Online CRNA Programs for 2024

This article features the Top 15 Schools With Online CRNA Programs

Originally published in June 2023, our online CRNA programs article was updated and revised in January 2024.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are vital to the healthcare world. These professionals are trained to deliver anesthesia to patients during medical procedures and surgery. From routine procedures to life-threatening situations, CRNAs are crucial. Each year, they successfully give roughly 43 million anesthetics to patients in hospitals, physicians’ offices, and other healthcare settings in the United States.

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist practices with a considerable degree of autonomy and responsibility. This is reflected in their pay scale. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist ranges from $143,870 to $227,160. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects job growth in this field through 2032 to be 38%. This is much higher than the national average. It represents over 30,000 new openings for nursing and health professions each year for the next decade. 

Much of the education for a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist degree requires hands-on clinical hours. However, many classes can be taken online. This has led to many colleges offering online nurse anesthetist programs. Online CRNA programs use Hybrid and online formats that allow you to keep working your current job. This means you do not need to sacrifice your career or income. At online CRNA schools, classes can be taken during non-working hours and at your own pace. 

Beginning in 2025, all entry-level nurse anesthetists will be required to hold a doctorate in anesthesia. This means new CRNA students pursuing a graduate degree in this field will need to enroll in a doctoral program. This article reflects that change. This list includes the 15 best CRNA schools with online (or hybrid) programs. And all of the graduate degree programs on our list are Doctorates.

Methodology for the Top Online CRNA Programs

We searched every school in the United States that offers CRNA programs online. We examined both hybrid and fully online CRNA programs. Then, we chose schools that are fully accredited non-profit institutions. Additionally, many of the programs are accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (CNA).

The scores were created using retention and graduation rates. These numbers give us a good idea of student success rates. In addition, they show us the quality of education at the school. Each school was ranked out of a possible maximum score of 200 points. They are listed in descending order, with the lowest score first.

Top 15 Best CRNA Schools with Online Programs       

Ranking the Top 15 Online Nurse Anesthesia Programs

#1  Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, New York

DNP-CRNA Degree

Columbia University’s School of Nursing was established in 1892, making it one of the oldest featured in this ranking. It is our top pick for nurse anesthetist online programs, and it is one of the best CRNA schools online.

Columbia offers a CNA-accredited DNP in Anesthesia. The program is intended for experienced critical care registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree who want to become nurse anesthetists. Graduates are ready to take the National Certification Exam.

While the majority of coursework requires in-person attendance, some of the courses are online. The 36-month program includes courses such as:

• Advanced Physiology and Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan I
• Anesthesia and Coexisting Disease
• Incorporating Genetics and Genomics in Advanced Practice Nursing
• CRNA Advanced Airway Lab
• Principles and Practice of CRNA: Lab

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 99%

Graduation Rate: 97%

Final Score: 196

#2 Duke University

Durham, North Carolina

Doctor of Nursing Practice with a specialization in Nurse Anesthesia

Duke offers a DNP with a specialization in Anesthesia. It equips students with the knowledge to deliver anesthesia in a variety of clinical settings to patients of all ages. The program’s faculty has received several awards for its brilliance. The program comprises 83 credits and is designed to be completed in 36 months. Part-time options are not available. The program includes a capstone project and features an extensive student mentoring program.

Students will also be consistently developing their e-portfolio throughout the program. It admits students with a bachelor’s degree with an upper-division nursing major. Applicants can also have an associate’s degree in Nursing from an accredited program with a bachelor’s degree in another field. 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Freshman Retention Rate: 98%

Graduation Rate: 96%

Final Score: 194

#3 University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

DNP-CRNA Degree Online

The University of Pennsylvania is one of the top nurse anesthetist schools in the country. And it offers an excellent DNP for nurse anesthetists. The program is led by an innovative team of top researchers and expert practitioners.

Students learn about procedures ranging from routine medical procedures to exceptionally rare ones. Every aspect of the program is designed to keep you on the cutting edge in your field. It will equip you with the tools you need to demonstrate excellence in every aspect of your career.

The program is a 38.5-credit course of study that takes three years to complete. It is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. The program ends with a capstone project. Course requirements include:

• Advanced Physical Assessment and Clinical Decision Making
• Applied Physiology for Nurse Anesthetists
• Adv. Principles of Anesthesia Practice: Obstetrics, Pediatrics, & Women of Childbearing Age
• Current Issues In Health and Social Policy

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 98%

Graduation Rate: 96%

Final Score: 194

#4 Georgetown University

Washington D.C.

DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program

Georgetown University offers a DNP-CRNA program. It is administered by the School of Nursing & Health Studies. The program is accredited by COA. It is a hybrid program in which the majority is presented in a traditional format. This is a highly intensive full-time three-year program. The only requirements for program acceptance are registered nurse licensure and two years of critical care experience. The didactic and clinical program prepares graduates to practice in all aspects of nurse anesthesia.

CRNA students are admitted in a cohort model with roughly 25 students per cohort. This is one of the top online CRNA programs on our list. Featured courses for this nursing practice degree include:

• Advanced Principles of Anesthesia
• Clinical Research Seminar
• Health Care Ethics
• Anesthesia Pharmacology
• Gross Anatomy

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 98%

Graduation Rate: 95%

Final Score: 193

#5 Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, Maryland

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia

Johns Hopkins offers a top-rated DNP in Nurse Anesthesia. It is administered through their School of Nursing. The Advanced Practice Nurse Anesthesiology track prepares students to deliver anesthesia and services. The program is aimed at registered nurses with at least one year of full-time ICU or critical care experience.

The curriculum is also ideal for RNs with an entry-level MSN who have the necessary ICU or critical care experience. Graduates can convert practice into healthcare innovation. The program’s first year can be completed online except for a Human Anatomy course. Eighty-eight credits are required for completion of this nurse anesthesia program.

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Freshman Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 96%

Final Score: 189

#6 University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program

USC offers a DNP-CRNA degree. This program is housed in the Keck School of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology and is open to those with a BSN degree. The program offers a comprehensive and demanding clinical experience complemented by an academic curriculum and leadership development.

Coursework is offered in a hybrid format. The first semester consists primarily of online courses. There are in-person requirements throughout the three-year program. The 36-month curriculum comprises such courses as:

• Health Care Policy for Advocacy in Health Care
• Pharmacology of Anesthesia Practice
• Pathophysiology Related to Anesthesia Practice
• Leadership and Collaborative Practice
• Analytic Methods for Practice

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission

Freshman Retention Rate: 97%

Graduation Rate: 91%

Final Score: 188

#7 Emory University

Atlanta, Georgia

DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program

Emory offers a DNP-CRNA program. It is accredited by COA. Students will gain practical experience in a variety of clinical settings. Applicants must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing from an authorized institution.

This is a nine-semester program that is to be completed over three years. This hybrid program requires students to meet on campus two times every semester on a Saturday. While the majority of coursework is offered online, some hands-on courses are required. Courses are administered in cohorts with both synchronous and asynchronous online work. The program takes 36 months (9 semesters) and includes 89 credit hours of full-time study. Featured courses in this accredited nurse anesthesia program include:

• Analysis of Complex Health Systems for Organizations
• General Principles of Anesthesia 
• Leadership for Health Professionals 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Freshman Retention Rate: 95%

Graduation Rate: 89%

Final Score: 184

#8 Northeastern University

Boston, Massachusetts

DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program

NU offers an excellent DNP-CRNA degree. It is administered by the Bouvé College of Health Sciences. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Its mission is “to produce clinicians educated in the complexity of practice at the doctoral level and competent in the unique skills of anesthesia nursing.” Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in nursing. Registered nurses with a master’s degree in a relevant health subject may be accepted in some situations.

The program is offered in a hybrid format. While some in-person attendance is required, many of the beginning courses are available online. Students can choose to study full or part-time. The program can be completed in as little as three years. Core curriculum courses include: 

• Applied Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing
• Leadership in Advanced Practice Nursing
• DNP Scholarly Project 1: Design and Ethical Consideration of Practice Application

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 89%

Graduation Rate: 91%

Final Score: 180

#9 Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Doctor of Nursing Practice in Anesthesia

A DNP in Anesthesia at Rutgers is administered through the School of Nursing. It is highly reputable and is one of the more rigorous online CRNA programs on our list. It boasts a first-attempt pass rate of 91% on the National Certification Examination and an employment rate of 100%. Graduates are prepared to be nurse anesthetists in a full scope of practice in a variety of settings.

The first phase of this hybrid program is available entirely online and accounts for 32 of the required credits to graduate. Online students may choose to complete this phase part-time. The second phase is the Anesthesia Clinical Specialty Phase. It covers the remaining 53 credits. This phase is only available in the blended format and will require more on-campus time. The entirety of the program spans three years. 

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 84%

Final Score: 178

#10 Gonzaga University

Spokane, Washington

DNP-CRNA Degree

Gonzaga University offers a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice. Program accreditation is through COA. The program is intended for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree who desire to advance in the field of nurse anesthesia.

Graduates of this program are employed as certified registered nurse anesthetists within six months of completion. Classes are presented in a cohort model throughout this three-year 88-credit program. Featured courses include:

• Advanced Principles: Anesthesia Across the Lifespan 
• Basic Principles of Anesthesia 
• Anatomy and Advanced Physiology
• Chemistry and Physics of Anesthesia 
• Medical Ethics

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Freshman Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 85%

Final Score: 177

#11 University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Minneapolis, Minnesota

DNP-CRNA

UMN is among the top 5% of schools of nursing in America. It offers a DNP with a specialization in Nurse Anesthesia. The DNP program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Education Programs. It was the first ever to be accredited by the council. The program is designed for registered nurses with an entry-level nursing degree, such as a BSN. They can also hold a master’s entry-level nursing degree.

Many of the required classes are offered in an online format. Graduates are prepared to work at the highest level of clinical practice as CRNAs. The employment rate for graduates within six months of completing their graduate degree is an astounding 100%. Program completion time is three years of full-time study. Specialty online coursework includes:

• Introduction to Principles and Practice of Anesthesia
• Anesthesia Care: Advanced Principles for Special Populations
• Basic Principles and Practice of Anesthesia

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Freshman Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 83%

Final Score: 176

#12 University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh Campus

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

DNP-CRNA

The University of Pittsburgh offers a DNP-CRNA program. The MSN to DNP concentration track is offered online. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree. The program incorporates a strong didactic component with cutting-edge simulation and clinical experiences. Students will gain clinical, organizational, economic, and leadership skills throughout the curriculum. Graduates are prepared for clinical leadership, administration, teaching, or quality assurance careers.

The curriculum comprises 36 credit hours and ends with a capstone project. Some of the online CRNA program coursework includes:

• Nursing Graduate Orientation Model
• Directed Seminars in CRNA Practice
• Database Management
• Methodologies for DNP Projects
• The Science of Healthcare Delivery

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 93%

Graduation Rate: 83%

Final Score: 176

#13 Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, Texas

DNP-CRNA

TCU offers a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice specifically for advanced practice registered nurses. It is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the Texas Board of Nursing. The program is intended for post-baccalaureate RNs seeking anesthetic certification and doctorate education. A Post-Masters DNP is also offered.

The first 20 months of the program (Phase 1) are entirely online. Students can choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis based on schedule and academic goals. The curriculum comprises 86 credit hours. Post-Masters degree requirement courses include:

• Emerging Sciences for Advanced Practice
• Biostatistics for the Advanced Health Practitioner
• Complexity and Innovation in Healthcare
• Translational Research

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Freshman Retention Rate: 94%

Graduation Rate: 82%

Final Score: 176

#14 Samford University

Homewood, Alabama

DNP-CRNA

SU offers a renowned DNP-CRNA. It is a three-year program that prepares graduates to sit for the Nurse Anesthesia National Certification Exam. Graduates are qualified to practice as nurse anesthetists with a broad scope of practice. The program is accredited by COA. Applicants must hold a BSN degree and current licensure as a Registered Nurse.

The program is administered in a hybrid format. The first few semesters are entirely online. The curriculum combines both graduate nursing core information and anesthesia practice expertise. The 103 credit hour program includes courses such as:

• Leadership and Healthcare Economics
• Theory and Philosophy in CRNA
• Population Health & Policy
• Biostatistics

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Freshman Retention Rate: 87%

Graduation Rate: 76%

Final Score: 163

#15 Drexel University

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

DNP-CRNA

Drexel offers a DNP in Nurse Anesthesia. The program prepares advanced practice registered nurses to go on to their professional endeavors or can be used as a foundation to continue to the doctoral level. Graduates are capable of providing safe, compassionate, culturally competent anesthetic treatment.

It is a full-time integrated 39-month curriculum with 135 quarter credits. Much of the coursework is offered online, but some specialty courses require campus visits. The program’s first three quarters (Spring, Summer, and Fall) are full-time and 100% online. Online featured coursework for this online CRNA program includes:

• Applied Epidemiology
• Introduction to CRNA Practice
• Advanced Health Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning
• Appraising Quantitative Evidence: Research Designs and Methodologies
• Clinical Ethics and Health Law

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Freshman Retention Rate: 90%

Graduation Rate: 69%

Final Score: 159

More Information About Nurse Anesthetist Programs

What Education Is Needed To Become a Nurse Anesthetist?

At one time, CRNAs needed a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to practice. However, current students will now need to complete a DNP (doctor of nursing practice). Alternatively, they can complete a DNAP degree (doctor of nursing anesthesia practice). These nursing programs take about three years to complete. A doctor of nursing practice is the highest level of education for those in the nursing profession. Graduates of these nursing programs are considered leaders within the medical profession and their organizations. 

The coursework in these nurse anesthetist programs online is challenging. However, nurse anesthetists can expect a rewarding career both personally and professionally. Those in this profession have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping others to be more comfortable and pain-free. This is also a recession-proof job with plenty of opportunities no matter where you live. And it’s lucrative as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for a nurse anesthetist is $125,900.

What Is Needed for Acceptance Into an Online CRNA Program?

Online nurse anesthetist programs are academically rigorous. And the schools that offer these programs are highly regarded for their educational quality. Many of these nursing programs are highly competitive. As a result, you’ll want to pay close attention to the admission requirements. Of course, the admission requirements vary depending on the CRNA school or university you choose. However, most applicants to CRNA nursing programs can expect to need:

• An active RN license in good standing (in some cases, you will need APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) licensure
• A BSN or MSN from an accredited  nursing school
• Three or more letters of recommendation from individuals with a doctoral degree
• Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• A resume that details your work experience
• An essay
• Certifications in advanced life support
• A background check
• A virtual or in-person interview

Most online nurse anesthetist programs require that applicants have a GPA of at least 3.0 to 3.5.  And most schools require the GRE. Students will need a score of at least 300. Additionally, you will need to have worked for at least one year as an RN in a critical care setting.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a DNP-CRNA Program?

The time it takes to complete a nurse anesthesia program depends on several factors. These include the specific school you are attending and how the coursework is delivered. It generally takes about three years of full-time study to complete a DNP-CRNA program. Plus, you will need clinical practice hours. If you are taking a BSN to DNP program, it will take more time.

In some instances, students can take accelerated online programs that can help them earn their degrees faster. Accelerated programs are ideal for those who have the time and can commit to a rigorous schedule. Accelerated programs feature the same curriculum, students just tackle a bigger course load each semester.

Should I Pursue a Nurse Anesthetist Program Online?

Pursuing an anesthesiologist online degree is an excellent choice for busy professionals. Such online nursing programs give students greater scheduling flexibility. While not all programs are fully online CRNA programs, even hybrid programs can provide more freedom. These programs allow you to complete your studies while you continue your nursing career. And with fully online CRNA programs, you can study from anywhere in the world. 

Additionally, these nursing programs are often more affordable. Students can save on housing and transportation costs by studying at home.

What Should I Look For in the Best Online CRNA Programs?

There are several factors to consider to find the best online CRNA programs for you. These include:

Tuition Costs

Tuition varies widely between schools and programs. Therefore, prospective students should compare the costs of online CRNA schools so they can get the best value for their online education.

Duration of the Program

As we discussed earlier, most DPT programs take about 36 months to complete. However, some online CRNA programs have shorter durations. 

Financial Aid and Scholarship Options

Almost all nonprofit colleges and universities offer financial aid and scholarships. Unfortunately, many students are under the impression that financial aid is only for low-income individuals. This is not always the case. In fact, over 85 percent of students qualify for some type of financial aid. So be sure to look into all of your options when considering online CRNA programs.

Internship, Fellowship, and Clinical Practicum Options

Most online CRNA programs will not require a residency. However, Internships, fellowships, and clinical practicum experiences are a great way to gain practical, hands-on experience in the field. With online CRNA programs, internships can be a bit more complicated. But many schools have found a way around these challenges. Many online programs allow you to meet with an advisor and create a customized internship or clinical practicum at a healthcare facility near you.

The Delivery Format of the Courses

As you can see from our list of the best online CRNA programs, the delivery format for classes can vary. Some CRNA programs are fully online but require students to log in at certain times. Other CRNA programs have asynchronous coursework. With these classes, students can log in and complete their assignments whenever it’s most convenient. Prospective nurse anesthetists should choose a program that has the most realistic options for them. 

Accreditation

All of the schools on our list are regionally accredited. However, CRNA programs are typically accredited by an additional accrediting body. You’ll want to check and see if the CRNA programs you are interested in are accredited by one or more of these organizations:

• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
• The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs
• National League for Nursing
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

This concludes our article on the best online nurse anesthetist programs.