Difference between MSN and MSA degree.

The MSN programs are regulated by the NLN as well as COA, therefore you will be required to take additional courses in nursing theory etc

The MSA or MSNA is only regulated by COA, so the requirements do not include the NLN content.

Abv. guide;
MSN=Masters Science in Nursing
MSNA=Masters Science Nurse Anesthesia
MSA=Masters Science Anesthesia
COA= Council on Accreditation (AANA)
NLN=National League of Nursing

I hope I don't stir up too much commotion, but here goes. MSN programs are traditionally housed in nursing schools, which usually require you to enroll in several nursing theory classes...and we all know what those are good for...

Nurse Anesthesia is founded in science. One receives nursing theory from their undergraduate work. Nurse anesthesia education must concentrate on the sciences in this field....physiology, anatomy, chemistry, physics, pharmacology, principles of anesthesia. Ethics and research are also an important part of this profession.

I'm not discounting the relevance of nursing theory and interpersonal interactions. However, spending time studying life cycle stages and tasks to the clinician takes away from the sciences. In my book, acid-base balance or uptake and distribution of inhaled anesthetics takes precedence over family theory.

Once upon a time, when I applied to nurse anesthesia programs, I made sure they were non-nursing degrees. That was my opinion then and it is still my humble opinion today.

THe degree is based on the college or university the program is housed within. There are sciences involved in both types of degrees. You need to look at individual programs not just what degree they confer. There are great programs that grant a MSN and great programs that grant a MS. I have been involved in both types of programs and the degree was only a part of the picture. Good Luck!

I happen to be at Wayne State currently (senior). I see you are in Toledo. Do you know you can do your clinicals there in Toledo and only come to Wayne for class? Great program BTW.

Many days a week the first couple of semesters but as a senior I only see them 1X weekly. Beats many other options. Give the school a call for details, all are very nice and friendly. Wayne has been very good to me. If you want additional details, PM me and I'll try to help.

I am going to wesleyan MSA
people tell me that if you go non nursing degree that you cut yourself off from nursing, meaning that someday if you wanted you could not teach nursing without a msn.


is that true. could you teach CRNA school instead?
matt