Best Online CRNA Programs

CRNAs generally work with surgical teams in hospital settings to coordinate patient care and administer anesthesia and medications to patients. Check out our ranking of the top only CRNA programs.
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Updated September 5, 2023

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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

#1 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Iowa

  • Iowa City, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,073
Out-of-state
$30,036
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,079
Out-of-state
$29,026
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
31,240
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online CRNA Programs

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,146
Out-of-state
$52,146
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,181
Out-of-state
$35,181
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
24,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,318
Out-of-state
$31,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,580
Out-of-state
$27,204
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online CRNA Programs

Columbia University in the City of New York

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,763
Out-of-state
$57,763
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,600
Out-of-state
$47,600
Retention Rate
99%
Admission Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
31,456
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online CRNA Programs

Duke University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,880
Out-of-state
$55,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,680
Out-of-state
$55,680
Retention Rate
98%
Admission Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
16,686
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Pennsylvania

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,156
Out-of-state
$51,156
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,254
Out-of-state
$36,254
Retention Rate
98%
Admission Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
26,675
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online CRNA Programs

Wayne State University

  • Detroit, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,024
Out-of-state
$29,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,285
Out-of-state
$35,274
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
26,824
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

  • Cincinnati, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,476
Out-of-state
$24,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,790
Out-of-state
$24,532
Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
39,263
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,256
Out-of-state
$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,272
Out-of-state
$46,272
Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
48,321
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#10 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,628
Out-of-state
$32,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,530
Out-of-state
$39,898
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
32,686
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
4% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#11 Best Online CRNA Programs

Case Western Reserve University

  • Cleveland, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,450
Out-of-state
$50,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$46,524
Out-of-state
$46,524
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
11,874
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online CRNA Programs

Emory University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • 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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,070
Out-of-state
$53,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$42,800
Out-of-state
$42,800
Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
14,415
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Best Online CRNA Programs

University at Buffalo

  • Buffalo, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
31,923
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#14 Best Online CRNA Programs

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

  • New Brunswick, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,230
Out-of-state
$29,012
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,736
Out-of-state
$30,144
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
50,173
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Kansas

  • Lawrence, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,092
Out-of-state
$26,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,989
Out-of-state
$23,951
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
27,552
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Online CRNA Programs

Barry University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,700
Out-of-state
$29,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,820
Out-of-state
$17,820
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
7,401
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Best Online CRNA Programs

Loma Linda University

  • Loma Linda, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,680
Out-of-state
$31,680
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$26,880
Out-of-state
$26,880
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,462
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#18 Best Online CRNA Programs

Oakland University

  • Rochester Hills, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,520
Out-of-state
$24,735
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,546
Out-of-state
$24,648
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
19,013
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Alabama at Birmingham

  • Birmingham, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,568
Out-of-state
$20,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Online CRNA Programs

University of Detroit Mercy

  • Detroit, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,840
Out-of-state
$28,840
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,268
Out-of-state
$29,268
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
5,080
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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. 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. 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. 3

    Diverse Range of Specializations

    CRNAs can work in any setting where anesthesia is administered, including hospitals, dental offices, and surgical clinics.

  4. 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. 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.

How Does College Accreditation Work?

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.

AANA represents thousands of CRNAs nationwide. Members receive access to educational resources, sponsored events, and opportunities to network with other professionals. This organization promotes diversity in the field by mentoring and encouraging CRNAs through professional development. Members receive access to special events, participate in mock interviews, and receive editing services on research. ABNS promotes nursing specialty certification. The organization focuses on improving patient outcomes and protection through certification. Membership allows nursing leaders to connect with each other. ABNS also invites members to biannual assemblies and educational events. ANA provides educational resources for nurses at any level. The association also promotes a high quality of standards in the field and advocates for healthcare issues. ANA helps members stay current on information in the field through access to academic journals. Members also receive access to free webinars and discounts on certification renewal.

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

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