Virginia Commonwealth University

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.S.N.A., D.N.A.P.

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Department of Nurse Anesthesia in the School of Allied Health Professions offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA). The program is designed to allow graduates the opportunity to become leaders and make significant contributions with the intended outcome of improving health care and advancing nurse anesthesia theory and practice through research. Consequently, the program prepares CRNAs through a team concept of a joint practice of anesthesia care composed of both nursing and medical components to meet the current and emerging health needs of society. The nurse anesthesia program is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. Graduates are eligible to take the examination for certification conducted by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists.The Department of Nurse Anesthesia also offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (Post- Certification CRNA). This program is designed for individuals who have already obtained their certification as a nurse anesthetist. The postgraduate CRNA Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia Program curriculum is a single-track design with a clinical or teaching option. This approach best reflects the achievement of the program's stated objectives. This curriculum parallels the basic Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia degree, which ensures an expanded theoretical knowledge base and increased clinical competence. The similarities between the postgraduate and generic CRNA programs provide uniform credibility in the degree awarded.

The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) Program at Virginia Commonwealth University offers a practice doctorate for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) with a master's degree. The Program focuses specifically on nurse anesthesia and builds upon applicants' previous education and experience as a CRNA. The DNAP prepares CRNAs to assume leadership positions in education, management, and patient care by offering a curriculum concentrating on patient safety and human factors, quality assessment and improvement, health care systems and organizations, leadership, best evidence for practice, and adult education.

Accreditation:

Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Midsize City

Size & Settings: 20,000 and above