Interested in PMHNP online programs out there

Updated:   Published

Specializes in OB.

I'm interested in information from those of you who are pursuing a PMHNP.  I'm researching schools now.  I would like to hear any and all advice, experiences, etc with the schools that have a PMHNP program.  I prefer online courses with minimal visits to the campus, but if I need to pick a hybrid program in order to receive a quality education that prepares me for a career in MH as a NP I will do so.  I would like to know if after being in a program if you would recommend it, what you felt were the pros and cons, and did you feel it prepared you for the exam and for a career as a MH NP.

 

Thanks in advance

Specializes in APRN, FNP-BC, Neuro, ICU, ER, Admin.

Here is a link that may help you.  good luck in your search
 

 

Specializes in Psychiatry.

Hi!

I'm sorry but campus visits need to be a required part of your learning, they are the hallmark of a good school vs diploma mill program. There is nothing wrong with online didactic, but you are learning to be a provider and even as a psych NP you will receive training on how to do a physical exam and conduct basic medical procedures. These cannot be completed at home in a way that you will be confident that you're prepared. You need an experienced professors, in a lab, making sure you know how to correctly palpate, percuss, and examine every part of the body.

I get that we all want shortcuts, but it might come back to bite you in the butt! The NP market (even psych!!) is becoming saturated very quickly. Going to a quality program may be the difference between having your resume read or thrown in the garbage when applying for a job with 50 other NP applicants.

I highly recommend applying to a quality program, check your local state schools first, they are usually the best option. If you must go "online" then go to an online program with a strong track record and in person components, such as Vanderbilt, Duke, George Washington University, Frontier, etc.

Whatever you do, don't click on those spam ads that show up here and on Google saying you can become an NP in 18 months with minimal work or admission requirements. Chamberlain, Walden, Phoenix, Maryville, etc are not well regarded schools.

Specializes in Psychiatric, ER and infection prevention.
On 4/20/2021 at 8:04 AM, MentalKlarity said:

Hi!

I'm sorry but campus visits need to be a required part of your learning, they are the hallmark of a good school vs diploma mill program. There is nothing wrong with online didactic, but you are learning to be a provider and even as a psych NP you will receive training on how to do a physical exam and conduct basic medical procedures. These cannot be completed at home in a way that you will be confident that you're prepared. You need an experienced professors, in a lab, making sure you know how to correctly palpate, percuss, and examine every part of the body.

I get that we all want shortcuts, but it might come back to bite you in the butt! The NP market (even psych!!) is becoming saturated very quickly. Going to a quality program may be the difference between having your resume read or thrown in the garbage when applying for a job with 50 other NP applicants.

I highly recommend applying to a quality program, check your local state schools first, they are usually the best option. If you must go "online" then go to an online program with a strong track record and in person components, such as Vanderbilt, Duke, George Washington University, Frontier, etc.

Whatever you do, don't click on those spam ads that show up here and on Google saying you can become an NP in 18 months with minimal work or admission requirements. Chamberlain, Walden, Phoenix, Maryville, etc are not well regarded schools.

I know a lot of people that have attended Maryville and are super happy with it. They had to do clincal hours and they seem to be doing very well, they graduated and passed their exams. I can't comment on the other schools that you mentioned.... 

Specializes in Psychiatry.
1 hour ago, izzy_452002 said:

I know a lot of people that have attended Maryville and are super happy with it. They had to do clincal hours and they seem to be doing very well, they graduated and passed their exams. I can't comment on the other schools that you mentioned.... 

Everyone has to do clinical hours. That's not a mark of a good school. Maryville is for profit and should be avoided.

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