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Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Post-Master's Certificate: Career Outlook

Elevate Your Nursing Career

Individuals with a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing are highly specialized and in demand for advanced clinical roles, such as Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs). These roles often come with higher salaries than those for general master's degree holders. As the need for mental health professionals continues to rise, the job market for advanced practice registered nurses is expected to grow steadily
38% growth in employment for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), which includes PMHNPs, from 2022 through 20322
This sector is projected to add 113,700 new jobs from 2022 to 20322
From 2022 to 2032, employers are expected to have an average of 29,200 job openings for advanced practice registered nurses annually2
Given the increasing demand for mental health services, a significant portion of new jobs will likely be for PMHNPs. The rising need for mental health professionals, combined with the ability of PMHNPs to provide comprehensive mental health care, suggests a strong contribution to this overall APRN job growth number. 

TOP EARNERS:

$160,000/year

Individuals with extensive experience or who work in high-demand areas (such as large metropolitan hospitals or specialized mental health facilities) may earn upwards of $160,000 or more annually.1

 

AVERAGE SALARY:

$110,000/year

The average annual salary for PMHNP in the U.S. typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors such as region and experience level.1

 

Additional roles include:

  • Mental Health Consultant
  • Academic Faculty or Educator
  • Crisis Intervention Specialist
  • Psychiatric Nurse Researcher

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Program Outcomes:

By the time you complete your certificate, you'll be prepared to:

Use your leadership skills to make ethical decisions and think critically, all while promoting quality care and safety in your master's level nursing practice
Assess, diagnose, and manage a wide range of mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and more
Perform thorough evaluations of patients’ mental health to develop individualized treatment plans
Respond to patients in mental health crises, offering immediate care and guidance to stabilize their condition

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Sources:

1. U.S. Bureau and Labor Statistics. (2022, March 31). Occupational employment and wages, May 2021. 29-1171 Nurse practitioners. Occupational employment and wage statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291171.htm

2. Health Resources and Services Administration. (2022, September 30). Health workforce shortage areas. https://data.hrsa.gov/topics/health-workforce/shortage-areas