Which CRNA School is Best?

manusko · Oct 6, 2013

I applied to 5 anesthesia schools that attracted me the most and got 5/5 interviews. I am a Ohio resident. I would like to hear opinions on each program. I'm really leaning towards Rush. I don't mind moving. I know rankings are subjective but they do have some merit.
Which would you choose and why? Any current students at these schools? I do not want to hear a CRNA is a CRNA. That is not true in my opinion. Yes, everyone will graduate and be CRNA's but the rigor and experiences of each program are different.
Rush University (DNP, #3 ranked, $85k, Chicago, $1900 month stipened, opportunity for surgical mission trip in Belize, strong science based program)
Georgetown University (MSN, ranked #17, $50k, DC, clinical experiences at great hospitals such as John Hopkins, high cost of living in area, human anatomy cadaver lab, school of medicine faculty teaches science courses)
Case Western Reserve University (MSN, ranked #7, $65k, free healthcare, $1000 per month stipened for 2.5 year work contract post grad, associated with Cleveland Clinic)
University of Cincinnati (MSN, ranked #32, $35k, close to home, 4th oldest CRNA program, minimal commuting with all clinicals being within 25 mile radius)
University of Akron (MSN, ranked #72, $32k, would have to commute 3.5 hours in one direction on Monday and Tuesdays, clinical arrangement at my current place of employment)

I did not attend any of these universities but speaking as a recent graduate, I would look at the financials very closely. Chicago and DC are very, very expensive places to live. If the arrangement at Case pays your tuition, I would lean that way with free healthcare available.