Discover Cost-Effective Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs near Dallas, Texas

Last Updated/Verified: Jul 19, 2025
A PMHNP meets with an adult patient in an office medical space.

In the heart of North Texas, Dallas faces a growing mental health crisis that mirrors national trends. With more than one in five adults in Texas experiencing a mental illness each year (National Alliance on Mental Illness), and a significant shortage of mental health professionals across the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) region, the demand for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) has surged. These highly trained advanced practice nurses are uniquely positioned to close the care gap—and for nurses in the region, cost-effective pathways to becoming a PMHNP are readily available.

Dallas is home to a robust healthcare ecosystem, including major hospitals like UT Southwestern Medical Center, Baylor University Medical Center, and Parkland Health. These institutions not only support clinical training but also shape mental health policy and outreach in urban and suburban communities. They collaborate with local nonprofits and public health departments to deliver holistic, patient-centered behavioral care, ensuring that students receive well-rounded clinical experience.

With diverse care settings and educational institutions nearby, Dallas offers aspiring PMHNPs a strategic and affordable entry into one of the most critical specialties in nursing. Flexible scheduling, growing state support, and rising job opportunities make Dallas a strong choice for the next step in a nursing career.

2025 Affordable Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs near Dallas, Texas

Finding the right Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program near Dallas, Texas, that fits your budget and career goals can be tough. At nursepractitioneronline.com, we've done the homework for you by ranking the most affordable PMHNP programs for 2025. Our list focuses on quality, cost, and convenience, helping you make an informed decision without breaking the bank. Whether you're starting your nursing career or looking to specialize, our rankings highlight programs that offer the best value near Dallas. Check out our full list to find a program that meets your needs. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://www.nursepractitioneronline.com/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner)

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Nursing (Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) at Texas Woman's University is a 100% online program aimed at RNs looking to specialize in mental health. With a curriculum that includes 45 credit hours and 780 clinical practicum hours, it emphasizes medication management and psychotherapy. Applicants need a BSN, an RN license, and preferably a year of behavioral health experience. The program's affordability is enhanced by its online delivery and its commitment to solving the mental health professional shortage, making it a cost-effective choice for aspiring PMHNPs.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 total credit hours
  • 780 clinical practicum hours
  • 12 months psychiatric nursing experience required
  • ANCC certification exam eligibility
  • Currently limited to Texas residents
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Evening synchronized classes
  • Mental health professional shortage focus

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University offers a Post-Master's Certificate for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) entirely online, designed to tackle the mental health professional shortage. This program stands out for its focus on medication management and psychotherapeutic interventions, requiring 45 credits and 780 clinical practicum hours. Ideal for Texas residents with an unencumbered RN license, a BSN, and a minimum 3.0 GPA, it prepares graduates for the ANCC certification exam. The affordability is notable due to its online format, reducing costs associated with on-campus attendance, and its focus on addressing a critical healthcare need.

  • 100% online program
  • 45 total credit hours
  • 780 clinical practicum hours
  • 12 months psychiatric nursing experience required
  • Currently limited to Texas residents
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • Weekly synchronized evening classes
  • ANCC certification exam eligibility
  • Medication and psychotherapy focus
  • Mental health professional shortage solution
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX - Public 4-Year - uta.edu

Master's - Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN

Online Learning - Visit Website

Offered fully online, The University of Texas at Arlington's Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner MSN program addresses the critical demand for mental health professionals. It prepares graduates for ANCC board certification, focusing on lifespan care from children to the elderly. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice in diverse settings, making it a flexible and affordable choice for working professionals, especially with its military-friendly policies and no GRE requirement mentioned.

  • Fully online graduate program
  • ANCC board certification eligible
  • Lifespan population focus
  • Multiple clinical practice settings
  • Evidence-based practice training

Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificates

Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Arlington's Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a campus-based program tailored for MSN graduates aiming to specialize. It stands out for its individualized degree plans and multiple specialty tracks, preparing nurses for advanced practice in psychiatric care. The program requires an MSN from an accredited program and an unencumbered nursing license. With clinical placement support and extensive student resources, it's an affordable option due to its public university status and military-friendly benefits.

  • Campus-based nursing certificates
  • Individualized degree plans
  • Multiple specialty tracks
  • Requires MSN from accredited program
  • Unencumbered nursing license required
  • Recommended employment: 16-20 hours/week
  • Extensive student success resources
  • Clinical placement support provided
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu

Graduate Certificate - Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online Learning - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Post-Graduate APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is a fully online program tailored for DNP-prepared nurses seeking to specialize in mental health. Spanning four semesters, it combines 25 hours of coursework with clinical practicums near students' locations, eliminating relocation costs. The program, starting in the fall, focuses on developing advanced nursing and leadership skills for interdisciplinary mental health care. Graduates are eligible for ANCC certification, enhancing their career prospects. Its Christian affiliation and military-friendly policies may offer additional financial support options, making it an affordable choice for advancing in psychiatric nursing.

  • 100% online program
  • 25 hours coursework
  • Four semesters duration
  • Starts in fall term
  • Clinical practicum near home
  • Eligible for ANCC certification
  • For nurses with DNP
  • Focus on PMHNP specialization
  • Enhances leadership skills
  • Prepares for interdisciplinary care

Doctorate - Post-Baccalaureate DNP

Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Post-Baccalaureate DNP program at Texas Christian University, with a concentration in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, is designed for BSN-prepared nurses aiming for doctoral-level specialization. This hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person clinical training, providing flexibility while ensuring hands-on experience in psychiatric care. It emphasizes advanced clinical knowledge and leadership skills to tackle mental health issues across diverse populations. The program's military-friendly status and Christian affiliation could provide financial aid opportunities, making it a cost-effective pathway to becoming a PMHNP without the need for entrance exams, thus reducing upfront costs.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Psychiatric Mental Health focus
  • BSN to DNP pathway
  • Advanced clinical training
  • Leadership development
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

University of North Texas Health Science Center

Fort Worth, TX - Public 4-Year - unthsc.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Nursing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of North Texas Health Science Center provides an affordable and comprehensive Master of Science in Nursing program tailored for aspiring Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. This hybrid program, requiring no entrance exam, stands out for its 47-credit curriculum designed to equip students with skills in psychopharmacology and evidence-based therapeutic modalities. Its affordability is highlighted by available scholarships and financial support, alongside a holistic admissions approach. The program's focus on special populations and diverse clinical settings prepares graduates to address Texas' mental health provider shortage effectively. With a flexible hybrid format, students can balance studies with personal commitments, making it a practical choice for many.

  • 47 total credit hours
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Six semesters full-time option
  • Diverse clinical settings training
  • Scholarships and financial support
  • Focus on special populations
  • Evidence-based practice curriculum
  • Holistic admissions approach
*Higher education statistics sourced from IPEDS 2023 via NCES.

Why Choose a PMHNP Path in Dallas?

Dallas serves as a central access point for healthcare in North Texas, combining high patient volume with diverse practice settings. The city has seen expanded behavioral health initiatives through organizations like Metrocare Services and the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. Additionally, growing attention to school-based mental health services, substance use treatment, and veteran support has amplified the need for PMHNPs in both inpatient and outpatient roles.

Behavioral health integration into primary care is gaining momentum in Dallas, creating roles for PMHNPs within family practices and internal medicine clinics. Several county-level mental health programs also prioritize team-based care, allowing PMHNPs to collaborate closely with physicians, therapists, and social workers.

For nurses already working in the DFW metroplex, pursuing PMHNP certification locally means continued employment and existing network support. Many programs offer flexible formats that accommodate professional schedules while providing rigorous clinical training throughout the region.

Characteristics of Cost-Effective PMHNP Programs

Cost-effective PMHNP programs balance affordability with academic quality. For nurses in Texas, public institutions often provide in-state tuition rates, while hybrid or online programs help reduce commuting and relocation expenses. Financial assistance from state and federal sources further improves affordability.

Key characteristics of budget-friendly programs include:

  • In-state tuition and fee waivers for Texas residents
  • Online and hybrid course delivery to support work-life balance
  • Local clinical placement assistance throughout the DFW area
  • Access to scholarships, grants, or tuition reimbursement
  • Strong licensure preparation and certification outcomes

Several programs also offer accelerated or part-time formats, enabling nurses to complete coursework at a pace that fits their current responsibilities. When evaluating program value, it is important to consider faculty qualifications, support services, and graduation rates in addition to tuition cost.

Clinical Opportunities in the Dallas-Fort Worth Region

The Dallas-Fort Worth area includes a wide network of healthcare facilities ideal for PMHNP clinical training. With urban, suburban, and rural patient populations, the region supports a range of clinical experiences in psychiatric and behavioral health care.

Clinical training partners may include:

  • UT Southwestern Medical Center
  • Parkland Health & Hospital System
  • Dallas VA Medical Center
  • Children's Health Behavioral Health Center
  • Metrocare Services
  • Texas Health Resources network

These institutions offer exposure to various patient populations, including veterans, youth, individuals with severe mental illness, and patients with co-occurring disorders. Many programs collaborate with local sites to streamline clinical placement and supervision.

In addition to large healthcare systems, PMHNP students may also rotate through school-based clinics, nonprofit organizations, correctional health services, and telehealth providers. This diversity of experiences helps prepare students for broad scope practice upon graduation.

Salary Outlook and Job Demand for PMHNPs in Dallas

Texas ranks among the top states for overall nurse practitioner employment, with Dallas at the forefront due to its growing and aging population. Mental health needs are expanding across demographics, increasing demand for PMHNPs in both traditional and innovative care settings.

Employment FactorDetails
Average PMHNP Salary (Dallas)$120,000–$135,000 annually
Job Growth Projection (2022-2032)45%+ (per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
High-Need SettingsCommunity clinics, schools, telehealth, VA
Loan Repayment OpportunitiesNHSC, Nurse Corps, Texas State Aid Programs

Dallas-based PMHNPs often work in collaborative teams, serving in outpatient behavioral health centers, emergency departments, and private practice. Job stability and long-term growth remain strong across public and private sectors. Demand is especially high in underserved areas and in bilingual and culturally competent care roles.

Financial Aid and Loan Support for Texas Nurses

Multiple financial aid options exist to help Dallas-based nurses reduce the cost of graduate education. Many employers also offer tuition support for employees pursuing advanced practice roles in behavioral health.

Available support includes:

Several programs prioritize applicants who commit to serving in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), many of which exist in and around the Dallas area. Connecting with HR offices and school financial aid counselors can help identify underutilized funding sources.

How to Choose a Program That Aligns with Career Goals

Not all PMHNP programs offer the same value or outcomes. Nurses exploring local options should evaluate each program’s accreditation, support services, and post-graduate success. Flexibility and geographic proximity are important, but so is the ability to prepare graduates for real-world challenges.

Top criteria to consider:

  • CCNE or ACEN accreditation
  • Guaranteed or facilitated clinical placements near Dallas
  • High board certification pass rates
  • Resources for adult learners and part-time students
  • Opportunities for continuing education or DNP progression

Prospective students should also look at faculty-to-student ratios, clinical hour requirements, and the program’s responsiveness to working professionals. Asking for contact with current students or alumni can provide a clearer picture of everyday academic experience.

Elevate Your Career While Serving Texas Communities

Dallas continues to grow as a regional hub for advanced nursing education and behavioral healthcare innovation. For registered nurses ready to elevate their careers, cost-effective PMHNP programs in the area provide a high-impact, low-barrier pathway into psychiatric-mental health practice.

By investing in graduate education and engaging in service-driven training, nurses can transform their careers while addressing some of North Texas’ most pressing health needs. With abundant clinical options, competitive salaries, and long-term workforce demand, the Dallas region offers a compelling launch point for the next generation of PMHNPs. The time to prepare for leadership in mental health care is now—and Dallas is a smart place to begin.

Learn more about nurse practitioner programs in Texas.

Sources

Judy Daniels, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC
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