What makes a CRNA school a rural program? Will I be able to get a job in a big city?

[Chris the Nurse]

I have applied to, and been offered an interview at, a program that describes itself as a rural program that prepares its students for rural practice. I was wondering what the differences between this and a 'regular' program were. Also, will this limit my ability to get a job in a big city or metropolitan area?

[missnurse01, MSN, RN]

Wow this is interesting. I looked at nearly every program and don't remember this description. If you pass boards you pass. You might be trained on more skills then students competing with other students or residents for things. See if you can get a demographic of where students end up working after grad, or if they have an alumni you can talk to.

[mh0712, MSN, RN]

Ok a program that focuses on rural crnas is one where crnas practice rurally. This is most likely smaller independent practice places. Murray State mentions that their program focuses on this. Namely because they are the only CRNA school in the state- aside from Texas Wesleyan. Therefore, they focus on turning out crnas that will stay in Kentucky and practice in need great areas. Simple answer is it will in no way have any effect on landing jobs in bigger cities. Namely because a CRNA is a CRNA. Also, you will still

do rotations at larger hospitals where you do your heart, heads, and OB cases. However, you will spend a lot of time at smaller hospitals.