CRNA Schools in Missouri

If you're aiming to become a CRNA, check out the available CRNA programs in Missouri listed below. These schools offer the education and training you'll need to succeed in the field of nurse anesthesia. Continue on to our comprehensive guide "Becoming a CRNA in Missouri" to learn additional facts, stats, and insights on becoming a CRNA in the state of MO.

Becoming a CRNA in Missouri

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly skilled healthcare professionals who administer anesthesia and manage patient care during surgical and medical procedures. Missouri offers excellent CRNA programs and a strong demand for anesthesia providers, making it an ideal state for aspiring CRNAs. This guide outlines the steps, programs, and costs involved in becoming a CRNA in Missouri.

1. How Do I Become a CRNA in Missouri?

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 foundational knowledge 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 Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These programs typically take 2-3 years to complete 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). This exam certifies your competency to practice as a CRNA.

Step 5: Obtain Licensure in Missouri

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

2. CRNA Programs in Missouri

Missouri is home to highly regarded CRNA programs that prepare students for advanced practice in nurse anesthesia:

1. Missouri State University (Springfield, MO)

Missouri State 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 $25,000 per year for in-state students
  • Unique Features: The program emphasizes leadership and rural healthcare, with clinical training in diverse settings across Missouri.

2. Webster University (St. Louis, MO)

Webster University offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, preparing students for advanced practice roles in a variety of healthcare settings.

  • Program Length: 36 months
  • Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
  • Tuition: Approximately $30,000 per year
  • Unique Features: The program partners with healthcare facilities across Missouri, providing diverse clinical experiences.

3. University of Missouri-Kansas City (Kansas City, MO)

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, combining rigorous academics with clinical training.

  • Program Length: 36 months
  • Clinical Hours: Over 2,000 hours
  • Tuition: Approximately $28,000 per year for in-state students
  • Unique Features: UMKC offers strong research opportunities and clinical training in leading healthcare facilities.

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

CRNA programs in Missouri are 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 a compelling personal statement and strong recommendation letters.

Missouri State University’s focus on rural healthcare may make it an attractive and slightly more accessible option for some applicants.

4. How Much Does CRNA School Cost in Missouri?

The cost of CRNA programs in Missouri varies by institution:

  • Missouri State University: Tuition is approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $75,000 for the program.
  • Webster University: Tuition is approximately $30,000 per year, totaling $90,000 for the program.
  • University of Missouri-Kansas City: Tuition is approximately $28,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $84,000 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, driven by the increasing need for anesthesia providers in hospitals and outpatient settings.
  • CRNA Salaries in Missouri: The average annual salary for CRNAs in Missouri ranges from $175,000 to $230,000, depending on experience and location.
  • Practice Settings: CRNAs in Missouri work in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and rural healthcare facilities. Rural areas often provide higher salaries and incentives to attract skilled professionals.

Missouri provides excellent educational opportunities and a strong demand for CRNAs, making it an ideal state for aspiring nurse anesthetists. Whether you choose Missouri State University, Webster University, or the University of Missouri-Kansas City, you’ll receive the training needed to excel in this high-demand field. Start your journey today and prepare for a rewarding career as a CRNA in Missouri.

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