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

The Western Carolina University Nurse Anesthesia Program is a full-time, 36-month Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track offered through the WCU College of Health and...

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2

Wake Forest University

The Wake Forest University Nurse Anesthesia Program is a full-time, 36-month Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track offered through the Wake Forest University School of...

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3

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Nurse Anesthesia Program is a collaborative Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track offered through the UNC Charlotte School...

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4

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) Nurse Anesthesia Program is a full-time, 36-month Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track accredited by the Council...

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5

East Carolina University

The East Carolina University Nurse Anesthesia Program is a full-time, 36-month Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track through the ECU College of Nursing that prepares...

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6

Duke University

The Duke University Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) — Nurse Anesthesia Program is a full-time, 36-month track through the Duke University School of Nursing that...

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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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