LIVONIA, MICH. – The need for mental health care continues to grow, and Madonna University’s new Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) track prepares nurses to meet it, with a special focus on autism and neurocognitive disorders that’s rare among PMHNP programs.
Along with comprehensive psychiatric preparation across the lifespan, the curriculum emphasizes autism spectrum disorder from childhood through adulthood and neurocognitive disorders in older adults.
“Our psychiatric mental health curriculum is further distinguished by its emphasis on autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan and neurocognitive disorders in older adults,” said Jen Reynolds, NP Program Director.
Students can also pursue dual-track preparation within Madonna’s CCNE-accredited MSN program, pairing the PMHNP track with Family Nurse Practitioner or Adult-Gerontology Primary Care NP. With demand for mental health services growing, graduates prepared to address both physical and psychiatric needs have exciting career opportunities.
The program balances online coursework with on-campus experiences, including simulation, clinical skills training, and emerging technologies like virtual reality. Smaller class sizes help students build strong relationships with faculty and classmates.
“Students aren’t just another name on a computer screen,” Jen said. “They get to know their faculty, build relationships with their peers, and feel supported throughout their education.”
Madonna also helps students secure clinical placements, so they can focus on learning instead of searching for preceptors. Nurses who already hold an MSN can add the specialty through a post-master’s certificate.
Learn more about the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program or request information to get started.
