Best Online CRNA Programs
Many experienced registered nurses (RNs) choose to pursue careers as certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). To become a CRNA, RNs with a bachelor’s degree in nursing first gain 1-3 years of experience in an intensive care unit. These nurses then complete a CRNA program.
Most CRNA programs require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a license to practice, and a minimum GPA. Many programs also require work experience for at least a year in critical care units. CRNAs are considered advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and need state licensure to practice. They generally work with surgical teams in hospital settings and coordinate patient care. CRNAs also administer anesthesia and medications to patients.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurse anesthetists earn a median annual salary of $115,800. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 45% between 2019-2029, significantly faster than all other occupations.
Top CRNA Programs
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Iowa's online graduate programs deliver flexible options for learners with full-time employment. At the public institution, located in Iowa City, Iowa, grad students take rigorous classes with career-focused support. Learners gain advanced knowledge and skills of best anesthesia practices. After obtaining a graduate degree, professionals often secure higher-level positions, and others use the credential to transition to a new field.
Students develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Institutional resources include academic advising, career services, tutoring, and financial aid counseling. By attending job fairs and career workshops, graduate students can explore their professional options and develop a plan for locating and applying for positions in their field after obtaining their degree.
University of Iowa at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 91
Number of Master's Programs: 136
Number of Doctoral Programs: 113
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,079
- In-State$8,073
- Out-of-state$30,036
- In-State$10,079
- Out-of-state$29,026
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled31,240
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Working professionals often benefit from Drexel University's flexible, high-quality online graduate programs. The Pennsylvania-based private institution delivers graduate programs at its Philadelphia campus. Learners pursuing the doctor of nursing practice in nurse anesthesia from Drexel University gain specific knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field. A graduate degree often leads to improved career prospects and increased earning potential.
Experiential learning components, such as internships and research projects, help students impress prospective employers and demonstrate their abilities. To reduce the financial burden of pursuing a graduate degree, learners can access financial aid counseling from the institution. The university's career services office hosts job fairs, offers resume workshops, and connects graduate students with the extensive alumni network.
Drexel University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 67
Number of Master's Programs: 119
Number of Doctoral Programs: 48
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $35,181
- In-State$52,146
- Out-of-state$52,146
- In-State$35,181
- Out-of-state$35,181
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled24,205
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
- Minneapolis, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities can complete graduate coursework in person or online. The public institution's graduate students receive a rigorous education to prepare them for careers in their field. Learners completing the nurse anesthesia program gain the knowledge and skills necessary for success. After earning a graduate degree, professionals often qualify for more positions in nursing, along with higher pay.
The program features experiential learning components, allowing students to develop practical skills in professional settings. The institution's academic advisors and career counselors support graduate students as they prepare to enter the workforce. The school’s career counselors help graduate students determine the best professional path for their goals, while providing resources to ensure they have the tools necessary to succeed.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 53
Number of Master's Programs: 171
Number of Doctoral Programs: 126
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,580
- In-State$13,318
- Out-of-state$31,616
- In-State$17,580
- Out-of-state$27,204
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled51,327
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Columbia University in the City of New York
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Columbia University in the City of New York's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. Students at the private New York-based institution complete rigorous coursework in their field. Learners develop high-level knowledge and skills in the doctor of nursing practice in nurse anesthesia program. Graduates can use their degree to launch a career or advance their current career.
Through internships, fellowships, and research projects, graduate students gain practical experience and enhance their resume. To make the most of their graduate education, learners can take advantage of institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services. Graduate students can take advantage of the school’s alumni network to locate available positions in their field, while gaining professional insights.
Columbia University in the City of New York at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 131
Number of Master's Programs: 140
Number of Doctoral Programs: 106
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $47,600
- In-State$57,763
- Out-of-state$57,763
- In-State$47,600
- Out-of-state$47,600
- Retention Rate99%
- Acceptance Rate5%
- Students Enrolled31,456
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Duke University
- Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Duke University stands out for the quality of its graduate programs. The private institution's graduate programs enroll students located near Durham, North Carolina, and in other parts of the country. While enrolled in the school's certified registered nurse anesthetist program, learners take specialized graduate-level classes in subfields. Graduates can use their degree to launch a career in nurse anesthesia or advance their current career.
Graduate students often conduct original research to contribute to the field while enhancing their resume. Online learners benefit from virtual academic advising, online tutoring, and digital library resources. Graduate students can take advantage of the school’s alumni network to locate available positions in their field, while gaining professional insights.
Duke University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 17
Number of Master's Programs: 92
Number of Doctoral Programs: 65
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $55,680
- In-State$55,880
- Out-of-state$55,880
- In-State$55,680
- Out-of-state$55,680
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled16,686
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
University of Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Along with in-person graduate programs, the University of Pennsylvania provides remote programs that learners can attend from any location. The private institution's graduate programs deliver rigorous, field-specific coursework. The program features advanced coursework and a customizable curriculum that allows students to tailor their education to their career goals. A graduate degree can help professionals secure higher-paying roles with additional responsibilities.
Graduate students can pursue internships and fellowships to gain professional experience and develop practical skills. Learners at the institution can access academic support services, including advising and tutoring. The school provides networking opportunities, such as career fairs, to help graduate students develop professional connections that can lead to job offers after graduation.
University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 39
Number of Master's Programs: 141
Number of Doctoral Programs: 81
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $36,254
- In-State$51,156
- Out-of-state$51,156
- In-State$36,254
- Out-of-state$36,254
- Retention Rate98%
- Acceptance Rate8%
- Students Enrolled26,675
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Wayne State University
- Detroit, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Wayne State University's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. With a main campus in Detroit, Michigan, the public institution's graduate programs provide important career preparation. Learners pursuing the doctor of nurse anesthesia degree gain specific knowledge and practical skills relevant to the field. A graduate degree often leads to improved career prospects and increased earning potential.
Graduate students can participate in internships and fellowships to enhance their resume and gain experience in practical settings. To make the most of their graduate education, learners can take advantage of institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services. By attending job fairs and career workshops, graduate students can explore their professional options and develop a plan for locating and applying for positions in their field after obtaining their degree.
Wayne State University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 76
Number of Master's Programs: 122
Number of Doctoral Programs: 74
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,285
- In-State$13,024
- Out-of-state$29,894
- In-State$16,285
- Out-of-state$35,274
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled26,824
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. The Ohio-based public institution delivers graduate programs at its Cincinnati campus. In the nurse anesthesia program, learners gain advanced knowledge and skills. A graduate degree can help professionals secure higher-paying roles with additional responsibilities.
Students often pursue internships, fellowships, and independent research to gain professional experience that can lead to job offers after graduation. Learners at the institution can access academic support services, including advising and tutoring. Graduates searching for a job and looking to develop professional connections can benefit from the school’s alumni network.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 66
Number of Master's Programs: 113
Number of Doctoral Programs: 86
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $12,790
- In-State$9,476
- Out-of-state$24,810
- In-State$12,790
- Out-of-state$24,532
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled39,263
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Southern California's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. The private institution's graduate students receive a rigorous education to prepare them for careers in their field. While pursuing the nurse anesthesia degree, learners complete advanced coursework to prepare for high-level positions. Compared to bachelor's degree-holders, professionals with a graduate degree often earn higher salaries and benefit from increased career opportunities.
Experiential learning components, such as internships and research projects, help students impress prospective employers and demonstrate their abilities. Learners at the institution can access academic support services, including advising and tutoring.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 86
Number of Master's Programs: 199
Number of Doctoral Programs: 116
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $46,272
- In-State$57,256
- Out-of-state$57,256
- In-State$46,272
- Out-of-state$46,272
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled48,321
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At the University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, learners can pursue high-quality graduate programs in person or in a remote online format. With rigorous curricula, public institution's graduate programs prepare on-campus and online students for the demands of their industry. The school's program helps learners develop field-specific knowledge and professional skills they can apply to nurse anesthesia roles. After obtaining a graduate degree, professionals often secure higher-level positions, and others use the credential to transition to a new field.
Graduate students can perform independent research to practice field-specific skills while expanding their knowledge base. To reduce the financial burden of pursuing a graduate degree, learners can access financial aid counseling from the institution. Graduate students can take advantage of the school’s alumni network to locate available positions in their field, while gaining professional insights.
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 72
Number of Master's Programs: 110
Number of Doctoral Programs: 96
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $23,530
- In-State$18,628
- Out-of-state$32,656
- In-State$23,530
- Out-of-state$39,898
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled32,686
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
Case Western Reserve University
- Cleveland, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Along with in-person graduate programs, Case Western Reserve University provides remote programs that learners can attend from any location. At the private institution, located in Cleveland, Ohio, grad students take rigorous classes with career-focused support. While pursuing the doctor of nursing practice in nurse anesthesia, learners complete advanced coursework to prepare for high-level positions.
With experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, the program helps students gain professional skills and bolster their resume. To prepare to succeed in the workforce, graduates can take advantage of the institution's career services. Graduate students can attend job fairs and participate in resume workshops to prepare to secure a job after graduation.
Case Western Reserve University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 22
Number of Master's Programs: 96
Number of Doctoral Programs: 59
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $46,524
- In-State$50,450
- Out-of-state$50,450
- In-State$46,524
- Out-of-state$46,524
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate27%
- Students Enrolled11,874
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment8%
- AccreditationYes
Emory University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus
Emory University's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. The Georgia-based private institution delivers graduate programs at its Atlanta campus. While pursuing the doctor of nursing practice in nurse anesthesia, learners complete advanced coursework to prepare for high-level positions. Graduates of the program often secure raises and promotions.
The curriculum features experiential components, which help graduates impress prospective employers. The institution's academic advisors and career counselors support graduate students as they prepare to enter the workforce. The school’s career resources include resume assistance and mock interviews, which help students impress prospective employers and secure positions in their field.
Emory University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 17
Number of Master's Programs: 75
Number of Doctoral Programs: 41
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $42,800
- In-State$53,070
- Out-of-state$53,070
- In-State$42,800
- Out-of-state$42,800
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate16%
- Students Enrolled14,415
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
University at Buffalo
- Buffalo, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University at Buffalo's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. At the public institution, located in Buffalo, New York, grad students take rigorous classes with career-focused support. A popular option for graduate-level learners, the program requires specialized coursework in nurse anesthesia.
Graduate students often conduct original research to contribute to the field while enhancing their resume. Learners can access resources, including career services to prepare for professional success. Graduate students can take advantage of the school’s alumni network to locate available positions in their field, while gaining professional insights.
University at Buffalo at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 73
Number of Master's Programs: 174
Number of Doctoral Programs: 115
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,310
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$24,740
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled31,923
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment25%
- AccreditationYes
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Rutgers University-New Brunswick's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. Located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, the public institution prepares graduate students for careers in their field. Learners in the doctor of nursing practice program develop high-level knowledge and skills in nurse anesthesia.
With experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, the program helps students gain professional skills and bolster their resume. Online learners benefit from virtual academic advising, online tutoring, and digital library resources. Graduates searching for a job and looking to develop professional connections can benefit from the school’s alumni network.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 21
Number of Master's Programs: 125
Number of Doctoral Programs: 97
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,736
- In-State$12,230
- Out-of-state$29,012
- In-State$17,736
- Out-of-state$30,144
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled50,173
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
University of Kansas
- Lawrence, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Many learners study at the University of Kansas's campus, and others enroll in online graduate programs. The public institution enrolls graduate students located near Lawrence, Kansas, and across the country. One of the school's graduate-level options, the doctor of nurse anesthesia practice program features advanced coursework.
Students often pursue internships, fellowships, and independent research to gain professional experience that can lead to job offers after graduation. Learners benefit from institutional resources, including academic advising and career services. Through mock interviews, resume assistance, and career counseling, the school supports graduate students preparing to locate and secure a position after earning their degree.
University of Kansas at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 53
Number of Master's Programs: 121
Number of Doctoral Programs: 95
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,989
- In-State$10,092
- Out-of-state$26,960
- In-State$9,989
- Out-of-state$23,951
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled27,552
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Barry University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Barry University's academic options include graduate programs in a variety of fields, available online and on campus. The private institution maintains a campus in Miami, Florida. While pursuing the doctor of nursing practice with a specialization in anesthesiology, learners complete advanced coursework to prepare for high-level positions. In this field and others, a graduate degree often leads to increased job prospects and salary potential.
Graduate students can pursue internships and fellowships to gain professional experience and develop practical skills. Institutional resources, including departmental advising and career services, support learners' academic and professional success. Graduates searching for a job and looking to develop professional connections can benefit from the school’s alumni network.
Barry University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 9
Number of Master's Programs: 51
Number of Doctoral Programs: 15
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $17,820
- In-State$29,700
- Out-of-state$29,700
- In-State$17,820
- Out-of-state$17,820
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled7,401
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Loma Linda University
- Loma Linda, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Loma Linda University's online graduate programs deliver flexible options for learners with full-time employment. The private institution's graduate programs enroll students located near Loma Linda, California, and in other parts of the country. A popular option for graduate-level learners at the school, the certified registered nurse anesthetist program requires specialized coursework in nurse anesthesia.
A registered nursing license is required for admission. Experiential learning components, such as internships and research projects, help students impress prospective employers and demonstrate their abilities. To ensure they are on track to graduate, students can consult with academic advisors in their department. Graduate students can attend job fairs and participate in resume workshops to prepare to secure a job after graduation.
Loma Linda University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 36
Number of Master's Programs: 64
Number of Doctoral Programs: 44
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 3-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $26,880
- In-State$31,680
- Out-of-state$31,680
- In-State$26,880
- Out-of-state$26,880
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,462
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Oakland University
- Rochester Hills, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
At Oakland University, learners can pursue high-quality graduate programs in person or in a remote online format. With a campus in Rochester Hills, Michigan, the public institution enrolls graduate students interested in a variety of fields and professions. With a graduate degree, professionals can apply for leadership positions and leverage their education to receive raises and promotions.
The nurse anesthesia program features experiential learning components, allowing students to develop practical skills in professional settings. The institution's academic advisors and career counselors support graduate students as they prepare to enter the workforce. The school hosts job fairs to help students explore career options and connect with prospective employers.
Oakland University at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 69
Number of Master's Programs: 57
Number of Doctoral Programs: 18
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $18,546
- In-State$14,520
- Out-of-state$24,735
- In-State$18,546
- Out-of-state$24,648
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled19,013
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Birmingham, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Along with in-person graduate programs, the University of Alabama at Birmingham provides remote programs that learners can attend from any location. The public institution maintains a campus in Birmingham, Alabama. Learners in the program develop high-level knowledge and skills in nurse anesthesia. In this field and others, a graduate degree often leads to increased job prospects and salary potential.
Through internships, fellowships, and research projects, graduate students gain practical experience and enhance their resume. Institutional resources, including departmental advising and career services, support learners' academic and professional success. To prepare for their job search, students can attend job fairs and pursue resume assistance from the school's career center.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 16
Number of Master's Programs: 58
Number of Doctoral Programs: 39
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $8,100
- In-State$8,568
- Out-of-state$20,400
- In-State$8,100
- Out-of-state$19,188
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled22,080
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of Detroit Mercy
- Detroit, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With online and on-campus options, the University of Detroit Mercy provides graduate programs meeting high academic standards. The private institution enrolls graduate students located near Detroit and across the country. Learners in the doctor of nursing practice program develop high-level knowledge and skills in nurse anesthesia. Graduates of the program can use their education to pursue leadership positions or transition into the field from another industry.
The curriculum features experiential components, which help graduates impress prospective employers. Institutional resources, including departmental advising and career services, support learners' academic and professional success. Through mock interviews, resume assistance, and career counseling, the school supports graduate students preparing to locate and secure a position after earning their degree.
University of Detroit Mercy at a Glance:
Number of Graduate Certificate Programs: 20
Number of Master's Programs: 43
Number of Doctoral Programs: 8
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Graduate Tuition Rate: $29,268
- In-State$28,840
- Out-of-state$28,840
- In-State$29,268
- Out-of-state$29,268
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled5,080
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
FAQs on CRNA Programs
How long does it take to become a CRNA?
Most learners need 7-10 years to become a CRNA. This time frame includes the career’s required education track and professional experience.
What does CRNA stand for?
CRNA stands for certified registered nurse anesthetist. CRNAs are generally considered APRNs.
What GPA do you need for CRNA school?
GPA requirements for admission to a CRNA program vary by school. Many programs require at least a 3.0 GPA while others ask for a higher GPA.
Can you go from nurse practitioner (NP) to CRNA?
Yes. NPs who want to work as CRNAs can choose this path by earning a CRNA degree.
What Are the Goals of a CRNA Degree?
Prospective CRNAs need at least a master of science in nursing. However, many aspiring CRNAs choose to pursue a doctorate. Doctoral programs for CRNAs include doctor of nursing practice (DNP) and doctor of nurse anesthesia practice (DNAP). Courses in these programs often include advanced pharmacology, fundamentals of nurse anesthesia practice, and evidence-based practice.
CRNAs work in various medical settings, including operating rooms, emergency rooms, and pain management units. They can also specialize in a particular area, such as pediatrics, obstetrics, and neurosurgical anesthesia.
Why Get a CRNA Degree?
Earning a CRNA degree offers many personal and professional benefits. See below for some of the top benefits to earning this degree.
- 1
Independence
CRNAs typically work with high levels of responsibility and autonomy. In rural settings, patients receive their anesthesia only from CRNAs. Patients in larger cities also receive most of their anesthesia care from CRNAs.
- 2
High Earning Potential
Earning a CRNA degree allows nurses to make more money. According to the BLS, CRNAs earn significantly more than RNs, who earn a median annual salary of $73,300.
- 3
Diverse Range of Specializations
CRNAs can work in any setting where anesthesia is administered, including hospitals, dental offices, and surgical clinics.
- 4
Professional Advancement
The education and experience required to become a CRNA helps RNs advance in their careers. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals look to CRNAs for information based on their expertise.
- 5
Ability to Help Others
CRNAs know how to administer anesthesia and help patients manage pain. They ensure patients feel as comfortable as possible before, during, and after surgery.
What Are the Requirements for a CRNA Degree?
While specific admission requirements vary by school, most CRNA programs require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Applicants also typically need RN work experience and a state license to practice nursing. Additionally, applicants need experience working in intensive care units.
CRNA programs usually require prospective students to submit transcripts from previous college programs. Many CRNA programs also ask applicants to submit recommendation letters.
CRNA students must often complete a project or dissertation to graduate. Enrollees also typically complete a clinical practicum, which gives them hands-on experience prior to entering the field.
Professional Organizations for CRNA Students
By joining professional organizations, CRNA students can learn more about the field and connect with others in their profession. Membership often includes access to educational resources, networking opportunities, and discounts to conferences. See below for some professional organizations available to CRNAs and CRNA students.
Scholarships for CRNA Students
Scholarships help students pay for tuition, fees, and other expenses associated with their education. Many CRNA students apply for scholarships to help fund their degree. Students often apply for multiple scholarships based on their academic interests, work experience, and financial need. The following list includes scholarships available to CRNA students.
Good Samaritan Foundation Scholarships
Who Can Apply: The Good Samaritan Foundation sponsors these awards to help alleviate the nation’s nursing shortage. Applicants must be currently working or planning to work in the healthcare field. The Foundation accepts applications three times each year.
Amount: Varies
Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate student members of the Society of Health and Physical Educators may apply. Candidates must major in the field of dance, recreation, physical recreation, or health, including nursing and other medical sciences. Applicants need a minimum 3.5 GPA and must provide three recommendation letters, transcripts from previous schools, and a letter from their school’s dean indicating full-time status.
Amount: $1,250-$1,750
AISES A.T. Anderson Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a STEM degree, including nursing and other medical sciences, may apply. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA or higher and must submit recommendation letters and three essays. The scholarship application includes possible essay prompts.
Amount: $1,000-$2,000
