CRNA Schools in Virginia
If you're aiming to become a CRNA, check out the available CRNA programs in Virginia 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 Virginia" to learn additional facts, stats, and insights on becoming a CRNA in the state of VA.
Becoming a CRNA in Virginia
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are vital healthcare professionals who administer anesthesia and oversee patient care during medical procedures. Virginia offers excellent educational opportunities and a robust job market for aspiring CRNAs. This guide outlines the steps, programs, and costs involved in becoming a CRNA in Virginia.
1. How Do I Become a CRNA in Virginia?
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 crucial for developing the clinical and decision-making skills 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 Virginia
Apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure through the Virginia Board of Nursing. You’ll need to provide proof of your CRNA certification, education, and clinical training.
2. CRNA Programs in Virginia
Virginia offers several accredited CRNA programs, providing comprehensive education and clinical training. Here are the top options:
1. Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA)
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) 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 $30,000 per year for in-state students; $50,000 per year for out-of-state students
- Unique Features: VCU’s program is highly regarded for its rigorous academics, research opportunities, and extensive clinical training. The program also offers a distance education option, allowing students to complete coursework at various sites across Virginia while participating in face-to-face instruction and simulation laboratory training.
2. Old Dominion University (Norfolk, VA)
Old Dominion University (ODU) offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia that combines advanced academics with hands-on clinical training.
- Program Length: 36 months
- Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
- Tuition: Approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students; $45,000 per year for out-of-state students
- Unique Features: ODU emphasizes leadership and innovation in anesthesia practice, with strong ties to healthcare facilities in Virginia. The program boasts a 90% national certification exam pass rate over the past six years and a 100% graduate employment rate in 2022.
3. Mary Baldwin University (Staunton, VA)
Mary Baldwin University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia, providing a personalized educational experience with a focus on interprofessional collaboration.
- Program Length: 36 months
- Clinical Hours: Extensive hands-on training
- Tuition: Approximately $49,500 per year
- Unique Features: The program emphasizes evidence-based care, advanced scientific nursing knowledge, and leadership, with clinical rotations in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, outpatient clinics, and pain management centers.
3. What Is the Easiest CRNA School to Get Into?
CRNA programs in Virginia are competitive, but 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.
Old Dominion University may have slightly more accessible admission requirements compared to Virginia Commonwealth University, making it an attractive option for qualified applicants. Additionally, Mary Baldwin University offers a supportive environment with a personalized approach to anesthesia education, which may appeal to students looking for a more individualized program.
4. How Much Does CRNA School Cost in Virginia?
The cost of CRNA programs in Virginia depends on residency status:
- Virginia Commonwealth University: Tuition is approximately $30,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $90,000 for the program. Out-of-state students pay approximately $50,000 per year.
- Old Dominion University: Tuition is approximately $25,000 per year for in-state students, totaling $75,000 for the program. Out-of-state students pay approximately $45,000 per year.
- Mary Baldwin University: Tuition is approximately $49,500 per year, totaling $148,500 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 increasing healthcare needs.
- CRNA Salaries in Virginia: The average annual salary for CRNAs in Virginia ranges from $175,000 to $240,000, depending on experience and location.
- Practice Settings: CRNAs in Virginia work in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and private practices. Rural areas often offer higher salaries and incentives to attract skilled professionals.