Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Program Description
The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Program provides an academic base of neuro-biological science and psychosocial theory, while emphasizing respect for person, family, community, and culture. Students receive intensive clinical supervision and mentored experience while learning and integrating interpersonal skills that are foundational to psychotherapy practice with individuals, groups and families across the lifespan. Psychiatric assessment, mental health diagnoses, comprehensive treatment planning, and prescriptive practice are important components of the clinical program. Students are well prepared for National Board Certification and State Licensure as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Graduates have the knowledge and skills essential for promoting, supporting, and facilitating, optimal mental health through compassionate client-centered care.
In response to the AACN recommendation that the current level of preparation necessary for advanced nursing practice be transitioned from the master’s degree (MS) to the doctorate level (DNP) by the year 2015 the program has been designed to progress toward these recommendations. Enrolled students have the option to apply for a post-master’s* Doctor of Nursing Practice (MS-DNP).
* Utah State Board of Nursing requires 3000 supervised post-graduate hours for Psychiatric APRNs. It is recommended that students complete an MS enabling them to apply for a State Intern License allowing any clinical hours documented in the DNP curriculum to count toward their post-graduate licensure requirements.
Length of Program
The Psychiatric/Mental Health Master’s program is five (5) semesters in length, requiring 52 credit hours in didactic and clinical coursework. It is available only as a full-time program (9+ credit hours per semester) and is completed in two (2) years, including a summer semester.
Program of Study
The Psychiatric/Mental Health program of study requires completion of the Master’s Degree core curriculum, Psychiatric/Mental Health specialty courses, and a Master’s Synthesis.
Psychiatric/Mental Health Program of Study
Studying at a Distance
Some courses are available online or via distance, but this program cannot be completed online.
Admission Requirements
See the Master's Degree Admission Requirements page.
How to Apply
A cohort of approximately 10-12 students is accepted into the Acute Care program each fall semester. The Application cycle begins in the fall for the following academic year.
See the How to Apply page for deadlines and more information.
Post Graduate Certificate
A Psychiatric/Mental Health Postgraduate Certificate is available. For more information, click here.
More Information
For more information about this program and answers to frequently asked questions, visit the related links at the right side of the page. If you have additional questions, contact the advisor below.
Renée Mixco, Graduate Academic Advisor
(801) 587-7605
renee.mixco@nurs.utah.edu