AA vs CRNA

[SA2BDOCTOR]

I am confused which is the better route to go? Which path is worth it?

[meandragonbrett]

Here we go again

[Josh L.Ac.]

Since you live in Kansas City, you now have the choice between AA and CRNA. If you are a nurse, it makes sense to take the CRNA route. But since you are about to start an accelerated BSN program, either is a good opportunity.

The AA program at UMKC has much stricter pre-reqs than nursing school, including the MCAT. But it also costs 65K for two years which is more expensive than the 45-50K cost for both KU's and Truman's three year programs. CRNA school obviously requires that you are a nurse and 1-2 years of ICU experience.

You have more profit potential as a CRNA living in KC if you work extra time at some of the rural hospitals within 1-2 hours of KC. This is how some of the CRNA's I've spoken with boost their income. You can also work independently in a plastic's office. As an AA, you have to work as part of the ACT model...which is most of the jobs in KC.

I would apply to the UMKC AA program if it was cheaper. I plan on working in the ACT model and I find the claim of being "just an assistant" more a matter of semantics than actual job responsiblity or income [in the context of working at a KC hospital].

There is a large amount of vitriol and rhetoric on both sides of this debate. Keep and open mind, look for the motivation of those speaking on the subject, and make the decision that is best for you.