Introduction
Virginia Commonwealth University's Department of Nurse Anesthesia is consistently ranked as one of the top programs in the nation. Offering a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree, VCU prepares graduates to be leaders, clinicians, and scholars. Located in Richmond, Virginia, the program provides a rich academic and clinical environment.
About the School
The VCU Department of Nurse Anesthesia is part of the College of Health Professions and has a long, storied history of educating nurse anesthetists since 1969. The program is known for its dedicated faculty, robust research opportunities, and commitment to serving diverse communities.
Quick Facts
- Program Type: DNAP (Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice)
- Program Length: 36 months (full-time)
- Tuition (In-state): Approximately $80,000
- Tuition (Out-of-state): Approximately $150,000 (Contact program for details)
- Application Deadline: Typically June 1st
- GRE Requirement: Not required
Admission Requirements
- Degree: Baccalaureate degree in nursing or a related science.
- GPA: Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- RN License: Unrestricted RN license in Virginia or a compact state.
- Critical Care Experience: A minimum of one year of full-time critical care nursing experience (post-orientation) in a dynamic setting.
- Certifications: ACLS and PALS certification. CCRN is not required but is viewed favorably.
- Shadowing: Shadowing a CRNA is required.
Program Highlights
VCU's program is renowned for its exceptional clinical training at the VCU Medical Center, a comprehensive Level I trauma center. Students gain experience in all types of anesthesia, including pediatrics, obstetrics, cardiac, and neurosurgery. The program offers unique opportunities for research and international anesthesia mission trips.
FAQs
- What is VCU looking for in an applicant? VCU values well-rounded applicants with strong academic records, high-quality critical care experience, leadership potential, and a clear understanding of the CRNA role.
- Is an interview required? Yes, interviews are a mandatory part of the application process and are typically held in the fall.
- How many clinical sites are there? While the primary site is the VCU Medical Center, students also rotate to several other urban and rural sites to ensure a broad range of experiences.
- Can I apply with a non-nursing bachelor's degree? Yes, if you have a bachelor's in a related science, but you must be a licensed RN and meet all other nursing-specific prerequisites.
- Where can I get reminders for VCU's deadline? To track the Virginia Commonwealth University CRNA program's official deadline, visit crnatracker.com.
Track VCU's deadline at crnatracker.com