Prospective students often have important questions about the nurse anesthesia program’s admissions process, requirements and expectations. The following frequently asked questions (FAQs) are intended to provide clear, transparent information about class sizes, application timelines, interviews, academic and clinical prerequisites, and program structure. Because admission is highly competitive and class sizes are intentionally small, we encourage applicants to review this information carefully and to apply early. If additional questions remain after reviewing the FAQs, applicants are welcome to email sara-ward@utulsa.edu for further guidance.
Nurse Anesthesia DNP FAQs
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How many students are accepted each year?
- May 2026: 20
- May 2025: 20
- May 2024: 20
- May 2023: 20
- May 2022: 16
- August 2021: 15
- August 2020: 16
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When is the application deadline?
Due to strong demand and limited class size, early application is encouraged. The Graduate School must receive the completed application with all supporting documents (transcripts, licenses, proof of certifications, current CV, recommendation letters, etc.) before July 31 the year prior to desired matriculation. The application window is May 1 to July 31 each year.
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When will I be notified of an interview?
Interview invitations go out in late August. Interviews occur from late September to early October each year.
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Are all applicants granted an interview?
No. Following a first review by the Graduate School (for completion and basic requirements), the nurse anesthesia admissions committee conducts a secondary review, and approximately 50 individuals will be offered an in-person interview.
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What does a competitive applicant look like?
The most qualified applicants will have a GPA greater than 3.5 and at least two years of critical care experience. Leadership experience (charge, precepting, governance) is highly desirable. Involvement in professional associations, earning additional certifications and advanced training, and scholarly achievements are all factors that will bolster a strong application.
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How many years of critical care experience are required to apply?
A minimum of one year (2,080 hours) of full-time ICU work within the two years prior to application is required, or the equivalent hours if working part-time. Two years is preferred. Clinical experience must be direct patient care that demonstrates independent decision-making. Time spent in orientation or managerial/education positions is not applicable.
Experience areas preferred include:
- Surgical intensive care
- Medical intensive care
- Cardiac intensive care
- Neuro intensive care
- Pediatric or level III neonatal intensive care
- Trauma intensive care
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Do you require CCRN certification for application or admission?
Yes, Adult CCRN certification is required for admission.
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Do you require an OK license to apply for the program?
Oklahoma nursing licensure is not required to apply. Applicants must submit, at the time of application, a copy of their valid, unencumbered RN license from the state where they practice in one of the 50 United States.
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What bachelor's degrees are acceptable?
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or a Bachelor of Science in a related field, is required. Nursing degrees must be from an institution in the United States that is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or the Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA).
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Will I be required to travel to clinical sites and remain overnight?
Yes. Each student is required to complete at least one rotation at a clinical site that requires overnight accommodation. Many of the program’s distance sites offer housing at no charge.
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Do you require the GRE?
No, the GRE is not required to apply.
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Will courses from other institutions transfer to UTulsa's nurse anesthesia program?
The only courses acceptable for transfer are those which fulfill the DNP portion of the program. No anesthesia-specific courses will be accepted.
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When do classes start?
Each incoming cohort begins in late May, typically the week of Memorial Day.
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Will I be able to work part-time during the program?
Successful completion of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia Program (89 course credits) requires a substantial time commitment averaging 54-64 hours per week (including class time, clinical and study time) during the 36-month program. The curriculum is designed for 36 months of full-time study. Historically, given the program’s rigorous nature, students have found it challenging to subsidize their educational expenses through part-time employment. While we discourage part-time employment, students may choose to do so only if they maintain satisfactory academic progress. Said employment may not conflict with academic or clinical assignments. Scheduling of nurse anesthesia program activities will take precedence over scheduling needs for employment. Students are expected to responsibly manage their time and resources. Students are strictly prohibited from working in any capacity that involves administering anesthesia.