COURSE CURRICULUM

DePaul University offers a Dual Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track within its Master of Science in Nursing program, designed to prepare advanced practice nurses who can provide comprehensive care across both physical and mental health needs. This dual specialization equips graduates to deliver holistic, patient-centered care throughout the lifespan, integrating primary care and psychiatric-mental health services.The program emphasizes addressing critical healthcare shortages by preparing nurses to serve in roles that reduce barriers to care and expand access to both medical and mental health services. Graduates are trained to work in both primary care and mental health settings, enabling them to respond to a wide range of patient needs and contribute to improving overall healthcare delivery systems. This dual focus strengthens their ability to support individuals, families, and communities with complex and overlapping health concerns.In addition to required clinical hours, the academic portion of the program is offered fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals. This allows students to continue their careers while advancing their education. The program duration ranges from two to four years, depending on the student’s prior academic preparation and nursing background. Overall, the dual FNP/PMHNP track prepares highly skilled nurse practitioners who are capable of delivering integrated care and taking on leadership roles in both physical and mental healthcare environments.