November 14, 2023
The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) approved initial accreditation for new Nurse Anesthesia track within Ursuline BSN-to-DNP program at Ursuline College in collaboration with SNAP --Somnia Nurse Anesthesia Program, LLC.
The full-time, 36-month program prepares baccalaureate-educated nurses to become nurse anesthetists with a doctorate in nursing practice. As of 2022, new graduates from nurse anesthesia programs are required to have a terminal degree such as a DNP to enter practice. The unique hybrid format includes online coursework with in-person simulated and clinical learning experiences across the United States at select locations. Students are required to travel to Ursuline College’s campus three times for simulation immersions, while studying in clinical practices in locations close to their homes, when possible.
“This format allows the majority of our students to study, learn and serve their local communities,” explains Patricia A. Sharpnack, DNP, RN, CNE, NEA-BC, ANEF, FAAN, dean of Ursuline College’s Breen School of Nursing and Health Professions, “while ensuring that they receive a quality education to provide excellent care to their patients as nurse anesthetists.”
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) reports approximately 2,400 CRNAs graduate each year, a number falling far short of the additional 7,600 positions needed by 2028 according to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also notes that career growth for nurse anesthetists is expected to increase by 45% from 2020 to 2030.
“Earning COA accreditation is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates SNAP’s commitment and that of Ursuline College to deliver quality nurse anesthesia education while meeting the nation’s healthcare workforce needs.” states says Stephanie B. Woodruff, DNP, CRNA, CHSE, program director of Ursuline College with SNAP.
The Nurse Anesthesia program is the second large-scale health education program that Ursuline College has launched in a little over a year. Last year, the College welcomed its first students for its new physician’s assistant (PA) program. Thirty more PA students will start in January 2024 along with the inaugural class of up to 25 nurse anesthesia DNP students, selected from almost 139 applications.
Accreditation Statement
Ursuline College with SNAP is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), 10275 W. Higgins Rd., Suite 906, Rosemont, IL 60018-5603; (224) 275-9130. The program's next review by the COA is scheduled for Spring 2029.
