Combined Degree MSNA-DNAP Program

Description

Curriculum: The combined MSNA-DNAP program is intended to produce entry-level nurse anesthetists who have additional knowledge and skills in leadership, education, and application of best evidence to practice. The combined degree is a minimum of 96 credits. Students complete 63 credits of course work in the MSNA program and 33 credits from the DNAP. In the combined degree, nine credits are common to both programs.

Clinical Practicum: The MSNA Clinical Practicum comprises a six-semester experiential curriculum that meets or exceeds the Council on Accreditation’s minimum clinical requirements. In the combined degree program, NRSA 789 Nurse Anesthesia Professional Practice replaces the final master's clinical course. Students demonstrate accomplishment of the course's objectives through development of a professional portfolio, which includes written case studies of clinical experiences that have significance for nurse anesthesia practice.

Capstone Project: The DNAP culminates in the successful completion of the Capstone Project, which is intended to demonstrate integration and synthesis of concepts and experiences learned throughout the program. The focus of the Capstone Project is the use of best evidence to improve practice and patient outcomes. With the guidance of a 2-person faculty advisory committee, students develop a project on a topic of interest relevant to clinical practice, education, or leadership. The doctoral capstone project may build on interests developed during the master’s Directed Research Courses.

Duration: The MSNA program is available only as a full-time program of study. Students in the combined degree program will complete the MSNA in 7 semesters and are then eligible to sit for the national Certification Examination given by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists. The DNAP may be completed in as little as one semester of full-time study following attainment of the MSNA. However, students may elect to complete the final 12 credits of the DNAP on a part-time basis. The DNAP degree will not be awarded until the MSNA is attained and graduates pass the Certification Examination. The most important element determining the length of an individual's DNAP program is the Capstone Project. Applicants are encouraged to discuss ideas for the project early in their program of study so that curricular activities may be tailored toward developing the project.

Delivery Method: The combined degree program will be available to students in Richmond and Southwest Virginia through the same state-of-the-art telecommunications technologies used to deliver the MSNA curriculum. However, DNAP courses will use a combination of on-and off-campus delivery methods designed with the working CRNA in mind. On-campus sessions, scheduled at the beginning and end of each semester, will employ a traditional mix of educational technologies (e.g., lectures, seminars, discussion, assigned readings). During the off-campus component, students will pursue their studies through a variety of innovative technologies (e.g., computer conferencing, discussion boards, and pod-casting) in addition to completion of assigned readings, projects, and exercises.