Online CRNA School: Details on Programs, Tuition, and More

Comparing Online Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Programs

Certified registered nurse anesthetist programs are tailored for your needs as a working RN. As a result, you can choose between an online or hybrid program. In an online program, you can take all your classes through the school’s learning management system, where you will watch lectures, submit assignments, and communicate with professors and other students. If you choose a hybrid program, you get the benefits of online and in-person learning. You’ll be expected to come to campus for certain activities, such as laboratory work.

No matter which type of program you choose, a clinical experience is required. Just as you did when completing clinical work for your bachelor’s degree, when you choose a nursing specialty on the graduate level, you’ll augment online learning with hands-on training at a healthcare facility.

FAQs for Online CRNA Programs

What are the different types of CRNA programs?

CRNA programs offer multiple pathways depending on your educational background. Accelerated RN-BSN-MSN programs cater to those with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees, providing essential foundational courses before advancing to graduate work. MSN-to-CRNA programs serve nurses with graduate degrees seeking specialization, typically taking two to four years to complete. For those interested in research or leadership, DNP programs are available, while post-master’s certificates accommodate MSN graduates pursuing CRNA certification

Is there financial aid available for CRNA programs?

Yes. Financial aid for nursing students primarily includes scholarships and grants, which don’t require repayment. Professional associations, healthcare organizations, and individual schools offer various payment options and scholarships. Fellowships and assistantships provide valuable experience plus stipends or tuition remission. Federal work-study programs through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help offset costs. When necessary, government and private student loans can fill remaining financial gaps, though it’s important to carefully compare terms.

Should a CRNA program be accredited?

Yes. First and foremost, you need to pay attention to nursing school accreditation. When it comes to your CRNA education, both institutional and program accreditation are extremely important. These designations ensure that you are getting the quality education you deserve, and learning the advanced skills employers expect. Failing to enroll in an accredited program and school can make it difficult or even impossible to transfer credits, seek certification, or even find work.

Is continuing education required for CRNAs?

Yes. The healthcare profession and anesthesia field continue to evolve based on new research and findings. Staying aware of these changes is of utmost importance. Every state sets unique requirements around continuing education, making it important that you stay abreast of updates once you begin to practice.

Fortunately, many organizations and professional associations offer opportunities to participate in continuing education training both online and in person. Additionally, the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) keeps a regularly updated list of opportunities and provides more than 40 online courses that members can take advantage of throughout the year. You can also check with your employer to learn about on-site programming.

Are similar degrees available?

Yes, degrees similar to a CRNA are available. For example, if you want to become an anesthesiologist, an MD in anesthesia is required. Anesthesiologists complete a medical degree followed by a multi-year residency. Meanwhile, an MS in anesthesia prepares graduates for work as anesthesiology assistants. While CRNAs can work on their own, anesthesiology assistants must work under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. They are also not considered nurses.

Also, an AS in anesthesia technology is for those who are interested in working in the discipline but are just starting out. An associate degree in anesthesia technology can help you test the waters by training to work under the supervision of CRNAs and anesthesiologists. These degrees provide a firm foundation for continued study if you decide to progress your career over time.

CRNA Careers and Income

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are experiencing positive growth in job opportunities across the United States. Nationally, CRNA jobs are expected to increase by 8.9%, adding 4,400 new positions and creating around 2,500 annual openings. Some states, however, project much faster growth. California, for example, anticipates a 29.6% growth, adding 800 jobs, while states like Arizona (23.5%), New Mexico (27.6%), and South Dakota (27.8%) also expect substantial increases. Southern states such as Texas and Florida forecast considerable growth as well, with projected increases of 19.5% and 13.6%, respectively. This data highlights the high demand and expansion in healthcare settings for CRNAs, especially in states with fast-growing populations.

The salary outlook for CRNAs in the United States is impressive, with the median national income at $212,650 and top earners exceeding $239,000 annually. Certain states, including Alaska, Arkansas, and Montana, report earnings consistently above $239,000, underscoring high demand and competitive wages in these regions. In California, Connecticut, and New York, CRNAs also reach earnings over $239,000, especially at the upper end.

CRNAs in states like Massachusetts and Washington approach the national high with medians above $220,000. Even states with more modest cost-of-living adjustments, such as Florida and Georgia, offer competitive salaries, with median wages above $175,000. This data highlights that CRNAs in most states enjoy substantial earning potential, often surpassing the six-figure mark, with lucrative opportunities for experienced professionals.

Top Picks: Online Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Programs

Finding the online CRNA program that fits with your academic, professional, and financial needs can take time. You’ll want to compare and contrast your options with a careful eye. That’s where we come in. We’ve identified some of the top online schools and programs for aspiring certified registered nurse anesthetists. We’ve also vetted these programs to ensure they provide the accreditation employers expect. Check out the best options below, and review our methodology to learn how we arrived at these rankings.