The psychiatric-mental health nursing specialty prepares advanced practice nurses
who will function as psychiatric-mental health specialists in a variety of settings
with diverse populations. Courses from nursing and other disciplines provide
advanced theoretical knowledge and skills in health assessment, treatment modalities
(e.g. individual, group and family based interventions, case management, psychopharmacology) leadership development, and clinical research to provide
a scientific base for advanced nursing practice. Individual clinical practica allow specialization in adult or child psychiatric-mental health nursing.
The program admits registered nurses who have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited nursing program. The full-time option is a 1.5 year program. The program of study consists of 45 credits including: 24 credits of core courses, (including Advanced Psychopharmacology) 18 credits of psychiatric-mental health theory and clinical practica, and one elective. Students who opt to complete the master's program on a part-time basis have 5 years to do so.
The psychiatric-mental health nursing specialty also offers a program of study for an additional specialty concentration. This program meets national certification requirements.
Graduates will be able to:
- Perform psychiatric assessments and evaluations.
- Diagnose psychiatric disorders according to DSM criteria.
- Conduct psychotherapy with individuals, groups and families.
- Function as case managers for persons with psychiatric disorders.
- Provide psychiatric consultation to primary care providers.
- Obtain the educational preparation required for national certification and/or state licensure.
- Apply for prescription writing privileges and be eligible for third party reimbursement (in states in which advanced practice nurses have these privileges).
- Meet academic requirements for application to doctoral programs in nursing and related fields.
- Practice at an advanced practice nursing role as a psychiatric-mental health specialist in a variety of settings including out-patient, partial hospitalization, day treatment, and community-based intervention programs.