More than 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. struggles with mental illness, many unable to afford adequate care. With this rapidly growing need, it’s unsurprising that many RNs look to psychiatric nursing programs as the logical next step in their career trajectory. Not to mention, psychiatric nurse practitioners earn a salary about 66% higher than an RN, making the added education well-worth it.

But how can a busy RN juggle career advancement with their current patients’ needs? Online psychiatric nursing programs, like Goodwin’s PMHNP-APRN degree, are designed specifically for Registered Nurses with a few years of experience in the field looking to transition into the role of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

Practical experience alongside academics equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the mental health care field. This guide will explore the practical considerations and steps needed to fulfill the transition from RN to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.

Can you advance from an RN to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner online?

Absolutely. Transitioning from an RN to Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner online is possible when you put in the proper research to find the perfect program and buckle down with hard work when the time comes. It’s no piece of cake, but don’t worry if all that seems overwhelming at first—you don’t have to do any of it alone!

Let’s break it into five simple steps you can take to advance from RN to Psychiatric NP:

1. Complete BSN Degree: Online BSN completion programs are available for RNs with associate degrees or diplomas, which can take between 2 and 4 years, depending on how many college credits you may already have.
2. Gain RN Experience: Work in psychiatric nursing or related fields to gain relevant experience. You may choose to work a few different jobs across different types of care to learn where you thrive.
3. Enroll in a PMHNP Program: Choose an accredited online program with a psychiatric nurse practitioner specialization so you can continue valuable work as an RN while learning to serve more patients.
4. Complete Clinical Hours: Fulfill clinical requirements at approved healthcare facilities.
5. Obtain Certification: After your graduate degree completion, obtain certification as a PMHNP through ANCC or AANP.

While it may take years to reach your goal, this journey opens doors to advanced practice in mental health care and offers opportunities for professional growth and profoundly impactful work with patients.

Learn how to become an APRN-PHMNP online at Goodwin University.

What you should know about online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs

Not all online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner programs are created equal. Make sure you understand what differentiates online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs from traditional on-campus learning. Also, consider a mixture of course formats. Some programs follow a hybrid format, blending online coursework with in-person clinical experiences to get the best of both worlds.

The best of both worlds would include the flexibility of an online degree, as well as the invaluable, in-person clinical components that provide short-term, hands-on training and practice to complement the online learning experience. Plus, the program should be accredited and meet all necessary education standards.

And don’t forget, it matters where you’re going to practice. Make sure the program aligns with your state’s licensure requirements and offers proper exam prep.

You may also get useful information from researching:

• Support Services: Investigate the availability of support services for online learners, such as technical support, academic advising, counseling services, and access to library resources.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses for clinical placements or required materials. Additionally, research the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans.
• Networking Opportunities: Consider the program’s networking opportunities, both online and during in-person components. Building professional connections can be valuable for future career advancement.
• Job Placement Assistance: Inquire about any job placement assistance or career services the program offers, such as resume workshops, interview preparation, or alumni networks.
• Clinical Site Placement: Understand how clinical site placements are arranged and whether students have input into the selection process. Additionally, inquire about the variety and quality of clinical sites available.
• Technology Support: Ensure the program offers adequate technology support for online components, including access to necessary software, troubleshooting assistance, and training resources.
• Continuing Education Opportunities: Explore whether the program offers opportunities for continuing education or professional development beyond the initial coursework to support ongoing career growth and skill enhancement.

By being aware of these crucial factors, you can make informed decisions to ensure that the online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program you choose aligns with your career goals and learning preferences.

What to look for in a hybrid or online PMHNP program

When selecting an online Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program, it’s essential to consider several factors that can impact the quality of your education and future career prospects!

• Accreditation is paramount! Make sure the program is accredited. This guarantees the quality of education and eligibility for certification. Also, look for Clinical Placement Support to assist in securing vital clinical placements. It’s a critical component of your training!
• Not to mention that faculty expertise plays a vital role in your education! So, check faculty qualifications in psychiatric nursing to ensure you’ll be learning from experienced professionals. Evaluate the online platform’s usability and the availability of Technical Support.
• Flexibility is essential for balancing your studies with other commitments! You should assess any part-time study options to make sure your schedule accommodates your needs.
• Eligibility. Ensure the program offers adequate preparation for any and all national certification exams, as certification preparation is key to launching a PMHNP career successfully!

You should also consider student feedback to gauge the program’s effectiveness through other student reviews and outcomes! You can make an informed choice that supports your career objectives and guarantees a fulfilling educational experience. At the same time, you pursue your dreams of becoming a psychiatric nurse by carefully weighing these factors!

Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at Goodwin

Goodwin University’s online programs offer a seamless pathway for Registered Nurses (RNs) to transition into the role of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs). Having accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs and clinical training opportunities, Goodwin ensures that students receive a well-rounded education.

Goodwin’s commitment to supporting students extends beyond just academics. We offer dedicated assistance in certification preparation, technology support, and flexible learning options. By choosing Goodwin University, you will embark on a journey of professional growth and make an impact in mental health care.

Apply today to Goodwin’s Online Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program today!