Exploring the Uniformed Services University CRNA Program
The Uniformed Services University (USU) CRNA Program offers a unique and rigorous education in Nurse Anesthesia.
This CRNA School is tailored to prepare students for excellence within the military and federal health system. Combining advanced clinical training with a strong focus on serving the healthcare needs of the Armed Forces, this program is ideal for those committed to military medicine.
Founded in 1972, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences has dedicated itself to educating healthcare professionals who serve in the U.S. military and public health agencies.
With a robust tradition of excellence in medical education and research, USU is a prime choice for those pursuing a career in nurse anesthesia within a federal context.
The program is located in Bethesda, Maryland, on the grounds of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
USU provides students with access to top-tier medical facilities and resources.
Bethesda, a vibrant and affluent community just outside Washington, D.C., offers a mix of urban and suburban living.
While the cost of living can be high, various housing options, including on-base housing for military personnel, help mitigate expenses.
Public transportation is readily available, with metro and bus services connecting Bethesda to the greater D.C. area.
Key Takeaways
- USU is one of 3 CRNA Schools in Maryland
- The Program is located in the City of Bethsda.
- Rated #1 CRNA School by US News
Important Dates and Information
| Program Length | 36 Months |
| Application Deadline | August |
| Degree Offered | DNP |
| Class Size | 28 |
| Cost | Paid for with Military Commitment |
| Contact | Dr. Lauren Suszan, DNP, MSN, CRNA, CDR lauren.suszan@usuhs.edu (301) 295-1248 |
| Website | USU CRNA School |
| School Location | 4301 Jones Bridge Road Building E Bethesda, MD 20814-4799 |
CRNA School Details and Requirments
The USU CRNA program spans 36 months of full-time study, integrating classroom learning with extensive clinical practice.
The curriculum covers advanced topics in anesthesia, pharmacology, physiology, and pathophysiology. Students gain hands-on experience at various military and federal healthcare facilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the diverse and challenging environments they will encounter in their careers.
Admission to the program requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a minimum of one year of critical care experience, and specific GPA and GRE scores. Additionally, applicants must be active-duty military personnel or sponsored by a federal agency.
One of the significant financial advantages of the USU CRNA program is that tuition is fully funded by the federal government for active-duty military personnel, making it an excellent option for those serving in the armed forces.
While tuition is covered, students may also be eligible for additional scholarships and grants to help with living expenses.
Financial aid options are available through military benefits and federal aid programs.
Faculty and Support Services
The faculty at USU are seasoned professionals with extensive backgrounds in Nurse Anesthesia and military medicine.
They are committed to providing high-quality education and mentorship. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, the program ensures personalized attention and support for each student.
Mentorship programs guide students through their academic and clinical training, while comprehensive academic advising and mental health counseling services support their overall well-being and success.
Campus Life
Campus life at USU is enriched by state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs, research centers, and libraries.
These resources provide students with the tools they need to excel in their studies.
There are numerous student organizations and clubs, including those focused on military medicine and healthcare leadership, fostering a sense of community and professional development.
Clinical Training
Clinical training is a cornerstone of the USU CRNA program, conducted at leading military and federal healthcare facilities, including Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
Students gain experience in general surgery, trauma, obstetrics, and more, with commuting to clinical sites facilitated by the university.
Alumni and Career Outcomes
Graduates of the USU CRNA program have gone on to successful careers in military and federal healthcare systems.
The program boasts high job placement rates, with graduates securing positions within the military and federal health agencies.
An extensive alumni network and career services support graduates in their professional journeys, with regular networking events and career fairs connecting students with potential employers.
The first time Boards pass rate for USU is 90% for the 2023 graduating class.
Accreditation and Certification
The USU CRNA program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), ensuring it meets high standards of educational quality.
Students from USU consistently achieve high pass rates on the National Certification Exam (NCE), with comprehensive support provided to help them prepare for certification.
International Students
While primarily for U.S. military and federal employees, the program may have provisions for international students under specific conditions.
Comprehensive support services are available for international students, including detailed visa and immigration information to assist with their application and enrollment process.
For more information about the Uniformed Services University CRNA program, prospective students can visit the admissions office or fill out an online request form.
An FAQ section on the website addresses common queries, providing a comprehensive resource for those considering this unique and prestigious program.
Program Details and Admission Requirements
The nurse anesthesia program at USU is designed for those aspiring to become top-notch nurse anesthetists.
It’s a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a CRNA focus, specifically tailored for individuals in the armed forces. Each year, only 28 students are admitted, ensuring rigorous and comprehensive training.
To be eligible for this premier Nurse Anesthesia program, applicants must meet stringent criteria.
A minimum of one year of work as a Registered Nurse (RN) is required, with two years preferred. Critical skills, such as cardiac monitoring and rhythm interpretation, are also essential.
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or an Associate’s Degree in Nursing plus a Bachelor of Science in a science subject.
- At least 18 months of work in critical care before applying.
Prerequisite Courses:
- Statistics
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
A minimum GPA of 3.0 from all college work, with a 3.2 in science classes, is required.
Additionally, an active RN license and certifications in ACLS and PALS are necessary.
Applicants must also shadow a nurse anesthetist for 20 hours before applying.
When applying, three work references and responses to three essay questions are required. The application period runs from April 1 to August 31, with decisions for the next May class announced later. Interviews are conducted for selected candidates.
Additional Requirements:
- International students need a WES credential check.
- A physical exam and immunization records are required.
- Criminal background check and drug test must be cleared before starting.
This program prepares students for the national nurse anesthetist exam and provides financial assistance through the Bryan College of Health Sciences Financial Aid Office.
Living in Bethesda and Student Life
Living and studying in Bethesda is an exciting opportunity, especially for those in military healthcare education.
Bethesda offers a welcoming community and a vibrant culture, providing a rich environment for both study and leisure.
School Certification and Accreditation
Accreditation ensures a school meets high standards of education.
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology began accrediting programs in 1952, with the Council on Accreditation (COA) established in 1975 to maintain these standards.
The COA regularly reviews programs in the U.S. and its territories, ensuring they meet rigorous educational and operational criteria. This process guarantees that students receive top-notch training, preparing them for various healthcare roles.
Schools like Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing and Ohio University-OhioHealth Grant Medical Center are among the new programs meeting COA’s high standards.
Long-standing programs, such as Baylor College of Medicine and Georgetown University, continue to receive accreditation, reflecting their ongoing commitment to excellence.
International Students Admission Process
The USU CRNA program primarily serves individuals in or aspiring to join the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, or Public Health Service. International students must meet specific criteria, including:
- A minimum TOEFL score of 550 or IELTS score of 6.5.
- Completion of a basic statistics course with a grade of ‘B’ or higher within the last five years.
- One year of critical care experience as a registered nurse, with two years preferred.
- Completion of Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry with a grade of ‘B’ or higher in the last five years.
- A GRE score from an exam taken within the last five years.
Additionally, international students must complete a significant number of clinical hours and maintain a high GPA, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the program.
Conclusion
The Uniformed Services University’s CRNA School stands out as a premier institution for military medicine and nursing education. Offering rigorous coursework, extensive clinical practice, and a focus on serving the military, USU prepares its graduates to excel in diverse and challenging healthcare environments.
USU has maintained its high standards and met the evolving needs of military healthcare. The program’s growth and the diversity of its applicants reflect its esteemed reputation in nursing education.
Starting a career in military medicine at USU means embracing a commitment to service, leadership, and excellence.
The university’s focus on quality and service prepares nurse anesthetists for the unique demands of military healthcare both domestically and internationally.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the USUHS nurse anesthetist school and military medicine queries. They help you understand admission and program details better.
What are the eligibility requirements for the USUHS nurse anesthetist school? You need a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) or something similar. Your GPA must be at least 3.0. All your classes, like chemistry and anatomy, must come from an approved school. Starting January 1, 2024, you won’t need the GRE. But, you should have done well on the GRE’s math and verbal parts before.
What does the application process involve? You must know a lot about critical care nursing. Most people applying have a CCRN certification. You also need to take a two-day class in BLS, ACLS, & PALS. Make sure you finish all your needed classes by March 31st of the year you plan to start. Only your total GPA matters for applying, not conditional admissions.
What can I expect from the program in terms of student life and career prospects? Living in Baltimore means you get to enjoy city life while studying hard in the 36-month CRNA program. The program has a 100% pass rate on the National Certification Exam in 2012. After you graduate, you’ll work in the medical corps of your branch. This can lead to more career chances in military medicine.
What are the eligibility requirements to apply for the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) CRNA program?
You must be an active-duty service member or ready to serve in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, or Public Health Service. You also need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree. Plus, you must meet the program’s academic and professional requirements.
What is the application process for the USU CRNA program?
First, you send in your application materials. This includes your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of service commitment. Make sure to follow the deadlines on the USU admissions webpage.
Are there financial benefits for attending the USU CRNA program?
Yes, active-duty service members get their education paid for by the U.S. government. They also get a military salary, housing allowance, and other benefits. This helps make graduate medical education less expensive.
What type of degrees does the USU Graduate School of Nursing (GSN) offer?
The GSN offers Master of Science in Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a CRNA specialization, and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Science. These programs prepare nurses for top-quality care in military and federal healthcare settings.
What is the focus of the USU CRNA program?
The program aims to train skilled nurse anesthetists. It combines tough academics, advanced clinical practice, and a commitment to military service. Students learn to provide patient-focused care in tough environments around the world.
How is student life at USU in Bethesda, Maryland?
Student life at USU is all about community. Students join together for both academic and social events. The campus is a place where students from different backgrounds come together, sharing a common mission and building strong friendships.
Is the USU CRNA program accredited?
Yes, the USU CRNA program and all its military healthcare education are accredited. This means they meet the high standards for education and patient care quality.
If you want to find other accredited programs thoughout the country you can search CRNA Schools by State.
What are the career prospects for graduates of the USU CRNA program?
Graduates are ready for leadership roles in military and federal healthcare. The program’s tough training and military commitment prepare them for challenging environments.
Can international students apply to the USU CRNA program?
International students can’t apply directly to USU’s CRNA program. It’s mainly for U.S. service members. But, if you’re serving in the U.S. military or have special affiliations, you might be eligible.
How does the USU CRNA program rank among other nurse anesthesia schools?
USU’s CRNA program is highly respected. It’s known for its tough training, financial benefits, and focus on military readiness. This makes it stand out in military and federal healthcare education.