Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs in North Carolina | 2025

Whether you're a practicing nurse seeking to advance your career or generally curious about the role of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), you've come to the right place. Discover the best PMHNP programs in North Carolina as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best PMHNP Programs in North Carolina — Online & On-Campus

Learn More About North Carolina's Top PMHNP Programs

The Tar Heel State, known for its vibrant healthcare systems and leading medical institutions, offers a thriving environment for aspiring Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. North Carolina is home to renowned hospitals, community health centers, and mental health programs, providing ample opportunities for clinical training across the state. The diverse healthcare landscape offers an excellent foundation for future mental health professionals to advance their education and clinical expertise.

This section highlights North Carolina's top PMHNP programs, covering key features, admission requirements, financial aid options, and more to help guide you on your path to mental health care.

^{For more details on PMHNP programs and schools, refer to the section and links above.}

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill)

UNC Chapel Hill ranks at the top, offering BSN-MSN, MSN-DNP, BSN-DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate pathways, all designed to prepare students for advanced psychiatric mental health nursing practice.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• High National Rankings: UNC's MSN program ranks fourth in the nation and their DNP ranks third.
• Dynamic Learning Structure: You'll complete online courses with on-campus immersions.
• Personalized Guidance & Networking: You'll gain mentorship from seasoned faculty and connections through UNC's extensive healthcare network.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's the breakdown of these tracks:

• BSN-MSN: 47 credits, 540 clinical hours
• BSN-DNP: 76 credits, 540 clinical hours
• MSN-DNP: 35-41 credits, 540 clinical hours
• Post-Graduate Certificate: Individualized study plans.

Admissions Requirements — Prospective students are required to:

• Hold a BSN with a 3.0 GPA or MSN with a 3.25 
• Submit GRE scores (recommended but not mandatory)
• Submit a resume
• Demonstrate successful completion of a statistics course with a grade of C or higher 
• Have six months of full-time clinical work experience as an RN in an acute or community setting dealing with psychiatric illness/substance abuse

Application Deadlines — Keep these dates in mind:

• Priority Application Deadline: November 12 (for merit consideration)
• Final Application Deadline: February 11
• Program Start: August

Financial Aid — UNC Chapel Hill's School of Nursing proudly awarded over $1.5 million in scholarships to more than 250 students in the 2023-24 academic year, thanks to generous donor support. With scholarships, grants, and aid options available, this school is committed to supporting your journey to becoming a leader in nursing.

2. Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers a top-ranked DNP PMHNP program, preparing students with advanced clinical skills and leadership training for psychiatric mental health nursing careers.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• 100% Online: Designed for working professionals with a fully online format for flexibility.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from dedicated faculty experienced in advanced clinical practice, scholarship, and research.
• Continuous Support: Enjoy personalized academic advisement, individualized practice integration experiences, and access to academic writing and health science librarian support.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The BSN-DNP PMHNP program requires 77 semester credit hours, 1020 clinical hours, and a DNP scholarly project. 

Admissions Requirements — To be eligible for the PMHNP DNP program, prospective students must meet the following criteria: 

• BSN from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Completed statistics and nursing research courses
• RN eligibility for North Carolina licensure
• One year of recent clinical RN experience
• Three professional references
• Resume and professional statement required
• No GRE or MAT required

Application Deadlines — The PMHNP program at WCU admits students once a year, with a Summer start date. Applications are due by April 1st.

3. Duke University

Ranked among the best, Duke University School of Nursing offers a leading PHMNP MSN program known for its excellence in mental health nursing education.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• High National Rankings: Duke's PMHNP MSN program is recognized as the #1 program in the country by the US News & World Report.
• Innovative Hybrid Learning Model: The program combines online courses with on-campus intensives, using both synchronous and asynchronous learning.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Your pathway to clinical excellence will involve 49 credits and a minimum of 560 clinical hours. With over 2,000 clinical partners worldwide, Duke offers experiential learning opportunities tailored to your goals.

Admissions Requirements — To be eligible for admission to this program, you must:

• Hold a BSN with a 3.0 GPA 
• Submit a resume
• Complete a general or introductory statistics course with a grade of C or higher
• Submit three professional recommendations, including at least one from a healthcare provider (MD, NP) if possible
• Prepare and upload three personal statement essays

Application Deadlines — Stay organized by marking these dates on your calendar:

• Fall Priority Deadline: December 1
• Spring Priority Deadline: May 1 
• Applications are reviewed on a space-available basis after these deadlines.

Financial Aid — Duke offers an exciting DUSON Merit Scholarship that MSN students are automatically considered for. It awards an impressive $36,000 toward tuition across six semesters! Other forms of aid are also available.

4. University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)

With a focus on clinical excellence and accessible education, UNCW's PMHNP DNP program is a top choice for aspiring nurse practitioners ready to make an impact in mental health care!

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Learning: This program combines online coursework with mandatory on-campus orientations and intensives.
• State-of-the-Art Labs: Students train in UNCW's advanced labs, equipped to simulate complex mental health scenarios.
• Duration: This full-time program can be completed in as few as eight semesters.

Clinical & Credit Hours — UNCW's BSN to DNP pathway spans 73 credits and 1,000 clinical hours, paving the way for mastery in psychiatric mental health nursing. 

UNCW's team works closely with each student to secure clinical placements. Their partnerships across North Carolina offer diverse practicum sites in both urban and rural mental health settings.

Admissions Requirements — To be considered for admission, you'll need:

• A BSN with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (GPAs as low as 2.75 may be considered on a case-by-case basis)
• A resume
• 600+ hours of RN experience
• Coursework in community health, health assessment, nursing research, and statistics
• Three professional references
• A brief admissions essay

Application Deadlines — Students hoping to join the fall 2025 cohort must submit their application and all supporting documents by February 1st, 2025. 

Financial Aid — UNCW is dedicated to making your DNP journey accessible with need-based grants, scholarships, and loan options.

5. East Carolina University (ECU)

East Carolina University's BSN-MSN and Post-Master's programs are highly regarded for their comprehensive approach to training aspiring PMHNPs, offering a strong foundation in mental health care and advanced practice.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: ECU's programs combine online coursework with on-campus intensives.
• New and Innovative Program: As a relatively new offering, ECU's PMHNP programs began in 2017 and incorporate the latest trends in mental health care practices.

Clinical & Credit Hours — The MSN path includes 47 credit hours, while the Post-MSN certificate requires 26 credit hours. Both paths involve 550 clinical hours. Faculty work closely with students to arrange clinical experiences tailored to their location and career goals.

Admissions Requirements — These programs require:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum 2.7 GPA (3.0 in nursing courses)
• Completion of a statistics course with a "C" or better
• One year of clinical RN experience (Post-Master's)
• A written statement
• Three letters of recommendation
• An interview with the graduate faculty

Application Deadlines — The application portal opens on August 15th, with a February 1st deadline for Summer admission. Class sizes are limited, with preference given to applicants currently working in mental health settings who plan to practice in North Carolina after graduation.

Financial Aid -— Students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA to explore their financial aid opportunities.

6. Gardner-Webb University (GWU)

Coming in sixth, GWU's PMHNP DNP program is designed for experienced nurses, equipping them with the advanced clinical and leadership skills needed for roles in psychiatric mental health care.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: The DNP program offers fully online coursework complemented by once-per-semester on-campus intensives.
• Faith-Based Education: As part of GWU's faith-based community, students gain a holistic view of healthcare through a Christian lens.
• Preferred Admission: Graduates of GWU's School of Nursing Accelerated BSN, Traditional BSN, and RN-BSN programs are eligible for seamless admission into the DNP programs within two years of graduation.
• Duration: The program is meant to be completed in three to four years.

Clinical & Credit Hours — This practitioner-focused program consists of 81 credit hours. Students complete their 1,000 practicum hours in local healthcare or education settings of their choice.

Admissions Requirements — The DNP program requires:

• A BSN degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA (provisional admission possible for GPAs of 2.6 and higher)
• Three professional references
• An updated resume or CV
• An interview with provided prompts
• Successful completion of a statistics course covering probability, inferential, and descriptive statistics
• Two years of active RN practice within the past three years, with a minimum of 1,100 hours per year

Application Deadlines — The next cohort begins on August 20, 2025. Early application is encouraged to ensure timely consideration.

Financial Aid — The DNP program qualifies for the Forgivable Education Loans for Service (FELS) program, offering financial support for students committed to service in North Carolina. 

7. South College

Rounding off our list, South College offers MSN and Post-MSN Certificate programs designed for working professionals, providing flexible pathways to advance in psychiatric mental health nursing and achieve PMHNP certification.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Learning: Both MSN and PMHNP Certificate programs offer fully online coursework.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Study advanced subjects like health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and psychiatric theory, all essential for today's PMHNPs.
• Duration: The MSN program can be completed in as little as 21 months.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Both programs require a minimum of 510 clinical hours. The BSN-MSN program involves 60 credit hours, whereas the Post-MSN Certificate involves 49. 

Admissions Requirements — To be considered for acceptance, students must have:

• A BSN or MSN with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• A statement of professional goals
• 800 hours of RN practice
• A resume (Post-Master's)

Application Deadlines — Apply any time with year-round, rolling admissions.

Financial Aid — South College provides a range of financial assistance options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, making it easier to invest in your future. 

What Is a PMHNP Program in North Carolina?

PMHNP programs in North Carolina are graduate-level educational pathways designed for registered nurses who wish to specialize in psychiatric and mental health care. These programs prepare nurses to provide a wide range of mental health services across the lifespan, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders.

PMHNP programs in North Carolina typically lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or a Post Graduate Certificate, and they include both coursework and clinical training components.

North Carolina PMHNP Coursework

While specific courses can vary between institutions, typical PMHNP coursework includes:

• Advanced Pathophysiology: Understanding the biological and physiological basis of diseases.
• Advanced Pharmacology: Detailed study of pharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorders.
• Advanced Health Assessment: Skills for comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessments.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Practice: Focus on therapeutic relationships, psychotherapy modalities, and clinical management of psychiatric disorders.
• Neuroscience for Mental Health Professionals: Insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of mental health conditions.
• Psychopharmacology: Specific focus on the use of medications in the treatment of mental health disorders.
• Psychotherapy Techniques: Training in various psychotherapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and others.
• Mental Health Policy and Advocacy: Understanding the legal, ethical, and policy issues in mental health care.

North Carolina PMHNP Clinical Training

PMHNP clinical training typically includes:

• Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry: Clinical rotations focusing on the mental health care of adults and elderly populations.
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Training in environments that cater to the mental health needs of children and teenagers.
• Substance Use Disorders: Clinical experiences in managing and treating addiction and substance abuse.
• Community Mental Health: Placements in community centers where preventive care and treatment services are provided to a diverse population.
• Inpatient Psychiatry: Experience in hospital settings dealing with acute psychiatric crises and stabilization.
• Emergency Psychiatry: Training in emergency departments or psychiatric emergency services, dealing with urgent mental health issues.

North Carolina PMHNP Graduation Requirements

Once admitted into a program, students typically must meet the following requirements before practicing as a PMHNP:

• Completion of a PMHNP Program: Candidates must complete a Master's or Doctoral degree from an accredited PMHNP program. These programs provide specialized training in psychiatric and mental health nursing.
• Clinical Hours: The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials mandate 500 practice hours for all advanced-level nursing programs, encompassing both direct and indirect experiences. The National Task Force for Quality Nurse Practitioner Education (NTFS) requires NP programs to include at least 750 hours of direct patient care, while Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs typically demand 1,000 or more clinical hours.
• National Certification: After completing the educational requirements, graduates must pass the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certification (PMHNP-BC) exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
• State Licensure as a Nurse Practitioner: Upon passing the certification exam, PMHNPs must apply for licensure as a nurse practitioner in the state of North Carolina. This involves submitting proof of certification and possibly additional documentation as required by the North Carolina Board of Nursing.
• Continuing Education: To maintain both RN and NP licenses, PMHNPs must complete continuing education units periodically. These requirements vary by state but are essential for keeping up-to-date with the latest practices and research in psychiatric nursing.

Admission Requirements for PMHNP Programs in North Carolina

PMHNP programs in North Carolina come with specific prerequisites and requirements, ensuring candidates are equipped for the demands of education and practice.

Common PMHNP admission requirements in North Carolina include:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Most PMHNP programs require applicants to have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This is the foundational degree that prepares nurses with the necessary background in medical and health sciences.
• RN License: Applicants must hold a current and unrestricted RN license in North Carolina or a compact state. This license demonstrates that the candidate has met the minimum standards to practice nursing.
• Clinical Experience: Some programs require applicants to have a certain amount of clinical experience, typically one to two years, working as a registered nurse. This experience should ideally be in a psychiatric or mental health setting, although this can vary by program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from clinical supervisors or academic faculty who can attest to the applicant's clinical skills, academic competency, and potential for success in a graduate program.
• Statement of Purpose: A personal statement or essay explaining why the applicant wishes to pursue a career as a PMHNP and how their background has prepared them for this field.
• GRE Scores: Some programs may require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, although this requirement is increasingly being waived by many schools.

PMHNP Salary Expectations in North Carolina

Latest statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicate a projected 40% growth in healthcare roles including Nurse Practitioners, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, and Certified Nurse Midwives, anticipating the creation of about 141,200 new jobs by 2033.

The United States is currently experiencing a marked shortage of mental health professionals, impacting over 150 million people in areas identified as lacking adequate mental health services. Although the BLS has not provided detailed projections for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, the growing population and increasing need for mental health services point to a substantial demand for PMHNPs. Projections estimate a shortage of 14,280 to 31,109 mental health professionals shortly, further strained by the limited number of psychiatrists. This deficiency is expected to affect additional mental health occupations, including psychologists and social workers, who are likely to experience increased demand.

PMHNP Salary 

The income of a PMHNP can vary widely depending on factors such as location, years of experience, type of practice setting, and levels of education and certification. To help you evaluate your potential earnings, we have compiled pertinent data. Here is the most recent information from the BLS:

New York NP Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $58.46
• Mean Annual Wage: $121,590

North Carolina employs 7,640 nurse practitioners, placing the state in the top 25th percentile for NP employment nationwide.

National RN Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $61.78
• Mean Annual Wage: $128,490.00

Top Paying States for NPs

• California: $161,540.00
• Nevada: $148,670.00
• Washington: $145,400.00
• New Jersey: $145,030.00
• Oregon: $144,950.00

The BLS does not offer specific salary details for different NP specialties. Nonetheless, data from ZipRecruiter indicates that salaries for PMHNPs range from $118,500 to $211,500, depending on the state where they practice. Most PMHNPs have salaries starting at around $118,500, with the national average reported to be $139,486.

North Carolina ranks 15th in the nation for PMHNP salaries, with an average annual income of $135,180

Top paying states for PMHNPs:

• Washington: $158,804
• Colorado: $157,510
• Delaware: $147,478
• Illinois:: $146,111
• New York: $145,228

Are PMHNP Programs in North Carolina Worth It?

Deciding whether a PMHNP program in North Carolina is worth it requires considering its various advantages and disadvantages.

Pros of PMHNP Programs in North Carolina

1. High Demand for Services: North Carolina has a significant need for mental health services, especially in rural and underserved areas. This demand ensures that PMHNPs have ample job opportunities upon graduation.
2. Competitive Salaries: PMHNPs in North Carolina can expect competitive salaries due to the high demand for their specialization. This can lead to a strong return on investment for those who complete a PMHNP program.
3. Comprehensive Training: Many programs in North Carolina offer robust training that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills. This comprehensive education prepares graduates to handle a wide range of mental health conditions effectively.
4. Opportunities for Advancement: With a PMHNP degree, nurses can advance their careers beyond basic nursing positions. This role allows for greater autonomy and the opportunity to lead mental health treatment plans.
5. Positive Impact on Community Health: PMHNPs significantly contribute to improving community health by addressing mental health needs, which can be highly rewarding personally and professionally.

Cons of PMHNP Programs in North Carolina

1. Cost of Education: The cost of PMHNP programs can be high, which may deter some potential students or lead to significant student debt.
2. Intensive Curriculum: The curriculum in these programs is rigorous and time-consuming, which can be challenging for students, especially those who are working or have other responsibilities.
3. Licensing and Regulation: North Carolina requires PMHNPs to be fully licensed and adhere to specific state regulations, which can be a complex and lengthy process.
4. Emotional Toll: Working in mental health can be emotionally challenging. PMHNPs often deal with severe mental illnesses and high-stress situations, which can lead to burnout.
5. Limited Prescriptive Authority: In some cases, North Carolina may have restrictions on the prescriptive authority of PMHNPs compared to other states, which can limit the scope of practice.

Ultimately, whether a PMHNP program in North Carolina is worth it depends on your career goals, financial situation, and values placed on its pros and cons. However, if a greater impact on community health, an increase in salary expectations, and advanced practice nursing are important to you, then a PMHNP program is certainly worth it.

Why Picking an Accredited PMHNP Program Matters

Attending an accredited PMHNP program in North Carolina is crucial for several reasons:

• Quality of Education: Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous educational standards. This guarantees a comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum that covers all necessary aspects of psychiatric and mental health nursing, preparing students with the knowledge and skills required in this specialized field.
• Eligibility for Certification and Licensure: Graduating from an accredited PMHNP program is often a prerequisite for taking the national certification exams required to practice as a PMHNP. Most state boards of nursing also require completion of an accredited program for licensure. Without this, graduates may not be eligible to practice.
• Professional Credibility: An accredited program is recognized for its quality and rigor, enhancing a graduate's professional credibility. Employers often prefer or exclusively hire nurse practitioners who have graduated from accredited programs, as it assures them of the practitioner's competent educational background.
• Career Opportunities: Accredited programs are well-regarded in the healthcare community, opening up more job opportunities. Many healthcare facilities and organizations give preference to candidates from accredited programs due to their proven educational standards.
• Access to Federal Financial Aid: Students in accredited programs are typically eligible for federal financial aid, which can be crucial in funding their education. This is particularly important given the significant investment required for advanced nursing education.

While researching programs it's important to check if they're accredited by organizations like the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

Best PNHNP Programs Near Me

Discover the best PMHNP programs in the following states:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the minimum GPA requirement for enrolling in a PMHNP program in North Carolina?

Most PMHNP programs in North Carolina require a minimum GPA, typically around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, for admission. This ensures that applicants have a solid academic foundation necessary for the rigorous coursework and clinical practice involved in the program.

Can I complete a PMHNP program in North Carolina on a part-time basis?

Many PMHNP programs in North Carolina offer part-time enrollment options to accommodate students who may be working or have other commitments. Part-time programs allow for a more flexible completion timeline, though they may extend the overall duration needed to complete the degree compared to full-time programs.

Are there differences in tuition for in-state and out-of-state students in PMHNP programs in North Carolina?

Typically, public universities in North Carolina charge lower tuition rates for in-state residents compared to out-of-state students. However, tuition rates can vary significantly between institutions, so it's important to check specific program details for exact figures.

What kind of real-world experience can I expect from the practicum components of a PMHNP program?

PMHNP programs in North Carolina include practicum or clinical rotations that provide real-world patient care experience under supervision. These practicums cover various settings such as community mental health centers, hospitals, and private practices, where students apply their classroom knowledge in diagnosing, managing, and treating patients with psychiatric disorders.

How does interprofessional collaboration feature in PMHNP programs in North Carolina?

Interprofessional education is an integral part of PMHNP programs, where students collaborate with professionals from various healthcare disciplines. This approach enhances learning and prepares students for real-world clinical practice, where effective patient care often requires coordinated efforts among multiple healthcare providers, including physicians, psychologists, social workers, and other nurse practitioners.