Career roadmap
How to Become a Nurse Anesthetist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a nurse anesthetist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a nurse anesthetist: (1) earn a BSN and RN license, (2) work in critical care, (3) complete a nurse anesthesia program, (4) pass the NCE, (5) get licensed. Most people need about 7–8+ years including RN and ICU experience. BLS lists “master's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a nurse anesthetist
Earn a BSN and RN license
Pass the NCLEX.
Work in critical care
Usually ICU for 1–2+ years.
Complete a nurse anesthesia program
Doctoral, about 3 years.
Pass the NCE
Become certified.
Get licensed
Practice as a CRNA.
Education and training requirements
CRNAs are RNs with critical care experience who complete a doctoral nurse anesthesia program (DNP or DNAP) and pass the National Certification Examination.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Master's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 7–8+ years including RN and ICU experience |
Certifications and licenses
- CRNA (NBCRNA certification): Earned by passing the National Certification Examination.
- State APRN license: Required to practice.
- ACLS and PALS: Life support certifications.
- Continued Professional Certification: Ongoing NBCRNA recertification.
Skills to build now
Start with anesthesia pharmacology, airway management, and regional anesthesia, and practice calm under pressure and vigilance. Learning the nurse anesthetist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- ICU Registered Nurse: Gain critical care experience.
- CRNA: Provide anesthesia.
- Chief CRNA: Lead anesthesia teams.
- Program Director or Educator: Train new CRNAs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Nurse Anesthetist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a CRNA?
Usually 7–8 years or more, including nursing school, ICU experience and a doctoral program.
How long does it take to become a nurse anesthetist?
Most people need about 7–8+ years including RN and ICU experience of training. CRNAs are RNs with critical care experience who complete a doctoral nurse anesthesia program (DNP or DNAP) and pass the National Certification Examination.
Do you need a degree to be a nurse anesthetist?
Yes. BLS lists a master's degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for nurse anesthetists?
Common credentials include CRNA (NBCRNA certification), State APRN license, ACLS and PALS, and Continued Professional Certification. CRNAs need an RN license, NBCRNA certification and state APRN authorization.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1151 (Nurse anesthetists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Nurse anesthetists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.