This program focuses on the preparation of clinical experts with advanced psychiatric mental health nursing competencies and emphasizes excellence in practice, critical thinking, inquiry, leadership, self-awareness, and empowerment. The curriculum consists of 48 semester hours of study. Full-time and part-time study may be selected. Each student's program of study will be planned at the time of admission.The purpose of the post-master's certificate program is to enable registered nurses who hold a master degree in another nursing specialty area to gain the knowledge and skills required for certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Core courses required for students in their original master degree nursing program will be evaluated for equivalency to the required post-master's certificate courses. Past education and experience will be evaluated to determine which required core courses may be waived because of equivalency with GSU courses. Completion of the program will enable the certificate holder to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center's examination for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. The length of time to complete the certificate varies but generally takes one to two years.