Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in the Nurse Anesthesia Program is for experienced critical care RNs who hold a bachelor's degree and wish to become certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). It is a 36-month, full-time, front-loaded program that includes a 21-month clinical anesthesia residency.

The first year is devoted to advanced science courses, doctoral core courses, as well as basic principles of anesthesia, and structured high-fidelity simulation activities. The intensive clinical residency component begins during the fifth semester with advanced didactic coursework for the nurse anesthesiology role and doctoral seminars. During clinical residencies, increasing responsibility for anesthesiology patient care under guidance is afforded. The application of theoretical knowledge to the realities of clinical practice is a dynamic process that enhances and enriches learning as well as prepares the graduate to function effectively and competently as a professional. The sequential design of the program permits the nurse anesthesiology resident to acquire the skills necessary to move along this continuum, practicing to the full scope of anesthesiology practice upon graduation.

As a leader in graduate nursing education for more than a century, Columbia University School of Nursing prepares expert nurse clinicians and researchers to improve the health of individuals, families, and communities in the United States and around the world. Our emphasis on clinical practice, the creation of new knowledge, and leadership in health policy place Columbia Nursing at the forefront of nursing excellence.

We value the pursuit of excellence in nursing by supporting academic integrity and rigor and by encouraging free and open dialogue through interdisciplinary and mutual support. We value a culture of inclusion by embracing multicultural perspectives among faculty, students, and staff and by upholding the principles of health equity, which embrace respect for racial, gender, and cultural diversity in the care of patients, families, and the community.