Advice needed

m1lkofamnesia · Jun 17, 2017

I don't know much about Philly, but I can tell you Tampa has 2 main options for CRNA school: USF and Barry. USF takes 50 students, Barry takes quite a few on their Tampa campus, but not sure exactly, perhaps 20-25 at the Tampa campus? I believe they increased their total class size for the new class. Hopefully someone at Barry can comment and tell you more! I will tell you that at USF, you would have more options regarding clinical sites in the Tampa Bay area (over 25). I believe Barry has 2 or 3 clinical sites in Tampa as of now. Both programs are pretty equal in price, ~$60k.

As far as gaining employment in Tampa, look into TGH, Bayfront, Florida Hospital, Brandon Regional, or any of the BayCare hospitals.

oceanblue52 · Jun 17, 2017

Haven't lived in Philly for awhile, but last I heard the job market is pretty brutal, because there are a TON of nursing programs in the area when you factor in the outlying suburbs. Pay will be better than Tampa though. I haven't looked into it, but there are several top notch hospital systems/universities in the region for CRNA programs. If you can afford it, maybe you can get licenses in both states and apply in both cities?

adam3 · Jun 19, 2017

Is job market in Philly really that bad?Please anyone from that area can tell me?

icuCCRNurse · Jun 24, 2017

PA has a lot more programs, so if you get in-state there, you also have more schooling options at a discounted price.

sigiris · Jun 26, 2017

I would check out the COA school search; CRNA School Search

Every school has different requirements and I think it is important where you see yourself and have a support system. Regardless where you choose, your best chance I believe is a program with a strong affiliation with the hospital where you are/will be employed getting your ICU experience. This way you will be on a first name basis with the CRNAs and possibility the faculty involved in the hospital clinical setting.