online | $751 cpc | Certificate / MSN / RN to MSN
Wilkes University offers three PMHNP tracks through its Passan School of Nursing, all delivered 100% online with complimentary clinical placement support built into tuition costs. The programs range from $21,779 for the post-graduate certificate to $39,803 for the RN to MSN pathway, with completion times between 1.67 to 3 years depending on the track. Wilkes achieves exceptional outcomes with 95.4% PMHNP certification exam pass rates in 2023, significantly exceeding the 90% national average.
How to Choose the Best PMHNP Program for You in Pennsylvania
TLDR: Quick Program Recommendations
Choose WGU if you want the most affordable option with competency-based learning that allows self-paced advancement ($35,775 MSN or $21,465 certificate).
Choose South College if you want the most affordable MSN option ranked #8 nationally with asynchronous online delivery and flexible 10-12 week quarters ($25,155 MSN or $17,050 certificate).
Choose Post University if you need fully online learning with monthly start dates and structured 8-week courses ($30,198–$30,794 MSN).
Choose Wilkes University if you want complimentary clinical placement support with exceptional 95.4% certification pass rates and affordable pricing ($31,542 MSN, $21,779 certificate, or ~$31,680 DNP).
Choose York College if you prefer a Pennsylvania-based program with partner discounts and 784 clinical hours ($33,250 MSN partners/$34,750 non-partners or $17,955 certificate).
Choose Chamberlain University if you want the Practicum Commitment guarantee with two in-person immersions and 650 clinical hours ($33,075 MSN or $25,725 certificate).
Choose University of Scranton if you want comprehensive Pennsylvania-based education with 750 clinical hours and two on-campus clinical intensives ($40,530 MSN, $31,845 certificate, or $51,724 DNP).
Choose Jefferson University if you want 98% job placement rates with joint clinical placement partnerships and higher-than-national certification pass rates ($48,132–$60,165 MSN, $36,099 certificate, or $90,916 DNP).
Choose Penn State if you want a Center of Excellence program with 700+ global clinical partners and flexible 3-year or 8-semester options ($61,183 BSN to DNP or $23,851–$31,110 depending on entry).
Choose Drexel University if you want 100% board pass rates with state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinically active faculty in synchronous online format ($79,300 MSN or $39,746 certificate).
Choose University of Pennsylvania if you want an elite highly-ranked program with coordinated Penn network clinical placements and Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship opportunities ($103,526–$105,814 MSN).
Choose University of Pittsburgh if you want CCNE-accredited programs with 640 clinical hours and comprehensive psychiatric management training ($89,000–$113,920 BSN to DNP or $43,520 certificate).
Choose Walden University if you want the Practicum Pledge guarantee for clinical placement assistance with multiple entry points from BSN to DNP ($44,705–$74,405 depending on entry point).
PMHNP Post-Graduate Certificates
Cost Comparison
Most Affordable:
- South College — $17,050 (~18 months)
- York College — $17,955 (12 months)
- Purdue Global — $20,160 (~1.5 years)
- WGU — $21,465 (minimum 1.5 years)
- Wilkes University — $21,779 (1.67 years)
Low-to-Mid-Range:
- Penn State — $23,851 (1.5–2 years)
- Chamberlain University — $25,725 (~1.5 years)
Mid-Range:
- University of Scranton — $31,845 (~18 months)
- Walden University — $35,225 (variable duration)
- Jefferson University — $36,099 (1.5–2 years)
Higher Cost:
- Drexel University — $39,746 (~2 years part-time)
- University of Pittsburgh — $43,520 (12–24 months)
Duration Comparison
Fastest: York College — 12 months full-time
Standard: Most programs complete in 1.5–2 years full-time
Certificate Program Summary
Post-graduate certificates serve nurses who already hold an MSN or DNP and want to add PMHNP certification.
South College offers the most affordable certificate at $17,050 with CCNE accreditation and 570 clinical hours over approximately 18 months.
York College provides the fastest Pennsylvania-based completion at 12 months for $17,955 with 784 clinical hours and partner discounts available. Purdue Global ($20,160) and WGU ($21,465) offer affordable online options with competency-based or self-paced learning.
Wilkes University ($21,779) stands out for complimentary clinical placement support and exceptional 95.4% certification pass rates.
Penn State ($23,851) provides access to 700+ global clinical partners through a Center of Excellence program.
Chamberlain University ($25,725) serves 90%+ of students with financial aid through their Practicum Commitment guarantee.
MSN-PMHNP Programs
Cost Comparison
Most Affordable:
- South College — $25,155 (21 months)
- Post University — $30,198–$30,794 (34 months)
- Wilkes University — $31,542 (2.3 years)
- Purdue Global — $32,760 (2 years)
Low-to-Mid-Range:
- Chamberlain University — $33,075 (2.5 years)
- York College — $33,250 partners/$34,750 non-partners (32–36 months)
- WGU — $35,775 (minimum 2.5 years)
Mid-Range:
- University of Scranton — $40,530 (21 months)
- Walden University — $44,705 (2.5 years, after scholarship)
- Jefferson University — $48,132–$60,165 (2–3 years)
Higher Cost:
- Drexel University — $79,300 (2 years)
- University of Pennsylvania — $103,526 full-time/$105,814 part-time (14 months full-time/3 years part-time)
Duration Comparison
Fastest:
- University of Pennsylvania — 14 months full-time
- South College — 21 months
- University of Scranton — 21 months
Standard: Most programs complete in 2–3 years (24–36 months)
MSN Program Summary
South College offers the most affordable MSN-PMHNP at $25,155 completing in 21 months with #8 national ranking, CCNE accreditation, and 570 clinical hours.
Post University provides the next most affordable option at $30,198–$30,794 with monthly start dates and 8-week courses.
Wilkes University ($31,542) includes complimentary clinical placement support with 95.4% certification pass rates.
York College ($33,250 for partners) offers 784 clinical hours with Pennsylvania focus and partner discounts.
Chamberlain University ($33,075) provides the Practicum Commitment guarantee serving 90%+ of students with financial aid. WGU’s competency-based model ($35,775) allows accelerated completion.
University of Scranton ($40,530) completes in 21 months with 750 clinical hours and two on-campus intensives.
Walden University ($44,705 after scholarship) features the Practicum Pledge for placement assistance. Jefferson University ($48,132–$60,165) boasts 98% job placement rates with joint clinical partnerships.
Drexel University ($79,300) provides 100% board pass rates with synchronous online format and simulation labs.
University of Pennsylvania ($103,526 full-time) offers elite education with coordinated Penn network placements completing in just 14 months full-time.
DNP-PMHNP Programs
Cost Comparison
Most Affordable:
- Wilkes University — ~$31,680 (2–3 years, varies by entry point)
Mid-Range:
- Penn State BSN to DNP — $61,183 (3 years/8 semesters)
- Walden University BSN to DNP — $74,405 (3.25 years, after scholarship)
Higher Cost:
- University of Pittsburgh BSN to DNP — $89,000 (3 years)
- Jefferson University DNP Post-Bacc — $90,916 (4–6 years)
- University of Scranton DNP — $51,724 (33 months)
- University of Pittsburgh BSN to DNP — $113,920 (36 months)
Duration Comparison
Fastest:
- Wilkes University — 2–3 years depending on entry point
- Penn State MSN to DNP — 1.5–2 years (minimum 30 credits)
Standard: Most BSN to DNP programs complete in 3–3.25 years for full-time completion
Longer: Jefferson University — 4–6 years for post-baccalaureate track
DNP Program Summary
Wilkes University offers the most affordable DNP option at approximately $31,680 (varies by transfer credits and entry point) with complimentary clinical placement support, 95.4% certification pass rates, and 2–3 year completion requiring 1,000 post-baccalaureate practicum hours.
Penn State provides a Center of Excellence BSN to DNP for $61,183 completing in 3 years (8 semesters) with access to 700+ global clinical partners and 1,031 practice hours. The MSN to DNP track requires minimum 30 credits with 1.5–2 year completion.
University of Scranton offers a DNP-PMHNP for $51,724 completing in 33 months with 750 clinical hours.
Walden University provides a BSN to DNP pathway at $74,405 (after scholarship) with the Practicum Pledge, completing in 3.25 years with 1,000+ practicum hours.
University of Pittsburgh offers programs from $89,000 (BSN to DNP) to $113,920 depending on track, with 640+ clinical hours and Pennsylvania CRNP licensure preparation.
Jefferson University’s post-baccalaureate DNP costs $90,916 over 4–6 years with 98% job placement rates and 750 PMHNP clinical hours plus doctoral practicum experiences.
Pennsylvania Programs vs. National Online Programs
Pennsylvania-Based Programs with Local Presence
Drexel University (Philadelphia)
- Format: Synchronous online with state-of-the-art simulation lab access
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($79,300, 2 years) and Post-Master’s Certificate ($39,746, ~2 years part-time)
- Clinical Hours: 640 hours across four practicum courses
- Key Features: 100% board pass rates, clinically active nationally board-certified faculty, highly interactive e-learning, 10-week quarters, students find own sites with resource support, Pennsylvania RN required, minimum 1 year psychiatric nursing experience required
Jefferson University (Philadelphia)
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($48,132–$60,165, 2–3 years), DNP Post-Bacc ($90,916, 4–6 years), Certificate ($36,099, 1.5–2 years)
- Clinical Hours: 750 hours with joint responsibility partnerships
- Key Features: 98% job placement rate, pass rates higher than national averages, joint clinical placement partnerships between students and faculty, mandatory orientation, comprehensive lifespan training, available online or hybrid format
Penn State (University Park)
- Format: Online with three on-campus intensives
- Programs: BSN to DNP ($61,183, 3 years/8 semesters), MSN to DNP ($31,110+ minimum, 1.5–2 years), Certificate ($23,851, 1.5–2 years)
- Clinical Hours: 1,031 total practice hours for BSN to DNP (600 clinical + 431 DNP project)
- Key Features: Center of Excellence designation by NLN, 700+ global clinical partners, clinical placement team support, three intensive experiences, valid Pennsylvania RN license required, minimum 3.5 GPA, no GRE required
University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia)
- Format: Hybrid with weekly on-campus seminars
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($103,526 full-time/$105,814 part-time, 14 months full-time/3 years part-time)
- Clinical Hours: Three-semester clinical practicum
- Key Features: Elite highly-ranked program, coordinated Penn network clinical placements arranged by school, weekly small group on-campus seminars, Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship for underserved community commitment, holistic neuroscience approach, minimum 3.0 GPA
University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh)
- Format: Hybrid format
- Programs: BSN to DNP ($89,000–$113,920, 3 years), MSN to DNP ($36,000–$45,000, 2 years), Certificate ($43,520, 12–24 months)
- Clinical Hours: 640 hours for certificate, 1,000+ for DNP
- Key Features: CCNE accredited, Pennsylvania license required for all students, intensive practica in multiple psychiatric settings, comprehensive Exam requirements, minimum 3.0 GPA, one year nursing experience recommended
University of Scranton (Scranton)
- Format: Online with two on-campus clinical intensives
- Programs: DNP ($51,724, 33 months), MSN ($40,530, 21 months), Certificate ($31,845, ~18 months)
- Clinical Hours: 750 hours across three practica with two on-campus intensives
- Key Features: AACN Essentials 2021 and NP Core Competencies 2022 compliant, two on-campus intensives for simulation/skills, faculty assistance with preceptor identification, minimum 3.0 GPA (3.2 for DNP), CCNE accredited
York College (York)
- Format: Online
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($33,250 partners/$34,750 non-partners, 32–36 months), Certificate ($17,955, 12 months)
- Clinical Hours: 784 hours across four clinical courses
- Key Features: Partner discounts available, prepares for national certification, valid PA or MD Multistate RN license required, minimum 3.0 GPA, one year RN experience required, students responsible for clinical placement
National Online Programs Serving Pennsylvania
- Format: 100% online with two in-person visits
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($33,075, 2.5 years) and Graduate Certificate ($25,725, ~1.5 years)
- Clinical Hours: 650 supervised practicum hours
- Key Features: Practicum Commitment guarantee, 90%+ students receive financial aid, CCNE accreditation, two in-person visits for immersion/intensive, military/veteran/alumni discounts, 11-hour on-campus lab component
- Format: 100% online
- Programs: MSN-PMHNP ($30,198–$30,794, 34 months)
- Clinical Hours: 630 hours across 5 preceptorship courses
- Key Features: Monthly start dates, 8-week courses, CCNE accredited, all courses one at a time, must pass APEA 3P Exam, Pennsylvania authorized, students find own sites
- Format: 100% online
- Programs: MSN-PMHNP ($32,760, 2 years), Certificate ($20,160, ~1.5 years), MSN to DNP pathway
- Clinical Hours: 6 clinical credits for certificate
- Key Features: CCNE accredited, 93.7% 2024 graduate pass rate, seamless MSN to DNP transition, clinical at convenient locations or workplace
- Format: 100% online
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($50,380, 27 months) and Certificate ($28,417, 21 months)
- Clinical Hours: Variable by program
- Key Features: Personalized clinical practicum coordinators, workplace clinical options, three elective courses, virtual immersion experiences, NOT eligible for Title IV federal aid
- Format: 100% online asynchronous
- Programs: MSN PMHNP ($25,155, 21 months) and Certificate ($17,050, ~18 months)
- Clinical Hours: 570 hours (60 core + 510 PMHNP)
- Key Features: #8 ranking for 2025 Best Colleges for Nursing by Niche, CCNE accredited, 10-12 week quarters, students responsible for finding preceptors/sites with guidance, minimum 800 hours nursing work experience required
- Format: 100% online
- Programs: BSN to DNP ($74,405, 3.25 years), MSN to DNP ($69,225, 3 years), MSN ($44,705, 2.5 years), Certificate ($35,225, variable)
- Clinical Hours: 640 hours for MSN/Certificate, 1,000+ for DNP
- Key Features: Practicum Pledge guarantees placement assistance, CCNE accredited, virtual skills lab, Believe & Achieve Scholarship, multiple entry points
- Format: 100% online, competency-based
- Programs: MSN-PMHNP ($35,775, minimum 2.5 years), Certificate ($21,465, minimum 1.5 years)
- Clinical Hours: 650 hours
- Key Features: Most affordable nationally, competency-based allows acceleration, flat-rate tuition per term, dedicated Program Mentor, CCNE accredited
- Format: 100% online
- Programs: MSN ($31,542, 2.3 years), Certificate ($21,779, 1.67 years), DNP (~$31,680, 2–3 years)
- Clinical Hours: 500 for MSN/Certificate, 1,000+ for DNP
- Key Features: Complimentary clinical placement support built into tuition, 95.4% certification pass rates (vs. 90% national), above-average placement rates, 12-week courses, sites within 125 miles
Key Differences
Pennsylvania-Based Programs offer local reputations, networking within Pennsylvania’s healthcare community, hybrid formats with on-campus requirements (Penn, UPenn, Scranton), coordinated clinical placements at prestigious health systems (Penn, UPenn, Jefferson), and higher admission standards. Several require Pennsylvania RN licensure and minimum psychiatric nursing experience. University of Pennsylvania provides the fastest full-time completion at 14 months with elite education and coordinated placements.
National Online Programs provide 100% online flexibility (except for Chamberlain’s immersions), often lower costs, competency-based or accelerated options, and broader state authorization. Most students find their own clinical sites (though programs like Walden, Chamberlain, and Wilkes provide placement support). These programs serve working nurses who cannot attend campus sessions.
Clinical Placement: University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, and Jefferson coordinate clinical placements. Wilkes University and Chamberlain University provide clinical placement assistance or guarantees. Drexel, York College, Post University, Purdue Global, South College, and WGU expect students to find sites with university approval/support.
Clinical Hours: Range from 500 hours (Wilkes MSN) to 1,031 hours (Penn State BSN to DNP), with most MSN/Certificate programs requiring 630–784 hours and DNP programs requiring 1,000+ hours.
Admission Requirements: Penn State has the highest GPA requirement (3.5 minimum for DNP), while most other programs require 3.0 minimum. Drexel and Jefferson require minimum 1 year of psychiatric nursing experience. University of Pennsylvania requires attendance at weekly on-campus seminars.
Format Distinctions: University of Pennsylvania requires weekly on-campus attendance for seminars. Drexel offers synchronous online lectures. Penn State, University of Scranton, and Chamberlain require on-campus intensives. All others are fully asynchronous online except for clinical requirements.