[foolie]

Hi!

Im currently enrolled over at SCU in northern california, and as im approaching my junior year i've been developing a great interest in becoming a CRNA or further into DNAP. However, i know in order for me to become a CRNA, i need at least one year of RN work and a nursing related degree for some schools. I'm a combined sciences major enrolled in the pre-health program, and to my knowledge there isnt a nursing program here. So i'm wondering...am i wasting time? Would i have to go put in an additional 2-3 years after ugrad to become a RN? Thanks much in advance.

[cathys01]

Yes, in order to work as an RN to get the prerequisite 1 year of experience for CRNA school you will actually have to become an RN. This entails either: 1) attending a 1 year accelerated BSN program after completion of the undergrad 2) attending a 2 year ADN program after completing the undergrad 3) transferring to a 4 year program and doing a traditional BSN program - the BSN programs usually start in the Junior year anyway, assuming all the prereqs are complete

There is no way around the RN requirement as CRNA means Certified REGISTERED NURSE Anesthetist.

[CRNA, DNSc]

Originally Posted by foolie

Hi!

Im currently enrolled over at SCU in northern california, and as im approaching my junior year i've been developing a great interest in becoming a CRNA or further into DNAP. However, i know in order for me to become a CRNA, i need at least one year of RN work and a nursing related degree for some schools. I'm a combined sciences major enrolled in the pre-health program, and to my knowledge there isnt a nursing program here. So i'm wondering...am i wasting time? Would i have to go put in an additional 2-3 years after ugrad to become a RN? Thanks much in advance.

You would probably eligible for an accelerated RN program after you complete your science degree but if you want to become an RN then do that now.

[japaho41]

It sounds like you are weighing continuning your degree or attempting to enroll in a BSN program.
My suggestion is to apply to a BSN program opposed to finishing your degree. Some programs have a waiting list so it could be awhile before you could start. If that were the case then only take classes that would transfer and count towards a BSN or a prereq for CRNA programs.
If you were only a year to 6 mos. out from graduating I would suggestion completing your degree because it will help you in the application process down the road.

[foolie]

Originally Posted by CRNA, DNSc

You would probably eligible for an accelerated RN program after you complete your science degree but if you want to become an RN then do that now.

hi, thanks for all your suggestions! DNSc, how would i go about getting the RN right now during school?

I considered transferring, but unfortunately im missing out some pre reqs that they require..im eyeing VCU and Mt Saint Marys.

[japaho41]

I don't think that I would attempt to get both degrees at the same time if that is what you are asking. What I would do if I were you is apply to a nursing program preferably a BSN program, while you are waiting for acceptance continue to take courses that will transfer into that program, micro, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, stats....

[dfk]

Originally Posted by foolie

hi, thanks for all your suggestions! DNSc, how would i go about getting the RN right now during school?

I considered transferring, but unfortunately im missing out some pre reqs that they require..im eyeing VCU and Mt Saint Marys.

heck, if you can get into VCU, they are the school with the DNAP, right? you could get your foot in the door for your bsn, stand out, apply to their crna program, and evolve right into the dnap. of course, if that's the route you are thinking about taking.