Best Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Programs in Michigan | 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 Michigan as we explore their nuances, costs, salary expectations, and more.

Best PMHNP Programs in Michigan — Online & On-Campus

Learn More About Michigan's Top PMHNP Programs

The Great Lakes State, known for its renowned healthcare systems and medical institutions, offers a prime environment for aspiring Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. Michigan is home to leading hospitals and community health centers, with ample opportunities for clinical training in both urban areas like Detroit and rural communities where mental health care is critically needed. The state's diverse healthcare landscape provides a rich setting for future mental health professionals to enhance their education and clinical experience.

This section highlights Michigan's top PMHNP programs, covering key features, admission requirements, financial aid options, and more to support your journey in mental health care.

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

1. Spring Arbor University (SAU)

SAU's ADN-MSN, BSN-MSN and Post-MSN PMHNP programs stand out as top choices for nurses looking to advance their expertise in mental health care.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Faith-Based Education: Christian faith is at the foundation of SAU.
• Personalized Support: Benefit from small class sizes (typically 20-25 students) and 1:1 guidance from a dedicated Student Success Coach.
• Flexible Online Learning: Complete your coursework from anywhere with no set login times.
• 7-1-7 Model: Take one seven-week course at a time, with a week off in between
• Duration: Graduate in as little as one and a half to two and a half years

Credit & Clinical Hours — The clinical and credit hours required for each pathway vary:

• ADN to MSN: 82 credit hours and 570 clinical hours
• BSN to MSN: 50 credit hours and 570 clinical hours
• Post-MSN: 16-20 months of coursework and 500 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — To join SAU's programs, applicants need:

• An ADN, BSN, or MSN with a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits
• A short personal statement
• Prerequisite courses in Advanced Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, and Health Assessment (Post-MSN)

Application Deadlines — Submit your application by December 3, 2024, for the next start date on January 14, 2025. With six intakes per year, you have flexibility in starting your journey when it suits you best.

Financial Aid  — SAU offers scholarships and financial aid options, making it easier to focus on your studies and career goals without the added financial burden.

2. Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU)

SVSU offers BSN-DNP, MSN-DNP, and Post-MSN tracks, providing key pathways to advanced practice in psychiatric-mental health nursing.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Online Learning: Study at your own pace with fully online coursework, complemented by optional on-campus skills training.
• Focus on Rural Care: Through Project ECHO and partnerships with facilities like Recovery Pathways, SVSU emphasizes improving mental health care access in rural communities.
• Dual Degree Options: Saginaw Valley offers a dual FNP and PMHNP program pathway for students interested in pursuing dual NP certification.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here are the minimum requirements for these programs: 

• BSN-DNP: 75 credits and 750 clinical hours
• MSN-DNP: 51 credits and 750 clinical hours
• Post-MSN: 24 credits and 540 clinical hours

Students don't have to worry about finding their own placements, as they will be arranged by faculty!

Admissions Requirements — Here's the SVSU application checklist:

• A BSN or MSN  with a 3.0 GPA
• A DNP goal statement (1,000-1,250 words)
• Advanced Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, and Health Assessment (Post-MSN)
• A discussion with the Graduate Nursing Program Coordinator
• Letters of recommendation may be requested 

Application Deadlines — SVSU accepts applications on a rolling basis.

Financial Aid — SVSU is committed to making education accessible with flexible payment plans, allowing you to spread your tuition into two or five interest-free monthly payments. 

Additionally, through a four-year grant, SVSU offers a $14,500 stipend to 31 PMHNP students from rural Michigan during their final year, reducing the cost of their education by nearly 85%. All applicants are considered for this stipend automatically.

3. Wayne State University (WSU)

WSU offers a range of PMHNP pathways, including BSN-DNP, Post-MSN, and BSN-MSN, all designed to prepare you for impactful roles in psychiatric-mental health care.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Diverse Learning Formats: Experience a blend of online courses and in-person clinical practice.
• Focus on Urban & Underserved Care: WSU is committed to serving medically underserved populations.

Clinical & Credit Hours — Here's what each track's curriculum looks like:

• BSN-DNP: 78 credits
• MSN-DNP: 38 credits
• BSN-MSN: 52 credits
• Post-MSN Certificate: 29 credits 

Each track also involves extensive clinical hours. 

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

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.0 GPA
• Two professional letters of recommendation (on company letterhead)
• A personal statement 
• One year of full-time RN experience in a psychiatric mental health setting

Application Deadlines —  Each track starts in the fall, with an application deadline of August 15th. 

Financial Aid — WSU has some exciting funding options for students. The ANEW Grant is a $2.6 million HRSA-funded initiative supporting 72 students over four years, providing $25,000 annually for PMHNP students in their final year of clinical courses.

There is also the IMPACT Traineeship, which offers a $30,000 stipend to support tuition and educational expenses as you pursue your PMHNP education. 

4. University of Michigan-Flint (UM-Flint)

Finally, UM-Flint is a popular choice for nursing students, offering flexible pathway options including ADN RN to DNP, BSN to DNP, and Post-Graduate Certificate pathways for aspiring PMHNPs.

PMHNP Program Highlights

• Flexible Learning Options: Programs have an online format and can be completed part-time or full-time.
• Continuous Track Option: With one application, students can apply to the BSN-DNP with MSN program and be eligible for both the MSN and DNP degrees.
• Research Opportunities: Engage with faculty on relevant research projects.
• UM Community Perks: You'll have access to resources on the UM-Dearborn and UM-Ann Arbor campuses as well.

Success Metrics — UM-Flint is dedicated to equipping its graduates for success, and their impressive certification pass rates are proof that they deliver on that promise!

Clinical & Credit Hours — These pathways involve:

• ADN-DNP: 20-23 prerequisite credit hours are required before transitioning into DNP coursework.
• BSN-DNP: 72 credits and 1,090 clinical hours
• Post-MSN Certificate: 20 credits and 504 clinical hours

Admissions Requirements — To apply, you must have:

• A BSN or MSN with a 3.2 GPA or higher
• At least one year of RN experience is preferred
• Three letters of recommendation
• A Professional Goal Statement

Application Deadlines — Kickstart your journey in the fall or Winter:

• Fall early deadline: February 1
• Fall final deadline: April 1 
• Winter deadline: September 20 

Financial Aid — Aside from loans, UM-Flint offers some intriguing scholarships, such as the Behavioral Health Workforce Education & Training Scholarship that grants up to $28,350 in funding for graduate PMHNP students, disbursed across three semesters.

They also offer a Nurse Faculty Loan Program where you can get your education funded while preparing for a nursing faculty position. Finally, UM-Flint offers a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Residency Program Grant, which is a one-year paid residency with full university benefits!
 

What Is a PMHNP Program in Michigan?

A PMHNP program in Michigan is a graduate-level educational pathway designed for registered nurses (RNs) who wish to specialize in psychiatric mental health care. These programs, offered as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or Post Graduate Certificate, aim to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide advanced psychiatric care, mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals, families, and groups across the lifespan.

Michigan PMHNP Coursework

Although varying by institution, common PMHNP coursework in Michigan includes:

• Advanced Health Assessment: Comprehensive training in physical and psychiatric assessment across the lifespan.
• Psychopharmacology: Detailed study of psychiatric medications, their mechanisms, appropriate use, and side effects.
• Neuroscience for Mental Health Professionals: Exploration of the neurobiological foundations of mental health and illness.
• Psychotherapy Techniques: Training in various psychotherapy modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, and group therapy.
• Mental Health Policy and Advocacy: Study of mental health policies, ethical considerations, and advocacy in mental health care.
• Clinical Management of Psychiatric Disorders: Focuses on the management and treatment of common psychiatric disorders across different populations.
• Evidence-Based Practice in Psychiatric Mental Health: Encourages the use of research and evidence in clinical practice.

Michigan PMHNP Clinical Training

Clinical training is an essential component of PMHNP programs, providing hands-on experience in psychiatric settings. Clinical training often includes the following:

• Adult Psychiatric Care: Placement in settings that provide care to adults with psychiatric disorders.
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Care: Experience in environments focused on the mental health needs of children and adolescents.
• Geriatric Psychiatric Care: Training in the assessment and treatment of mental health issues prevalent in older adults.
• Substance Abuse and Addiction: Clinical rotations in settings that specialize in treating substance use disorders.
• Community Mental Health: Experience in community-based settings that provide mental health services to diverse populations.
• Crisis Intervention: Training in emergency settings where immediate psychiatric intervention is necessary.

Michigan PMHNP Graduation Requirements

Once admitted, students in PMHNP programs in Michigan must complete several requirements to graduate and be eligible for certification:

• Core Coursework: Successful completion of all required coursework, which covers advanced practice nursing core subjects, psychiatric-mental health specialty topics, and pharmacology.
• 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.
• Capstone Project or Thesis: Many programs require students to complete a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to apply advanced knowledge to real-world issues in psychiatric mental health nursing.
• Examinations: Passing comprehensive exams that test knowledge across the curriculum may be required before graduation.
• Certification Examination: Graduates must pass the national certification exam administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to become a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
• Licensure Application: Apply for licensure as a Nurse Practitioner in Michigan, which involves submitting proof of education, certification, and passing a background check.

Admission Requirements for PMHNP Programs in Michigan

PMHNP programs in Michigan come with specific prerequisites and requirements, ensuring candidates are prepared for advanced nursing education and practice.

Common PMHNP admission requirements in Michigan include:

• Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN): Applicants must have completed a BSN from an accredited nursing program.
• RN License: Candidates must possess an active and unrestricted RN license in the state of Michigan or be eligible for licensure.
• Clinical Experience: Some programs require candidates to have a certain amount of clinical experience, often at least one to two years, preferably in a psychiatric or mental health setting.
• Academic Performance: A minimum GPA, often around 3.0 or higher, is typically required in undergraduate coursework.
• Letters of Recommendation: These should ideally come from academic faculty and professional supervisors who can attest to the applicant's aptitude for graduate study and psychiatric nursing.
• Personal Statement: A written statement that outlines the applicant's professional goals, interests in mental health, and reasons for pursuing a PMHNP program.
• GRE Scores: Some programs may require the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores, although this requirement is increasingly being waived by many schools.

Before starting clinicals, and sometimes even before program entry, most nursing programs require additional steps such as a background check, physical health screening, immunizations, and a drug test.

PMHNP Salary Expectations in Michigan

The salary of a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) can differ significantly based on variables like geographical region, professional experience, practice environment, and educational and certification levels. To assist you in estimating your potential earnings, we have gathered relevant information. Below is the latest data from the BLS:

Michigan NP Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $58.02
• Mean Annual Wage: $120,680

Michigan employs 7,950 nurse practitioners, placing the state in the top 25th percentile for NP employment nationwide.

National NP Wage

• Mean Hourly Wage: $61.78
• Mean Annual Wage: $128,490

Top Paying States for NPs

• California: $161,540
• Nevada: $148,670
• Washington: $145,400
• New Jersey: $145,030
• Oregon: $144,950

The BLS does not provide a breakdown of salaries for various NP specialties. However, according to ZipRecruiter, PMHNP salaries vary between $118,500 and $211,500, contingent on the state of practice. The majority of PMHNPs earn around $118,500, with a national average salary of $139,486.

Michigan ranks 26th in the nation for PMHNP salaries, with an average annual income of $130,342.

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 Michigan Worth It?

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

Pros of PMHNP Programs in Michigan

• High Demand for Mental Health Services: There's a growing need for mental health services nationwide, including Michigan. PMHNPs are well-positioned to fill this gap, especially in underserved areas.
• Competitive Salaries: PMHNPs often earn higher salaries compared to registered nurses or other nursing specialties, reflecting their advanced qualifications and responsibilities.
• Scope of Practice: Michigan allows nurse practitioners, including PMHNPs, a significant degree of practice autonomy. This can lead to more comprehensive patient management and job satisfaction.
• Opportunities for Specialization: PMHNPs in Michigan can specialize in areas such as pediatric, adult, or geriatric psychiatric care, substance abuse, or other niches within mental health, enhancing career satisfaction and options.
• Positive Impact on Patients' Lives: Working as a PMHNP provides the opportunity to make a profound impact on the mental health and overall well-being of patients, which can be deeply rewarding personally and professionally.

Cons of PMHNP Programs in Michigan

• Cost of Education: PMHNP programs can be expensive, involving tuition, books, and possibly lost income during years of study. This financial burden can be significant.
• Intensive Study and Training Requirements: The program is rigorous and time-consuming, requiring extensive clinical hours and study, which can be challenging to balance with personal responsibilities.
• Licensing and Certification: After completing the program, graduates must pass a certification exam and obtain licensure, which can be stressful and requires ongoing education to maintain.
• Emotional and Physical Demands: The nature of mental health work can be emotionally draining. PMHNPs often deal with complex and challenging cases, which can lead to burnout if not managed properly.

Ultimately, whether a PMHNP program in Michigan is worth it depends on your career goals, financial situation, and values placed on its pros and cons. However, if advanced practice nursing, a greater impact on patient care, and increased salary expectations are important to you, then a PMHNP program is certainly worth it.

Importance of Attending an Accredited PMHNP Program in Michigan

Attending an accredited PMHNP program in Michigan 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 PMHNP Programs Near Me

Discover the best PMHNP programs in the following states:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are there any online PMHNP programs available in Michigan that allow for part-time enrollment?

Michigan offers online PMHNP programs with part-time enrollment options. These programs are designed to provide flexibility for working professionals, allowing them to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments while completing coursework and clinical practicums at a pace that suits their schedules.

What is the typical number of credit hours required for a PMHNP program in Michigan?

PMHNP programs in Michigan typically require between 45 to 70 credit hours, depending on whether the program leads to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). This range includes both coursework and clinical practicum hours necessary to prepare graduates for certification and practice.

How do PMHNP programs in Michigan address health promotion for patients with mental health conditions?

PMHNP programs in Michigan integrate health promotion into their curriculum by teaching students strategies to enhance the well-being of individuals with mental health conditions. This includes preventive care, education on managing chronic mental health conditions, lifestyle counseling, and advocacy for services that support patient health and quality of life.

Can students in PMHNP programs in Michigan specialize in primary care settings, or are they strictly focused on mental health disorders?

While PMHNP programs are specialized in psychiatric and mental health care, the training also equips nurse practitioners to address primary care concerns that often coexist with mental health disorders. However, the primary focus remains on psychiatric care, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.

What are the requirements for clinical practicum hours in PMHNP programs in Michigan, and how do they prepare students to become providers?

PMHNP programs in Michigan require students to complete between 500 to 1,000 clinical practicum hours, depending on the program's level (MSN vs. DNP). These hours are crucial for providing hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders under the supervision of experienced providers. This direct exposure helps prepare students to become competent, confident, and independent mental health providers after graduation.