Doctor of Nursing Practice
Nurse Anesthesia Option

Program Overview

The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – Nurse Anesthesia Option at Youngstown State University prepares experienced registered nurses to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).

Delivered in partnership with the St. Elizabeth Health Center School for Nurse Anesthetists, this 36-month, full-time doctoral program provides comprehensive training in advanced anesthesia practice, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making.

Through classroom instruction, high-fidelity simulation, and diverse clinical rotations, students gain the expertise to safely administer anesthesia and manage patient care across the lifespan.

Core Areas of Study:

• Advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology
• Comprehensive health assessment
• Nurse anesthesia principles and practices
• Professional role development
• Leadership, health policy, and healthcare systems

All coursework is taught by YSU Graduate Faculty and anesthesia school faculty. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed for registered nurses with critical care experience who are ready to take the next step toward advanced clinical practice. At the time of application, applicants must have a minimum of one year (two preferred) of adult critical care experience in the United States, its territories, or a U.S. military hospital within the last three years. 

Additionally, applicants must be admitted to both YSU’s DNP program and the St. Elizabeth Health Center School for Nurse Anesthetists. You should apply, interview and be accepted at SEHC School for Nurse Anesthetists first before you apply to Youngstown State University.

Graduate Career-Ready

Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam (NCE) administered by the National Board on Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA). Upon certification, they may apply for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) licensure in Ohio or their intended state of practice.

CRNAs are in high demand and provide essential anesthesia and pain management services in:

• Hospitals
• Surgical Centers
• Emergency Departments
• Outpatient Clinics

   

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nurse anesthetists is projected to grow 45% from 2019 to 2029—one of the fastest-growing roles in healthcare.