Cleveland State University

What you'll study

This online post‑master’s certificate focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of psychiatric and mental health conditions. Coursework typically covers advanced psychiatric assessment, psychopharmacology for mental health, psychotherapy modalities and counselling techniques, management of psychiatric emergencies, and integrated care across lifespan populations (children, adolescents, adults and older adults). The programme combines didactic online seminars, case‑based learning and a supervised clinical practicum in a practice setting appropriate to the student’s learning objectives.

• Core topics: psychiatric assessment and diagnostic formulation; psychopharmacology; evidence‑based psychotherapies (for example, cognitive behavioural approaches and psychodynamic principles); substance use disorders; trauma‑informed care; cultural competence in mental health.
• Clinical practicum: supervised clinical hours in varied mental health settings such as outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric units, community mental health centres or telehealth services, with faculty and preceptor oversight.
• Format and duration: delivered primarily online with scheduled virtual seminars and local practicum placements; designed for working clinicians so pacing may vary depending on previous coursework and clinical requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a graduate nursing degree (MSN, DNP or equivalent) from a regionally accredited institution. Additional typical requirements include an active, unencumbered RN licence, documentation of graduate‑level preparation as an advanced practice nurse, a current résumé or CV, academic transcripts and professional references. Applicants may also need to demonstrate previous clinical experience and meet background check, health clearance and immunisation requirements for practicum placement. International applicants must meet the university’s requirements for graduate admission and English language proficiency.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to practice as Psychiatric‑Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and are eligible to pursue national PMHNP certification where applicable. Career settings include outpatient mental health clinics, hospital psychiatric units, integrated primary care teams, community behavioural health agencies, correctional health services, schools and telehealth providers. PMHNPs commonly work as independent or collaborative practitioners, prescribing and managing psychotropic medications, delivering psychotherapy, coordinating care, and contributing to programme development, leadership and policy in mental health services.

Why study at Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University offers the PMHNP post‑master’s certificate within a practice‑focused nursing programme delivered by faculty with clinical and academic expertise in psychiatric‑mental health care. The online format provides flexibility for practising clinicians while the university supports local practicum placement through established regional partnerships. Students benefit from university student services, academic advising, and clinical coordination aimed at helping experienced nurses transition to a PMHNP role and pursue national certification and licensure pathways.