MSN with Concentration in Anesthesia vs. Post Master's Certificate

icyounurse, BSN, RN · Aug 22, 2008

I think as long as both lead to the title of CRNA then employers really dont care. I just went to CRNA school earlier this year, but hated it and dropped out. Alot of people say they want do anesthesia but find the process is not all its cracked up to be. But the years it took me to get into CRNA school:

attained ADN-RN: 2years

went back for BSN while working ICU/critical care areas:3 years

got in early admission and worked while preparing life for school (I had to move out of state): 1 more year

how long lasted in program before I figured out it wasnt for me and was too overwhelming time/financial/stress wise: 3weeks:wink2:

So I guess it took me 6 years from the start of nursing school to get it, which I think is pretty typical as you will need a BSN and at least 2 years of ICU experiance for most programs, which are very competitive so most people have way more experience actually. There were 75 of us and I was among the least experienced and the youngest in my class. And of course once you are in a program its 2-3 years. Mine was 27 months. So my total years would have been nearly 9 years, and a whopping 120,000$ of debt (this was a private school and also you cant work while attending so I would have been taking out $ for living expenses as well), although you can pay it off in 4 years usually. There were alot of recruiters who came to our class those first 2 weeks offering us contracts and incentives like paying off 75% of loans over 4-5 years if you sign a 4 year contract with them.

Anyways hope this helps some!! And good luck to you:)

icyounurse, BSN, RN · Aug 22, 2008

I posted a reply to this?? and its not showing. This is a test post.

Trauma Columnist · Aug 22, 2008

Posts in this forum are moderated, meaning they are reviewed by staff prior to appearing...let me see what is up.

Nacki, MSN, NP · Aug 22, 2008

I think as long as both lead to the title of CRNA then employers really dont care. I just went to CRNA school earlier this year, but hated it and dropped out. Alot of people say they want do anesthesia but find the process is not all its cracked up to be.

icyounurse, did you shadow a CRNA before you went through the whole process of getting ready for school. Sorry to hear it didn't work out for you. What are you doing now?

skipaway · Aug 22, 2008

My question is, what is the real difference between obtaining my MSN with an Anesthesia concentration versus getting my MSN and then obtaining a Post Master's Certificate in Anesthesia? .

My advice is to not go the MSN/Post Master's. That's a waste of time. You'll spend X amount of time getting your MSN and then when you go to Anesthesia School, you'll still spend the same amount of time your fellow students do to get your PMC. The only difference will be you won't be taking some of the Master's in nursing classes, as you will already be done with that. Not having to take those classes will be an advantage but again you'll still be there for the 2-3 years completing the Anesthesia section. Get your ADN as you are already involved with that. Then as an RN in an ICU, apply for a RN to BSN bridge and get your BSN. You'll save time that way and can apply to Anesthesia school sooner.

icyounurse, BSN, RN · Aug 23, 2008

icyounurse, did you shadow a CRNA before you went through the whole process of getting ready for school. Sorry to hear it didn't work out for you. What are you doing now?

Definitely shadowed, it was a requirement for the interview. I worked recovery at the time as well and saw CRNA's in action everyday and knew many pretty well so I really thought it was absolutely what I wanted to do. I guess no one can predict how you are going to react in every situation.

I am in my 2nd semester of Acute Care NP now and so far I like it alot better. The school is alot more flexible and affordable. Plus I can work while going which helps alot. :typing