Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Nurse anesthetists work in a variety of settings where they administer anesthesia and provide care before, during and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic and obstetrical procedures. They also provide pain management and some emergency services. 

USD's nursing anesthesia practice program is a three year program designed for registered nurses who are ready to advance their career and become Certified Registered Nursing Anesthetists (CRNAs). You'll learn in state-of-the-art facilities and gain invaluable practice using advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes. A unique part of your education is the collaborative learning you will experience; as a student in the USD School of Health Sciences, you'll study and practice alongside students from a variety of disciplines preparing you to be an effective and collaborative member of your future patients' care teams. Paired with our program's emphasis on compassion and humanity, you'll graduate prepared to be an expert, thoughtful leader in the health care setting.

Gain the educational background and skills you need to provide anesthesia care in innovative, evidence-based practice through the DNAP program at USD.

On August 11, 2021, the South Dakota Board of Nursing approved the University of South Dakota request for prerequisite status of the program. The program is currently under review for interim status.

The University of South Dakota Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice Program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), 10275 W. Higgins Road, Suite 906, Rosemont, IL 60018; 224-275-9130. The program's next review by the COA is scheduled for May 2028.

• Official Proof of English Proficiency
• Official Transcripts
• Optional Professional Credential Evaluation
• Official Admission Test Scores
• Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Résumé
• Passport