accelerated crna programs

[GregSkis]

[GregSkis]

Hi, I am interested in becoming a crna, and was wondering if there are any accelerated crna programs in the country? I have not went to nursing school yet, and in my research, it seems that someone is looking at around 7-9 years to complete the education and training needed to become a crna. I am wondering if there is a faster way to accomplish this, either by an accelerated BSN or crna program, or some kind of combo of both. Thanks for any advice you can offer me. – Greg

[RipCityCRNA]

[RipCityCRNA]

Hi Greg,

There are not any accelerated CRNA programs. All CRNA programs are full time as is, so there would be no way to accomplish the schooling and training any quicker. Becoming a CRNA takes hard work and dedication for many years, and there is no shortcut. If time commitment is an issue, than maybe consider choosing another career path, because the road to becoming a CRNA will be extremely time consuming for many years.

[Purplemouse]

[Purplemouse]

These are the things that I would do:

1. Do a google search on the schools that you would like to attend.

2. Once you have found out the schools, then research each one by name.

3. Write out the pros and cons of each school.

4. Narrow down your choice of the schools from your list.

I wish you the best.

[Danzy12]

[Danzy12]

Just getting started down this path and also wondering if any credible programs have considered doing an accelerated option, doesn’t seem like it would be possible though from what I am finding out?

[Bucky1982]

[Bucky1982]

So when you mean “accelerated” CRNA program, do you mean starting with a BSN? An accelerated CRNA program doesn’t exist, speaking from the point of BSN to CRNA. Becoming a CRNA is a highly demanding process, both academically and clinically, so it’s not something that can be “fast-tracked” like some other programs.

That said, there are programs designed to help streamline the process—especially if you already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and are looking to switch careers? These pathways typically involve earning your RN license through an accelerated BSN (ABSN) program, gaining critical care/ICU experience, and then applying to a CRNA program. There are some schools that offer integrated or hybrid options that can help reduce the overall time and complexity. While you won’t find any 100% online CRNA programs—because of the heavy clinical component—some schools do offer hybrid models. These allow you to complete the didactic (classroom) coursework online while fulfilling the clinical training in person. The few I know of off hand are (there could be more):

Drexel University offers a hybrid DNP in Nurse Anesthesia where much of the early coursework is online, followed by required on-site intensives and clinical rotations.

University of Arizona also has a hybrid DNP program that combines online learning with periodic campus visits and local clinical placements.

Keep in mind that even the most accelerated pathways still require these steps:

You’ll need to complete an accelerated BSN if you’re not already an RN.

You must have at least one year of ICU nursing experience (more is preferred).

Admission to CRNA programs is highly competitive, so academic performance and clinical experience matter. The real key here is to plan ahead, choose the right bridge or hybrid program, and be prepared for the rigor. Anymore questions, just let me know—I’m happy to try an answer them.

Also, here are a few CRNA programs that i know of that are structured to be more accessible for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in something other than nursing:

Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA):
Offers a 36-month program tailored for RNs who have a non-nursing bachelor’s. The didactic portion is hybrid, meaning it blends online learning with hands-on clinicals later in the program.

Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (Rochester, MN):
This is a 39-month program that combines classroom instruction and extensive clinical training. It’s built for RNs with a non-nursing background who’ve made the leap through an ABSN.

University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA):
Their CRNA program is also about 36 months and emphasizes leadership and clinical expertise. It’s a great option if you want a combination of online coursework and on-site residencies.

Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, TX):
TCU’s program features online didactic courses paired with in-person clinical residencies, designed for RNs who started in another field but want to move into anesthesia.

Yale New Haven Health (New Haven, CT):
Offers a similar 36-month format blending didactic education and clinical experience for non-nursing degree holders who have become RNs.