Nurse Anesthesia Program, DNP

Led by a team of expert practitioners, and leaders in anesthesia care, our DNP-NA brings the real world and innovative science into the classroom. Our program faculty – who include many alumni – are nurse anesthetists who practice across a range of settings and are fully invested in helping you develop your educational and professional career. Mentored by expert nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists, you’ll acquire the critical thinking skills for independent as well as collaborative clinical decision-making.

You’ll hone your skills in our state-of-the-art simulation center, performing procedures like placing regional anesthetics, using fiber optic intubating equipment, inserting central venous catheters, pulmonary artery catheters and chest tubes, using ultrasound guidance, performing needle cricothyroidotomies, and placing double lumen endotracheal tubes. And you’ll be exposed to experiences that range from common complications to rare occurrences. Our curriculum is divided into four conceptual areas: core courses, area courses, translating research into practice, and leadership and management.

Our robust clinical rotation allows you the opportunity to work with patients of all acuity levels including concentrations in pediatric, cardiac, and non-cardiac thoracic specialties. Our clinical coordinators work to provide you with a supervised introduction to clinical experiences, relying heavily on our excellent faculty to mentor students as they gain independence, critical thinking, and autonomy. The DNP-NA program is a full-time program which can be completed in 36 months.  

For more information: https://www.nursing.upenn.edu/nurse-anesthesia/

Curriculum

A total of 36 course units are required. 

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.