COURSE CURRICULUM

The Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track builds on a foundational nursing core and prepares students for advanced practice in primary mental healthcare across the lifespan. Prior to entering the track, students complete core courses totaling 11 credit hours, covering information management in advanced nursing practice, health policy, pathophysiological concepts, and principles of evidence-based practice, with a requirement of earning a B- or better in each course to maintain academic standing and progress in the program. The 32-credit Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner curriculum emphasizes advanced clinical preparation, integrating mental health assessment, differential diagnosis, psychopharmacology, psychotherapeutic interventions, and case management for individuals, children, and families. Clinical supervision is embedded throughout, including practicums focused on role synthesis, child and family mental health, and psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and in group modalities, allowing students to develop competence in both independent and collaborative practice. Additional coursework in advanced health assessment and clinical pharmacology ensures that students are fully equipped to provide comprehensive care. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (FPMHNP), qualifying them to work in diverse mental health settings and assume leadership roles in providing evidence-based, holistic care while influencing patient outcomes and contributing to mental health policy and practice.