Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Advance your nursing skills and take your career to the next level

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Prepare to become a highly sought-after psychiatric nurse practitioner equipped to serve the needs of a diverse patient population in both classroom and clinical settings with Davenport University’s psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate.

Continue to work while you study by earning your online psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate through our Global Campus. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), our psychiatric nurse practitioner certificate will equip you with the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills demanded in today’s advanced nursing roles.

Our nursing programs are led by nursing faculty and staff who are highly qualified clinicians and nurse educators. With these high-quality experiences and instructors, you’ll be positioned to join graduates of Davenport’s nursing programs who have passed their nursing certification exams at rates above the national average.

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 psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate because you wish to help people. As the world faces a crisis in mental health, there’s no better time than now to pursue your certificate from Davenport.

Explore classes for the psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate

Courses for the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate 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

Advanced Nursing Core		9 Credits
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
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:

100%

Earn your nurse practitioner certificate 100% online

20%

Pay 20% lower nursing tuition as a member of MHA

Why pursue a psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate?

Davenport’s online psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate prepares graduates to build on the skills needed to address psychopathology, substance use disorders and behavioral health. You’ll also enhance your counseling and crisis intervention strategies, as well as how to conduct mental health assessments and provide psychiatric care and rehabilitation.

Davenport’s College of Health Professions will give you ample opportunities to network and get to know your nursing peers and faculty through the Davenport Global Campus, which is specially designed to foster valuable connections.

To help relieve some of the financial barriers of going back to school, Davenport will extend a 20% tuition discount if you’re a member of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA).

Convenience of an online nursing post-graduate certificate

Choose a nursing post-graduate certificate that’s 100% online to better accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses.

High certification pass rates

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

One-on-one attention

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

Hands-on experience

Prove your skills and knowledge with hands-on nurse practitioner practice, both clinical and academic.

Get started on your psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward the psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate.

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 the road to a post-graduate nursing certificate and a higher nursing salary as a nurse practitioner. Request more information or begin your application now.

Programs related to the psychiatric nurse practitioner postgraduate certificate

Master of Science in Nursing – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Master of Science in Nursing — Family Nurse Practitioner

Family Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate

Master of Science in Nursing — Nurse Educator Concentration

Nurse Educator 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.*

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 Online FNP: Marlo Schepers, MSN

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

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

Applicants are eligible for admission to the postgraduate certificate in psychiatric nurse practitioner at Davenport University if they meet the following minimum requirements:

A Master of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale).
Official transcripts indicating completion of a master’s degree will be required upon admission.
Current, unrestricted, registered nursing license, in a U.S. jurisdiction. You must have a current RN license from any state in which you perform clinical coursework.

Students must apply through NursingCAS.org. Frequently asked questions and instructions for using the NursingCAS system are available at https://www.nursingcas.org/ need-help/.

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

Source:

Davenport University, 2023/2024 Catalog