Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

Median salary

$97,550/yr

Typical range

$80,330 – $112,350

Education

Master's degree

Time to entry

About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's)

What a Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses does

Advanced practice psychiatric nurses assess and treat mental health and substance abuse disorders, often prescribing medications and providing psychotherapy. They hold master's degrees and work independently or collaboratively in hospitals, clinics, and private practice.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~4 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

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