CRNA Schools by State 2025 - Acceptance Rates, Costs & Complete Directory

About CRNA Programs

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia. All programs now require a doctoral degree (DNP or DNAP).

Typical Requirements

BSN or MSN degree
Current RN license
1+ year ICU/critical care experience
Minimum 3.0 GPA
GRE scores (some programs)

Program Duration

Most programs take 2-3 years to complete and include both clinical rotations and didactic coursework.

Cost Range

Tuition varies from $40,000 to $200,000+ depending on the institution and residency status.

Career Outlook

CRNAs earn an average salary of $200,000+ with excellent job growth projected through 2030.

Clinical Training

Programs require 2,000-2,500+ clinical hours across diverse settings including general, pediatric, obstetric, cardiac, and trauma anesthesia rotations.

Certification & Licensing

Graduates must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) with an 85% first-time pass rate. Recertification requires 40 CE credits every 2 years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a CRNA?

Becoming a CRNA requires several years of education and clinical experience:

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse
Step 2: Gain at least 1-2 years of acute care experience in a critical care setting (ICU, CCU, ER, or PACU)
Step 3: Apply to an accredited nurse anesthesia program (Doctor of Nursing Practice or Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice)
Step 4: Complete 2-3 years of intensive doctoral education including didactic coursework and clinical rotations
Step 5: Pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the NBCRNA

The entire process typically takes 7-8 years from starting nursing school to becoming a certified CRNA. Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores, and strong letters of recommendation.

What is an Anesthesiologist Assistant?

An Anesthesiologist Assistant (AA) is a healthcare professional who works under the direction of a licensed anesthesiologist to deliver anesthesia care. While similar to CRNAs in some duties, there are key differences:

Key Differences from CRNAs:

Educational Background: AAs have a pre-med undergraduate degree and attend a Master's-level AA program (typically 2-3 years), while CRNAs are advanced practice nurses with a doctoral degree
Supervision: AAs must work under direct supervision of an anesthesiologist, while CRNAs can practice independently in many states
Licensing: AAs are only licensed in about 20 states, while CRNAs can practice in all 50 states
Scope of Practice: AAs have a more restricted scope and cannot practice autonomously

Both professions require passing a national certification exam and provide high-quality anesthesia care as part of the anesthesia care team.

What is the salary for a CRNA?

CRNAs are among the highest-paid nursing professionals in the United States:

2025 Salary Statistics:

Average Annual Salary: $205,000 - $220,000
Starting Salary: $150,000 - $180,000 for new graduates
Experienced CRNAs: $230,000 - $300,000+
Hourly Rate: $95 - $150 per hour

Factors affecting salary:

Geographic location (rural areas and certain states pay more)
Years of experience
Work setting (hospital, surgical center, private practice)
Call requirements and weekend shifts
Independent practice vs. anesthesia care team model

The highest-paying states include Wyoming, Montana, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, and Nevada, where average salaries can exceed $250,000.

What is the Kaiser Permanente CRNA program cost?

Kaiser Permanente does not operate its own CRNA program. However, Kaiser Permanente is one of the largest employers of CRNAs and offers several educational partnerships and benefits:

Kaiser CRNA Employment Benefits:

Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,000 - $10,000 per year for continuing education
Student Loan Repayment: Some Kaiser regions offer loan repayment assistance programs
Competitive Salary: Kaiser CRNAs typically earn $200,000 - $280,000+ depending on region and experience
Comprehensive Benefits: Excellent health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off

If you're interested in CRNA programs in Kaiser's regions (California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Oregon, Virginia, Washington), consider these programs:

California: Samuel Merritt University ($145,000), USC ($165,000), CSU Fullerton ($85,000)
Colorado: University of Colorado ($95,000), Regis University ($105,000)
Washington: Gonzaga University ($118,000)

Which CRNA programs have the most prestige?

The most prestigious CRNA programs are typically affiliated with top-tier universities and major medical centers. Here are the highly regarded programs:

Top-Tier Programs:

Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) - Acceptance: 7% | Cost: $155,000
Columbia University (New York, NY) - Acceptance: 6% | Cost: $175,000
Duke University (Durham, NC) - Acceptance: 9% | Cost: $148,000
University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) - Acceptance: 8% | Cost: $165,000
Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) - Acceptance: 9% | Cost: $145,000
Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (Rochester, MN) - Acceptance: 10% | Cost: $105,000

Other Highly Regarded Programs:

Emory University (Atlanta, GA)
Boston College (Chestnut Hill, MA)
Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, OH)
Rush University (Chicago, IL)
University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA)

These programs are known for excellent clinical training sites, high first-time pass rates (often 95-100%), strong alumni networks, and graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Which CRNA programs have the highest acceptance rates?

If you're looking for programs with more favorable acceptance rates, consider these schools with acceptance rates above 25%:

Programs with Highest Acceptance Rates (25%+):

Hawaii Pacific University - 30% acceptance | $125,000
Mount Marty University (South Dakota) - 28% acceptance | $85,000
Wilmington University (Delaware) - 28% acceptance | $95,000
Roseman University (Nevada) - 27% acceptance | $128,000
University of Wyoming - 27% acceptance | $72,000
Montana State University - 26% acceptance | $72,000
Florida Gulf Coast University - 26% acceptance | $68,000
University of Southern Indiana - 25% acceptance | $72,000
University of North Dakota - 25% acceptance | $76,000

Important Note: Higher acceptance rates don't mean lower quality. Many of these programs are newer, in rural locations, or have smaller applicant pools. They still maintain rigorous standards and are fully accredited by the COA.

Factors that improve your acceptance chances at any program include strong ICU experience, high GPA (3.5+), good GRE scores, compelling personal statements, and strong recommendation letters from physicians or CRNAs.

CRNA vs Anesthesiologist - What's the difference?

Both CRNAs and anesthesiologists provide anesthesia care, but they differ in education, training, and practice models:

Education and Training:

CRNA: BSN → RN → 1-2 years ICU experience → 3 years doctoral program = ~7-8 years total
Anesthesiologist: Bachelor's → Medical school (4 years) → Anesthesiology residency (4 years) = ~12 years total

Scope of Practice:

CRNAs: Can practice independently in many states, provide all types of anesthesia, manage patients perioperatively. Often the sole anesthesia provider in rural and military settings
Anesthesiologists: Medical doctors (MDs/DOs) who specialize in anesthesia, typically supervise anesthesia care teams, handle complex cases, manage acute pain services

Salary Comparison:

CRNA: Average $205,000 - $220,000 annually
Anesthesiologist: Average $350,000 - $450,000 annually

Practice Models: Many healthcare facilities use a team-based approach where CRNAs and anesthesiologists work together. In other settings, particularly rural areas, CRNAs practice independently. Research shows both models provide safe, high-quality anesthesia care with comparable patient outcomes.

How long is CRNA school?

CRNA school typically takes 2-3 years to complete, though the exact duration varies by program:

Program Length by Type:

24-28 months: Accelerated DNP/DNAP programs (most common)
30-36 months: Standard DNP/DNAP programs with more flexible scheduling
36+ months: Part-time or hybrid programs designed for working nurses

What's included: All programs require 2,000-2,500+ clinical hours across diverse anesthesia settings, plus extensive didactic coursework in pharmacology, pathophysiology, anesthesia techniques, and advanced practice.

Total timeline to become a CRNA: Including prerequisites (BSN + 1-2 years ICU experience), the entire journey takes approximately 7-8 years from starting nursing school to certification.

Most programs are full-time and very intensive, making it difficult to work during enrollment. Students should plan for limited or no employment during the program duration.

What are the cheapest CRNA programs?

The most affordable CRNA programs are typically at public universities, especially for in-state students:

Most Affordable Programs (Total Tuition):

Florida Gulf Coast University - $68,000 (in-state)
Louisiana State University HSC - $68,000 (in-state)
University of Arkansas - $70,000 (in-state)
East Carolina University - $72,000 (in-state)
University of North Florida - $72,000 (in-state)
University of Southern Indiana - $72,000 (in-state)
University of Wyoming - $72,000 (in-state)
Montana State University - $72,000 (in-state)

Cost considerations: These estimates are tuition only and don't include living expenses, books, fees, equipment, or lost income during the program. Total cost of attendance typically adds $30,000-$60,000 depending on location.

Financial aid options: Most students use federal loans, scholarships, military benefits, or employer tuition assistance. The high CRNA salary makes loan repayment manageable for most graduates.

Can you do CRNA school online?

Short answer: CRNA programs cannot be completed entirely online due to extensive clinical requirements, but many programs offer hybrid formats with online didactic coursework.

What CAN be done online:

Didactic coursework (lectures, readings, discussions)
Some simulation and case study work
Asynchronous learning modules

What CANNOT be done online: All CRNA programs require 2,000-2,500+ hours of hands-on clinical training in operating rooms and healthcare facilities. This includes direct patient care, anesthesia administration, and supervision by experienced CRNAs or anesthesiologists.

Hybrid program options: Several programs offer flexible hybrid formats where didactic content is delivered online, but students must:

Attend periodic on-campus intensive sessions
Complete clinical rotations at approved sites (often near student's home)
Participate in simulation labs on-campus

Programs like Roseman University, Mount Marty, and Wilmington University offer more flexible formats for students who need geographic flexibility.

What GPA do you need for CRNA school?

Most CRNA programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, but competitive applicants typically have much higher GPAs:

GPA Requirements by Program Tier:

Highly Competitive Programs (Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Duke): Average admitted GPA of 3.7-3.9
Moderately Competitive Programs: Average admitted GPA of 3.5-3.7
Less Competitive Programs: Average admitted GPA of 3.3-3.5
Minimum to Apply: Most require 3.0, though some accept 2.8-2.9 with strong other credentials

Which GPA matters most:

Overall undergraduate GPA: Your cumulative GPA from all college coursework
Science GPA: Many programs weight chemistry, biology, anatomy, and physiology courses more heavily
Nursing GPA: Your performance in BSN coursework is particularly important
Graduate GPA: If you have an MSN or other graduate degree, this can offset a lower undergraduate GPA

If your GPA is below 3.5: Strengthen your application with exceptional ICU experience, strong GRE scores, leadership roles, certifications (CCRN), research, and compelling letters of recommendation. Some applicants complete additional graduate coursework to demonstrate recent academic success.

Is CRNA school harder than medical school?

CRNA school and medical school are both extremely rigorous, but they differ in focus, intensity, and duration:

Key Differences:

Duration: CRNA school is 2-3 years vs. medical school's 4 years + 4-year anesthesiology residency (8 years total)
Intensity: CRNA programs are highly compressed - students complete clinical and didactic work simultaneously throughout the program
Breadth vs. Depth: Medical school covers all body systems broadly; CRNA school focuses deeply on anesthesia, pharmacology, and perioperative care
Clinical Integration: CRNA students begin clinical rotations early (often within the first year), while medical students typically start in year 3

What makes CRNA school challenging:

High-stakes clinical environment from day one
Limited time off - most programs run continuously with minimal breaks
Balancing clinical rotations with advanced coursework
Mastering complex pharmacology and physiology quickly
Financial stress - most students cannot work during the program

The consensus: Both are exceptionally difficult. CRNA school is more compressed and intense, while medical school + residency is longer with broader scope. Success in either requires dedication, strong academic foundation, and resilience.

Do CRNAs work independently?

Yes, CRNAs can work independently, but practice autonomy varies significantly by state and healthcare facility:

Practice Authority by State:

Full Practice Authority (~25 states): CRNAs can practice independently without physician supervision or collaboration agreements
Opt-Out States (~21 states): States that have "opted out" of federal physician supervision requirements, allowing independent practice
Supervision Required (~4 states): CRNAs must practice under physician supervision

Practice settings where CRNAs work independently:

Rural hospitals: CRNAs are often the sole anesthesia provider
Military: CRNAs provide independent anesthesia care in combat and military hospitals
Independent practices: Some CRNAs own or work in independent anesthesia groups
Ambulatory surgery centers: Many ASCs employ CRNAs as independent practitioners

Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) model: Many large hospitals use a collaborative model where CRNAs work alongside anesthesiologists. This doesn't mean CRNAs lack autonomy - they make independent clinical decisions but with physician oversight for complex cases.

Bottom line: CRNAs have significant clinical autonomy regardless of practice setting. Even in team-based environments, CRNAs independently manage their cases, make clinical decisions, and provide comprehensive anesthesia care.

How competitive is CRNA school?

CRNA school is extremely competitive, ranking among the most selective graduate healthcare programs:

Acceptance Rates:

Most Competitive Programs: 5-10% acceptance rate (Columbia 6%, Johns Hopkins 7%, USC 8%)
Competitive Programs: 10-20% acceptance rate
Moderately Competitive: 20-25% acceptance rate
Higher Acceptance Rates: 25-30% (still selective, often newer or rural programs)
Overall Average: Approximately 21% acceptance rate across all programs

What makes it so competitive:

Limited spots: Most programs accept only 15-40 students per cohort
High applicant volume: Top programs receive 300-500+ applications for 20-30 spots
Rigorous prerequisites: BSN, RN license, critical care experience, high GPA, GRE scores
Clinical experience requirement: Minimum 1 year ICU experience, but competitive applicants often have 2-3+ years

Competitive applicant profile:

GPA: 3.5-3.9
GRE: 300+ combined (many programs now optional)
ICU Experience: 2+ years in high-acuity settings
Certifications: CCRN, BLS, ACLS
Leadership: Charge nurse, preceptor, committee involvement
Strong letters of recommendation from physicians or CRNAs

Strategy: Most successful applicants apply to 5-10 programs with varying competitiveness levels to maximize acceptance chances.

What is the CRNA job outlook?

The CRNA job outlook is exceptionally strong, with high demand projected through 2033 and beyond:

Employment Statistics (2025):

Job Growth: 38% growth projected 2022-2032 (much faster than average)
Annual Job Openings: Approximately 2,500+ new CRNA positions per year
Current Workforce: ~60,000 CRNAs practicing in the United States
Unemployment Rate: Near 0% - CRNAs are in high demand nationwide
Multiple Job Offers: Most new graduates receive 3-5+ job offers before graduation

Factors driving demand:

Aging population: Increased surgical procedures for elderly patients
Physician shortage: CRNAs fill critical gaps, especially in rural and underserved areas
Cost-effectiveness: Healthcare systems seek cost-efficient anesthesia care models
Expanded practice authority: More states granting CRNAs full practice authority
Retirements: Significant portion of current CRNA workforce approaching retirement

Practice settings (in high demand):

Rural hospitals (highest demand, often sign-on bonuses $20,000-$50,000)
Ambulatory surgery centers (fastest-growing sector)
Academic medical centers
Military and VA hospitals
Private anesthesia groups
Pain management clinics

Salary trajectory: Excellent earning potential with starting salaries of $150,000-$180,000 and experienced CRNAs earning $230,000-$300,000+. Some rural or high-demand areas offer $250,000+ for new graduates.

Bottom line: CRNAs enjoy one of the strongest job markets in healthcare with excellent work-life balance options, high salaries, and job security.