The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Nurse Anesthesia DNP program, offered through the Graduate School of Nursing in Bethesda, Maryland, is a 36-month Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA)-accredited pathway designed to prepare uniformed service nurse anesthetists for independent anesthesia practice in diverse global and federal healthcare environments. The curriculum features a 15-month didactic phase followed by a 21-month clinical phase at federal medical treatment facilities, with an emphasis on operational readiness and delivering anesthesia care across the U.S. Armed Forces and Public Health Service.

Degree Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Registered Nurse Anesthesia (DNP-RNA)

This program prepares uniformed nurse anesthetists to independently provide high-quality, evidence-based anesthesia services in diverse settings worldwide.

Program Length

36 months, full-time

The program is divided into two phases:

• Phase I: 15-month didactic component conducted on the USUHS campus, providing academic and professional education necessary for clinical practice.
• Phase II: 21-month clinical component focusing on the application of science and evidence-based practice to clinical anesthesia, conducted at federal medical treatment facilities.

Credit Hours

The program includes comprehensive coursework covering advanced anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and anesthesia principles, integrated with operational readiness training.

Starting Month

August

Orientation and foundational courses typically begin in late August.

Application Deadline

Specific application deadlines may vary; prospective students are encouraged to contact the university for detailed information.

Program Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a concentration in Nursing from an accredited institution.
• Licensure: Current, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license in the United States.
• Experience: Relevant clinical nursing experience is preferred.
• Military Status: Must be a commissioned officer or service-sponsored civilian in the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, or Public Health Service.

Additional Program Features

• Operational Readiness Training: Curriculum integrates operational healthcare to prepare graduates for service in both traditional and operational settings.
• Accreditation: The Nurse Anesthesia Program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).

Contact

Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences

Address: 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814

Phone: (301) 295-1199

Email: jerrol.wallace@usuhs.edu