Best Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee

Last Updated/Verified: Apr 2, 2026

Mental health care demand continues to rise across Tennessee, from rural Appalachian communities to urban hubs like Nashville and Memphis. For registered nurses looking to specialize, online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) programs offer a flexible pathway to advanced practice while staying rooted in local healthcare systems.

Whether you're pursuing an MSN, DNP, or post-master's certificate, Tennessee offers a strong mix of online and hybrid PMHNP programs with access to diverse clinical training environments.

In this article, you'll learn:

  • How online PMHNP programs in Tennessee are structured
  • Key differences between MSN, DNP, and certificate pathways
  • Where students complete clinical training across the state
  • What employers look for in Tennessee PMHNP graduates
  • How to choose the right online program for your goals

2026 Best Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs in Tennessee

#1

Tennessee Tech

Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Tennessee Tech's MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive mental health care across all ages. This online concentration focuses on treating individuals, groups, and families in diverse settings. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can work collaboratively in various healthcare environments. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and ethical standards. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Prospective students should check specific admissions requirements and costs on the university's website, as details may vary.

  • Online program format.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • Prepares for national certification exam.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Focus on life-span mental health care.
  • Collaborative healthcare team approach.
  • Employment in varied settings.
  • Advanced nursing practice role.
  • Includes RN-to-MSN bridge option.
  • Post-Masters option available.

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification

Online Learning - Visit Website

Tennessee Tech offers a Post-Graduate Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification, a fully online 23-credit hour program. Designed for registered nurses with a Master's degree in Nursing and a 3.0 GPA, this certificate prepares graduates for Advanced Practice licensure. The curriculum includes courses like Advanced Family Psychiatric Nursing I and II, each with 140 clinical hours, plus practicum and preceptorship components. Most students complete the program in four semesters with two courses per semester. Clinical hours are arranged with local preceptors. Tuition costs range from $17,000 to $21,000, with in-state rates at $730 per credit hour and out-of-state at $870. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license, transcripts, a letter of intent, resume, and three references.

  • Fully online program
  • 23 credit hours
  • 4 semesters completion
  • 2 courses per semester
  • Flexible course loads
  • Local clinical preceptors
  • In-state tuition $730
  • Out-of-state tuition $870
  • Total cost $17,000-21,000
  • RN license required

BSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration at Tennessee Technological University prepares advanced practice nurses for comprehensive psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan. This hybrid program blends online and campus learning, offering flexibility for working professionals. Graduates are eligible for national certification, ready to work in diverse healthcare settings. The BSN-DNP track requires 80 credit hours, including core, concentration, and DNP project components. MSN-DNP students need 32 credit hours, with adjustments for those changing specializations. Admissions requirements include a BSN or MSN degree, with specific prerequisites. The program emphasizes collaboration within healthcare teams, focusing on patient-centered care in psychiatric and mental health settings.

  • Hybrid learning format
  • BSN-DNP: 80 credit hours
  • MSN-DNP: 32 credit hours
  • Eligible for national certification
  • Focus on psychiatric-mental health care
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
  • Collaborative healthcare team emphasis
  • Patient-centered care focus
  • Admissions require BSN or MSN
  • Flexible for working professionals
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN - Public 4-Year - etsu.edu

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University offers an online MSN with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares registered nurses for advanced practice, providing comprehensive psychiatric-mental health care across the lifespan. Courses are asynchronous and online, with flexible full-time or part-time options. Admission requires an unencumbered RN license and a BSN or non-nursing bachelor's degree. The program features 48 credit hours, with costs starting at $672 per credit hour for Tennessee residents. No GRE is required, and the curriculum includes practical experiences with preceptor guidance.

  • Online asynchronous coursework.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
  • 48 credit hours required.
  • Cost: $672 per credit hour (TN residents).
  • No GRE required for admission.
  • Full-time or part-time enrollment options.
  • Can complete in 5 semesters full-time.
  • Requires unencumbered RN license.
  • BSN or non-nursing bachelor's accepted.
  • 3.0 GPA minimum for bachelor's degree.

RN to MSN - RN-MSN (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's RN-MSN program with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner prepares registered nurses for advanced practice in mental health care. This hybrid program combines online coursework with practical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. Applicants need an RN license and a non-nursing bachelor's degree, plus completion of prerequisite courses. The program emphasizes advanced nursing knowledge, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership in mental health care. Graduates are equipped to improve community health, apply research in practice, and influence health policy. With a focus on psychiatric mental health, students gain specialized skills to serve diverse populations across the lifespan.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • RN license required
  • Non-nursing BA/BS degree needed
  • Prerequisite courses required
  • Competitive admission process
  • Advanced nursing knowledge
  • Interprofessional collaboration
  • Leadership in mental health
  • Serves diverse populations

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University offers an online Post-Graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate for MSN-prepared nurses. This program prepares students for national certification with a high exam pass rate. It focuses on comprehensive mental health care across all ages, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. The 24-credit hour program typically takes four semesters to complete. Cost is $672 per credit hour for Tennessee residents, with eRate and out-of-state options available. Admissions require an MSN from an accredited program, a minimum 3.0 GPA in nursing, and RN licensure in the U.S. with Tennessee eligibility. The curriculum is entirely online with in-person clinicals arranged locally.

  • Online program format.
  • 24 credit hours required.
  • Four semesters completion time.
  • $672 per credit hour cost.
  • MSN degree required for admission.
  • 3.0 minimum GPA requirement.
  • RN licensure in U.S. needed.
  • Tennessee licensure eligibility required.
  • Prepares for national certification exam.
  • High certification exam pass rate.

MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

East Tennessee State University's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration equips advanced practice nurses to provide comprehensive mental healthcare across the lifespan. This rigorous online program prepares professionals to work in diverse clinical settings, collaborate with healthcare teams, and deliver evidence-based psychiatric care. Students benefit from accomplished faculty, flexible learning formats, and a curriculum designed to develop advanced clinical skills. The program offers full and part-time enrollment options, with competitive tuition rates for in-state and online students. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can pursue leadership roles in mental health practice.

  • 100% Online DNP Program
  • Multiple Enrollment Options
  • No GRE Required
  • CCNE Accredited Program
  • 4-9 Semesters Completion
  • Competitive Tuition Rates
  • Clinical Placement Support
  • National Certification Eligible
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#3

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu

BSN to MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University offers a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) MSN program. This hybrid program combines online classes with brief on-campus sessions. It prepares nurses for advanced mental health care across all ages. Students gain skills in diagnosis, medication management, and therapy. The program includes 560 clinical hours. It takes 16 months full-time. Part-time options exist. The curriculum covers psychiatric models, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are highly employable and eligible for national certification. Vanderbilt's program is nationally ranked for excellence.

  • Hybrid online and on-campus format.
  • Full-time completion in 16 months.
  • 560 supervised clinical hours.
  • Part-time study option available.
  • Prepares for lifespan mental health care.
  • Includes medication management training.
  • Focus on evidence-based practice.
  • Clinical placements in preferred areas.
  • Eligible for ANCC certification.
  • Integrates biological and social elements.

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Vanderbilt University's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Lifespan) equips registered nurses with advanced skills for comprehensive mental health care across all ages. This hybrid program blends online learning with brief on-campus sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals. It requires a master's degree in nursing and RN licensure. The curriculum includes 500+ supervised clinical hours, preparing graduates for national certification. Tuition details and financial aid options are available. The program is accredited by CCNE and boasts high licensure pass rates and strong employment outcomes.

  • Hybrid online/on-campus format.
  • 4-5 full-time semesters.
  • 500+ supervised clinical hours.
  • Requires MSN and RN licensure.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • High certification pass rates.
  • 97% employment after graduation.
  • Individualized program of study.
  • Expert practicing faculty.
  • DNP combination option.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - uthsc.edu

MSN to DNP - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) DNP concentration prepares advanced practice nurses to diagnose and treat complex mental health conditions across all life stages. Students gain comprehensive skills in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and holistic patient care through a rigorous program combining in-depth coursework and extensive clinical experiences. Graduates are eligible for national certification and can work in diverse settings like hospitals, community mental health centers, and residential facilities. The program requires 61 total credits for post-BSN students, with a minimum of 500 supervised clinical hours, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for this critical healthcare role.

  • Hybrid program delivery
  • 1080 total clinical hours
  • Across lifespan patient care
  • National certification eligible
  • Minimum 500 clinical hours
  • 61 total post-BSN credits
  • Advanced psychotherapy training
  • Comprehensive mental health focus

MSN to DNP - Dual Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health/Family Nurse Practitioner (Family Nurse Practitioner)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a comprehensive Dual Concentration DNP program in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, preparing advanced practice nurses for multifaceted healthcare roles. This innovative program enables students to develop expertise in mental health assessment, family care, and clinical practice. Graduates are equipped to take both national certification examinations, expanding career opportunities in diverse healthcare settings. The rigorous curriculum combines core doctoral-level courses with specialized concentration-specific training, totaling 73 credits and providing in-depth clinical experiences.

  • Dual certification preparation
  • 73 total program credits
  • Hybrid program format
  • Advanced clinical practicums
  • CCNE accredited program
  • Comprehensive mental health training
  • Doctoral-level healthcare policy courses
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Lincoln Memorial University

Harrogate, TN - Private 4-year - lmunet.edu

BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lincoln Memorial University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration. This program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in mental health care across all ages. Students complete 44 credit hours and 750 clinical hours. Full-time study takes 17 months, part-time takes 28 months. Rolling admissions allow flexible application timing. Graduates meet eligibility for the American Nurses Credentialing Center certification exam. The curriculum follows National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties standards. This concentration focuses on culturally competent clinical management and mental health promotion.

  • Online program format.
  • 44 credit hours required.
  • 750 clinical hours minimum.
  • 17 months full-time.
  • 28 months part-time.
  • Rolling admissions policy.
  • MSN degree awarded.
  • FPMHNP concentration available.
  • ANCC certification eligible.
  • NONPF standards followed.

Graduate Certificate - Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate

Online Learning - Visit Website

Lincoln Memorial University offers a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate program. This online certificate prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in mental health care across all ages. The program requires 44 credit hours and 750 clinical hours. Students can complete it in 17 months full-time or 28 months part-time. Graduates meet eligibility for ANCC FPMHNP certification. Rolling admissions allow flexible application timing. The curriculum follows NONPF standards for quality education.

  • Online program format
  • 44 credit hours required
  • 750 clinical hours minimum
  • 17-month full-time option
  • 28-month part-time option
  • Post-Master's Certificate program
  • FPMHNP concentration focus
  • ANCC certification eligible
  • Rolling admissions policy
  • NONPF standards compliant
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Data derived from the 2024 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Why Tennessee Is a Unique Place to Train as a PMHNP

Tennessee presents a distinctive training environment due to its mix of urban and rural populations and a growing need for behavioral health providers.

In cities like Nashville, students may train in large academic medical centers, while rural placements expose them to underserved populations with limited psychiatric access. This range builds strong clinical versatility.

Key regional advantages:

  • High demand for mental health providers statewide
  • Opportunities to work with diverse populations (veterans, rural patients, underserved communities)
  • Expanding telehealth infrastructure in behavioral health
  • Strong presence of integrated care models (primary care + mental health)

Explore nurse practitioner schools in Tennessee.

What Online PMHNP Programs in Tennessee Typically Look Like

Online PMHNP programs are not 100% virtual; clinical training is always completed in person. However, coursework is usually delivered asynchronously or in a hybrid format.

Common Program Components

ComponentWhat to Expect
Didactic CoursesOnline, often asynchronous (psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, assessment)
Clinical Hours500–1,000+ hours completed locally
On-Campus VisitsMinimal; may include intensives or skills labs
Program Length2–4 years depending on degree type
Preceptor RequirementsSome schools assist; others require students to secure placements

Degree Pathways: MSN vs. DNP vs. Post-Master's Certificate

MSN PMHNP Programs – Best for nurses entering advanced practice for the first time.

    • Typically 2–3 years
    • Focus on clinical practice and certification readiness
    • Lower total cost than DNP programs

    DNP PMHNP Programs – Ideal for those seeking leadership roles or advanced clinical expertise.

    • Typically 3–4 years
    • Includes a scholarly or quality improvement project
    • Increasingly preferred by some healthcare systems

    Post-Master's PMHNP Certificates – Designed for already-certified NPs adding a psychiatric specialty.

    • Often 1–2 years
    • Focused coursework + clinical hours
    • Flexible for working professionals

    Where You'll Complete Clinical Training in Tennessee

    Even in online programs, clinical placements are local, and Tennessee offers a wide variety of training sites.

    Common Clinical Settings

    • Large hospital systems
    • Community mental health centers
    • Private psychiatric practices
    • VA and military facilities
    • Telepsychiatry platforms

    Examples of Tennessee Clinical Training Sites

    Setting TypeExample Locations
    Academic Medical CentersVanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville), University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville)
    Community Mental HealthCenterstone (statewide), Mental Health Cooperative (Nashville)
    Hospital SystemsHCA Healthcare facilities across Tennessee
    Veterans CareVA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
    Rural ClinicsFederally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in East & West Tennessee

    These placements expose students to everything from acute psychiatric crises to long-term outpatient therapy and medication management.

    What You'll Study in a Tennessee PMHNP Program

    Coursework is designed to prepare you for certification and real-world practice.

    Core Courses Include:

    • Advanced Psychiatric Assessment
    • Psychopharmacology Across the Lifespan
    • Individual and Group Psychotherapy
    • Diagnosis & Management of Mental Disorders
    • Ethics and Legal Issues in Mental Health

    Many Tennessee programs emphasize integrated care, reflecting the state's push to embed mental health services into primary care settings.

    Typical Employers for PMHNP Graduates in Tennessee

    Graduates of Tennessee PMHNP programs are hired across a range of healthcare settings.

    Major Employers in the State

    Employer TypeExamples
    Hospital SystemsHCA Healthcare, Ballad Health, Ascension Saint Thomas
    Academic CentersVanderbilt Health, UT Health Science Center
    Behavioral Health NetworksCenterstone, Omni Community Health
    Government & VATennessee Department of Mental Health, VA hospitals
    Private PracticeIndependent psychiatric clinics and telehealth providers

    Online Learning: What to Expect as a Tennessee Student

    Online PMHNP programs are designed with working nurses in mind, but they still require discipline and time management.

    Benefits of Online Programs

    • Flexibility to work while enrolled
    • Access to programs across Tennessee (and sometimes beyond)
    • Reduced commuting and relocation costs

    Challenges to Consider

    • Securing clinical placements (varies by school)
    • Balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities
    • Staying engaged in asynchronous coursework

    Tips for Choosing the Right Online PMHNP Program

    Look beyond "online" and evaluate these key factors:

    • Clinical Placement Support: Does the school help secure preceptors in Tennessee?
    • Certification Pass Rates: High pass rates can indicate strong preparation
    • State Authorization: Ensure the program meets Tennessee licensure requirements
    • Faculty Experience: Are instructors practicing PMHNPs?
    • Local Partnerships: Schools with Tennessee-based affiliations may offer better placement options

    Salary and Job Outlook for PMHNPs in Tennessee

    PMHNPs are among the highest-paid nursing specialties, and demand continues to grow across Tennessee.

    What to expect:

    • Competitive salaries, especially in urban areas
    • Strong job growth in rural and underserved regions
    • Expanding opportunities in telehealth and outpatient care

    Tennessee's mental health workforce shortages mean PMHNP graduates often have multiple job opportunities upon graduation.

    How Licensure Works in Tennessee

    After completing an accredited program, graduates must:

    1. Pass a national PMHNP certification exam
    2. Apply for advanced practice licensure through the
      Tennessee Board of Nursing
    3. Meet prescriptive authority requirements (if applicable)

    Tennessee requires collaborative practice agreements for nurse practitioners, which can influence job structure and practice settings.

    FAQs

    Q: Are fully online PMHNP programs available in Tennessee?

    A: Yes, many programs offer fully online coursework, but all require in-person clinical hours completed at approved Tennessee sites.

    Q: How competitive are PMHNP programs in Tennessee?

    A: Admission can be competitive, especially for DNP programs. Strong GPAs, RN experience, and mental health exposure improve your chances.

    Q: Do online PMHNP programs in Tennessee help with job placement?

    A: Some programs offer career support, but most rely on clinical networking and local healthcare connections to help graduates secure positions.

    Q: Is telehealth experience included in training?

    A: Increasingly, yes. Many Tennessee programs incorporate telepsychiatry exposure, reflecting real-world practice trends.

    Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC