Best Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida
Florida’s growing population of over 22 million residents, combined with significant mental health workforce shortages across the state, has created unprecedented demand for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs). From the sprawling metropolitan areas of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties to rural communities in the Panhandle and central Florida, PMHNPs are critically needed to address the mental health crisis affecting all demographics. Online PMHNP programs offer Florida nurses the flexibility to advance their education while continuing to work and live throughout the Sunshine State, preparing them to deliver psychiatric care in diverse settings from telepsychiatry practices to community mental health centers.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- How online MSN, DNP, and post-master’s certificate programs prepare Florida nurses for psychiatric-mental health careers
- What clinical placement requirements look like for online students across Florida’s diverse regions
- How to balance online coursework with in-person clinical hours at Florida mental health facilities
- Admission requirements, program costs, and Florida-specific financial aid opportunities
- How Florida’s scope of practice laws position PMHNPs for independent psychiatric practice
2026 Best Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Florida
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides comprehensive mental health training through a hybrid format. This 45-credit advanced practice program prepares nurses to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions across various clinical settings, from community centers to private practices. Graduates qualify for national certification and gain expertise in crisis intervention and patient management. The program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. No entrance exam is required for this master's-level program, which emphasizes advanced clinical competencies in primary, secondary, and tertiary mental health care environments.
- Hybrid program format
- 45 total program credits
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- Advanced mental health nursing practice
- Qualify for national certification
Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University offers a Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate with a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This 35-credit hybrid program is designed for MSN degree holders seeking advanced specialization. It prepares graduates for national certification exams through flexible online and in-person components, with clinical site arrangements tailored to student needs. The program focuses on enhancing clinical skills for treating psychiatric conditions across diverse populations. No entrance exam is required for admission, which only requires an accredited MSN degree. This online/hybrid format accommodates working professionals aiming to expand their expertise in mental health care.
- 32 credits for Adult and Child tracks.
- 35 credits for Psychiatric track.
- 36 credits for Family track.
- Online and hybrid program options.
- Requires MSN degree for eligibility.
- Prepares for national certification exams.
- Specializations in four clinical areas.
- Flexible clinical site arrangements.
- Admission deadlines vary by track.
- Enhances clinical nursing skills.
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Post-BSN to DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is a 77-credit hybrid pathway to advanced practice. Spanning 10 semesters, this program prepares BSN graduates to become certified Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners specializing in mental health. Students develop expertise in diagnosing and managing psychiatric conditions for individuals, families, and communities through online coursework and clinical training. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral-level program. The hybrid format offers flexibility while ensuring robust clinical preparation for diverse healthcare settings, with eligibility for national certification upon completion.
- Hybrid program format
- 10 total semesters
- 77 total program credits
- Multiple clinical practice settings
- National certification eligible
BSN to DNP - Post-BSN to DNP (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's hybrid Post-BSN to DNP program features a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This advanced clinical program prepares nurses for leadership roles in mental health care through a combination of online learning and in-person clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible for national certification and state licensure as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. The program emphasizes disease prevention, health promotion, and management of acute and chronic psychiatric conditions across family and community settings. No entrance exam is required for this doctoral-level program, which offers flexibility for working professionals seeking to specialize in comprehensive mental health interventions.
- Hybrid program format
- Psychiatric-Mental Health concentration
- Eligible for national certification
- State licensure as APRN
- Focus on prevention and management
- Combines online and in-person learning
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Advanced clinical preparation
- Flexible for working professionals
- Emphasizes family and community care
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post Graduate Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's online Post Graduate Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program delivers 28 credit hours of intensive training, including 780 clinical practice hours across diverse healthcare settings. Designed for licensed RNs with a master's degree, this 100% online program covers psychopathology, pharmacology, and individual/group therapy techniques without requiring the GRE. With in-state tuition around $9,295 and a work-compatible schedule, graduates become eligible for national certification to treat mental health conditions across all life stages.
- 100% Online Program
- 28 Total Credit Hours
- 780 Clinical Practice Hours
- No GRE Required
- In-state Tuition $9,295
- Across Lifespan Certification
- Multiple Therapy Techniques
- Work-Compatible Schedule
MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's hybrid BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program offers a doctoral pathway for baccalaureate-prepared nurses, focusing specifically on psychiatric mental health. This program requires 1000 clinical hours and emphasizes evidence-based care for vulnerable populations across patient lifecycles. With no GRE requirement and competitive in-state tuition around $27,500, this hybrid format provides summer admission only and prepares graduates for advanced practice without a dissertation requirement.
- Hybrid program format
- No GRE required
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Three campus options
- Summer admission only
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- DNP without dissertation
- Competitive in-state tuition
- Specialized mental health focus
- Vulnerable population emphasis
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University's hybrid BSN to DNP program in Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner prepares nurses to serve vulnerable populations with specialized focus on psychiatric mental health primary care. Students complete 1000 clinical hours in mental health assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapeutic interventions across the lifespan. This hybrid program requires no GRE, has in-state tuition starting around $27,500, and includes admission requirements of a 3.0 GPA minimum, two recommendation letters, and an interview.
- Hybrid learning format
- No GRE required
- 1000 clinical practice hours
- Three campus options
- Specialized mental health focus
- Summer admission only
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- In-state tuition ~$27,500
- Two recommendation letters needed
- Interview required for admission
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's hybrid Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver comprehensive mental healthcare across patient lifecycles. Students develop sophisticated clinical skills in psychiatric assessment, diagnostic evaluation, and clinical management, including psychotropic medication prescription and therapeutic interventions. This online program emphasizes leadership development and advocacy for mental health needs, with clinical experiences in diverse settings from rural to urban contexts. Graduates become eligible for national certification and can practice in various clinical environments. No entrance exam is explicitly mentioned as required for this master's level program.
- Advanced practice nursing track
- Hybrid program format
- Comprehensive clinical preparation
- National certification eligible
- Multiple clinical settings
- Prescribing medication skills
- Lifespan mental health focus
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL - Public 4-Year - unf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Florida's online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate is a post-MSN program for licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. This specialized certificate requires 36 credit hours and focuses on comprehensive mental health care across patient lifespans. Applicants need a minimum 3.50 graduate GPA, 2,000 clinical practice hours, and active national nurse practitioner certification. The program prepares students for the ANCC certification exam through rigorous online coursework. No entrance exam is required for this online certificate program, which is designed for working nurses seeking advanced mental health credentials.
- Post-MSN online certificate
- 36 total credit hours
- Across lifespan mental health focus
- Minimum 3.50 graduate GPA
- 2,000 clinical practice hours required
- ANCC certification preparation
- Active NP certification needed
- No financial aid available
MSN to DNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of North Florida offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track for licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses with an MSN. This 68-credit program provides 1,100 clinical hours of intensive training in mental health care across diverse settings. Students can choose full or part-time online study options, with 14 seats available each spring term. The nationally accredited curriculum prepares graduates for Florida licensure and high-demand mental health professional roles. No entrance exam is required for this online DNP program that emphasizes comprehensive mental health care delivery.
- Post-MSN DNP track
- 68 total credits
- 1,100 clinical hours
- Online program format
- Full and part-time options
- 14 seats per spring term
- Nationally accredited program
- Prepares for Florida licensure
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, FL - Public 4-Year - fgcu.edu
MSN to DNP - BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Gulf Coast University's BSN to DNP Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program is an 81-credit hybrid doctoral pathway that blends online coursework with clinical practice. This CCNE-accredited program requires no GRE and focuses on developing advanced skills in psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology, and therapy techniques. Students complete at least 1,000 practice hours over 3-4 years, with clinical placements in Southwest Florida. The program emphasizes evidence-based mental health care and leadership, preparing graduates to address complex psychiatric needs across diverse populations.
- 81 total credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- Full-time 3 years, Part-time 4 years
- Minimum 1000 practice hours
- CCNE Accredited Program
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Clinical coordinator assists placements
- No GRE required
- Core courses partially online
- SW Florida clinical sites
BSN to DNP - BSN to DNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Gulf Coast University offers a BSN to DNP program with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration, featuring a hybrid format that combines online learning with face-to-face clinical experiences. This 81-credit doctoral program requires no GRE and accepts students with a BSN, 3.0 GPA, active RN license, and clinical experience. Over 3-4 years, students complete 1,000+ practice hours while developing advanced clinical reasoning and interdisciplinary skills. The program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive mental health care and lead healthcare teams through evidence-based practice.
- 81 total credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- Hybrid learning format
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- 1000+ clinical practice hours
- Nationally accredited program
- No GRE required
- Mental health practice focus
- Advanced clinical reasoning
- Interdisciplinary healthcare preparation
Understanding Online PMHNP Education in Florida
Online PMHNP programs deliver didactic coursework through virtual platforms while requiring students to complete supervised clinical hours in-person at approved mental health facilities. This hybrid approach allows Florida nurses to study from anywhere in the state while gaining hands-on psychiatric nursing experience in their local communities.
MSN in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
Online PMHNP MSN programs provide the foundational graduate education needed to become a PMHNP. These programs typically require 42-50 credit hours and can be completed in 2-3 years part-time or 18-24 months full-time.
Online MSN programs include:
- Asynchronous lectures and coursework accessible 24/7
- Live virtual class sessions scheduled around student availability
- Online clinical skills simulations and case studies
- 500-600 in-person clinical hours at Florida mental health facilities
- Final capstone or practicum project
Graduates are eligible to sit for the PMHNP-BC certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and practice as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Florida.
DNP in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
BSN to DNP online programs combine master’s-level PMHNP preparation with doctoral education, requiring 72-85 credits over 3-4 years. These programs appeal to ambitious nurses seeking terminal degrees and advanced leadership capabilities.
Post-Master’s PMHNP DNP programs require 30-36 credits and focus on scholarly project development, healthcare systems leadership, and evidence-based practice translation. Online delivery makes these programs accessible to working PMHNPs across Florida seeking career advancement without relocating.
Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificates
Online PMHNP post-master’s certificates allow practicing nurse practitioners in other specialties to add psychiatric-mental health certification. These programs require 36-45 credits and 500-600 clinical hours, ideal for Florida family NPs, adult-gerontology NPs, or women’s health NPs seeking to transition into the high-demand psychiatric specialty.
Explore nurse practitioner schools in Florida.
TIP: Online Learning Success
Online programs require strong self-discipline and time management. Florida students should ensure reliable internet access, create dedicated study spaces, and communicate proactively with faculty. Most programs provide technical support and online tutoring resources to support distance learners.
Clinical Training Across Florida
While coursework is delivered online, all PMHNP programs require substantial hands-on clinical experience. Florida students benefit from the state’s robust mental health infrastructure spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities.
Clinical Hour Requirements
Most online PMHNP programs require 500-600 clinical hours for MSN and post-master’s certificates, with up to 1,000 hours for BSN to DNP programs. Clinical experiences must include:
- Psychiatric assessment and diagnosis across the lifespan
- Psychopharmacology and medication management
- Individual, group, and family psychotherapy
- Crisis intervention and risk assessment
- Treatment of diverse psychiatric conditions
Finding Clinical Placements in Florida
Student Responsibilities:
Many online programs require students to assist in securing clinical sites and preceptors, though schools typically provide guidance and approval processes. Florida students should begin networking early and maintain flexibility regarding placement locations and schedules.
Florida Clinical Site Options:
- Community Mental Health Centers: Centers across all 67 Florida counties provide accessible mental health services
- Psychiatric Hospitals: Facilities like Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee, North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center in Gainesville, and private psychiatric hospitals statewide
- Integrated Behavioral Health Clinics: Primary care practices incorporating psychiatric care in Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami
- Veterans Affairs Facilities: VA medical centers in Miami, West Palm Beach, Tampa, Gainesville, and Bay Pines
- Substance Abuse Treatment Centers: Programs addressing Florida’s substance use crisis throughout the state
- Correctional Mental Health: Florida Department of Corrections facilities offering psychiatric services
- Telepsychiatry Platforms: Growing opportunities for virtual clinical experiences with Florida-based patients
Regional Considerations:
South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach) offers the highest concentration of clinical sites with diverse populations. Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Lakeland) provides suburban and urban placements. North Florida and the Panhandle offer rural and underserved community experiences. The Florida Keys and rural counties may require students to travel to nearby metropolitan areas for specialized rotations.
Admission Requirements for Online Programs
Online PMHNP programs maintain the same rigorous standards as campus-based programs.
| Requirement | Standard Expectation |
| RN License | Current, active Florida RN license (or compact state license) |
| Undergraduate Degree | BSN from accredited program (for MSN/DNP); MSN for post-master’s |
| GPA | 3.0 minimum; competitive programs prefer 3.2+ |
| Nursing Experience | 1-2 years recommended; psychiatric/mental health experience preferred but not required |
| GRE | Waived by many Florida online programs |
| References | 2-3 professional letters |
| Personal Statement | Essay demonstrating commitment to psychiatric nursing |
| Technology Requirements | Reliable high-speed internet, webcam, microphone for virtual sessions |
| Background Check | Required for clinical placements in Florida |
Some programs conduct virtual interviews via Zoom or other platforms to assess candidates’ fit for online learning and psychiatric nursing.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Online program tuition varies by institution but often matches or slightly reduces campus-based rates due to eliminated facility fees.
Estimated total program costs:
- In-state public university MSN: $16,000-$30,000
- Out-of-state public university MSN: $30,000-$52,000
- Private university MSN: $38,000-$68,000
- In-state public university DNP: $28,000-$48,000
- Private university DNP: $58,000-$88,000
- Post-master’s certificates: $20,000-$42,000
Florida-Specific Financial Resources:
- Florida Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program: Offers up to $4,000 annually for nursing students committing to work in underserved Florida communities
- Florida Healthcare Education and Development Foundation (FHCA): Scholarships for students pursuing health careers at FHCA member facilities in Florida.
Major Florida healthcare systems, including HCA Healthcare, AdventHealth, Baptist Health, and Cleveland Clinic Florida, offer tuition reimbursement programs for nurses pursuing advanced degrees.
TIP: Maximizing Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA early and research institution-specific scholarships. Many online programs offer scholarships specifically for distance learners. Florida residents should verify eligibility for state-funded programs even when attending out-of-state online programs.
Florida Licensure and Scope of Practice
After completing your online PMHNP program, you’ll pursue national certification and Florida APRN licensure.
Certification Process
Pass the PMHNP-BC exam through ANCC to obtain national certification. The computer-based exam is available at testing centers throughout Florida including locations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee.
Florida APRN Licensure
Florida grants PMHNPs broad practice authority. After obtaining national certification, apply for APRN licensure through the Florida Board of Nursing. Florida does not require physician collaboration or supervision for PMHNP practice.
Florida Practice Privileges:
- Independent psychiatric practice without physician oversight
- Full prescriptive authority including controlled substances (Schedules II-V)
- Ability to diagnose mental health conditions
- Authority to provide psychotherapy
- Hospital admitting and discharge privileges (facility-dependent)
This independent practice authority positions Florida PMHNPs to open private practices, contract with telepsychiatry companies, or work autonomously in various healthcare settings throughout the state.
Career Outlook for PMHNPs in Florida
Florida’s mental health workforce shortage creates exceptional opportunities for PMHNPs. The state’s population growth, aging demographics, and increasing mental health awareness drive sustained demand.
Employment Settings:
- Private Practice: PMHNPs opening independent practices in underserved areas or joining group practices
- Telepsychiatry: Companies like Teladoc, MDLive, and Talkspace employing Florida-licensed PMHNPs
- Hospital Systems: HCA Florida Healthcare, AdventHealth, Baptist Health, Cleveland Clinic Florida, and BayCare Health System
- Community Mental Health: Centers in all 67 Florida counties, particularly those serving Medicaid populations
- Addiction Treatment: Residential and outpatient programs addressing substance use disorders
- Correctional Healthcare: Florida Department of Corrections facilities statewide
- College Counseling Centers: Universities including UF, FSU, UCF, UM, and USF expanding mental health services
Salary Expectations:
PMHNPs in Florida earn $105,000-$130,000 annually depending on experience, location, and practice setting. South Florida metropolitan areas typically offer higher base salaries ($115,000-$135,000), while rural areas may offer lower base pay but with loan repayment incentives and signing bonuses. Private practice PMHNPs and those working in telepsychiatry can earn $130,000-$160,000+ with established patient panels.
Florida’s lack of state income tax enhances take-home pay compared to many other states, making PMHNP salaries particularly attractive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I find preceptors for clinical hours in Florida?
A: Most programs provide guidance but expect student participation. Network through professional organizations like the Florida Nurses Association, contact local psychiatric practices and hospitals, utilize LinkedIn, and consider joining PMHNP-specific social media groups. Some Florida PMHNPs specifically mentor students and advertise preceptor availability.
Q: Will Florida accept clinical hours completed via telehealth?
A: Some programs allow a portion of clinical hours via telehealth, which became more accepted during COVID-19. However, Florida and certifying bodies require substantial in-person psychiatric assessment and patient interaction hours. Check with your specific program about telehealth clinical hour policies and Florida Board of Nursing requirements.
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