Best Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Indiana
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Indiana faces a growing mental health crisis, with the Health Resources and Services Administration designating 89 of the state’s 92 counties as Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas. For registered nurses seeking to address this critical need, becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) offers a rewarding career path with exceptional demand throughout the Hoosier State.
Whether you’re practicing in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, or in rural communities such as Terre Haute or Bloomington, online PMHNP programs offer the flexibility to advance your education while maintaining your current nursing position.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- Top-ranked online MSN, DNP, and post-master’s PMHNP programs available to Indiana nurses
- Admission requirements and clinical placement considerations
- Career outlook and salary expectations for PMHNPs across Indiana
- How to choose the right program pathway for your career goals
2026 Best Online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Indiana
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN - Public 4-Year - indianapolis.iu.edu
MSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Indiana University's BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses to deliver innovative mental health care across patient lifespans. This comprehensive three-year, full-time track equips students with 66 credit hours and 1,035 clinical hours, including 750 direct patient care hours. Graduates develop critical skills in assessment, diagnosis, clinical management, and mental health prevention, qualifying for ANCC certification and prescriptive authority. The program focuses on cost-efficient, collaborative healthcare delivery across diverse settings like community centers, ambulatory care, and hospitals.
- Three-year full-time program
- 1,035 total clinical hours
- 750 direct patient care hours
- ANCC certification eligible
- Multiple healthcare setting options
- Lifespan mental health focus
- Interdisciplinary collaboration training
BSN to DNP - BSN-DNP Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Indiana University-Indianapolis prepares students for advanced practice in mental health care across the lifespan. This hybrid program combines online coursework with clinical experiences, totaling 66 credit hours and 1035 clinical hours. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification and can apply for prescriptive authority in Indiana. The curriculum focuses on assessment, diagnosis, and clinical management of mental illness, preparing students for roles in various healthcare settings. Admission requires a BSN, with details on cost and application processes available through the school's website.
- Hybrid program format.
- 66 credit hours.
- 1035 clinical hours.
- Eligible for ANCC certification.
- Prescriptive authority in Indiana.
- Focus on lifespan mental health.
- BSN required for admission.
- Prepares for diverse healthcare roles.
- Combines online and clinical learning.
- Advanced practice preparation.
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdueglobal.edu
BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University Global offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares nurses to provide comprehensive psychiatric care across the lifespan. Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. The curriculum includes immersive clinical experiences. Graduates may pursue certification and licensure as advanced practice registered nurses. The program requires a bachelor's degree in nursing with a 2.5 GPA. Costs vary by state and enrollment options. Clinical practice sessions with preceptors are mandatory for hands-on training.
- Online Master of Science in Nursing.
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
- 60 to 90 quarter credit hours.
- Immersive learning experiences required.
- Clinical practice sessions with preceptors.
- Bachelor's degree in nursing required.
- Minimum 2.5 GPA for admission.
- Criminal background check needed.
- Statistics and nursing research prerequisites.
- Program not available in all states.
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Purdue University Global's Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate Certificate prepares master's-prepared nurses for advanced practice. This 48-credit online program focuses on comprehensive mental health care across the lifespan. Students learn assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy, and psychotropic medication management. The curriculum includes clinical practice experiences with qualified preceptors. Graduates may pursue certification through ANCC or AANP. Admission requires a master's degree in nursing with a 2.5 GPA and an approved criminal background check. The program prepares nurses for diverse settings including hospitals, community centers, and private practice.
- 48 quarter credit hours.
- Online program format.
- Master's degree required.
- 2.5 minimum GPA.
- Criminal background check needed.
- Clinical practice experiences included.
- Qualified preceptor guidance.
- Focus on lifespan care.
- Psychotherapy and medication management.
- ANCC and AANP certification eligible.
University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne, IN - Private 4-year - sf.edu
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne offers a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) post-graduate certificate. This hybrid program combines online learning with in-person intensives twice per semester. Designed for working MSN-level nurses, it prepares graduates to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across all ages, including substance use disorders. The 25-credit curriculum spans three semesters (summer, fall, spring) and readies students for ANCC or AANP certification exams. With high demand for PMHNPs nationwide, this program provides a flexible path to advanced practice roles in mental healthcare.
- Hybrid format with online and in-person components.
- 25 credits over three semesters.
- Prepares for ANCC or AANP certification exams.
- Designed for working MSN-level nurses.
- Focuses on mental health across all ages.
- Includes substance use disorder treatment training.
- Flexible synchronous and asynchronous online learning.
- In-person intensives twice per semester.
- Program length: 1.5 to 2 years.
- Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana.
MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Saint Francis offers a comprehensive Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a specialized Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This advanced program prepares nurses to provide high-quality mental health services across patient lifespans, addressing critical healthcare needs in underserved communities. Graduates develop expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric disorders and substance use conditions. The hybrid format accommodates working professionals, with flexible learning options and in-person intensives. With a 100% board certification exam pass rate and strong regional reputation, this program provides a strategic pathway to advanced nursing practice and leadership roles in mental healthcare.
- Hybrid flexible learning format
- 100% board certification pass rate
- Multiple DNP pathway options
- Mental health services focus
- Advanced practice nursing preparation
- Career opportunities nationwide
- CCNE accredited program
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN - Public 4-Year - purdue.edu
BSN to MSN - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University's School of Nursing offers a Master of Science with a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization. This hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver advanced psychiatric care to individuals and families across all age groups. Graduates are eligible for national certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The curriculum focuses on developing leadership and clinical practice skills in mental health care. The program includes both online and campus components for flexible learning. It prepares students for advanced roles in psychiatric nursing with comprehensive training.
- Master of Science degree
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialization
- Hybrid program format
- Eligible for national certification
- Focuses on all age groups
- Develops leadership skills
- Enhances clinical practice skills
- Certificate track available
- Part of School of Nursing
- College of Health and Human Sciences
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program provides specialized training for master's-prepared nurses. This hybrid program requires 17 credit hours and 630 clinical hours over three semesters. It prepares graduates for advanced practice roles in mental health care. Applicants need a master's degree in nursing from an accredited institution. The program builds on existing nursing expertise to deliver comprehensive psychiatric care.
- 17 credit hours required.
- 630 clinical practicum hours.
- Three-semester completion time.
- Hybrid program format.
- For master's-prepared nurses.
- Accredited institution prerequisite.
- Advanced practice nursing focus.
- Psychiatric mental health specialization.
- Curriculum builds on existing expertise.
- Prepares for nurse practitioner roles.
BSN to DNP - Post BSN to DNP with Psych Mental Health Specialization (Psych Mental Health)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Purdue University's Post BSN to DNP with Psych Mental Health Specialization provides advanced nursing professionals a comprehensive pathway to specialize in mental health care. This rigorous hybrid program prepares nurses to deliver expert psychiatric care across patient lifespans through intensive clinical training and theoretical coursework. Students gain advanced assessment, therapeutic, and pharmacological skills to address complex mental health challenges. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, healthcare policy, and leadership, enabling graduates to transform psychiatric nursing practice and improve patient outcomes.
- Hybrid learning format
- 80 total credit hours
- 3-year comprehensive curriculum
- Extensive clinical preceptorships
- Advanced psychiatric nursing focus
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
- Lifespan psychiatric care training
- Online and in-person courses
- Multiple clinical hour components
- Healthcare policy integration
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN - Private 4-year - indwes.edu
BSN to MSN - ASN-MSN in Primary Care Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Specialization (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Indiana Wesleyan University offers a unique ASN-MSN pathway for registered nurses specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). This innovative 45-month program eliminates the traditional bachelor's degree requirement, providing a direct route to advanced nursing practice. Students gain comprehensive skills in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions across patient lifespans, accumulating 820 clinical practicum hours. The program prepares graduates for independent clinical practice, emphasizing interprofessional healthcare approaches and advanced decision-making skills in mental health treatment.
- 19 total courses
- 45-month program duration
- 820 practicum hours
- No BSN required
- Online program format
- Onsite residency intensives
- Lifespan psychiatric care focus
- Independent clinical practice preparation
Graduate Certificate - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Graduate Certificate. This program prepares nurses to serve diverse populations with mental health needs. It takes about two years to complete. The cost is $675 per credit hour for 32 credit hours. Admissions require a master's or doctoral degree in nursing from an accredited institution. Applicants must submit official transcripts and may need an interview or GRE. The program includes courses on neuro-psychopharmacology and diagnostic reasoning. Faculty provide one-on-one support. It integrates Christian principles into nursing practice. Students gain skills for careers like psychiatric nurse practitioner. The curriculum uses virtual reality and other tech tools. Financial aid options are available.
- Online program delivery.
- Two-year completion time.
- $675 per credit hour.
- 32 credit hours total.
- Master's or doctoral degree required.
- Official transcripts needed.
- Possible interview or GRE.
- 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Grade of B in each course.
- Christian worldview integrated.
BSN to DNP - Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Indiana Wesleyan University's Post-Baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice offers a specialized Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner pathway for nurses seeking advanced clinical expertise. This comprehensive 48-month online program enables nurses to bypass a master's degree and directly enter doctoral-level education. Designed for working professionals, the program costs $689 per credit hour across 76 total credits and prepares students to become board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. Students gain advanced skills in mental health care, organizational leadership, and policy advocacy while integrating faith-based perspectives into their professional practice.
- Online BSN to DNP program
- 76 total credit hours
- $689 per credit hour
- 48-month program duration
- 23 total courses
- Psychiatric Mental Health concentration
- Faith-integrated curriculum
- No tuition increases
- 1000 practicum hours required
- 3.25 minimum GPA required
Understanding PMHNP Education Pathways in Indiana
Indiana nurses have three primary routes to becoming a board-certified PMHNP:
MSN PMHNP programs are designed for nurses holding a BSN who want to enter psychiatric mental health practice. These programs typically require 500-700 clinical hours and take 2-3 years to complete part-time.
DNP PMHNP programs represent the terminal degree in nursing practice and are increasingly preferred by healthcare systems like the Indiana University Health and Community Health Network. These programs require 1,000+ clinical hours and prepare graduates for leadership roles.
Post-Master’s PMHNP Certificates allow nurses who already hold an MSN in another specialty to add psychiatric mental health certification. These accelerated programs typically take 12-18 months.
Indiana Licensing Note: All PMHNPs in Indiana must hold an active RN license and complete national certification through the ANCC or AANPCB before applying for APRN licensure with the Indiana State Board of Nursing.
Admission Requirements: What Indiana Nurses Need to Know
For MSN Programs:
- Active, unencumbered RN license in Indiana or compact state
- BSN from CCNE or ACEN-accredited program
- Minimum GPA of 3.0-3.3
- 1-2 years of RN experience (psychiatric experience preferred but not always required)
- GRE scores (waived by many programs)
For Post-Master’s Certificates:
- Current MSN or higher degree in nursing
- Active APRN certification in another specialty (for most programs)
For DNP Programs:
- BSN or MSN depending on program track
- Clinical experience requirements
- Professional references and personal statement
Application Tip: Indiana nurses working at major health systems like Parkview Health, Ascension St. Vincent, or Eskenazi Health may have access to tuition assistance programs. Check with your employer’s HR department before applying.
Explore nurse practitioner schools in Indiana.
Clinical Placement Considerations for Indiana Students
One of the most critical factors for online PMHNP students is completing required clinical hours. Indiana’s diverse healthcare landscape offers numerous placement opportunities:
Clinical Sites Across Indiana:
- Community mental health centers (e.g., Midtown Community Mental Health, Cummins Behavioral Health)
- Hospital psychiatric units at IU Health, Lutheran Hospital, or Deaconess Health System
- Private psychiatric practices throughout metro and rural areas
- Correctional facilities and Veterans Affairs facilities
Indiana’s rural counties face severe shortages of mental health providers. Programs with strong rural health missions may help connect students with preceptors in underserved areas.
| Program Component | Typical Requirement | Indiana-Specific Considerations |
| Total Clinical Hours | 500-1,000 hours | Must be completed in-person; telehealth hours limited |
| Preceptor Requirements | Board-certified PMHNP or psychiatrist | Indiana has ~800 practicing PMHNPs; competition for preceptors in Indianapolis metro |
| Liability Insurance | Required by all programs | Typically $30-100 annually |
| Background Checks | Criminal and child abuse clearances | Required by Indiana State Department of Health |
Program Formats and Time Commitment
Online PMHNP programs offer varying levels of flexibility:
Part-Time vs. Full-Time Enrollment:
- Part-Time tracks: 2.5-3 years to completion
- Full-Time tracks: 18-24 months to completion
- Accelerated certificates: Can be completed in 12 months
Most programs blend asynchronous coursework with some synchronous components like live virtual skills labs. This structure works well for Indiana nurses working 12-hour shifts or rotating schedules.
Cost and Financial Aid
Estimated Program Costs:
- MSN PMHNP: $25,000-$65,000 total
- DNP PMHNP: $40,000-$90,000 total
- Post-Master’s Certificate: $15,000-$35,000 total
Financial Aid for Indiana Nurses:
- Federal Student Aid (complete FAFSA)
- Indiana State Nurses Association Foundation scholarships
- HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
- Employer tuition assistance ($3,000-$10,000 annually at major health systems)
Money-Saving Strategy: Maintain your current salary while attending part-time, offsetting education costs with continued income.
Career Outlook for PMHNPs in Indiana
The demand for psychiatric mental health services in Indiana creates exceptional career opportunities across diverse settings including private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, telehealth platforms, and correctional healthcare.
Salary Expectations:
- Average annual salary: $110,000-$125,000
- Indianapolis metro: $115,000-$135,000
- Rural areas: $105,000-$120,000 (often with loan repayment incentives)
- Experienced PMHNPs: $130,000-$150,000+
Practice Authority in Indiana:
Indiana grants PMHNPs full practice authority after completing 2,400 hours (approximately 1 year) of collaboration with a physician. After meeting this requirement, PMHNPs can practice independently, prescribe medications including controlled substances, and open their own practices.
Choosing the Right Program: Key Considerations
Accreditation: Ensure programs hold CCNE or ACEN accreditation; this is non-negotiable for Indiana licensure.
Clinical Placement Support: Ask about preceptor matching services and established clinical partners in Indiana.
Lifespan Focus: Consider whether programs emphasize family/lifespan or adult-gerontology populations.
Graduate Success Rates: Request data on certification exam pass rates (look for 90%+ first-time pass rates), graduation rates, and job placement.
Decision-Making Tip: Connect with current students or alumni practicing in Indiana through LinkedIn. Their firsthand experiences with clinical placement are invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do online PMHNP programs accept out-of-state students?
A: Most online programs accept students nationwide. However, you must hold an active RN license in Indiana or a compact state. If you plan to complete clinicals in Indiana while enrolled in an out-of-state program, verify that the program can accommodate Indiana clinical placements and meets Indiana State Board of Nursing requirements.
Q: How do clinical rotations work if I live in rural Indiana?
A: Rural students may need to travel to nearby metro areas for clinical days or work with programs that have rural placement coordinators. Solutions include partnering with primary care providers who treat mental health conditions or exploring programs that specifically recruit preceptors in underserved areas. Starting your preceptor search 6-12 months early is crucial.
Q: What’s the difference between PMHNP certification through ANCC versus AANPCB?
A: Both organizations offer certification exams accepted by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. The ANCC exam traditionally focuses more on psychiatric diagnoses and psychotherapy, while the AANPCB exam emphasizes family/lifespan care. Both credentials enable full PMHNP practice in Indiana.
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