20 Best Accelerated CRNA Programs For Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree Holders


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

Challenged by the thought of becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist even though you don’t have a nursing bachelor’s degree? Many programs exist that can help you become a CRNA if you have the discipline and self-motivation it takes to follow your dream. An accelerated program will be able to shave months or years off the education you’ll need to become certified. Your degree will prepare you to provide anesthesia, working closely with surgeons, dentists, and other healthcare providers.

So, what are the best accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders? Review the guide below to the 20 best accelerated (campus-based and online) CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders with an RN license to learn about your options.



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WHAT ARE THE BEST ACCELERATED CRNA PROGRAMS FOR NON-NURSING BACHELOR’S DEGREE HOLDERS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 20 best accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders. The following list includes both (Campus-Based and Online) programs. These programs are for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree in non-nursing healthcare field. Students must also hold an active RN license.)


1. Virginia Commonwealth University - Richmond, VA


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: For registered nurses who want to become doctorally-prepared CRNAs, Virginia Commonwealth University offers one of the best accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders. The program comprises 93 credits, starting with two semesters of didactic courses, which are mainly offered in a hybrid format. Thereafter in the third semester, you continue with didactic courses mainly attending on-campus classes. The fourth semester mainly consists of clinical training, requiring students to complete six clinical practicum courses.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Because Virginia Commonwealth University’s CRNA program is offered in an accelerated format, you’ll be able to complete it within as little as 36 months.


Admission Requirements: To be eligible for Virginia Commonwealth University’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, you must foremost have a valid and unencumbered RN license. Also, at least one year of critical care nursing experience is required. The program accepts either a BS or BA and therefore having a BSN is not a must. The undergraduate GPA must be at least 3.0. As such there are no pre-requisites required. To fulfill the admission requirements, submission of three professional references, a resume, a copy of an RN license, and a personal statement is required.


Why Choose Virginia Commonwealth University Accelerated CRNA

• Virginia Commonwealth University’s accelerated CRNA is consistently ranked among the best in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report.
• Virginia Commonwealth University’s CRNA students gain excellent clinical training in its state-of-the-art simulation lab.


2. Mayo Clinic - Rochester, MN


Program Length: 39 Months


Program Details: Mayo Clinic offers registered nurses the opportunity to become a leader in nursing anesthesia. By offering one of the best accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, Mayo swiftly prepares you for the complex challenges of anesthesia care. The program offers on-campus classes in a small cohort of up to 30 students. The CRNA coursework is comprehensive and requires the completion of a total of 116 credits in didactic courses and clinicals. Upon completion of the program, you’ll earn your doctorate and be eligible for the CRNA certification exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: At Mayo Clinic, the accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders can be completed within 39 months of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: The admission requirements for Mayo Clinic’s CRNA program include an active and unencumbered RN license in Minnesota. Also, although a BSN is not required, applicants must have an accredited bachelor’s degree in science with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires the completion of undergraduate courses such as anatomy, chemistry, and physiology. Besides, two years of ICU experience is required. A completed application also includes an essay, references, and transcripts.


Why Choose Mayo Clinic Accelerated CRNA

• Mayo Clinic’s CRNA program is counted among the top 10 programs for nurse anesthetists as per the U.S. News & World Report’s latest ranking list.
• Mayo Clinic’s CRNA students have the advantage of honing clinical skills in Mayo Clinic, the nation’s best hospital chain which offers unparalleled learning opportunities and resources.
• Mayo Clinic’s CRNA program is the nation’s oldest such program that has been training high-skilled CRNAs since 1889.


3. University of Southern California - Los Angeles, CA


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: If you are seeking to complete your CRNA education from one of the best accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, then the University of Southern California’s CRNA program is an excellent choice. Leading to a doctorate, the program emphasizes leadership skills and prepares nurses to play impactful roles in nursing anesthesia. The hybrid program comprises 80 to 81 credits and leads to a doctoral degree in nursing. The program covers all areas of nursing anesthesia, teaching you principles of nurse anesthesia, perioperative evaluation & management, leadership & collaborative practice, and advanced clinical practice in nurse anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The University of Southern California’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders can be completed within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: The University of Southern California’s CRNA program is open to registered nurses who have either a BS or BA degree. Also, the program requires a GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants must also have at least one year of critical care nursing experience. The program also requires the completion of prerequisites. Other admission requirements include the submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose University of Southern California Accelerated CRNA

• University of Southern California’s CRNA program not only boasts of an excellent pass rate on the CRNA certification exam, but the program also takes pride in all of its graduates securing placements within six months of graduation.
• University of Southern California’s CRNA students practice clinical skills at some of the leading hospitals and medical centers in the region. Also, the program provides real-world learning opportunities in various specialties.


4. Texas Christian University - Fort Worth, TX


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Texas Christian University offers one of the well-known accelerated CRNA online programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders. The doctorate in nursing anesthesia starts with phase I of entirely online classes, followed by phase II of clinical training where students complete a clinical residency. The program covers all basic and advanced anesthesia principles. During the clinical residency, students complete clinical experiences under the supervision of a CRNA or anesthesiologist. Learning opportunities are provided in various specialties, including respiratory, cardiovascular, pediatrics, and other areas of anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Texas Christian University’s accelerated CRNA takes just 36 months to complete, after which you’ll earn a DNP and be prepared to take the CRNA certification exam.


Admission Requirements: Texas Christian University’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders requires applicants to have a BS or BA with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires an active RN license in your state of practice. In addition, the program requires applicants to submit their transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Texas Christian University Accelerated CRNA

• Texas Christian University’s CRNA program proudly reports an excellent pass rate on the CRNA certification exam. Also, 100% of the program graduates find desirable placements soon upon graduation. Besides, a low attrition rate signals an overall satisfying learning experience.
• Texas Christian University’s CRNA program offers several financial aid and scholarship opportunities to make your nurse anesthesia education rather affordable.


5. Yale New Haven Health - New Haven, CT


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Yale New Haven Health’s accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders is perfect for those aspiring to play leadership roles in nursing anesthesia. The doctoral program in nursing anesthesia is an 80-to-86-credit rigorous coursework that includes didactic courses and clinical experiences. Some of the topics you learn include the professional aspects of nurse anesthesia, basic & advanced principles of nurse anesthesia, evidence-based practice, biostatistics, and human factors & patient safety for nurse anesthetists. In addition, students also take a course in leadership & nurse anesthesia education.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You should be able to complete Yale New Haven Health’s accelerated CRNA within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: To apply for Yale New Haven Health’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, you must have an accredited baccalaureate degree in science with a GPA of at least 3.0. In addition, the program also requires a valid and unencumbered RN license in the United States. Also, at least 18 months of critical care nursing experience is required. The program also needs applicants to have an ACLS, CCRN, and PALS certification.


Why Choose Yale New Haven Health Accelerated CRNA

• Yale New Haven Health’s CRNA students receive extensive clinical training at Yale New Haven Hospital, a Magnet-recognized hospital. Learning opportunities are provided in the operating room and other areas of critical care.
• Yale New Haven Health’s CRNA students are provided with guaranteed loans during the didactic portion of the program.


6. The University of Kansas - Kansas City, KS


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: The University of Kansas, a leading CRNA school, offers one of the two accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders in the state of Kansas. The program produces a large number of the state’s CRNAs who are actively providing anesthesia care in more than 83% of the state’s hospitals. The 81-credit CRNA program leads to a doctoral degree and eligibility to take the CRNA certification exam. The curriculum is divided into two phases. Phase one, comprising the first year, is mainly classroom instructions, followed by the second phase of years two & three when you must complete a clinical residency while continuing to the remaining didactic courses online.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: At The University of Kansas, you can complete both phases of the CRNA program within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: For admission into the University of Kansas CRNA program, a bachelor’s degree in science with a GPA of at least 3.0 is required. The program also requires an active and unencumbered RN license. Additionally, at least one year of critical care nursing experience is required. Other admission requirements include completion of prerequisite courses and submission of transcripts, recommendation letters, a resume, and a personal goal statement.


Why Choose University of Kansas Accelerated CRNA

• The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition costs. Therefore, CRNA students obtain excellent quality education without breaking the bank.
• University of Kansas CRNA students are provided with exceptional clinical experiences, in terms of quantity and quality.


7. Albany Medical College - Albany, NY


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Albany Medical College has a rich history of educating highly skilled nurse anesthetists since 1951. The college offers another one of the accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders to quickly prepare them for leadership roles in nursing anesthesia. The coursework is a 68-credit curriculum that covers topics such as principles of anesthesiology, pharmacology, physiology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and nursing research. Upon graduation, you’ll earn a doctoral degree in nursing and be prepared to take the CRNA certification exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Albany Medical College can make you a doctorally prepared CRNA within as little as 36 months.


Admission Requirements: Albany Medical College’s accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders requires a bachelor’s degree in a science field. The minimum required GPA is 3.0. The program requires an active and unencumbered RN license in the United States. To qualify for admission, you must have at least two years of critical care experience. It is also preferred that you have some shadowing experience with a CRNA. To complete the admission requirements, submission of transcripts, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement is required.


Why Choose Albany Medical College Accelerated CRNA

• Albany Medical College’s CRNA students practice skills at the Albany Med Health System and some of the leading healthcare facilities in New York State.
• Albany Medical College’s accelerated CRNA program has excellent pass rates on the CRNA certification exam. Also, almost all of the program graduates go on to find suitable placements within six months of graduation.


8. Bryan College of Health Sciences - Lincoln, NE


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: If you are searching for accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders in NE, then Bryan College of Health Sciences offers an excellent option. The state’s only such option, the program confers a doctoral degree in nursing and prepares you with the highest level of clinical skills. The coursework comprises 90 credits and consists of two phases of didactic and clinical training. The program covers several topics such as health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and research nursing. In addition, the coursework also covers basic and advanced nurse anesthesia principles, professional & ethical issues, research & evidence-based practice.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: At Bryan College of Health Sciences, you can complete the accelerated CRNA program within as little as 36 months.


Admission Requirements: The accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, offered by Bryan College of Health Sciences is open to registered nurses who have a BS or BA degree in a related field. The program's admission requirements include an active RN license and a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, completion of prerequisite courses such as statistics, chemistry, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology is required. To complete the admission requirements, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, a resume, an essay, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Bryan College of Health Sciences Accelerated CRNA

• Bryan College of Health Sciences prepares CRNA graduates for professional success, no wonder the program reports a 100% placement rate of its graduates.
• At Bryan College of Health Sciences, students complete clinical experiences in diverse clinical settings in rural and urban areas.


9. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota - Minneapolis, MN


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: To advance your nursing career in nursing anesthesia, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an excellent accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders. The program expands your RN knowledge and makes you an expert, doctorally-prepared nurse anesthetist. The 85-credit coursework equips you with the knowledge & skills in advanced nursing anesthesia care. The program includes several topics such as human physiology & pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and healthcare systems leadership. In addition, the program covers topics such as research design & statistical analysis, applied epidemiology, and the basic and advanced principles of anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You should be able to complete Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s CRNA program within just 36 months of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: For admission into Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s accelerated nurse anesthesia program, you must have a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field with a GPA of at least 2.75. To qualify, you must have an active RN license in Minnesota. In addition, at least one year of critical care nursing experience is required. The program also requires the submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Accelerated CRNA

• Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s accelerated CRNA program consistently reports a 100% placement rate over the last 10 years.
• Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s accelerated CRNA program takes pride in the excellent performance of its graduates on the CRNA certification exam. Also, the attrition rate of 0% is a great indicator of the overall satisfying learning experience.
• Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota’s CRNA program has clinical affiliations with 35 plus clinical sites that range from small clinics to large hospitals.


10. Webster University - St. Louis, MO


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Among all the accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, Webster University’s CRNA stands out for offering a Doctor of Nurse Practice program with a Health Administration emphasis. The program focuses on various areas of leadership, including evidence-based research, interprofessional collaboration, systems leadership, and quality improvement. The comprehensive coursework comprises 141 credits and includes didactic courses and extensive clinical experiences. Upon graduation, graduates obtain a DNAP degree and are prepared to take the CRNA certification exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Well, because Webster University offers its CRNA program in an accelerated format, you can complete it within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: If you want to apply for Webster University’s CRNA program, you must have an active RN license either in Missouri, Illinois, or Kentucky. The program also requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Also, besides having completed prerequisite courses in chemistry & physics, at least one year of critical care nursing experience is required. A current ACLS, BLS, and CCRN certification is also required. To complete the admission process, submission of official transcripts, a current resume, and three letters of reference are required.


Why Choose Webster University Accelerated CRNA

• Webster University’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders is taught by an expert faculty that comprises leading researchers and practitioners.
• Webster University’s CRNA program maintains clinical affiliations with prominent hospitals in the region to provide students with an all-encompassing clinical experience in nursing anesthesia.


11. Missouri State University - Springfield, MO


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: To work as a certified nurse anesthetist, Missouri State University offers you the highest level of clinical training. Its accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders opens doors to impactful positions in the field of anesthesia care. Program graduates obtain a DNAP and are fully prepared to provide anesthesia care in a variety of clinical settings, such as hospitals, dentistry, and clinics. The program comprises a total of 119 credits in didactic and clinical courses. Students attend classes in healthcare informatics, anesthesia for surgical procedures, healthcare ethics, and leadership for evidence-based practice. Additionally, the program also includes topics such as the business of anesthesia and human factors & patient safety in healthcare.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Missouri State University’s CRNA program can be completed within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: Missouri State University’s CRNA program accepts applications from registered nurses who have a bachelor's degree in an appropriate field. The program also requires applicants to have at least one year of critical care experience and a current certification in BLS, ACLS, and PALS. Applicants must also be prepared to submit their transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, a copy of the RN license, and references.


Why Choose Missouri State University Accelerated CRNA

• Missouri State University’s accelerated CRNA is taught under the close mentorship of an expert faculty who is invested in your academic and professional success.
• Missouri State University’s CRNA graduates join a large network of healthcare professionals who are serving across the globe.


12. Union University - Jackson, TN


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: When counting the best-accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, you cannot miss out on the CRNA program offered by Union University. The program is a seamless transition to a leadership role in nursing anesthesia. With an emphasis on employable training, the program takes pride in 100% of its graduates finding suitable jobs soon after graduation. The CRNA program, leading to the doctorate comprises a total of 99 credits in core graduate courses, CRNA-related courses, and clinical training.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Union’s accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders can be completed within just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: Union University’s CRNA admissions are offered on a rolling basis. Therefore, it is preferable for you to apply early. To qualify for admission, you must have a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field with a GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also have at least one year of critical care nursing experience. Also, a valid and unencumbered RN license is required. To complete your application, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a copy of your valid RN license.


Why Choose Union University Accelerated CRNA

• Union University’s accelerated CRNA offers an excellent education that is Christ-centered and people-focused.
• Union University’s CRNA is the first program in the nation to offer students training in Butterly IQ personal ultrasound.
• Union University’s CRNA offers a solid foundation in gross anatomy. Students are provided with more than 60 hours of practice in whole cadaveric dissection.


13. The University of Tulsa - Tulsa, OK


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: If you are interested in a career as a nurse anesthetist, then at the University of Tulsa, you can obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia within a shorter duration of time. The program allows registered nurses who have a non-nursing degree to obtain the knowledge and skills required for advanced anesthesia care. Students complete rigorous didactic courses, human patient simulation, and a wide range of clinical experiences. Among the well-known accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders, the University of Tulsa’s CRNA coursework comprises 87 credits and covers all areas of advanced anesthesia practice.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The CRNA program at the University of Tulsa can be completed within 36 months of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: To qualify for admission into the University of Tulsa’s CRNA program, you must be a registered nurse with an accredited bachelor’s degree in a science field. The program also requires applicants to have an active BLS, ACLS, or PALS certification. Also, the completion of a minimum of one year of critical care nursing experience is required. To fulfill the admission requirements, submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay is required.


Why Choose University of Tulsa Accelerated CRNA

• University of Tulsa’s CRNA students are mentored in small-sized classes where close interactions are encouraged. Students are nurtured by a dedicated faculty who are leading practitioners and researchers.
• University of Tulsa’s CRNA program provides ample practice in its advanced lab and high-fidelity human simulation center.


14. University of Evansville - Evansville, IN


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Whether you desire autonomy or want to enhance your earning potential, at the University of Evansville, you’ll be fully prepared to embark on a successful career as a CRNA. The university offers another one of the accelerated CRNA programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders to train graduates in providing advanced anesthesia care in a variety of clinical settings. The doctoral program in nursing anesthesia comprises 109 credits and requires the completion of 3435 hours of clinical practice. Some of the topics covered in the coursework include healthcare research & design, statistics, pathophysiology, basic & advanced principles of nurse anesthesia, advanced health assessment, and healthcare policy & law in nursing anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: You can complete the University of Evansville’s CRNA program within 36 months of continuous enrollment.


Admission Requirements: The admission checklist for the University of Evansville’s accelerated CRNA program includes a bachelor’s degree in a science field and a GPA of at least 3.0. In addition, an unencumbered and active RN license in your state of practice must be possessed. The program also requires applicants to have at least one year of ICU experience. Besides, completion of undergraduate courses in statistics and chemistry is needed. The checklist also includes the submission of three letters of reference, transcripts, and a statement of purpose.


Why Choose University of Evansville Accelerated CRNA

• University of Evansville’s CRNA program provides meaningful learning opportunities in anesthesia practice and research.
• University of Evansville’s CRNA program reports an excellent placement rate, having almost all of its graduates find jobs, soon after graduation.


15. University of Michigan-Flint - Flint, MI


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: One of the leading accelerated nurse anesthesia programs for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders is offered by the University of Michigan-Flint. The CRNA program is highly ranked by the U.S. News & World Report for the excellent quality it offers. The program combines one year of hybrid didactic coursework with two years of clinical training. During the program, students complete 92-credit coursework, leading to a doctoral degree in nursing and the eligibility to take the CRNA certification exam. The program emphasizes the professional aspects of anesthesia practice, ethical issues in nurse anesthesia, current topics in anesthesia, crisis resource management, and evidence-based practice of nursing anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: On a full-time basis, you should be able to complete the University of Michigan-Flint’s CRNA program within 36 months.


Admission Requirements: The University of Michigan-Flint’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders accepts applications from active registered nurses who have a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate biological science. The admission requirements also include at least one year of work experience in critical care nursing and current employment in an acute care setting. In addition, a current BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification is required. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, recommendation letters, a resume, and a personal statement.


Why Choose University of Michigan-Flint Accelerated CRNA

• University of Michigan-Flint’s CRNA program offers clinical training at more than 25 clinical sites throughout the state. Students receive a diverse learning experience and are desired by employers for their thorough clinical preparedness.
• Because the University of Michigan-Flint’s CRNA program is offered in small-sized classes, students are closely mentored by an outstanding faculty. The intimate learning environment also allows collaboration with faculty and peers.


16. Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia - Madison, TN


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia’s accelerated CRNA program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders is offered in a Christian environment where students are nurtured for professional and personal success. Founded in 1950, the school has majorly contributed to anesthesia care in the nation. The accelerated CRNA program starts with two semesters of didactic courses, followed by rigorous clinical training in various types of clinical settings. The program leads to a DNAP degree and fully prepares you to take the CRNA certification exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The full-time CRNA program at Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia, can be completed within just 36 months of full-time enrollment.


Admission Requirements: The admission requirements for the Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia’s CRNA program include a BS or BA degree with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires a current and unencumbered RN license. Also, it is preferred that applicants have at least 1.5 years of nursing experience in adult critical care. In addition, a BLS, PALS, and ACLS certification is required. To apply, submission of transcripts, three references, a personal letter, and a copy of your current RN license is required.


Why Choose Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia Accelerated CRNA

• Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia is not only one of the largest for anesthesia studies but also the region’s only accredited school meant solely for anesthesia education.
• Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia’s CRNA students receive ample clinical training in the school’s state-of-the-art simulation lab and at more than 17 clinical affiliates.
• Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia proudly reports an excellent pass rate of its graduates since the time the school was founded in 1950.


17. St. Elizabeth Health Center - Youngstown, OH


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: St. Elizabeth Health Center’s CRNA program, leading to a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is a collaborative effort with Youngstown State University. Youngstown State University confers the doctorate and St. Elizabeth Health Center awards a certificate in anesthesia. The program produces high-quality practitioners who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to administer anesthesia in a variety of settings and conditions. This accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders integrates theory with application and mainly emphasizes principles & practice of anesthesia. To complete this program, students must earn a total of 97 credits.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: The accelerated format of St. Elizabeth Health Center’s CRNA program allows you to graduate within 36 months of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for St. Elizabeth Health Center’s CRNA program, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a science field. The program also requires at least one year of critical care experience at the time of applying. Besides, a valid and unencumbered RN license is required. The program also requires the completion of an undergraduate course in statistics. Other admission requirements include the submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose St. Elizabeth Health Center Accelerated CRNA

• St. Elizabeth Health Center’s accelerated CRNA program is taught by faculty members who are currently practicing in anesthesia.
• Because St. Elizabeth Health Center’s CRNA is a joint effort of two schools, students have access to learning opportunities and resources of a graduate school as well as the school for nurse anesthetists.


18. AdventHealth University - Orlando, FL


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Grounded in Christ-based values, AdventHealth University’s accelerated CRNA program prepares graduates for compassionate anesthesia care in rural and urban areas. The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice coursework comprises 127 credits. The program covers topics such as health assessment, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology. Students also attend classes in the principles of science & technology, evidence-based practice, ethical issues & public policy, and the basic & advanced principles of nursing anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: AdventHealth University’s accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders takes 36 months to complete.


Admission Requirements: For admission into AdventHealth University’s accelerated CRNA program, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a related field with a GPA of at least 3.0. The program also requires an active and unencumbered RN license. Also, all the pre-requisite courses must be completed. To submit your application, you must be prepared to include your transcripts, resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose AdventHealth University Accelerated CRNA

• AdventHealth University’s CRNA program emphasizes clinical training and offers students ample clinical training at its state-of-the-art simulation lab, after which students sharpen clinical skills in real-world healthcare settings.
• AdventHealth University’s CRNA program reports a consistently promising placement rate of its graduates.
• AdventHealth University’s coursework includes a course in faith-based, biblical perspectives of healthcare.


19. Keiser University - Naples, FL


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: Another well-known accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders is offered by Keiser University. The program is a fast-paced curriculum that consists of 90 credits. The CRNA program combines didactic courses with clinical training to ensure students leave with the professional preparedness to work in any type of healthcare setting. The coursework covers several topics such as the scientific foundations for evidence-based practice, principles of anesthesia, health informatics, health policy, and leadership in advanced practice nursing. The program leads to a doctoral degree and prepares you for the CRNA certification exam.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: Keiser University’s CRNA can be completed in just 36 months.


Admission Requirements: Keiser University’s admission checklist includes an accredited bachelor’s degree in science with a GPA of at least 3.0. Also, an active and unencumbered RN license is required. Additionally, applicants must have completed pre-requisite courses. The application requirements also require the submission of transcripts, a resume, a personal goal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Keiser University Accelerated CRNA

• Keiser University’s CRNA students study in small-sized classes where they can interact closely with peers and faculty.
• Keiser University’s CRNA program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences in lab simulations and real-world clinicals in different types of anesthesia settings.


20. Integrated Anesthesia Associates - Hartford, CT


Program Length: 36 Months


Program Details: If you want to earn your doctorate in nursing anesthesia, Integrated Anesthesia Associates offers an excellent option. Its accelerated nurse anesthesia program for non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders prepares competent leaders in nursing anesthesia. The program is divided into two phases, the first phase of didactic courses, followed by the second phase of clinical training. The coursework covers topics such as advanced physical health assessment, evidence-based practice, pharmacology, and advanced topics in nurse anesthesia.

How Fast Can You Complete This Program: To complete the CRNA program at Integrated Anesthesia Associates, all it takes is 36 months of full-time study.


Admission Requirements: For potential applicants of the CRNA program at Integrated Anesthesia Associates, a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0. Further, an active RN license is required. Besides, BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications are required. In addition, you must be prepared to submit a personal statement, a resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Integrated Anesthesia Associates Accelerated CRNA

• Integrated Anesthesia Associates is the largest independent anesthesia practice in the state of Connecticut.
• CRNA students at Integrated Anesthesia Associates, practice clinicals in the state-of-art simulation lab that provides high-quality training in anesthesia care.


VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



WHAT STARTING SALARY CAN NEW GRADUATES OF THESE PROGRAMS EARN?


Hourly$69.17
Weekly$2,767
Monthly$11,990
Annual$143,870
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR EXPERIENCED GRADUATES OF THESE PROGRAMS?


Hourly$98.93
Weekly$3,957
Monthly$17,150
Annual$205,770
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



AVERAGE SALARY BY STATE FOR EXPERIENCED GRADUATES OF THESE PROGRAMS


State Average
Annual Salary
Alabama $191,200
Arizona $179,730
California $246,510
Colorado $185,860
Connecticut $240,580
Delaware $198,070
Florida $174,390
Georgia $190,800
Idaho $181,110
Illinois $238,440
Indiana $220,020
Iowa $211,010
Kansas $169,410
Kentucky $235,260
Louisiana $179,140
Maine $214,930
Maryland $182,710
Massachusetts $204,690
Michigan $199,690
Minnesota $222,540
Mississippi $184,390
Missouri $205,190
Montana $203,430
Nebraska $225,590
New Hampshire $215,970
New Jersey $232,630
New Mexico $215,240
New York $238,710
North Carolina $214,740
Ohio $197,630
Oklahoma $168,470
Oregon $205,920
Pennsylvania $203,620
South Carolina $195,840
South Dakota $223,200
Tennessee $174,170
Texas $208,940
Vermont $228,710
Virginia $215,530
Washington $222,610
West Virginia $229,430
Wisconsin $230,270
Wyoming $205,270
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



10-YEAR JOB OUTLOOK FOR GRADUATES OF THESE PROGRAMS


2021-31
+11.73%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)