Program Overview

Introduction to the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at Washington State University College of Nursing is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care. This includes diagnosis, treatment, medication management, and psychotherapy.

Program Overview

The PMHNP program is part of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which focuses on evidence-based practice to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. The program is offered in a hybrid format, with most instruction provided online and select courses meeting in-person on the campus of registration.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the PMHNP program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Post-baccalaureate DNP applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited nursing program.
• Post-master’s DNP applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or another field and a master’s degree in nursing from a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, comprised of all college coursework ever taken.
• Official transcripts from all previous college work.
• Students must hold a current, unencumbered RN license in the catchment area of their campus.

Program Requirements

The PMHNP program requires:

• Completion of 74 credits.
• 1,000 hours of practicum experiences, divided between direct-care and non-direct care hours.
• A DNP project that demonstrates the application of evidence-based research into practice.

Technical Standards

Nursing education requires the accumulation of scientific knowledge accompanied by the acquisition of skills and professional attitudes and behaviors.

Graduate Clinical Passport Requirements

The College of Nursing requires proof of licensure, immunizations, required trainings, and certifications.

Required Courses

The program includes a series of courses that provide a foundation in advanced practice nursing, including:

• NURS_ADV 562, which meets 6 times per semester on campus for lab experiences.

Program Outcomes

The DNP program is designed to prepare nurse leaders who are experts in evidence-based practice. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Apply biophysical, psychosocial, behavioral, sociopolitical, cultural, economic, and nursing science to improve healthcare practice and delivery systems.
2. Analyze organizational structure, functions, and resources to improve the delivery of care.
3. Translate evidence-based research into practice to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.
4. Use information systems/technology to support and improve patient care and healthcare systems.
5. Advocate for the nursing profession through the development, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare policy.

Paying for the Program

The estimated cost of the program is approximately $1180.05 per credit for residents and $1961.60 per credit for non-residents, plus campus and student fees. Additional costs include books, immunization and onboarding requirements, and computer needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• The PMHNP program is offered on four WSU campuses: Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Yakima.
• Practicum hours must be completed in the catchment area of the campus of registration.
• The program is considered hybrid, with most instruction provided online and select courses meeting in-person on the campus of registration.

Conclusion

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Washington State University College of Nursing is designed to prepare advanced practice nurses who specialize in providing comprehensive mental health care. The program is offered in a hybrid format and requires completion of 74 credits, 1,000 hours of practicum experiences, and a DNP project. Graduates of the program will be prepared to provide high-quality mental health care and improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.