Becoming a CRNA in North Carolina

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are highly trained professionals who administer anesthesia and oversee patient care during medical procedures. North Carolina offers strong educational programs, diverse clinical opportunities, and a growing job market, making it an excellent state for aspiring CRNAs. This guide outlines the steps, programs, and costs involved in becoming a CRNA in North Carolina.

1. How Do I Become a CRNA in North Carolina?

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 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). Passing this exam is required to practice as a CRNA.

Step 5: Obtain Licensure in North Carolina

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

2. CRNA Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to highly regarded CRNA programs that prepare students for advanced practice roles in anesthesia:

2. CRNA Programs in North Carolina

North Carolina offers several esteemed CRNA programs, each with unique features and strengths. Here are the top options:

1. Duke University (Durham, NC)

Duke 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: Duke provides access to state-of-the-art simulation facilities and clinical rotations at some of North Carolina’s leading healthcare systems.

2. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, emphasizing clinical expertise and leadership development.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students, $40,000 per year for out-of-state students
• Unique Features: UNC Charlotte partners with healthcare facilities across the region, ensuring diverse clinical experiences.

3. East Carolina University (Greenville, NC)

East Carolina University (ECU) offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia, focusing on rural and underserved communities.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Over 2,000 hours
• Tuition: Approximately $20,000 per year for in-state students
• Unique Features: ECU’s program is known for its emphasis on providing care in rural and underserved areas.

4. Wake Forest University School of Medicine (Winston-Salem, NC)

Wake Forest University offers a BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program with a 36-month curriculum, including one year of online coursework and two years of on-site education.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
• Tuition: Tuition details available upon request
• Unique Features: The program emphasizes leadership and provides diverse clinical experiences across various specialties.

5. University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Greensboro, NC)

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro provides a BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia Concentration, focusing on interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Over 2,000 hours
• Tuition: Approximately $25,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program combines on-campus learning with web-based education and simulation experiences.

6. Carolinas Medical Center Nurse Anesthesia Program/UNC Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)

This collaborative program between Carolinas Medical Center and UNC Charlotte offers a BSN to DNP Nurse Anesthesia track.

• Program Length: 36 months
• Clinical Hours: Over 2,000 hours
• Tuition: Approximately $30,000 per year
• Unique Features: The program includes diverse clinical experiences and utilizes advanced simulation technologies.

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

CRNA programs in North Carolina 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.

East Carolina University’s focus on rural healthcare and in-state tuition makes it a popular option for North Carolina residents.

4. How Much Does CRNA School Cost in North Carolina?

The cost of CRNA programs in North Carolina depends on residency status:

• Duke University: Tuition is approximately $50,000 per year, totaling $150,000 for the program.
• University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte): Tuition is approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $75,000. Out-of-state students pay approximately $40,000 per year.
• East Carolina University (ECU): Tuition is approximately $20,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $60,000.
• Wake Forest University School of Medicine: Tuition is approximately $45,000 per year, with a total cost of $135,000 for the 3-year program.
• University of North Carolina at Greensboro: Tuition is approximately $25,000 per year, totaling $75,000 for the program.
• Carolinas Medical Center Nurse Anesthesia Program/UNC Charlotte: Tuition is approximately $30,000 per year, totaling $90,000 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.
• CRNA Salaries in North Carolina: The average annual salary for CRNAs in North Carolina ranges from $180,000 to $240,000, depending on experience and location.
• Practice Settings: CRNAs in North Carolina work in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and private practices. Rural areas often provide higher salaries and incentives to attract skilled professionals.