Westminster University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia (DNP-NA) program in Salt Lake City is the only COA-accredited nurse anesthesia pathway in the Intermountain West and features a structured 36-month, 90-credit curriculum combining classroom instruction, high-fidelity simulation lab experiences, and supervised clinical training to prepare registered nurses for advanced anesthesia practice. The program includes rigorous performance standards (students must earn at least a B in all courses) and typically requires a year of critical care experience for admission, reflecting its focus on producing clinically prepared Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

Degree Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

This program prepares advanced practice nurses with the expertise needed for leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical care in anesthesia.

Program Length

36 months, full-time

The program integrates classroom instruction, simulation training, and extensive clinical practice.

Credit Hours

64 semester hours

The credit load is spread across core courses, clinical training, and advanced anesthesia coursework.

Starting Month

August

The program begins each year with an orientation and foundational courses in anesthesia practice.

Application Deadline

September

Applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials well before the deadline to ensure timely review.

Program Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required.
• Licensure: Current RN license in good standing.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 1 year of critical care nursing experience.
  • Preferred critical care experience includes ICU, Cardiac ICU, Neuro ICU, Thoracic ICU, Shock-Trauma ICU, Neonatal ICU, Pediatric ICU, Surgical ICU, and Medical ICU.
  • Operating Room and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) are not acceptable for critical care experience. ER may be acceptable depending on individual circumstances.
• Academic Performance: Minimum GPA of 3.0 overall, with a minimum 3.0 GPA in core science courses.
• GRE Scores: GRE scores from within the last 5 years. A minimum combined score of 1000 is preferred.
• Certifications:
  • ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support).
  • PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support).
• Additional Recommendations:
  • Completion of the CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) certification is highly recommended and encouraged.
  • An organic chemistry or biochemistry course with a grade of C or better is recommended but not required.

Contact

Phone: (801) 832-2158

Email: Jstimpson@westminstercollege.edu

Website: www.westminstercollege.edu