Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
The Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program provides advanced education and clinical training for nursing professionals seeking to specialize in mental health care. The program integrates psychiatric theory, behavioral health strategies, and evidence-based clinical practices to prepare students for the comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on therapeutic interventions, psychopharmacology knowledge, and applied clinical skills, enabling students to deliver high-quality care in diverse mental health settings. The curriculum also emphasizes ethical decision-making, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered approaches to mental health treatment.
Over three years, students engage with online coursework, virtual simulations, and supervised clinical placements that reinforce theoretical knowledge and practical application. Coursework includes advanced psychiatric assessment, mental health promotion, integrated care strategies, and evidence-based interventions. By combining online learning with clinical practice, students develop competencies in patient evaluation, treatment planning, and therapeutic communication, ensuring readiness to address complex mental health needs. This integrated approach prepares graduates to provide holistic care, implement mental health programs, and lead initiatives that improve behavioral health outcomes in professional settings.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 3 years
- Mode of Study: Part-time, Online
- Application Deadline: 01 March 2026
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Psychiatric Nursing
• Advanced Psychiatric Nursing Theory
• Human Development and Behavioral Health
• Mental Health Assessment Techniques
• Introduction to Evidence-Based Interventions
Year 2 – Clinical Practice & Applied Skills
• Psychopharmacology and Medication Management
• Therapeutic Communication and Counseling
• Integrated Care and Community Mental Health
• Clinical Practicum I
Year 3 – Specialization & Advanced Practice
• Advanced Clinical Practicum II
• Mental Health Policy and Program Development
• Research Methods in Psychiatric Nursing
• Capstone Project / Applied Clinical Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared to take on advanced nursing roles that focus on psychiatric and behavioral health care across various settings. Career opportunities include positions in hospitals and medical centers, community mental health clinics, private psychiatric practices, and research or academic institutions. Graduates may also pursue roles in telehealth services, policy development, or specialized psychiatric programs within governmental and non-governmental organizations. The program equips students with strong clinical, analytical, and communication skills, allowing them to manage complex cases, coordinate interdisciplinary care, implement mental health interventions, and contribute to improving patient outcomes and community mental well-being.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for nursing professionals who seek a flexible, part-time online pathway to specialize in psychiatric-mental health care, offering a curriculum that emphasizes advanced clinical practice and patient-centered care. Its three-year structure provides a balanced integration of online coursework and supervised clinical experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge directly in professional settings. Through engagement with faculty mentorship, clinical practicum, and evidence-based research projects, students develop the expertise, confidence, and analytical skills needed to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with complex mental health conditions. Graduates leave equipped to advance in clinical practice, contribute to mental health program development, and assume leadership roles in psychiatric nursing and behavioral health environments.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
