For over a century, nurses have worked alongside doctors to administer essential anesthesia, allowing patients to undergo surgery without feeling pain.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) play a critical role in patient care, as they have the skills to assess, diagnose, manage, evaluate, and educate patients on their health issues.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in anesthesia, Nurse Anesthetist Programs in Tennessee offer an excellent opportunity for aspiring CRNAs to get the education they need.

CRNA schools in Tennessee are highly regarded for their strong programs, preparing nurses to take on the advanced role of anesthesia specialists. The best CRNA programs in Tennessee provide high-quality education and training, making Tennessee one of the top states for Nurse Anesthetist education.

As a Nurse Anesthetist, you’ll work with a blend of pharmacology and physiology to provide comprehensive care to your patients. According to professionals at Penn Nursing Science, CRNAs are advanced practice nurse anesthesia professionals who work with a high level of autonomy and respect. CRNAs are well-known for their compassion and dedication, focusing on one patient at a time and ensuring careful, vigilant care to alleviate pain.

If you’re considering a career as a CRNA, you may be wondering how to become a CRNA in Tennessee. Becoming a CRNA in Tennessee requires completing a Nurse Anesthesia Program, earning a master’s degree, and meeting the CRNA certification requirements in Tennessee. It’s a career that requires commitment and hard work but offers great rewards.

What is a CRNA?

A Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is a nurse with advanced education and training in anesthesia. CRNAs are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients before surgeries and other medical procedures. They assess patients’ medical conditions, decide on the appropriate anesthetic, monitor patients during procedures, and provide post-operative care. As part of their training, CRNAs must meet Certified Nurse Anesthetist education requirements, including completing a graduate-level Nursing anesthesia graduate program and passing a certification exam.

Top CRNA Programs in Tennessee

When looking for the best Nurse Anesthetist programs in Tennessee, it’s important to consider a variety of factors, such as program reputation, accreditation, and training opportunities. Some of the top CRNA programs in Tennessee include universities and schools in cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis. Each program has unique features, but they all offer high-quality training to become a CRNA. Some programs may also offer online nursing papers, nursing assignments, and nursing research resources for students.

How to Become a CRNA in Tennessee

To pursue a career as a CRNA in Tennessee, you must follow several steps:

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing – You must first become a registered nurse (RN) by completing a nursing program.
2. Gain Experience – Work as an RN in an acute care setting to gain experience in areas like critical care, emergency care, or anesthesia.
3. Enroll in a CRNA Program – Apply to accredited CRNA schools in Tennessee to get the advanced education required for the CRNA role.
4. Pass the Certification Exam – After completing your education, you will need to pass the certification exam to become licensed to practice in Tennessee.

Understanding the CRNA licensure in Tennessee is essential to your path as well, as you’ll need to meet all state-specific requirements to work as a CRNA.

Salary and Job Outlook for CRNAs in Tennessee

Nurse anesthetist salary in Tennessee is competitive, with CRNAs earning a higher salary than many other nursing professionals due to their advanced training. The job prospects for CRNAs in Tennessee are strong, as demand for anesthesia services continues to grow. With more hospitals, surgical centers, and medical procedures requiring anesthesia, CRNA career opportunities in Tennessee are abundant.

Accredited Nurse Anesthetist Schools in Tennessee

When choosing a Nurse Anesthetist school in Tennessee, it’s important to select an accredited CRNA school. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards and prepares students for certification. Some of the most well-known accredited CRNA schools in Tennessee include those at universities in cities such as Nashville and Knoxville, which are home to top-notch programs.

CRNA Admission Requirements

Admission to CRNA programs in Tennessee is highly competitive. Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and work experience in critical care settings. You may also need to submit application materials such as nursing essays and other supporting documents. Be sure to review the admission requirements for each school you’re interested in, as they can vary.

Cost and Financial Aid for Nurse Anesthetist Programs in Tennessee

CRNA training in Tennessee can be expensive, but there are options to help with the cost. Many students qualify for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans. It’s important to explore financial aid options early to help reduce the financial burden of Nurse Anesthetist programs in Tennessee.

1. Vanderbilt University School of Nursing
Location: Nashville, TN
Website: https://www.vanderbilt.edu/nursing
Vanderbilt University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Nurse Anesthesia concentration. The program is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and clinical expertise in anesthesiology, preparing them to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). The curriculum includes advanced pharmacology, anesthesia principles, and hands-on clinical training in diverse healthcare settings.

Accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), the DNP Nurse Anesthesia program at Vanderbilt is known for its rigorous clinical training and exceptional faculty. The program typically takes 36 months to complete, combining both academic coursework and clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam (NCE) to become CRNAs.

Campus: Nashville, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $1,800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

2. University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC)
Location: Memphis, TN
Website: https://www.uthsc.edu/nursing
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Nurse Anesthesia. This program is designed to prepare students for a career as a CRNA, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver anesthesia care in various clinical settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient safety, and leadership in anesthesia.

UTHSC’s Nurse Anesthesia program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program includes both didactic and clinical education, with students completing clinical rotations in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. It can be completed in 36 months, and graduates are eligible to take the certification exam for CRNAs.

Campus: Memphis, TN
Type: Public
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $800 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

3. Union University
Location: Jackson, TN
Website: https://www.uu.edu
Union University offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) program designed to equip students with the clinical and theoretical knowledge required to become CRNAs. The program provides comprehensive education in anesthesia techniques, pharmacology, and physiology, alongside intensive clinical practice. Students complete clinical rotations in various healthcare settings to develop hands-on experience in anesthesia administration.

The MSNA program at Union University is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program can be completed in 27 months, offering a balance of academic coursework and clinical exposure. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam (NCE).

Campus: Jackson, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $1,200 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 27 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

4. East Tennessee State University (ETSU)
Location: Johnson City, TN
Website: https://www.etsu.edu/nursing
East Tennessee State University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a Nurse Anesthesia track, designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for a career as CRNAs. The program combines clinical training with coursework in anesthesia science, patient safety, and leadership. Students also engage in interdisciplinary learning, preparing them to work in a variety of clinical environments.

The Nurse Anesthesia program at ETSU is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The DNP program typically takes 36 months to complete, and students graduate with both a DNP degree and certification eligibility for the CRNA exam.

Campus: Johnson City, TN
Type: Public
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $650 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

5. Tennessee Technological University
Location: Cookeville, TN
Website: https://www.tntech.edu
Tennessee Technological University offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) program that prepares registered nurses to become CRNAs. The program provides a rigorous curriculum that covers anesthesia principles, pharmacology, and clinical anesthesia practice. Students complete extensive clinical hours in hospitals and other medical settings, gaining practical experience in anesthesia administration.

The MSNA program at Tennessee Tech is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program typically takes 28 months to complete, combining classroom instruction with clinical rotations. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to sit for the CRNA certification exam.

Campus: Cookeville, TN
Type: Public
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $850 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 28 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

6. The University of Memphis
Location: Memphis, TN
Website: https://www.memphis.edu/nursing
The University of Memphis offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Nurse Anesthesia program designed to prepare advanced practice nurses for careers as CRNAs. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, anesthesia management, and leadership in the clinical setting. Students participate in clinical rotations that expose them to a variety of anesthesia care environments.

The Nurse Anesthesia program at the University of Memphis is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program is typically completed in 36 months, and graduates are prepared to take the certification exam for CRNAs.

Campus: Memphis, TN
Type: Public
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $600 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

7. Southern Adventist University
Location: Collegedale, TN
Website: https://www.southern.edu/nursing
Southern Adventist University offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) program designed to provide students with comprehensive training in anesthesia care. The program includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice, with students gaining hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. The program’s curriculum is grounded in anesthesia science, pharmacology, and patient safety.

The MSNA program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program typically takes 28 months to complete, and graduates are eligible to sit for the CRNA certification exam.

Campus: Collegedale, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $950 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 28 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

8. Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia
Location: Madison, TN
Website: https://www.mtsa.edu
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) program that prepares students to become Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). The program provides an intensive education in anesthesia science, clinical practice, and leadership. Students complete clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals and healthcare centers, ensuring they gain real-world experience in anesthesia administration.

The MSNA program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program can be completed in 28 months and offers a blend of didactic and clinical education. Graduates are eligible to sit for the CRNA certification exam.

Campus: Madison, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $1,000 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 28 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

9. Lincoln Memorial University
Location: Harrogate, TN
Website: https://www.lmunet.edu
Lincoln Memorial University offers a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA) program that prepares students for advanced practice in anesthesia care. The program includes classroom education on anesthesia science and pharmacology, as well as extensive clinical training. Students complete clinical hours in various healthcare facilities, ensuring they are well-prepared to deliver anesthesia care in a variety of settings.

The MSNA program at Lincoln Memorial University is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program typically takes 28 months to complete, and graduates are eligible to take the CRNA certification exam.

Campus: Harrogate, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $1,050 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 28 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

10. Belmont University
Location: Nashville, TN
Website: https://www.belmont.edu
Belmont University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Nurse Anesthesia specialization. This program is designed to provide students with the clinical expertise and knowledge needed to become CRNAs. The DNP Nurse Anesthesia program focuses on anesthesia techniques, patient safety, and evidence-based practice.

The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) and typically takes three years to complete. Students complete both academic coursework and clinical training, ensuring they are fully prepared for certification and practice as CRNAs.

Campus: Nashville, TN
Type: Private
Accreditation: COA
Tuition: Approx. $1,200 per credit hour
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
Online Available: No
Degree Requirements: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Programs: Nurse Anesthesia

Benefits of Becoming a CRNA in Tennessee

Becoming a Nurse Anesthetist in Tennessee offers many benefits, including a high level of job autonomy, the ability to make critical decisions about patient care, and excellent earning potential. CRNAs also enjoy a great deal of respect in the healthcare community, and the role provides opportunities for career advancement. Whether you’re working in a hospital, surgical center, or private practice, CRNA career pathways in Tennessee are diverse.

CRNA Certification and Licensing in Tennessee

After completing your education and passing the certification exam, you will need to obtain your CRNA certification and ensure you meet the CRNA licensure requirements in Tennessee. This process includes submitting your credentials to the state board and possibly undergoing additional testing or background checks.

Career Pathways for Nurse Anesthetists in Tennessee

Once you become a CRNA in Tennessee, there are many career opportunities. You could work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, or even in specialized areas such as pediatrics, pain management, or labor and delivery. There are also opportunities to pursue advanced roles, such as becoming a clinical instructor or administrator.

Nursing Anesthesia Graduate Programs in Tennessee

If you’re looking to further your education, there are nursing anesthesia graduate programs available in Tennessee. These programs offer advanced training in anesthesia care and may open up additional career opportunities, such as teaching or research positions in the field.

State-Specific Opportunities for CRNAs in Tennessee

Tennessee has a strong demand for CRNAs, particularly in cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis, where there are many hospitals and surgical centers. CRNAs are highly valued in Tennessee, and the state offers numerous opportunities for CRNA career advancement. With a growing healthcare industry, Tennessee remains one of the best places to pursue a career as a CRNA.