Prepare to Lead in Advanced Practice Nurse Anesthesia.

At Carson-Newman University, we are committed to preparing the next generation of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) through our Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNaP) program. Designed for nurses ready to take on advanced clinical and leadership roles, our program offers a rigorous, evidence-based curriculum supported by experienced faculty and clinical partnerships.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Our Nurse Anesthesiology Program delivers comprehensive education and training in anesthesia practice across a wide range of clinical settings. Students engage in high-fidelity simulations, didactic coursework, and hands-on experience through diverse clinical rotations. The curriculum is structured to develop both exceptional technical expertise and professional leadership.

ACCREDITATION STATUS

The Nurse Anesthesiology Program at Carson-Newman University is pending full accreditation by the:
Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA)
10275 W. Higgins Rd., Suite 906
Rosemont, IL 60018-5603
Phone: 224-275-9130

In addition:

  • The program is approved to offer the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNaP) degree by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.

  • The program is also pending accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

As a newly launched program, Carson-Newman is committed to transparency and continuous quality improvement. The table below provides a summary of key performance indicators. Data will be published once available.

Requirements

Possession of or eligible for an unencumbered RN license in Tennessee or a compact state by the application deadline.

  • Graduation from an accredited baccalaureate degree program.

  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 credit hours of coursework.

  • A science GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, including coursework in Anatomy and Physiology I and II, and statistics.

  • At least one year of critical care experience within the past three years as defined by Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.

  • Completion of a minimum of 8 hours of shadowing.

  • CCRN certification is mandatory.

  • Preferred qualifications include experience as a preceptor and/or charge nurse.

  • Leadership experience within an ICU or workplace, such as involvement in policy development, practice change initiatives, evidence-based practice projects, or serving as an instructor for BLS/ACLS/PALS, is strongly valued.

  • Submission of a personal statement detailing clinical and work experiences, scholarly activities, community service, and future goals related to obtaining a practice doctorate.

  • Participation in an interview with the Nurse Anesthesiology Admissions Selection Committee.

  • International applicants must complete the TOEFL and provide WES-evaluated transcripts.

  • Applicants who have been dismissed from a nurse anesthesia or advanced practice nursing program for academic, clinical, or behavioral reasons are not eligible for admission to Carson-Newman University’s Nurse Anesthesia BSN-DNP track. Those who withdrew or remain in good standing must submit a letter from their previous program director verifying their status to be considered for admission


Applicants may meet the criteria for admission but may not be offered admission based on a variety of factors.