Wake Forest University CRNA School: Expert Training
Ever thought about becoming a top nurse anesthetist? The Wake Forest University CRNA School is more than just a place to learn. It’s a key spot for those aiming to lead in nurse anesthesia. With over 80 years of experience, it offers deep training and real-world practice.
Being part of the School of Medicine, the CRNA program at Wake Forest prepares students to be both skilled and innovative. Its curriculum and clinical experiences are top-notch, setting a high standard for patient care.
Key Takeaways
- The average GPA for accepted candidates is 3.78.
- Accepted candidates have an average GRE score of 312.
- Candidates possess an average of 2 years of ICU experience and 3.4 years as registered nurses.
- A remarkable 92% of accepted Co2025 candidates hold CCRN certification.
- There are 6 CRNA Schools in North Carolina
Important Dates and Information
| Program Length | 36 Month |
| Application Deadline | March 31st May 30th September 1st |
| Degree Offered | DNP |
| Class Size | 26 |
| Cost | $124,000 |
| Contact | napinfo@wakehealth.edu (336) 716-1411 |
| Website | Wake Forest CRNA School |
| School Location | 475 Vine Street Winston-Salem, NC 27101 |
Overview of the Nurse Anesthesia Program
The Nurse Anesthesia Program at Wake Forest University is a top choice for Future CRNA’s.
It’s a 36-month program that mixes classroom learning with hands-on clinical training. This prepares students for the challenges of today’s healthcare world.
Students work on 84 credit hours, focusing on critical thinking and evidence-based practice. With a class size of 26, students get a lot of personal attention and learn to work well together.
Every year, about 150 people apply to this program, with 60 to 70 making it to the interview stage.
This shows how respected the program is. Those who get in usually have a GPA of 3.68 and 1.9 years of ICU experience, plus 3.02 years as a Registered Nurse.
The program’s commitment to success is clear. For example, 96% of first-time test takers pass the certification exam. The program also has a veriy low attrition rate and a 100% employment rate after graduation.
| Program Details | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Program Length | 36 months |
| Credit Hours | 84 credit hours |
| Class Size | 24 students |
| Applicants per Year | 150 applicants |
| Average GPA | 3.68 |
| First Time Test Takers – Certification Exam 2023 | 96% |
| Attrition Rate 2022 | 0% |
| Employment Rate | 100% |
| Annual Mean Wage (North Carolina) | $210,450 |
In summary, Wake Forest University’s Nurse Anesthesia Program offers a thorough education. It also creates a supportive environment for students to become skilled nurse anesthetists.
History of Wake Forest University CRNA School
The Wake Forest University CRNA School started in January 1942 at North Carolina Baptist Hospital.
It began with just two students. This marked the start of a program that would become very respected.
This program was created because of the need for skilled nurse anesthetists. It showed a strong commitment to healthcare during a time of big medical progress.
Lillian Stansfield-Smith became the program’s director in 1956. She led until her marriage in 1963. Under her, the program graduated 110 nurse anesthetists, making it well-known in the area.
In 1952, the school got accreditation from the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA). This was a big achievement that showed the program’s high standards.
After Stansfield-Smith, Helen Vos took over in December 1963. She graduated 132 students by 1977. Then, Shirley Crump became director in July 1977, showing the program’s stability.
In July 1980, the program got full accreditation again. This ensured students got top-notch education and training.
In the fall of 1980, the Master of Science in Anesthesia was introduced. This was through the Bowman Gray School of Medicine. It added to the program’s academic offerings.
Dr. Thomas Irving, who had led the Department of Anesthesiology since 1967, announced his resignation in 1982. Under him, 167 student nurse anesthetists graduated, helping the program’s success.
Today, Wake Forest University is a top school for CRNA programs in North Carolina.
It meets the growing need for CRNAs. The program’s history shows its big impact on local healthcare and its dedication to nurse anesthetist education.
Wake Forest University CRNA School: A Leader in CRNA Education
The Wake Forest University Nurse Anesthesia Program is among the top CRNA programs in the U.S. It stands out thanks to its partnership with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. This partnership offers students valuable clinical training.
Students get almost 25% more clinical learning than the minimum required. They participate in over 800 cases and gain more than 2,500 clinical hours. This hands-on experience is key for their future careers.
At Wake Forest, the faculty is key in shaping CRNA education. They are experienced mentors, guiding students.
The leaders ensure students are well-educated and ready for today’s healthcare.
As North Carolina’s need for nurse anesthetists grows by over 16% in ten years, Wake Forest graduates are set for success. Their education and training make them competitive and ready to excel.
Curriculum and Degree Structure
The CRNA program at Wake Forest University offers a detailed curriculum leading to a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
It spans three years, with one year for distance learning and two for hands-on training. This mix ensures students get both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for various clinical settings.
Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree
The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree is key for CRNA careers.
It focuses on advanced nursing and anesthesia knowledge. Students learn through tough coursework and practical training, improving their anesthesia care skills.
This education prepares them to succeed in many healthcare environments and improve patient care.
Distance and On-Site Education Components
The program balances distance and on-site learning for a flexible, thorough education. Here’s how it’s structured:
| Component | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Distance Education | 1 Year | Theoretical Foundations, Core Nursing Principles |
| On-Site Training | 2 Years | Clinical Application, Hands-on Experience in Diverse Settings |
This setup offers rich learning chances and real-world experience in North Carolina.
Students hone their skills in complex surgeries and advanced anesthesia, setting a strong foundation for their nurse anesthesia careers.
Clinical Training Opportunities
The nurse anesthesia program at Wake Forest University offers top-notch clinical training. Students learn essential skills and gain valuable experience.
They have access to over 30 clinical sites, including famous places like Massachusetts General and the North Carolina Veterans Affairs Hospital.
This education prepares them for a successful career in nurse anesthesia.
Experience Across Various Clinical Sites
Students get a diverse nurse anesthetist clinical experience. They train in many healthcare settings. This broadens their skills and makes them adaptable in different surgical environments.
Key aspects of this training include:
- Hands-on opportunities in hospitals conducting over 34,000 surgical procedures annually.
- Involvement in approximately 700 cases, providing invaluable practical knowledge.
- Collaboration with experienced faculty members who have held prestigious positions within the nurse anesthesia field.
Types of Surgeries and Procedures
Wake Forest University’s program lets students work on a wide range of surgeries and procedures. These experiences challenge their abilities and deepen their understanding of anesthesia practices.
| Type of Procedure | Description |
|---|---|
| General Surgery | Involves procedures on various body systems, often requiring anesthesia management. |
| Orthopedic Surgery | Focuses on the musculoskeletal system, enabling students to administer anesthesia for complex cases. |
| Pediatric Anesthesia | Specialized techniques for administering anesthesia to children, requiring unique skills and approaches. |
| Cardiac Surgery | Involves anesthesia for heart-related procedures, offering insights into critical care. |
Through these varied experiences, students develop the technical abilities needed for the role of a nurse anesthetist.
They also gain the confidence to perform effectively in any situation.
This clinical training, combined with a robust nurse anesthetist clinical experience, shapes well-rounded professionals ready to excel in their careers.
Accreditation and Recognition
The Wake Forest University CRNA program has full CRNA accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).
This shows the program’s dedication to high educational standards in nurse anesthesia. Since 1952, the program has been committed to quality and innovation in education.
Programs at Wake Forest University go through tough evaluations.
These evaluations can last from two to ten years. This ensures programs keep up with high educational standards. If they don’t meet standards, they might lose CRNA accreditation.
Wake Forest University is dedicated to educational excellence. They make sure all graduates are ready for healthcare jobs. The COA lists accredited nurse anesthesia schools every year.
This list shows there are many schools focused on quality nurse anesthesia training.
Why Choose Wake Forest University CRNA School?
Wake Forest University CRNA School is a top choice for aspiring nurse anesthetists.
It’s known for its excellence and thorough training. The program is highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report, making it one of the best CRNA schools in the country.
This recognition shows the school’s commitment to providing a top-notch education. It prepares students for successful careers in nurse anesthesia.
Rankings and Ratings by U.S. News & World Report
The U.S. News & World Report rankings praise Wake Forest University CRNA School. The average GPA of the class of 2025 is 3.78. This shows the high academic standards of the students.
Graduates have a lot of experience, with an average of 3.4 years in nursing and 2 years in intensive care. The program is tough, requiring students to keep a 3.0 GPA to move forward.
- The program maintains rigorous academic expectations, requiring students to uphold at least a 3.0 GPA for progression.
- Successful applicants often possess relevant critical care experience, adding to their competitiveness in the admissions process.
- Notably, around 70% of students come from outside North Carolina, reflecting the program’s national appeal.
Applicants’ GRE scores are usually above 300, showing the quality of students. The program’s high pass rates on licensure exams also highlight its success. This makes graduates ready for rewarding careers in nurse anesthesia.
CRNAs earn a mean annual wage of $210,450 in North Carolina. This shows the field’s value and potential for growth.
Wake Forest CRNA School’s reputation is built on its academic excellence and clinical experience.
Prospective students can trust that choosing this school will prepare them well for a career in nurse anesthesia.
Admissions Process for the CRNA Program
The admissions process at Wake Forest University’s CRNA program aims to find top candidates. These candidates show both great grades and real-world nursing experience.
To apply, you must have a Registered Nurse (R.N.) license in North Carolina or a compact state.
Candidates come from different educational backgrounds. This includes:
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing
- Master’s degree in nursing
The program looks for a minimum GPA of 3.0. Accepted students usually have a GPA of about 3.6.
You’ll also need to take the GRE and have certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Experience is key in the admissions process. You need at least one year (or 2,080 hours) of full-time work in places like the Surgical ICU or Pediatric ICUs.
This experience, along with the ability to detect changes in monitoring systems and communicate well with patients, is crucial.
Wake Forest University is committed to fairness in admissions.
All qualified candidates are considered equally, without bias based on race, gender, or disability. This approach helps create a diverse and vibrant learning environment, essential for future advanced practice nurses.
| Admission Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 required; average of accepted candidates is 3.6 |
| Work Experience | At least 2,080 hours in ICUs within the last two years |
| Standardized Tests | GRE or Miller Analogy Test required |
| Clinical Certifications | Required: BLS, ACLS; recommended: CCRN |
| Class Size | Limited to 24 students per cohort |
| Tuition | $124,000 |
Graduate Outcomes and Success Rates
Graduates from the Wake Forest University CRNA program have achieved great success. They have built a strong reputation in nurse anesthesia education. The numbers show the high quality of training and the focus on student growth in the program.
Employment Statistics
The CRNA program graduate outcomes are impressive. They show the program’s success in preparing students for their careers. Here are some key statistics:
- 100% job placement within six months of graduation.
- A 96% pass rate for first-time test takers of the National Certification Examination.
- A graduation rate of 94%, with a low attrition rate of just 6%.
- 99% pass rate for first-time test takers over the past three years, meeting expectations.
- 100% success rate for those who retake the National Certification Exam.
These numbers highlight the program’s dedication to preparing students for successful careers. The rigorous training and clinical experience play a big role in these results. This ensures graduates are ready to succeed in various healthcare settings.
The Wake Forest CRNA program shows its commitment to creating skilled nurse anesthetists. These graduates are ready to meet the healthcare industry’s demands.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Job Placement Rate | 100% |
| First-Time NCE Pass Rate | 96% |
| Graduation Rate | 94% |
| Attrition Rate | 6% |
| Overall NCE Pass Rate (First Attempt) | 99% |
| NCE Pass Rate (Retake) | 100% |
Contact Information and Resources for Prospective Students
Prospective students looking into Wake Forest University’s CRNA School can find lots of useful info.
The university’s website has all the details on admissions and the program. You can also learn about financial aid and what you need to apply.
Wake Forest University has a lot to offer nursing students. The Pre-Health Professions Handbook is a great resource. It answers common questions and gives advice on health careers. You can learn about nursing, nurse anesthesia, and more.
Wake Forest University is dedicated to helping students. They make sure students know about licensure rules in different states. This helps those aiming for certification in health fields.
Conclusion
The Wake Forest University CRNA School is a top choice for training nurse anesthetists.
It’s ranked #7 out of 113 programs by U.S. News and World Report. This ranking shows the school’s strong academic and clinical training.
Students get the skills needed for success in anesthesia. This makes the program a great choice for those interested in this field.
The school supports students with nine endowments. It also has a strong alumni community, with five members in the Coy Carpenter Society. This shows the program’s commitment to its students and its legacy.
Graduates find good jobs, with median salaries of $214,200 as of May 2023. This makes the Wake Forest University CRNA School a great option for a career in healthcare.
For those looking for a rewarding career, learning about the Wake Forest University CRNA School is key. It offers top education, high success rates, and hands-on training. Now is a great time to explore this career path.
If you are looking for other schools to apply to outside North Carolina you can find a list of all the CRNA Schools at CRNA Schools by State.
FAQ
What are the admission requirements for the Wake Forest University CRNA program?
To apply to the Wake Forest University CRNA program, you need a BSN and ICU experience. You also must take the GRE. These steps ensure you’re ready for the program’s challenges.
How long is the Nurse Anesthesia Program at Wake Forest University?
The program lasts three years. It starts with one year of online classes. Then, you spend two years in hands-on training. You’ll earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree.
Is the Wake Forest University CRNA program accredited?
Yes, the program is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). This means it meets high standards in nurse anesthesia education.
What kind of clinical training opportunities are available in the program?
You’ll get lots of clinical training at over 30 sites, including top hospitals. You’ll work in many surgical areas. This gives you the experience you need for anesthesia work.
How successful are graduates from the Wake Forest University CRNA program?
Graduates do great, with a 96% pass rate on the National Certification Examination (NCE) on their first try. Also, 100% of them find jobs within six months of graduating.
How can prospective students get more information about the program?
Visit the Wake Forest University CRNA School’s website. There, you can find info on admissions, program details, and deadlines. You’ll also find financial aid resources, student testimonials, and curriculum details.
What distinguishes the Wake Forest University CRNA School from other programs?
The Wake Forest University CRNA School is among the top in the U.S. It’s known for its tough curriculum, lots of clinical training, and experienced teachers. It also focuses on using evidence in practice.