Mental health needs in the United States are escalating, with much of the burden of care shouldered by primary care providers. In response to this crisis, Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing has collaborated with WashU Medicine Department of Psychiatry to create three pathways to increase behavioral health access in the community: Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and postgraduate certificate for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner training.
“Nurses are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health crises,” says Christy Williams, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, graduate program director for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program. “When nurses are trained to recognize and respond to mental health needs, they are better equipped to care for the whole person and improve outcomes for patients and families. By expanding mental health education and clinical training, we hope to combat one of the most pressing health challenges facing our communities.”
The PMHNP program provides advanced expertise in the diagnosis and management of psychiatric patients throughout an individual’s lifetime. Students will master both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, including psychotherapy and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Through a mental health lens, students will learn to apply principles of evidence-based practice, leadership, population health, and emerging health care technologies to clinical settings. The program includes 100% online coursework, on-campus skills workshops twice per term, and in-person clinicals, which are available in both the East and West Regions.
PMHNP pathway options:
- Postgraduate certificate: Builds on advanced practice education and experience to provide skills and expertise to care for psychiatric mental health patients
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): Prepares students to become advanced practice providers equipped to prescribe psychotropic medications and deliver psychotherapy
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): Building on the master’s curriculum, the DNP pathway cultivates leadership and the ability to drive systems change. It culminates in a capstone project and professional portfolio, allowing students to demonstrate competency in translating research evidence into clinical practice
Tuition discounts and scholarship opportunities
Eligible BJC team members can maximize their savings by pairing the BJC Tuition and Certification Assistance with a 20% discount, as a way of encouraging and empowering nurses who want to continue their education and fill this crucial need. Additionally, Goldfarb School of Nursing is awarding $5,000 scholarships to 20 students enrolled in any of the fall 2026 PMHNP program tracks. This is a one-time opportunity for the inaugural PMHNP cohort, and students will not need to apply directly for the scholarship to be eligible. Further information will be provided by Goldfarb’s financial aid department.
Nurses interested in pursuing one of these advanced degree options can contact the Goldfarb School of Nursing admissions team by emailing [email protected] or calling 314-454-7055. You can also learn more about the programs by visiting the Goldfarb School of Nursing website.