Are you a biology major looking to break into the healthcare field? Have you ever wondered if you can become a nurse practitioner with a biology degree? 

Well, unfortunately you cannot become a nurse practitioner with only a biology major. You will need to complete a nursing degree and then apply to an accredited program for nurse practitioners.

But it's not impossible, with the right education and experience, a biology major can absolutely become a nurse practitioner.

Is Biology Same As Nursing?

No, biology and nursing are not the same. Biology is a broad subject that covers the study of all living things, including plants, animals, and humans. 

Nursing is a profession within the healthcare industry that focuses specifically on providing patient care. While some aspects of biology may be relevant to nursing practice, such as human anatomy and physiology, they are two distinct disciplines.

Nurses have specialized knowledge and skills in caring for patients with acute or chronic illnesses and injuries, while biologists may be more focused on research or teaching in their field.

Ultimately, both professions require a great deal of dedication to learning and mastering their respective skillsets.

What is the best major for a nurse practitioner?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the best major for a nurse practitioner. A BSN program provides an in-depth education in nursing theory, principles of patient care, and evidence-based practice.

BSN program also provide specialized courses on topics such as health promotion, disease prevention, and pharmacology. Students enrolled in these programs are required to complete clinical experiences with actual patients to gain hands-on experience.

This type of program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become an effective nurse practitioner.

Additionally, because most employers prefer to hire nurses who have completed their BSN degree, it is important for those interested in becoming a nurse practitioner to obtain this major.

Furthermore, completing a BSN program allows prospective nurse practitioners to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for registered nurses which is a requirement for becoming certified as a Nurse Practitioner.

All in all, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is the best major for those seeking to become Nurse Practitioners.

How to Become a Nurse Practitioner With A Biology Degree?

Becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) with a biology degree is a great career choice for those who are interested in healthcare and want to take on more responsibility in patient care.

Here are some steps to take in order to become a nurse practitioner with a biology degree:

1) Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree

This is the first step to becoming a nurse practitioner. A BSN program will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a registered nurse (RN).

There are several paths to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree for a student who has majored in Biology. These include:

1. Traditional BSN program: This is a four-year program that typically includes both classroom and clinical instruction. Students who have completed their prerequisites in biology and other sciences can apply to these programs directly after finishing their undergraduate degree.

2. RN-to-BSN program: This is a program designed for registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate degree or diploma in nursing and wish to complete a BSN degree. These programs can be completed online or through a hybrid format and usually take 2-3 years to complete.

3. Accelerated BSN program: This is a fast-track program that is designed for students who have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and wish to complete a BSN degree in a shorter time frame, usually 12-18 months.

It's important to note that all the above options may have different admission requirements, so you should research the different programs to find the one that fits you best.

2) Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)

After completing your BSN, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN in order to become a licensed RN. 

The test covers a wide range of topics related to nursing, including medical and surgical nursing, pharmacology, and mental health. 

It is designed to assess the competency of entry-level nurses and assess their ability to provide safe and effective patient care. 

3) Gain clinical experience

As a RN, you will need to gain experience working in a healthcare setting. This experience will help you to understand the different aspects of patient care and to develop your skills as a nurse. 

It can provide invaluable insight into the day-to-day operations of healthcare professionals, from nurses to doctors. 

Through observation and hands-on experience, individuals can observe how physicians make decisions, learn about treatments and interventions, and understand the importance of communication among healthcare teams.

Additionally, gaining clinical experience allows individuals to practice their skills in a real-world setting while applying their theoretical knowledge in a practical way. 

Not only does this help prepare them for future careers in the medical field but it also gives them an edge when applying for jobs or fellowships.

4) Earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree

In order to become a nurse practitioner, you will need to earn a MSN degree. This program will provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in patient care, as well as in healthcare management.

The curriculum includes classes such as professional issues and ethics, healthcare policy and finance, evidence-based practice, health informatics, and population health management. 

With the MSN degree you can become highly specialized and be a leader in the field of nursing.

5) Obtain certification as a nurse practitioner

After completing your MSN, you will need to obtain certification as a nurse practitioner. This will typically involve passing an exam and meeting other requirements set by your state's Board of Nursing.

Additionally, you will need to obtain a state license along with passing a background check and meet any other requirements set by your state's Board of Nursing.

How long does it take to become a nurse with a biology degree?

Becoming a nurse with a biology degree can take around four years, depending on the route you take.

It is possible to accelerate the process by enrolling in an accelerated nursing program that allows you to bypass prerequisite courses and complete nursing education in a shorter amount of time. However, this route may be more challenging due to the condensed coursework.

If you choose to go through a traditional nursing school or program, it typically takes two to four years to complete the necessary coursework and clinical requirements for nursing education.

The amount of time it takes will also depend on whether you are taking full-time or part-time classes and how many prerequisites you have completed prior to applying for the program.

Ultimately, earning your degree in nursing with a biology background can take several years, but it is worth it for those looking for an exciting career in healthcare.

How Much will it Cost?

The cost of becoming an NP varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of program, location, and length of time to complete the program.

Here are some of the main expenses to consider when budgeting for an NP program:

• Tuition: The cost of tuition for an NP program can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the type of program and the school. Traditional on-campus programs tend to be more expensive than online programs, and private schools generally have higher tuition rates than public schools. 
• Books and materials: You will need to purchase books and other materials for your classes, which can add several hundred dollars to the overall cost of the program.
• Licensing and certification: After completing your program, you will need to take and pass a national certification exam and obtain a state license. The cost of these exams can range from $200 to $500, and the cost of obtaining a state license can range from $50 to $200.
• Living expenses: If you are attending an on-campus program, you will need to factor in the cost of housing, food, and other living expenses. These can add several thousand dollars to the overall cost of the program.
• Clinical hours: Some programs may require you to complete a certain number of clinical hours as part of your education. These hours may be unpaid or paid, but will cost you time and money.

It's important to keep in mind that these costs are approximate and can vary greatly depending on the program and location. 

It's also worth noting that many NP programs offer financial aid and scholarships, which can help offset some of the costs.

Can I switch from biology to nursing?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a biology major to a nursing major. However, the process and requirements may vary depending on the school and program you choose.

If you are currently enrolled in a biology program, you may be able to switch to a nursing program at the same school. 

In this case, you would need to speak with an advisor or counselor to discuss the requirements and any prerequisites that need to be met. You may need to take additional courses to fulfill the nursing program's requirements.

If you have already completed your biology degree and are looking to pursue a career in nursing, you may need to apply to a nursing program as a second-degree student. 

In this case, you may need to complete prerequisites such as anatomy and physiology, and demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a nursing program.

It's important to research the specific requirements of the nursing program you are interested in and to speak with an advisor or counselor to determine the best course of action.

It's worth mentioning that your biology degree may give you an advantage when applying for nursing programs, as you already have a background in the health sciences.

Some nursing programs may also value the diverse perspective you can bring as a biology major, so don't discourage yourself just because you don't have a nursing background.

Conclusion - Can A Biology Major Become A Nurse Practitioner?

In conclusion, a biology major can certainly become a nurse practitioner. While a nursing degree is typically required to become a nurse practitioner, many universities offer a "second degree" program for students who have already earned a bachelor's degree in another field.

These programs are designed to allow students to transition into nursing and can be completed in as little as 2-3 years.

Additionally, many nursing schools now offer online or accelerated programs that can be completed at a faster pace.

While the road to becoming a nurse practitioner may be longer for a biology major, it is definitely possible and can be a rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about healthcare and patient care.

FAQs About Can A Biology Major Become A Nurse Practitioner?

1. Can a Microbiologist Become a Nurse?

Yes, a microbiologist can become a nurse, but it would require completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse) exam.

Additionally, the individual would need to meet any other requirements set by the state in which they wish to practice nursing.

The skills and knowledge gained through a microbiology education may be helpful in understanding the microbiology aspect of nursing but it is not a direct path and additional education and training is required.

2. Is it Worth to Become a NP?

Becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) can be a valuable career choice for those interested in the healthcare field.

NPs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who have completed a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and have passed a national certification exam.

They are able to diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and prescribe medications.

However, becoming an NP requires a significant investment of time and money, and the job can be demanding. 

Ultimately, whether becoming an NP is worth it will depend on an individual's goals, values, and preferences.

3. Can you be a nurse anesthetist with a biology degree?

Yes, a biology degree can be accepted as a prerequisite for nurse anesthesia programs, however it is important to check with the specific program you are interested in and ensure that they accept biology degrees as it varies between institutions. Typically, a BSN is required to be eligible for the program.

4. Is biology a good major for nursing?

Yes, a major in biology is a good choice for someone who is interested in pursuing a career in nursing. Biology provides a strong foundation in the sciences, which is essential for understanding the human body and how it functions.

Additionally, many nursing programs require prerequisites in biology and other sciences. 

A background in biology can also be beneficial for understanding medical terminology and concepts, as well as for passing the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) for nursing.

If you're interested in becoming a nurse practitioner without a nursing degree, you've come to the right place.

There are plenty of reasons you might want to do this: maybe you're looking for a higher salary or more flexibility, or perhaps you want to work with less stringent regulations. Whatever the reason may be, becoming a nurse practitioner can be an extremely rewarding career path.

Who Is A Nurse Practitioner?

Let’s start with the basics: who are nurse practitioners? What do they do?

Nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses who provide primary care to patients. They have a master’s degree from an accredited nurse practitioner program, and they may also have a doctoral degree in nursing.
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses (RNs) who have received additional training in their specialty area.

What Does A Nurse Practitioner Do?

The nurse practitioner job description varies by setting and specialty area but generally includes the following duties:

• Perform physical exams and give injections.
• Order lab tests, X-rays, and other diagnostic tests.
• Diagnose illnesses using laboratory results, imaging studies, patient history, and physical exam findings.
• Write prescriptions for medications based on patient symptoms and test results.
• Patient counseling on diet and exercise.
• Screening for breast cancer or other types of cancer (mammography).
• Administering vaccines, including flu shots.

What Are The Requirements To Become A Nurse Practitioner?

In order to become a nurse practitioner, you must first earn an undergraduate degree(bachelor of science in nursing) and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). 

After you have passed this exam, you will be eligible to apply for a master's degree program. Once enrolled in your master's program, you will need to complete it and pass another exam known as the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). 

Once you have passed this exam, you can begin working toward your nurse practitioner certification. Once certified, you will be able to work in any setting that requires a nurse practitioner, such as clinics and hospitals.

The requirements for becoming a NP vary depending on where in the country you live and what type of certification you are trying to receive. 

For example, if you want to become certified by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), then there are several requirements that must be met before certification can be granted, including:

• A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher on all nursing courses taken during high school and college

• A BSN degree from an accredited university with a major in nursing

• One year of documented clinical experience as a registered nurse working with critically ill patients

Can I Become a Nurse Practitioner Without a Nursing Degree?

The short answer is yes; you can become a nurse practitioner (NP). However, you will need an advanced or graduate degree.

Additionally, it depends on the state in which you want to practice and the laws governing nurse practitioners.

Nurse practitioners are licensed by each state and must have an undergraduate degree, a master's degree in nursing or a related field, and at least one year of experience working as a nurse.
But some states allow individuals without nursing degrees to become licensed as nurse practitioners through alternate routes.

5 Steps to Become a NP Without a Nursing Degree

Nursing school is not for the faint of heart. It will take a lot of time, money, and effort to complete the program and obtain your degree.

But it's not the only way to become a nurse practitioner (NP). Emergency medicine physicians, dentists, pharmacists, physician assistants, and others can also become NPs.

Here are five steps to becoming an NP without a nursing degree:

Step #1. Become an RN

The first step towards becoming an NP is to become an RN. This requires completing a nursing program at a community college or university, which takes about two years to complete.

After completing this program, students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam before they can receive their license to practice as an RN.

Step #2. Get Your MSN Degree

The next step is to earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. This will take about two years to complete and cost approximately $20,000. 

Many schools offer financial aid and scholarships for students who meet certain criteria, such as being a member of a minority group or having a GPA above 3.0 on your bachelor’s degree.

Step #3. Gain Nursing Experience

The next step is gaining real-world experience. You can do this by working as an RN in various clinical settings such as hospitals or clinics. 

In fact, many healthcare facilities prefer that you have some experience before applying for graduate school or becoming licensed as an APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse).

This experience can also be helpful when applying for jobs after graduation since many employers are looking for someone with previous knowledge of their workplace.

Step #4. Earn Your Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Once you've completed your clinical hours, you'll be ready to take the NP certification exam. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) offers a Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP) credential that is recognized across the country.

Step #5. Get Licensed as an Advanced Practice Nurse

In addition to earning your advanced practice certification, you'll need to get licensed as an advanced practice nurse in your state or territory of residence.

Licensing requirements vary by state, but most include passing the NCLEX-PN exam, completing continuing education requirements, and submitting fingerprints for background checks.

Also Read: 9 Best Nurse Practitioner Programs for 2022 (Online & Hybrid)

How Long Does it Take to Become a Nurse Practitioner With A Non-Nursing Degree?

The average length of time it takes to become a nurse practitioner is four years. However, there are many factors that can affect this estimate.

These factors include the type of program you attend, your current educational level, and whether or not you have any previous medical experience. The length of time can also vary depending on whether or not you are studying full-time or part-time.

What is a Direct-Entry Nurse Practitioner Program?

A direct-entry nurse practitioner program, also known as accelerated nursing program, allows graduates of non-nursing bachelor's programs to enter into the MSN program. These are typically accelerated programs that allow you to complete your master's in two years rather than four.

The average cost for a direct-entry NP program is about $70,000. Some schools offer financial assistance based on need and other factors.

A direct-entry nurse practitioner program typically requires you to have a bachelor's degree in any field other than nursing. If you don't have one already, you'll want to ensure you're prepared for the rigor of nursing school before taking the plunge into this type of program.

In addition to providing general education requirements such as math and science courses, direct-entry NP programs include clinical experience that helps prepare students for working as independent practitioners upon graduation. The amount of clinical time varies by institution but is generally required between 24 and 35 months.

What Is A Nurse Practitioner Salary?

Salary.com reports that the median annual salary for nurse practitioners was $117,195 on Oct 27, 2022. However, this figure is only an average. Actual salaries may vary greatly based on specialization within the field, location, years of experience, and various other factors.

Nurse Practitioner Salary by States

What is The Job Outlook Of Nurse Practitioners?

The job outlook for nurse practitioners is very good in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that there will be a 28 percent increase in jobs for nurse practitioners from 2014 through 2024. This represents about 30,200 new jobs during this period.

Also Read: 11 Best Nurse Educator Jobs in 2022 (Reviewed And Ranked)

What Are The Benefits Of Becoming A Nurse Practitioner?

There are many top reasons to become a nurse practitioner.

Here are six benefits of becoming a nurse practitioner:

1. Improved Patient Care

When you become an NP, you will be able to provide more comprehensive care for your patients than if you were simply a nurse’s aide or health technician. 

You will be able to diagnose medical conditions, treat injuries and diseases and even perform minor surgery in some cases — all while interacting with other medical professionals, such as doctors and surgeons who specialize in specific areas of medicine.

2. More Flexibility

With an advanced degree, you'll have more opportunities for advancement and career advancement. 

You can also take on more responsibility within your practice or hospital setting, which means more money and more responsibility over time.

3. More Job Security

Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, there are more opportunities for NPS than ever before. As long as there's an aging population in need of care and treatments improve over time, there will always be a need for skilled professionals who can provide it — especially those who have advanced training as NPs do. 

This means that NPs are less likely than other types of nurses to experience job loss due to retirement or other factors beyond their control.

4. You’ll Have A Higher Level Of Independence

Nurse practitioners can perform most clinical duties without needing direct supervision from physicians or other healthcare providers. 

.As such, they have more flexibility in scheduling their day-to-day responsibilities and can choose when they want to work overtime or take time off during their shifts.

Conclusion - Become A Nurse Practitioner Without A Nursing Degree

So there you have it. If you want to become a nurse practitioner with a non-nursing degree, you can do it. But be warned: it's not easy. It takes a lot of hard work and determination, but if you stick with it, you'll find that the rewards are worth all of the effort.

FAQs

Is becoming a nurse practitioner worth it?

Yes! Becoming a nurse practitioner is worth it because you'll be able to make more money, get better hours, and have more flexibility in your schedule than if you were a registered nurse.

Which nurse practitioner is most in demand?

The most in-demand nurse practitioner is a family nurse practitioner. This type of nurse practitioner can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for common illnesses and injuries.

Is a direct-entry nurse practitioner program right for you?

Yes, a direct-entry nurse practitioner program is right for you if:

* You want to be treated like a doctor by patients and their families.

* You want to spend more time with patients, which will help them achieve better results.

* You’re interested in working in an outpatient setting, such as a clinic or urgent care center.

Can you go straight to MSN after RN?

You can go straight to MSN after RN, but there are some requirements. You need to have a GPA of at least 3.0, and you also need to have taken specific prerequisite courses in biology and chemistry.

If you meet these requirements, then yes, it is possible to go straight to MSN after RN.

The field is growing quickly and will continue to do so as more people are diagnosed with mental illnesses and seek treatment.

What is a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?

A mental health nurse practitioner (MNHP) is a registered nurse with advanced education and clinical training in psychiatric, psychological, and social aspects of health. 

They are qualified to diagnose and treat mental illnesses and disorders, as well as provide general healthcare services. 

Their roles include assessments, management plans, education & treatment plans for patients. In some cases, they can prescribe medications independently.

Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Job Description  

The job description for a mental health nurse practitioner varies depending on the setting in which they work. 

In hospitals and other medical settings, MNPs perform psychiatric assessments on patients admitted for treatment of mental illness or substance abuse problems. 

They also conduct counseling sessions and prescribe medications for their patients' conditions. In private practices and outpatient clinics, MNPs typically see clients in 15-minute increments and provide psychotherapy as well as medication management services.

How Much Does a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Make?

A mental health nurse practitioner makes an average of $123,607 per year, according to ZipRecruiters. This is approximately $60.67 per hour. 

The median annual wage for nurse practitioners is $117,670, according to the BLS. 

The minimum annual salary of a nurse practitioner is usually dependent on the type of job and where they work. 

In some cases, it may even be possible to work as a freelance mental health nurse practitioner if you have enough experience and training.

How to Become an NP in Mental Health?

To become a mental health nurse practitioner, you will need to complete the following steps:

1. Graduate from an accredited nursing program

If you want to become an NP in mental health, you should first complete a nursing program. This is typically an associate degree level program, but some schools offer bachelor's degrees in nursing as well.

2. Become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN)

The next step is to become licensed as an RN in the state where you want to practice.
Each state has its own licensing requirements and procedures, so check with your state board for details about how to become licensed as an RN in your area.

3. Gain Experience 

Once you're licensed, there are several ways to gain experience working as an NP. You can work at clinics or hospitals where physicians or other NPs supervise your work. 

You can also volunteer at homeless shelters or nursing homes. This experience will teach you how to deal with different types of patients and situations.

4. Complete an advanced degree, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

After earning your BSN, you can complete your master's degree by completing coursework that focuses on one area of study within the field of nursing. 

For example, if you want to specialize in mental health care, pursue your MSN in Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MSN-PMHNP). 

You'll study advanced topics such as chronic illness management, crisis intervention, and psychotropic medications.

5. Get Certified 

All states require that NPs must be certified as nurse practitioners before they can practice independently. 

To get certified, you must complete an approved program and pass your National Certification Exam for Nurse Practitioners. 

This test covers everything from basic nursing skills to advanced medical procedures. Once you've passed it, you'll be issued a certificate by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).

What Is The Job Outlook For Mental Health Nurse Practitioners?

The job outlook for mental health nurse practitioners is promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities should grow by 40% between 2021 and 2031 (much faster than average). 

This growth is expected to be driven by increased demand for services provided by nursing professionals with advanced training in psychiatric or mental health fields.

Types of Medical specialty Nurse Practitioner Programs

There are several types of psychiatric nurse practitioner programs available in the U.S., each with different admission requirements:

1. RN-MSN PMHNP Programs
2. MSN Psychiatric NP Programs
3. Accelerated MSN Psychiatric NP Programs
4. Direct-Entry Psychiatric NP MSN Programs
5. DNP Psychiatric NP Programs
   
   

Top 7 Programs for a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Specialty in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Here are the 7 top online programs you should consider:

1. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania has a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program with a specialty in psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. 

This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and is available online. 

The curriculum includes courses on mental health diagnosis, treatment, and research; substance use disorders; and psychopharmacology. Students must complete a clinical internship to graduate from this program.

Tuition: $53,166 per year

2. Duke University

Currently, Duke University ranks #1 in PMHNP programs. The university is located in Durham, North Carolina, and offers a Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialty in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

Duke University's PMHNP program is a full-time cohort model that focuses on evidence-based practice and mental health crisis management. The program provides students with opportunities to gain clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. 

Students are also provided with opportunities to develop leadership skills through participation in several extracurricular activities, such as the Duke University Medical Center Student Advisory Council (DUMC SC).

In addition to tuition costs, students will also incur additional expenses related to books, clinical supplies, and travel costs associated with clinical rotations.

Tuition: $1,910 per credit hour. The fully enrolled tuition per semester is $11,460

3. Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University is ranked as the #8 graduate school of nursing for its MSN and #7 for its DNP, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Vanderbilt offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a specialty in psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner. 

The program is designed for nurses who want to further their education in order to provide comprehensive care to patients with mental illnesses. 

In addition to classroom work, students gain clinical experience at Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital and other facilities around Nashville.

The MSN-PMHNP program has an enrollment of approximately 100 students each year and includes full-time and part-time options. 

Students typically complete the program in two years (60 credit hours) but may take longer if they need more time for coursework or clinical rotations.

Tuition: $1,793 per credit hour

4. University of Washington

The University of Washington School of Nursing offers a three-year certification (DNP) PMHNP program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. 

The program, which began in 2008, is taught in a hybrid format, requiring that you be on campus one day per week.

The coursework is divided into five core areas: leadership and management, health care policy; research and evidence-based practice; advanced clinical practice; and professional development. 

Throughout the program, you will have opportunities to gain hands-on experience through externships and clinical placements in settings such as mental health clinics and hospitals.

In addition to providing excellent training for your career path, this program also has an impressive job placement rate upon graduation: 90% percent of its graduates from 2018 were employed within six months after graduation!

Tuition: $9,934 per quarter in-state, $14,150 per quarter non-resident

5. University Of North Carolina

The School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill offers a Master's in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. 

The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including nursing care and assessment, health promotion, psychopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, and psychiatric diagnosis. 

Students learn how to use evidence-based practice to provide mental health care to patients with a variety of disorders, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. 

Students also learn how to provide support for families and loved ones who are dealing with mental illness.

This UNC program is offered in person only, so students can only complete their coursework if they are willing to attend the classes on-site. Students can choose between two start dates each year: January or May.

Tuition: $34,535 for entire program in-state tuition; $61,124 for complete program out-of-state tuition

6. Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing with a Specialty in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. 

Students will complete their coursework online and must complete a final capstone project, which can be done on campus or remotely. 

The program also requires students to complete 675 clinical hours, which can be completed on campus at one of Frontier Nursing University's clinical sites across the country.

Tuition: $31,008 for 48 credit hours only. 

7. Yale University 

The Yale School of Nursing combines theory and practice to prepare students for careers in nursing. 

They offer an online MSN with a concentration in psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, which provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide nursing care to individuals with mental illnesses.

Students learn about mental illness, treatment, and prevention, as well as how to work with families and other members of the community who are affected by mental illness. 

This program is designed for students who have already completed their baccalaureate or associate degree in nursing, as well as those who have been practicing as nurses.

The Yale School of Nursing has been training nurses since 1923, making it one of the oldest schools of its kind in the world.

Tuition: $26,162 per term

What are the Career Opportunities for a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner?

Mental health nurse practitioners work in hospitals, private mental health clinics, and other healthcare settings. 

They diagnose and treat a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.  

Mental health nurse practitioners can also provide counseling services to individuals or groups, teach medical students and residents, conduct research, and consult with other healthcare professionals.  

Here's a look at some of the career options available to mental health nurse practitioners:

1. Hospital

Mental health nurse practitioners work in hospitals in a variety of roles. 

Some work as primary care providers for patients with mental illness, while others focus on providing psychotherapy or counseling services to patients who have been admitted to the hospital for treatment of other conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. 

Some mental health nurse practitioners may also specialize in caring for older adults with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

2. Private practice/group practice

Some mental health nurse practitioners choose to start their own private practice or join an existing group practice after completing their education requirements. 

In these types of settings, they may provide therapy sessions and prescribe medications to patients with various types of mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety disorders. 

They also have the opportunity to provide education programs on topics like stress management or addiction treatment options for groups of people at various locations throughout their communities.

3. Correctional facilities

With the number of people coming out of correctional facilities, it's no surprise that there are many opportunities for mental health nurse practitioners.

The inmates who have been released from prison need mental health care and assistance. They have often experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect while incarcerated, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The mental health nurse practitioner may provide counseling services to these individuals and help them find their way through their trauma or past experiences.

Conclusion

If you've made it this far, we're sure you have many questions. We hope this guide has helped you find the answers you need to become a mental health nurse practitioner and pursue your dream career. 

If you want to get started on your journey, the best thing you can do is start researching!

We recommend starting with our list of 7 top online programs. When you find one that matches up with your interests and goals, it's time to apply! 

If all goes well, you'll be well on your way to becoming a mental health nurse practitioner in no time at all!

FAQs

Can a mental health nurse practitioner prescribe medication?

Yes, a mental health nurse practitioner can prescribe medication.

Mental health nurse practitioners have the same authority as other medical professionals to prescribe medication, including antidepressants and antipsychotics.

They do not need to be supervised by another doctor to prescribe medications.

What does a mental health nurse practitioner do?

A mental health nurse practitioner is a registered nurse who has completed a Master's degree in nursing and specializes in behavioral health.

They can diagnose and treat patients with mental health disorders and co-occurring physical disorders, including substance use disorders and chronic pain management.

Mental health nurse practitioners assess, diagnose and treat mental health disorders, as well as provide psychotherapy to help clients manage their conditions. They also offer psychiatric consultation services to other healthcare providers.

How long does it take to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner?

It can take anywhere from 4-6 years to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, depending on whether you are attending school full-time or part-time and whether you are working as a nurse during that time. 

Many students choose to work full-time while they study, which allows them to pay for school faster and earn more money, but it also takes longer to complete their education.