PhD in Nurse Anesthetist (PhD)

Applications for the May 2027 intake are open until Sep 1, 2026, and tuition is Tuition and fees are subject to change and are reviewed annually. Financial aid information is available through the Health Professions Financial Aid office..

This program prepares registered nurses to become certified registered nurse anesthetists through a structured curriculum combining classroom instruction and clinical training. Students develop advanced skills in administering anesthesia across all age groups and medical settings. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and uses high-fidelity simulation labs for skill development. Clinical education is provided by experienced CRNAs and anesthesiologists.

The program requires 87 credits and includes didactic coursework, clinical rotations, and training in a high-fidelity anesthesia simulation lab. Students complete a full-time, 36-month track with one annual cohort.

Graduates work as certified registered nurse anesthetists in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities providing anesthesia services.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a CCNE, ACEN, or CNEA accredited program. A minimum GPA and prerequisite courses are required. Application materials include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

The programme totals about 87 credit hours. Full-time, on-campus, 36-month program with one cohort admitted yearly. For international students, tuition is around the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 95% of applicants.

Marian University grew from the vision of the Sisters of St. Francis of Oldenburg, Indiana, and continues a Catholic Franciscan mission focused on preparing transformative leaders for service. It is the nation’s first Franciscan research university and Indianapolis’ only Catholic university. Students can choose from more than 40 degree options, ranging from two-year associate programs and bachelor’s degrees to graduate study and medical school.

Academic areas include arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, community and health science, nursing, and osteopathic medicine. Students take the lead in research projects that address real-world challenges, with faculty guidance across science laboratories and community initiatives. Learning also extends through local and global service opportunities, leadership development, and preparation for careers in research, industry, and other professional fields.

The main campus is in Indianapolis, ten minutes from downtown, with classrooms, residence halls, athletic fields, and the Michael A. Evans Center for Health Sciences. Marian also operates a Plymouth location in northern Indiana and offers flexible online programs. International students should know that Franciscan values are presented as open to students of all faiths, creeds, and beliefs. The university combines academic study with service, personal development, and community participation.