The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center’s Nurse Anesthesia track within the Doctor of Nursing Practice program represents the first Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist pathway offered by a public university in Oklahoma, approved in 2025 to help address ongoing anesthesia provider shortages across the state, particularly in rural and underserved counties. The COA-accredited curriculum is designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced anesthesia practice with a combination of advanced coursework and supervised clinical experience at OUHSC’s health system affiliates in the Oklahoma City area.

Degree Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

The DNP program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is designed to prepare registered nurses for advanced clinical practice, leadership roles, and scholarly work. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, advanced clinical skills, and healthcare leadership, equipping graduates to make significant impacts on patient care and health systems.

Program Length

• Duration: Approximately 3-4 years, full-time.

Credit Hours

• Total Credit Hours: Approximately 80-100 credits.

Starting Month

August

The program typically begins in August each academic year.

Application Deadlines

Application Period: Applications for the upcoming cohort are accepted until May 31, 2025.

Program Requirements

• Educational Background:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Licensure:
  • Unencumbered RN license, with eligibility for advanced practice nursing licensure in Oklahoma.
• Experience:
  • Clinical nursing experience is required; specific hours may be mandated by the program.
• Academic Performance:
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, with preference for a higher science GPA.
• Certifications:
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) preferred.
• Prerequisite Coursework:
  • Courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics with a grade of ‘B’ or better, completed within a specified time frame.

Additional Program Features

• Accreditation: The DNP program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
• Clinical Experience: Students participate in clinical placements across Oklahoma and neighboring regions to gain diverse, hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
• Simulation Training: The program utilizes advanced simulation labs to enhance clinical skills and decision-making.

Contact

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center – College of Nursing

Address: 123 Medicine Circle NE, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

Phone: (405) 271-8000

Email: admissions@ouhsc.edu