Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prerequisites for your programs?

All applicants to the Penn Nursing Psychiatric-Mental Health Master’s (Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist) programs must have a BS in Nursing and an RN license or must be enrolled in Penn’s accelerated nursing program to earn the undergraduate nursing degree while on a path to the MSN.

Can I apply for the PMH advanced practice nursing program before I graduate with my BSN/RN?

Yes. If you are currently in the BSN program, you may apply for the master’s program when you are nearing graduation and your degree is pending, or you may submatriculate after completion of sophomore level nursing courses.

Are there opportunities to participate in research projects?

Yes. Penn nursing faculty members are open to student participation on research projects.  Interested students should become familiar with faculty research projects and approach faculty as they are interested.

What kinds of clinical experience does the program provide?

Students in either the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist programs meet the ANCC clinical hour requirements over three continuous semesters.  Clinical placements are specifically selected by faculty based on the student’s area of professional interest and advanced practice role. The practicum is enhanced by a weekly small group supervision seminar on campus that allows students to discuss and share experiences across a wide range of mental health care settings.

How are the population concentration areas operationally different?

The major difference in the Child and Family, Adult and Special Populations, and Geropsychiatric concentrations is the clinical placement. The choice of setting allows the student to gain maximal experience in their chosen option along with appropriate supervision. Students are also guided to tailor core course requirements and the elective to enhance learning in the concentration area.

What types of clinical sites are available for practicum experiences?

The practicum experience prepares our graduates to practice in a variety of settings. Diverse opportunities are available:

• Forensics (prisons, shelters, medical examiner offices)
• Psychiatric home care
• Addiction and substance misuse programs
• Community mental health centers
• Pediatric or adult primary care settings
• Schools
• Inpatient psychiatric settings
• Hospitals and emergency departments
• Nursing homes
• Crisis management centers

Is it possible to complete the program part-time?

Yes. Both the PMH CNS and PMH NP programs can be completed part time, typically in 2-5 years.

Is there a dual role option? In other words, can one prepare for both the PMH-CNS as well as PMH-NP roles? 

Yes. If you choose to pursue both a CNS and NP in psychiatric-mental health, you will need to fulfill both Penn and ANCC requirements for each role, including clinical hours. The coursework for these roles is identical; however, an additional clinical practicum and clinical seminar are required to fulfill ANCC requirements for the second role specialization.

What is the difference between the Psychiatric-Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Practitioner? 

The PMH CNS typically specializes in psychotherapy, including psychotherapeutic theory and techniques. Clinical placements for CNS students will aim to hone psychotherapy skills as well as consultative skills. NP students are focused more on the biological basis of mental illness, along with pharmacological treatments and therapies, integrated with psychotherapeutic skills.