Becoming a CRNA in California

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly trained healthcare professionals who administer anesthesia and manage patient care during surgical and medical procedures. California offers a range of top-tier CRNA programs, extensive clinical opportunities, and some of the nation’s highest CRNA salaries, making it an excellent state for aspiring nurse anesthetists. This guide outlines the steps, programs, and costs involved in becoming a CRNA in California.

1. How Do I Become a CRNA in California?

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The first step is completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which typically takes four years. This degree prepares you to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN) and provides the foundation for advanced nursing education.

Step 2: Gain Critical Care Experience

After earning your BSN, you must gain at least one to two years of experience in a critical care setting, such as an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This hands-on experience is essential for developing the clinical skills and decision-making abilities required for CRNA programs.

Step 3: Complete an Accredited CRNA Program

Enroll in an accredited CRNA program, which may lead to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs typically take 3-4 years and include advanced coursework in anesthesia, pharmacology, and clinical training.

Step 4: Pass the National Certification Exam

After completing your CRNA program, you must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). Passing this exam is required to practice as a CRNA.

Step 5: Obtain Licensure in California

Apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the California Board of Registered Nursing. You’ll need to provide proof of your CRNA certification, education, and clinical training.

2. CRNA Programs in California

California is home to several top-tier CRNA programs that prepare students for advanced practice in nurse anesthesia:

1. Samuel Merritt University (Oakland, CA)

Samuel Merritt University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia. This program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Over 2,000 hours
• Tuition: Approximately $50,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program includes extensive clinical training at leading healthcare facilities throughout Northern California.

2. Kaiser Permanente School of Anesthesia/California State University Fullerton (Pasadena, CA)

This unique collaboration offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, combining the resources of both institutions to provide rigorous academic and clinical training.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $35,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program partners with Kaiser Permanente medical centers, providing students with unmatched clinical experiences.

3. Loma Linda University (Loma Linda, CA)

Loma Linda University offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, emphasizing a Christian-based approach to healthcare education.

• Program Length: 39 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $68,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program integrates faith-based principles with advanced anesthesia practice, providing a holistic educational experience.

4. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of Southern California offers a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree, providing a comprehensive curriculum in anesthesiology.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $100,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program offers a diverse and rigorous clinical experience supported by academic coursework and leadership development.

5. University of California, Davis (Sacramento, CA)

The University of California, Davis offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, preparing experienced critical care nurses with advanced skills and knowledge necessary to excel as nurse anesthetists.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $50,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program emphasizes the role of CRNAs as leaders poised to drive healthcare innovation through sustainable and forward-thinking anesthesia care.

6. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of Southern California offers a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree, providing a comprehensive curriculum in anesthesiology.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $100,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program offers a diverse and rigorous clinical experience supported by academic coursework and leadership development.

3. What Is the Easiest CRNA School to Get Into?

CRNA programs in California are highly competitive. While no program is inherently “easy,” you can improve your chances by:

• Maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher in your BSN program.
• Gaining 2-3 years of ICU or critical care experience.
• Submitting strong recommendation letters and a compelling personal statement.

Programs such as Samuel Merritt University and Kaiser Permanente/Cal State Fullerton offer strong regional ties and high-quality training, making them accessible options for California residents.

4. How Much Does CRNA School Cost in California?

The cost of attending CRNA school in California depends on the institution:

• Samuel Merritt University: Tuition is approximately $50,000 per year, totaling $150,000 for the program.
• Kaiser Permanente/Cal State Fullerton: Tuition is approximately $35,000 per year, totaling $105,000 for the program.
• Loma Linda University: Tuition is approximately $68,000 per year, totaling $204,000 for the program.
• University of Southern California: Tuition is approximately $100,000 per year, totaling $300,000 for the program.
• University of California, Davis: Tuition is approximately $50,000 per year, totaling $150,000 for the program.

Additional costs include books, lab fees, certification exams, and living expenses.

5. Facts, Stats, and Insights

• Job Outlook: The demand for CRNAs is expected to grow by 13% from 2021 to 2031, reflecting the increasing need for anesthesia providers.
• CRNA Salaries in California: The average annual salary for CRNAs in California ranges from $210,000 to $270,000, depending on experience and location.
• Practice Settings: CRNAs in California work in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and private practices. Urban and rural areas both offer high demand, with rural settings often providing higher salaries and incentives.