CRNA from non-traditional background?

Nursing Students SRNA

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Hi! I am currently an undergraduate who has completed two years of study. I could potentially graduate with a BA in biology at the end of my third year. My ultimate goal is to become a CRNA, but I know I need a BSN first. There is only one ABSN/MSN program that I know of that offers a CRNA specialty, and that is at UPenn. Does anyone have advice for me regarding programs and paths to take given my situation? Thanks!

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Specializes in NICU, Trauma, Oncology.

Since you haven't gotten the BA in bio yet have you considered applying to clinical portion of BSN programs? Might be a good option. I don't know your financial situation but once you have your first bachelors the student loan options are very different and federal grants are unavailable. Also trad BSNs tend to be less expensive than aBSN programs.

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I don't know anything about UPenn, but if I were in your position now, this is what I would do:

1. Finish BA/BS in Biology and make sure your grades are stellar. Also finish taking nursing prereqs.

2. Enroll in Accelerated BSN program (they last anywhere from 12-16 months). At the school I went to there was no difference in cost between aBSN and traditional BSN but I'm sure it varies school to school. I don't know anything about the difference in financial aid if you have bachelors vs not having one. If you have good grades and are willing to do the work, there are frequently many opportunities for scholarships (I think I actually made money off nursing school)

3. Get a job in an ICU and become the best ICU nurse you can be.

4. Apply to anesthesia programs.

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