USC Nurse Anesthesia CRNA School Overview
Did you know that the University of Southern California (USC) Nurse Anesthesia Program is among the top-ranked nurse anesthesia programs in the United States?
With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, USC Nurse Anesthesia has been training future certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) for over several decades.
This renowned program offers a rigorous curriculum, expert faculty, and diverse clinical experiences that prepare students for successful careers in the field of anesthesia. Let’s explore what sets the USC Nurse Anesthesia Program apart and why it could be the perfect fit for aspiring nurse anesthetists.
Key Takeaways:
- The University of Southern California Nurse Anesthesia Program is one of the top-ranked programs in the country.
- The program provides a rigorous curriculum and diverse clinical experiences.
- USC Nurse Anesthesia prepares students to become certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).
- The program is committed to excellence and has a history of training successful anesthesia professionals.
- By choosing USC Nurse Anesthesia, students can join a prestigious program with a strong reputation in the field.
- USC is 1 of 5 Currrent CRNA Schools in California
Important Dates and Information
| Program Length: | 36 Months |
| Degree Offered: | DNAP |
| Application Deadline: | September 30th |
| Interviews: | December |
| Cost: | $158,000 |
| Contact Information: | Elizabeth Blu Bamgbose, PhD, CRNA Clinical Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology (Clinician Educator);Co-Program Director of DNAP (323) 442-8843 elizabeth.bamgbose@med.usc.edu |
| Website: | University of Southern California CRNA School |
| School Location: | Keck School of Medicine of USC 1975 Zonal Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90033 |
The USC Nurse Anesthesia program’s admission cycle runs from July 1st to September 30th. Applicants must submit all required documents by the end of September to be eligible for interviews in December. A new cohort of students is admitted every May
- USC Nurse Anesthesia program admission cycle: July 1st – September 30th
- Submit all required documents by September 30th for interview eligibility
- Interviews for candidates in December.
- New student cohort admitted every May.
- Application Information offers more insights into requirements and curriculum.
| June 2023 Class Outcomes | |
| First Time Pass Rate | 95% |
| Attrition Rate | 0% |
| Employment in 6 months | 100% |
| Summer 2024 Class Data | |
| Total Applications | 64 |
| Entering Class | 24 |
| Mean Class Cumilative GPA | 3.58 |
| Mean Years of Crital Care Experience | 3.3 |
As you can see from the above numbers the University of Southern California CRNA Students a very well prepared once they finish school and take their boards.
The high pass rate , low attrition and the high employment rate is a testament to the falculty and staff of USC Nurse Anesthesia program fully preparing these future Anesthesia providers to be immediate contributors to CRNA community.
Introducing the University of Southern California Nurse Anesthesia Program
The University of Southern California (USC) offers an esteemed Nurse Anesthesia program that provides aspiring nurse anesthetists with a comprehensive education and rigorous training.
This CRNA Program is Led by Directors Elizabeth Blu Bamgbose and Jeffrey R. Darna who are fully committed to this program and to excellence in Nurse Anesthesia education.
As leaders in the field, the USC Nurse Anesthesia faculty brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the program, ensuring that students receive the highest quality education and mentorship.
The faculty’s dedication to advancing the field of Nurse Anesthesia is reflected in the program’s curriculum and clinical training.
To further enhance its reputation and resources for student learning, the USC Nurse Anesthesia program is accredited through Spring 2033 by the Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. This accreditation ensures that the program meets and exceeds rigorous standards of quality in education and training.
This program is proudly affiliated with the USC Keck School of Medicine and Department of Anesthesiology. This affiliation provides students with valuable opportunities for collaboration, access to cutting-edge research, and exposure to a diverse range of clinical experiences.
Admission Criteria and Process
To be eligible for admission to the USC Nurse Anesthesia program, applicants must meet certain criteria. These include:
- A minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0
- Minimum scores on the verbal and quantitative sections of the GRE
- Completion of the university and program supplemental application
- Current licensure as a Registered Nurse
- A bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field
- Submission of an essay describing career goals
- A professional resume
- Three letters of reference
Applicants must also demonstrate an acceptable understanding of the role and responsibilities of certified registered nurse anesthetists through interviews and shadowing experience.
Additional prerequisites include appropriate undergraduate coursework in biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, and statistics, as well as a minimum of one year of experience in critical care nursing.
Expanding on the USC Nurse Anesthesia Curriculum
The USC Nurse Anesthesia program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines academic coursework and clinical training over a span of 36 months.
This structured educational journey prepares students for a career as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their field.
Academic Structure: the 36-Month Educational Journey
The academic structure of the USC Nurse Anesthesia program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in anesthesiology.
Throughout the curriculum, students will delve into various subjects such as pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and patient assessment.
These courses are carefully crafted to ensure that students develop a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of anesthesia.
Clinical Training: A Foundation in Real-World Experience
In addition to the academic coursework, the USC Nurse Anesthesia program emphasizes the importance of hands-on clinical training.
Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in a diverse range of clinical settings, including primary and enhanced clinical affiliation sites. Notable clinical sites that students may have the privilege to train at include Keck Hospital of USC, the Los Angeles General Medical Center, and Cedars Sinai Medical Center.
At this current time there are 13 clinical sites and rotations that the Students rotate through.
This clinical training component allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, honing their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.
| Key Highlights of the USC Nurse Anesthesia Curriculum |
|---|
| Full-time program spanning 36 months |
| Comprehensive academic coursework in anesthesiology |
| Subjects covered include pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and patient assessment |
| Hands-on clinical training in diverse clinical settings |
| Primary and enhanced clinical affiliation sites, including Keck Hospital of USC, the Los Angeles General Medical Center, and Cedars Sinai Medical Center |
These clinical affiliation sites provide students with hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings, allowing them to develop their clinical skills and gain exposure to different patient populations and surgical procedures. By training in these diverse clinical sites, students are able to broaden their knowledge and understanding of anesthesia practice.
Conclusion
The USC Nurse Anesthesia program at the University of Southern California provides a rigorous and comprehensive education for individuals aspiring to become nurse anesthetists.
Through its strong curriculum, experienced faculty, and diverse clinical experiences, the program prepares students for successful careers as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
Students in the program benefit from a robust curriculum that covers essential topics in anesthesiology, such as pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and patient assessment.
This academic structure ensures a strong foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for delivering safe and effective anesthesia care.
Furthermore, the program’s affiliation with the USC Keck School of Medicine and Department of Anesthesiology underscores its commitment to excellence in nurse anesthesia education. These partnerships provide students with access to top-notch resources and clinical training opportunities at renowned medical institutions.
With accreditation through Spring 2033 from the Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs, the USC Nurse Anesthesia program has demonstrated its dedication to meeting the highest standards of quality education.
Graduates of the program are well-prepared to take the National Certification Exam (NCE) and obtain state licensure as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
FAQ
What is the duration of the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
The USC Nurse Anesthesia program is a full-time, 36-month curriculum.
What degree does the program lead to?
The program leads to the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) degree.
Is the USC Nurse Anesthesia program accredited?
Yes, the program is accredited through Spring 2033 by the Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
When does the application cycle for the program begin and end?
The application cycle begins on July 1st and closes on September 30th.
When are candidate interviews conducted?
Candidate interviews occur in December.
When is a new cohort of students admitted?
A new cohort of students is admitted every May.
Are there information sessions available for prospective students?
Yes, the program hosts information sessions on specific dates. You can check the USC website for upcoming sessions.
Who are the directors of the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
The program is led by Directors Jeffrey R. Darna, PhD, DNP, CRNA, ACNP-BC and Elizabeth Blu Bamgbose, PhD, CRNA.
What are the admission requirements for the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
Admission requirements include a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, minimum GRE scores, completion of the university and program supplemental application, current licensure as a Registered Nurse, a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field, submission of an essay, a professional resume, three letters of reference, interviews, shadowing experience, appropriate undergraduate coursework, and minimum experience in critical care nursing.
What is the structure of the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
The program follows a full-time, 36-month curriculum that includes academic coursework and clinical training.
What topics are covered in the academic coursework of the program?
The academic coursework covers topics such as pharmacology, anatomy, physiology, and patient assessment.
What clinical settings do students have the opportunity to gain experience in?
Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings, including primary and enhanced clinical affiliation sites such as Keck Hospital of USC, the Los Angeles General Medical Center, and Cedars Sinai Medical Center.
Who are the faculty members of the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
The program is supported by a team of expert academic and clinical faculty who are leaders in the field of Nurse Anesthesia education.
Why should I choose the USC Nurse Anesthesia program?
The program offers a rigorous and comprehensive education for aspiring nurse anesthetists. With a strong curriculum, expert faculty, and diverse clinical experiences, the program prepares students for success in their careers as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
How many CRNA programs are in California?
Currently there are 5 CRNA Schools in the state of California. Thoughout the country there are more than 130 CRNA Schools with a few being in the process of opening in 2024 or 2025.