When it comes to nurse anesthesia programs with a reputation for academic excellence and national prestige, Georgetown University is in a class of its own. Ranked #7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 2025, Georgetown's Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program is a top destination for critical care nurses who aspire to become leaders in the field. The program is known for its rigorous science-based curriculum, unique hands-on learning opportunities, and outstanding clinical training in the heart of the nation's capital.
Gaining admission to a program of this caliber is incredibly competitive and requires a deep understanding of its specific requirements. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the Georgetown DNAP program, from admission criteria and tuition costs to program highlights and what makes a candidate truly stand out.
Quick Facts about the Georgetown CRNA Program (2026)
Here is an overview of the key details for the Georgetown DNAP program:
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Program: Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)
- Program Length: 36 months, full-time
- Credit Hours: 64
- Tuition (2025-2026): Approx. $2,652 per credit hour, for a total estimated tuition of $169,728. This does not include university fees, books, or living expenses.
- Application Deadline: October 15th
- Program Start: June
Georgetown CRNA Admission Requirements
Georgetown seeks applicants who demonstrate strong academic ability, a solid foundation in critical care, and the potential for leadership. Here are the core requirements for admission.
- Degree: A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited university.
- RN Licensure: You must hold a current, unencumbered RN license. Before the program begins, you must be eligible for licensure in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
- GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required. However, a GPA of 3.3 or higher is preferred to be competitive. Your performance in science courses is heavily weighted.
- ICU Experience: A minimum of one year of full-time experience as an RN in a critical care setting is required. The program strongly prefers applicants with two or more years of experience.
- Accepted Units: Experience in high-acuity settings such as Surgical ICU (SICU), Medical ICU (MICU), and Coronary Care Unit (CCU) is ideal. The key is consistent experience managing critically ill patients.
- GRE Scores: The GRE is required if your cumulative GPA is below 3.5. If you are required to take the exam, competitive scores are considered 500 or above on both the verbal and quantitative sections and a 5.0 or greater on the analytical writing section (based on the older scoring scale; aim for the equivalent percentile). Scores must be from within the last five years.
- Prerequisites:
- Chemistry: At least 3 credits, completed with a grade of 'B' or better within the last five years. A biochemistry course is highly recommended.
- Statistics: At least 3 credits, completed with a grade of 'C' or better.
- Certifications:
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
- CCRN (Critical Care Registered Nurse) certification is recommended but not explicitly required.
Program Highlights: The Georgetown Advantage
What makes the Georgetown DNAP program one of the best in the country? It's a combination of unique educational experiences, a prime location, and a legacy of excellence.
- Front-Loaded Curriculum: The 36-month program is front-loaded, with the first 12 months dedicated to intensive didactic coursework. This provides a strong theoretical and scientific foundation before students immerse themselves fully in the clinical environment for the second and third years.
- Human Cadaver Lab: A relatively unique feature for CRNA programs, Georgetown utilizes its human cadaver lab for teaching anatomy and its application to anesthesia. This provides an unparalleled, hands-on understanding of human physiology and procedural anatomy.
- Prestigious Clinical Sites: Students complete their clinical training at some of the best medical systems in the country, all located throughout the greater Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. Clinical placements are managed by the faculty to ensure a diverse and comprehensive experience.
- Exceptional Outcomes: Georgetown graduates are highly sought after. The program boasts a 97% NCE first-time pass rate over the past five years (with the Class of 2025 achieving 100%) and a 100% employment rate within weeks of graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How competitive is the Georgetown CRNA program?
With a #7 national ranking, admission is exceptionally competitive. Applicants need to present a stellar academic record, high-quality ICU experience, and a compelling personal statement. A GPA above 3.5, more than two years in a complex ICU, and strong GRE scores (if required) are typical of successful candidates.
Is the CCRN certification really optional?
While the website lists it as "recommended," it's a practical necessity for a competitive application. The CCRN demonstrates a verified standard of knowledge in critical care nursing and is a key differentiator in a crowded applicant pool. Nearly all successful applicants to top-tier programs have their CCRN.
Can I work during the program?
No. The Georgetown DNAP program is an intensive, full-time commitment. The front-loaded curriculum and subsequent full-time clinical immersion make it impossible to maintain outside employment.
What kind of ICU experience is most valued?
Experience in a large, academic medical center's surgical, trauma, or cardiothoracic ICU is highly valued. The admissions committee wants to see that you can handle high-stress situations, think critically, and manage complex patients with multiple invasive lines and vasoactive drips.
The Georgetown University Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program offers an elite educational path for nurses aiming for the highest level of clinical practice. Its rigorous academics and superior clinical training prepare graduates to be leaders in any setting.
Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Track the Georgetown University CRNA application deadline and manage your entire journey at crnatracker.com.