Named one of the "Best Online Master's in Nursing Programs" for 2023 by U.S. News & World Report.
At Regis College, we believe in promoting holistic care. For all patients and families, that includes mental wellness. That’s why we offer an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Our mental health nursing degree is designed to help the next wave of nurse practitioners (NPs) master the skills and mindset needed to aid patients seeking mental health care as we face evolving challenges due to the pandemic and a rising need for effective psychiatric mental health care.
What can you do with a psychiatric mental health nursing degree?
Where do psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners work?
Calendar
Length: 28-36 months
Total Credits: 49-64
Application Deadlines:
Summer: 03/19/2023
Fall: 7/17/2023
Upcoming Start Dates:
Summer: 04/30/2023
Fall: 8/28/2023
Why Choose Regis for Your Online MSN in PMHNP?
100% online, flexible learning environment
Complete in as few as 28-36 months
Qualify to sit for ANCC certification
At 92%, our NP exam pass rates exceed national average*
Transfer credits accepted
*Based on Regis online and on-campus NP exam pass rates
The online MSN is a virtual extension of our highly regarded on-campus program, one of the largest nurse practitioner programs in Massachusetts. The Regis School of Nursing was the first in New England to be designated a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nursing.
At Regis, we work directly with active nursing professionals, which means our PMHNP program incorporates insider perspective on the leadership qualities the field demands to help you build those skills. With our MSN, you can develop important leadership qualities such as critical thinking, professional and interpersonal communication, effective decision-making, patience, and more.
Master’s Programs Guide ranked Regis #16 in 50 Best Online Master of Science in Nursing Programs.
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Regis College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Designated as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing 2008-2020
Ranked among the Top 25 Fastest-Growing Colleges by The Business Journals
Our Curriculum Can Prepare You for New Leadership Opportunities.
We’re here to support you. With several degrees of student support, no GRE requirements, and a flexible learning environment, we’re breaking down barriers that often prevent bright minds from reaching their full potential in advanced practice. Our inclusive approach to leadership starts with three entry points:
- Associate Degree in Nursing to MSN
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s to MSN
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing to MSN
Psychiatric Mental Health Practice by the Numbers
$111,660
The average salary for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners in the U.S. (Payscale.com)
41%
The percentage of adults in the U.S. who reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder in January 2021 (KFF.org)
11.7%
The percentage of those who reported an unmet mental health care need in the U.S. in between August 2020 and February 2021 (CDC.gov)
Ways to Save on Your Tuition
Employee Discounts
Regis partner employees can receive a discount on their tuition. Find out if your employer is a partner.
Federal & Military Discounts
Federal government employees as well as active and reserve military and veterans are eligible for a 15% discount on tuition. Find out more.
Alumni Discounts
Regis alumni who have received a previous degree from Regis are eligible for a 10% discount on tuition. Speak to an advisor for more information.
Financial Aid
We are here to support you through the process. Speak to an advisor to learn more.
Graduate Assistantship
Earn financial aid helping fellow students while also gaining valuable professional skills. Get more details.
Regis discounts cannot be combined with any other discount or scholarship offered by Regis. Some exceptions may apply.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for this program, students must meet the following qualifications:
Registered Nurse with Associate Degree Entry or Registered Nurse with Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree Entry:
- An Associate Degree in Nursing or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
- Active unencumbered RN license
- Complete 15 bridge credit hours with a B or better
- Must complete a college-level statistics course prior to the start of classes
- For RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing, general education courses may be required, depending on your prior undergraduate coursework
Registered Nurse with Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Entry:
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from a regionally accredited institution and accredited program
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
- Active unencumbered RN license
- Must complete a college-level statistics course prior to the start of classes
Application Requirements
You can begin your application process today. To get started you will need to submit the following:
- Application form
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Proof of active unencumbered RN license
- Current resume
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
What Can You Do with an MSN PMHNP Degree?
With the decrease in stigma in recent years, more people, including military veterans, are pursuing mental health treatment and understanding the benefits of mental wellness. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners help these segments of the population and their families by performing a variety of tasks, including:
- Helping patients regain or improve their coping abilities
- Assisting patients with self-care activities
- Consulting with medical and mental health professionals as part of a treatment team
- Educating patients and families about mental health conditions
- Connecting patients with available resources and services
- Assessing patient condition, monitoring progress, and administering treatment plans and medication
While psychiatric mental health nurse practice is a specialized area in the nurse practitioner role, you may choose to further specialize your career beyond the PMHNP title by focusing on specific illnesses or patient populations upon graduation. Some of your choices include:
- Children and Adolescents
- Geriatric
- Eating Disorders
- Consultation/Liaison
- Forensics
- Correctional Facilities
Where Do Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Work?
The psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner online program prepares RNs for an in-demand field that requires a robust yet specialized skill set and a high level of emotional intelligence. Beyond direct patient care, PMHNPs can work as psychiatric primary care providers, psychotherapists, consultants, and educators. They can also work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Privately owned clinics
- Outpatient facilities
- Long-term care centers
- Mental health facilities
- Home health services
- Community health organizations
- Education
Meet Our Faculty
Kelly Carlson, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, CNE
PMHNP - Program Director
View Full Bio of Kelly Carlson, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP, CNE
Megan Hawk, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Senior Lecturer, PMHNP Online Program
View Full Bio of Megan Hawk, MSN, PMHNP-BC
About Regis
As a leader in education, Regis is dedicated to offering programs with a holistic view of health care that are designed for the future of the field. Through cutting-edge coursework, industry-active faculty members, and an array of majors and graduate programs, Regis has been able to positively impact the educational community, health care landscape, and personal lives of students nationwide.
“In recent years, Regis has become a powerhouse in professional and graduate education in nursing and health sciences. As a result, our university has become increasingly visible locally, nationally, and internationally.”
Dr. Antoinette Hays RN, Ph.D.
President
When you choose Regis, you join a closely knit community with big university benefits. As a Regis student, you have the opportunity to build a solid health care foundation, lasting professional connections, and the specialized expertise you need to expand your skills and perspective. Prepare to enter in-demand fields such as nursing and health administration confidently with an education of the highest standard.
