MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Improve lives as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner

The world needs you. In today’s fast-paced society, there’s greater demand for mental health support across the lifespan. At Davenport, you’ll receive the education you need to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and improve lives through a holistic mental health approach.

By choosing Davenport’s Master of Science in Nursing program with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner concentration, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to level up your career and care for patients with mental, emotional or behavioral conditions.

The program’s curriculum will provide you with comprehensive, well-rounded instruction across all disciplines, which will help you build the skills needed to address psychopathology, substance use disorders and behavioral health. You’ll also learn effective counseling and crisis intervention strategies, as well as how to conduct mental health assessments and provide psychiatric care and rehabilitation.

And we know that working adults lead busy lives. That’s why the program offers flexibility through both full-time or part-time programs and 100% online course delivery. Clinicals can be completed in your geographical area, too.

At Davenport, as an aspiring psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, you can rest assured you’re becoming well-equipped to provide safe, competent care for patients with mental health concerns across the lifespan.

What is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner?

You may be wondering what exactly a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner does. At the heart of your career, you’ll assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of patients of all ages. You may also provide physical and psychosocial assessments as well as emergency psychiatric care.

You’ve likely sought out the MSN psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program because you wish to help people. And as the world faces a crisis in mental health, there’s no better time than now to pursue your degree from Davenport.

With your degree, you’ll be well positioned for a career spent enriching the lives of others in a variety of settings, including behavioral health/addiction clinics, psychiatric mental health facilities and private practices.

Explore classes for the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program

Courses in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner concentration offer real-world knowledge because the curriculum was created by – and is taught by – experienced, practicing nurse practitioners. Not only will they share their professional experience, but they’ll also provide mentorship and guidance to prepare you for a successful career addressing mental health.

See Full Course List

Foundations of Advanced Nursing		9 Credits
NURS600	Theoretical Fndn Adv Nurs Prac	3
NURS601	MSN Orientation Seminar This seminar is required in the first semester of acceptance to the College of Health Professions MSN program. The program expectations and the MSN Student Handbook will be reviewed. Students in this course must register and complete the required Criminal Background Check (CBC) and Drug Screen (DS). Note: This course is graded on a Pass/Fail basis. If the CBC/DS portion of the class is not completed in the specified time frame, a failing grade will be given for the course. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	0
NURS640	Nurs Research & Evid-Base Prac Critical discussion and analysis of the research process including the responsible conduct of research, qualitative and quantitative research methods and designs, analysis of data, and reporting of results. Strategies to improve dissemination and application of nursing research findings and integration of evidence-based practice will be discussed.Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS670	Transform NursingPractice Role This course prepares nurses at the Master’s degree level to investigate and analyze the organization, delivery, and financing of health care through the lens of a leadership role. Leadership theories and concepts are explored as they may be applied to address complex and dynamic health care challenges such as health care access, cost, and quality. Strategic planning, systems thinking, political advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration are discussed and explored as within the context of the nursing leadership role and the advanced nursing practice in affecting quality health outcomes and culturally patient-centered care. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3

Advanced Nursing Core		9 Credits
NURS735	Advanced Pathophysiology Alterations of various physiological systems, etiology and clinical manifestations of commonly occurring health problems across the life span are discussed. In-depth case analysis of risk factors, pathophysiological changes, and associated signs and symptoms, relevant theories, research, and evidence-based findings are discussed as a basis for advanced practice nursing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS738	Advanced Pharmacology The course focuses on the use of pharmacotherapeutic agents to manage health problems. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drug categories, as well as evidence-based findings, are discussed as a basis for prescribing and monitoring pharmaceutical and alternative therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of commonly occurring acute and chronic illnesses. Ethical, legal, and risk-management issues are discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	3
NURS740	Advanced Health Assessment This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	2
NURS740V	Advanced Health Assessment Lab This course focuses on the development of advanced practice nursing skills in health assessment for clients across the life span. Relevant concepts, theories, research, and evidence-based findings on prevention and early detection of risk factors and disease are emphasized. Critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning and communication skills are developed through case scenarios, simulated experiences, and clinical experiences as appropriate. Note: The lab portion designated with a ‘V’ will be taught in a virtual format. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Component Co-requisite(s): NURS740 and NURS740V Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSN program	1

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Concentration		28 Credits
NRPY710	Mental Health Diagnosis This course prepares students to apply advanced concepts in assessment and diagnosis of mental health conditions. Topics include the clinical signs and symptoms of psychiatric conditions, differentiation of medical and mental health conditions, and pertinent diagnostic tests and laboratory values. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Fifth edition (DSM-V) will be used as a tool for learning differential diagnosis of mental health conditions. A holistic and patient-centered approach to assessment and diagnosis will be emphasized. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NURS738 and NURS670 Prerequisite(s): NURS601, NURS600, NURS735, NURS740, NURS740V	3
NRPY725	Neuropsychopharmacology This course prepares students to prescribe psychopharmacotherapeutic agents for symptomatic treatment of mental health conditions. Neurobiological processes are explored as the foundation for choosing pharmacological therapies. Evidence-based decision making is emphasized for safe prescribing and monitoring pharmaceutical and complementary-alternative therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of commonly occurring acute and chronic mental health disorders, across the lifespan. Ethical, legal, and risk-management issues are discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NURS738 Prerequisite(s): NURS735, NURS740, NURS740V, NRPY710	3
NRPY732	Psychotherapeutic Modalities This course focuses on the theoretical foundation of advanced practice nursing management of patients with common mental health alterations across the lifespan. Advanced assessment including biological, developmental, behavioral, psychosocial, familial/cultural and genetic considerations, are promoted in the development of a differential diagnosis and treatment plan. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based treatment strategies, based on current clinical practice guidelines. Complex health conditions will also be explored as relevant comorbidities. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NRPY733C Prerequisite(s): NRPY710 and NRPY725	2
NRPY733C	Mental Health Nursing Clin I This course focuses on the clinical foundation of advanced practice nursing management of patients with mental health alterations across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on advanced assessment and diagnosis according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-V). Application of theoretical knowledge of pharmacologic, non-pharmacologic, psychotherapy and other treatment strategies in the development of an evidence-based, age-appropriate treatment plan is promoted. Experiences are provided in clinical decision making and implementation of treatment in a variety of mental health settings. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NRPY733C requires 180 hours at a clinical site. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NRPY732 Prerequisite(s): NRPY710 and NRPY725	4
NRPY746	Pediatric Mental Health This course focuses on the theoretical foundation of advanced practice nursing management of pediatric patients with common acute or chronic mental health disorders. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based treatment strategies, based on current clinical practice guidelines for infants through young adults. Advanced assessment, including biological, developmental, behavioral, psychosocial, cultural and genetic considerations, is promoted in the development of a differential diagnosis and treatment plan. Relevant health promotion concepts are explored. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NRPY747C Prerequisite(s): NRPY732	3
NRPY747C	Mental Health Nursing Clin II This course focuses on progressive development of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner competencies in management of patients with mental health alterations across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on advanced competency development in performing advanced assessment, determining a differential diagnosis, and developing a treatment plan, utilizing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-V) and other evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Experiences are provided in clinical decision making and implementation of treatment in a variety of mental health settings. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NRPY747C requires 180 hours at a clinical site. Additional course fee(s) apply. Co-requisite(s): NRPY746 Prerequisite(s): NRPY733C	4
NRPY763	Geropsychiatry	2
NRPY774	Mental Health Lifespan This course prepares the nurse to plan and deliver psychotherapy to patients with mental health alterations across the lifespan, in the context of the advanced practice nursing role. Theoretical frameworks for various psychotherapy and integrative modalities are included. Therapeutic communication, individual, and group therapy methods are emphasized. Interprofessional collaboration for a patient-centered and evidence-based approach is promoted. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NRPY775C and NRPY799 Prerequisite(s): NRPY746 and NRPY763	3
NRPY775C	Mental Health Nursing Clin III This course focuses on progressive development and evaluation of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner competencies in management of patients with mental health alterations across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on advanced competency demonstration in performing advanced assessment, determining a differential diagnosis and developing a treatment plan, utilizing the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-V) and other evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Experiences are provided in clinical decision making and implementation of treatment in a variety of mental health settings. Note: Any unexcused non-attendance or dismissal from an internship, practicum, clinical or fieldwork experience will result in a grade of F. NRPY775C requires 180 hours at a clinical site. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): NRPY774 and NRPY799 Prerequisite(s): NRPY747C	4

Capstone		1 Credits
NRPY799	Mental Health Capstone This course is the final synthesis of the theoretical and clinical basis for advanced practice nursing care in the management of patients with psychiatric and mental health alterations. The principles and methodologies inherent in the conduct of evidence-based research and practice to design and implement a special clinical research project is included. The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) practice areas of licensing, credentialing and legal issues are discussed. A review in preparation of board certification will be provided. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): NURS640 and Data Collection	1

Which class should I take? When should I take it?

See our Recommended Program Sequences:

18:1

18:1 student-to-professor ratio

Earn your degree in less than 2 years

20%

Pay 20% lower nursing MSN tuition as a member of MHA

100%

Gain flexibility with our 100% online nursing master’s degree

Why pursue an online nursing master’s degree at Davenport?

Davenport’s online MSN psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program includes direct clinical practice in a variety of psychiatric practice settings. With an 18:1 student/faculty ratio, you’ll receive more personalized attention from Davenport’s highly credentialed and experienced instructors.

Davenport’s online nursing master’s degree will give you ample opportunities to network and get to know your nursing MSN peers and faculty through the Davenport Global Campus, which is specially designed to foster valuable connections.

To help relieve some of the financial barriers to your MSN psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree, Davenport will waive your nursing MSN application fee and extend a 20% tuition discount if you’re a member of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA).

Experience the Davenport difference:

Convenience for your online nursing master’s degree

The program is designed to be completed 100% online. You can also earn your degree in less than two years or choose part-time course delivery to fit within your demanding schedule.

Exceptional test preparation

Graduates of the PMHNP are eligible to sit for the ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner board certification examination and pass at rates higher than the national average.

One-on-one attention

Gain advanced knowledge and specialized skills in small classes that offer individualized attention from highly credentialed faculty.

Key clinical placements

Earn a nursing MSN that supports your career goals with the right clinical placements, through the support of dedicated clinical care staff.

Start on your MSN psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward the Master of Science in Nursing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now or request more information

Start on your path to be a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner or other rewarding position. Request more information or begin your application now.

Programs related to the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, MSN

Master of Science in Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner

Family Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Master of Science in Nursing — Generalist Concentration

Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator Concentration

Nurse Educator Postgraduate Certificate

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

About Davenport University

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Offering over 80 degree and certificate programs, we align with top employers to design degree programs that help you gain the skills and real-world experience you need to rise above the rest. With small class sizes and campuses across Michigan or online, you’ll earn a quality education on your schedule at Davenport University.*

Additional resources

Nursing MSN success story: Quiana Scott, NP

After having her daughter in 1999, Quiana Scott decided she wanted a career, not a dead-end job. She earned her BSN in 2011 and her nursing MSN in 2016 and has worked as a family nurse practitioner for Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids ever since.

Nurse in a white coat standing in a hospital classroom

Master of Science in Nursing granted accreditation through 2027

Davenport University’s Master of Science in Nursing program was granted a 10-year term of accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

CCNE accreditation

The master's degree program in nursing at Davenport University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791.

Admission requirements

Current, valid, and unrestricted license as a registered nurse (RN) in a U.S. jurisdiction or province of Canada
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
One professional recommendation
Official transcripts from previous nursing program(s)
Resume/CV
Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 out of a 4.0
Professional essay

Out-of-state applicants applying for academic programs leading to professional licensure (ie; FNP), it is highly recommended that students contact the appropriate licensing agency in their state of residence if they are considering an academic program that leads to a professional license. Davenport University offers a state-by-state guide with web links to the appropriate licensing agencies. It is the responsibility of students to contact the appropriate licensing agency and to understand the requirements in their state of residence as applied to their specific situation.

Nursing MSN program philosophy

The multifaceted roles of the practical and professional nurse are taught at Davenport University and include care provision, communication, management, and scope of practice. Theoretical foundations shape the curricula and guide nursing education. The Davenport University Nursing Program is a dynamic system that provides for the educational growth and development of the nursing student. An adaptation of Fawcett’s metaparadigm is utilized and includes person, environment, health, and nursing.

Person - The concept of a person refers to the individual or individuals as part of culture, family, community or aggregate groups who interact with the nurse in a therapeutic manner.
Environment - The environment is made up of the physical surroundings and the settings in which the person interacts with society as a whole. This integrates the totality of social, cultural, and religious foundations and influences. Individuals are affected by the environment and, in turn, have the ability to affect the environment.
Health - The health continuum from birth to death includes physical, mental, cultural, and spiritual elements. Wellness describes the function of a person at his or her maximum potential.
Nursing - Nursing is a caring profession that is guided by the ANA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Nursing is not limited to physical care but incorporates the promotion, protection, and optimization of health. Nursing practice is guided by research that contributes to the delivery of evidence-based practice.

Program outcomes

Synthesize concepts and theories from nursing and related disciplines and sciences to deliver advanced nursing care.
Integrate evidence-based knowledge, research, and clinical judgment to design, coordinate, and evaluate the delivery of care.
Integrate current and emerging health and information technologies effectively into one’s practice to enhance health outcomes.
Collaborate effectively within an interprofessional context to improve the delivery of care across the health care continuum.
Apply organizational and systems leadership strategies to promote high quality and safe patient care environments.
Advocate for policies at the local, state, and national levels to improve health and advance the profession of nursing.
Demonstrate beginning competency in an advanced nursing role.

Faculty and staff

Associate Dean: Amy Stahley, PhD, MSN, RN

Department Chair for Nursing: Tracy Alberta, MSN, RN

Nursing Administrative Assistant: TBD

MSN/FNP online faculty

Clinical Coordinator: Marlo Schepers, MSN

Online Graduate Faculty: Jessica Abernathy, DNP, WHNP-BC, CNM, FNP-BC, Annette Mannion, MSN, CRNP, IBLC

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus.
View a full list of those programs and courses

Sources:

DU Student Data, Fall 2023
Davenport University, 2023/2024 Catalog

Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner