Updated January, 2026

CRNA Schools in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to CRNA programs at Duke University, East Carolina University, and University of North Carolina at Charlotte. North Carolina hosts multiple CRNA programs across public and private universities. Applicants frequently apply to several in-state options due to similar timelines but different tuition structures and cohort sizes.

Quick Facts About CRNA Schools in North Carolina

  • Number of CRNA programs: 6 accredited programs
  • Degree level: Doctoral-level preparation (DNP or DNAP) is the standard for CRNA education.
  • Program length: Most full-time programs fall in the 30–39 month range, with variations by curriculum and clinical scheduling.
  • Typical admissions profile: ICU experience, strong science performance, and competitive references are common expectations.
  • Clinical training: Clinical rotations are completed through affiliated hospitals and health systems across North Carolina.
1

Western Carolina University

Degree Type DNP Program Length 28 months, full time Credit Hours 66 semester hours Starting Month January Application Deadline May Program Requirements Bachelor of Science...

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2

Wake Forest University

Degree Type DNP Program Length 24 months, full time Credit Hours 50 semester hours Starting Month August Application Deadline October Program Requirements Bachelor of Science...

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3

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Degree Type DNP Program Length 27 months, full time Credit Hours 67 semester hours Starting Month August Application Deadline September, October and January Program Requirements...

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4

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Degree Type DNP Program Length 24 months, full time Credit Hours 50 semester hours Starting Month August Application Deadline October Program Requirements Bachelor of Science...

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5

East Carolina University

Degree Type DNP Program Length 28 months, full time Credit Hours 68 semester hours Starting Month January Application Deadline May Program Requirements Bachelor of Science...

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6

Duke University

Degree Type Doctor of Nursing Practice, Post-Master’s Certificate. Program Length 36 months, full time Credit Hours 85 semester hours Starting Month August Application Deadline February...

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Compare CRNA Programs in North Carolina

Tuition, timelines, and program-level differences that matter to applicants.

Duke University – Nurse Anesthesia Program

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$160,000–$180,000 total
Application deadline
February

Duke’s CRNA program is nationally recognized for academic rigor and exposure to complex tertiary-care anesthesia cases. Applicants often cite competitive admissions, strong research integration, and high-acuity clinical training as defining features.

East Carolina University – Nurse Anesthesia Program

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$75,000–$95,000 (in-state)
Application deadline
May

ECU’s CRNA program emphasizes preparation for practice in rural and underserved communities, with clinical placements throughout eastern North Carolina. In-state tuition makes this a strong value option for residents.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Nurse Anesthesia

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$85,000–$105,000 (in-state)
Application deadline
September–January (cycle dependent)

UNC Charlotte’s CRNA program partners with regional healthcare systems to provide broad anesthesia exposure, appealing to applicants seeking public-university tuition with structured clinical training.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Nurse Anesthesia

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$80,000–$100,000 (in-state)
Application deadline
October

UNCG’s CRNA program focuses on consistent clinical progression within North Carolina hospital systems. Applicants often consider this program for its balance of affordability and clinical depth.

Wake Forest University – Nurse Anesthesia Program

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$135,000–$155,000 total
Application deadline
October

Wake Forest’s CRNA program offers training within a major academic medical center, providing exposure to complex surgical and subspecialty anesthesia cases. Applicants often cite strong clinical volume as a key differentiator.

Western Carolina University – Nurse Anesthesia Program

Degree
DNP
Length
36 months
Estimated tuition
$70,000–$90,000 (in-state)
Application deadline
May

Western Carolina’s CRNA program is often chosen by applicants focused on practicing in rural or regional healthcare settings, with clinical placements emphasizing community-based anesthesia care.

Tuition estimates are approximate and sourced from the public information available on each programs website. Tuition does not include fees, books, or living expenses. Applicants should confirm current costs, timelines, and admissions policies directly with each program. If you would like to notify us of a discrepancy on the CRNA Schools in North Carolina page, please contact us.

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