Overview
COA and nurse anesthesia education
The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) is the recognized accreditor of nurse anesthesia programs, which are now doctoral-entry (DNP or DNAP). Recognized by USDE and CHEA.
The Gate
COA accreditation, the NBCRNA exam, and the CRNA
To become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), you must graduate from a COA-accredited doctoral program and pass the National Certification Examination administered by the NBCRNA. CRNAs are advanced-practice registered nurses licensed in every state. An unaccredited program is not a path to the CRNA credential.
The Path
From RN to CRNA
- Registered nurse + critical-care experienceThe prerequisite before a nurse anesthesia program.
- COA-accredited doctoral programDNP or DNAP — the required entry-level degree.
- NBCRNA National Certification ExamPassed to earn the CRNA credential.
- APRN licensureState licensure as an advanced-practice registered nurse.
Do It Yourself
Verify a nurse anesthesia program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits nurse anesthesia programs? The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), which accredits doctoral-entry nurse anesthesia programs. It is recognized by USDE and CHEA.
- Do I need a COA-accredited program to become a CRNA? Yes. You must graduate from a COA-accredited doctoral program and pass the NBCRNA exam to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
- What degree do nurse anesthetists need? A doctoral degree (DNP or DNAP) from a COA-accredited program; the field moved to doctoral entry.
- What is the NBCRNA exam? The National Certification Examination administered by the NBCRNA, required to earn the CRNA credential.
- Is nurse anesthesia licensed in all states? Yes. CRNAs are advanced-practice registered nurses licensed in every state.
- What are the prerequisites? An RN license and critical-care nursing experience are required before entering a nurse anesthesia program.
- Is COA recognized by the government? Yes. COA is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
- How do I verify a nurse anesthesia program? Search the COA list of accredited programs and confirm certification with the NBCRNA.