Resources
HOW DO I BECOME A CRNA?
Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing:
A BSN is earned at an accredited institution.
Attend a Nurse Anesthesia Program:
CRNA candidates must complete a master’s or doctoral-level nurse anesthesia program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
Secure Licensure:
Become licensed to practice in your state
Gain Clinical Experience:
Prior to applying to nurse anesthesia programs, most applicants will have 2-5 years experience in a critical care unit and 4-5 years as an Registered Nurse.
Obtain Certification:
Upon graduation, candidates must pass the National Certification Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certification & Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA) to become certified as CRNAs.
NURSE ANESTHESIA PROGRAMS
With 120 accredited programs across the US, including those offering doctoral degrees, aspiring CRNAs can choose the option that suits them best. These programs, typically lasting 24 to 42 months, provide a strong foundation in clinical anesthesia experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their profession.
Currently there are 2 accredited CRNA schools in Arkansas that offer a total of 2 Nurse Anesthesia programs
CRNA Fact Sheet
ARNA Foundation
Peer Assistance
Patients
Legislators
