Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) Completion Degree
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia (MTSA) offers an exceptional Doctorate Completion Program tailored for master’s prepared Certified Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) aiming to elevate their qualifications to a doctoral level. This innovative two-year program is designed to accommodate the demanding schedules of working professionals, providing a completely online learning experience that blends flexibility with rigorous academic standards.
Graduates of the MTSA Doctorate Completion Program emerge as highly qualified experts in nurse anesthesia, equipped with advanced knowledge, research skills, and leadership capabilities. The program not only enhances clinical practice but also opens doors to opportunities in academia, research, and high-level administrative roles. By completing their doctorate, CRNAs demonstrate a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in their profession.
Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia’s Doctorate Completion Program stands out as an exemplary pathway for CRNAs to achieve doctoral-level education while maintaining their professional responsibilities. Its flexible online format, comprehensive curriculum, and emphasis on scholarly work make it a premier choice for those seeking to advance their careers and contribute to the field of nurse anesthesia. With classes starting in early September, there’s no better time for CRNAs to take the next step in their professional journey.
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Specialty Tracks
To cater to specific career goals and interests, the program offers specialty tracks that allow CRNAs to focus on niche areas of nurse anesthesia. Students can choose to complete the program with a concentration in Acute Surgical Pain Management or Nurse Anesthesia Educator tracks. These tracks provide targeted coursework and practical experiences that prepare graduates for specialized roles in their chosen fields, enhancing their expertise and employability.
Credential Awarded
Upon satisfactory completion of this program of study at Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia, the student will be awarded a diploma with the degree Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP).
Program Structure and Flexibility
The MTSA Doctorate Completion Program is meticulously structured to be completed over two years, ensuring that CRNAs can continue their professional practice while advancing their education. The online format allows students to access coursework, participate in discussions, and engage with faculty, making it an ideal solution for those balancing work, life, and education.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The program’s curriculum is aligned with the doctorate completion objectives set forth by the Council on Accreditation for Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). It encompasses a wide range of advanced topics critical to the practice and leadership in nurse anesthesia. Key areas of study include:
- Advanced Clinical Practice: Deepening knowledge and skills in complex anesthesia care.
- Healthcare Policy: Understanding and influencing policy to improve patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
- Leadership and Management: Cultivating leadership qualities essential for high-level administrative roles.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Integrating research and clinical expertise to advance practice standards.
Scholarly Work and Student Achievements
A cornerstone of the program is the development of a professional scholarly project, which synthesizes the knowledge acquired throughout the courses. Students undertake projects, resulting in impactful findings that contribute to the field of nurse anesthesia. Many of these projects are recognized for their excellence, leading to presentations and publications in national and international journals and conferences. This focus on scholarly work not only enhances the individual’s expertise but also contributes to the broader anesthesia community.
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Faculty and Support
MTSA prides itself on its distinguished faculty, who are leaders in the field of nurse anesthesia. They provide personalized mentorship, guiding students through their academic journey and research endeavors. The online platform also includes robust support services, such as virtual libraries, academic advising, and technical assistance, ensuring students have all the resources they need to succeed.
Requirements for Enrollment and Start Dates
Classes for the Doctorate Completion Program begin in early September, providing a timely opportunity for CRNAs to embark on their doctoral journey. The application process is designed to be straightforward, with admissions counselors available to assist prospective students with any questions or concerns.
For more information, please contact hallie.evans@mtsa.edu
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Meet the Director
Hallie Evans is the Program Director for the Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Completion Program and Nurse Educator Track at Middle Tennessee School of Anesthesia. Her expertise includes a wide range of topics including Evidence-Based Practice, Health and Wellness, Grant Writing and Educating future Nurse Anesthesia Educators in the clinical, didactic and simulation settings, as well as curriculum planning and mapping. She serves as a Professor for both the Doctorate Completion Program and Nurse Educator Track. She displays her commitment to the next generation of CRNAs through innovative teaching methods and rigorous curriculum development.
Dr. Evans began her career in education as a clinical preceptor and upon earning her Post-Master’s Doctorate began working as faculty at Florida International university. She has taught across the anesthesia curriculum and joined the faculty at MTSA in 2020 before becoming the Program Director. She is passionate about incorporating health and wellness into curriculums for students and using evidence-based techniques to educate. She created a Micro-credential for Nurse Educators on Health and Wellness techniques to incorporate into curriculums. In addition, she believes service-based learning and giving back is a vital component to both education and wellness.
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Graduation Requirements
DNAP completion students must accomplish each of the following criteria to be eligible to become a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) graduate of MTSA:
- Satisfactory completion of all DNAP completion program courses
- Public presentation of the final Scholarly Project
- Satisfactory completion of all Doctoral Student Learning Outcomes (DSLOs)
- Completion of any and all financial obligations to MTSA
- Completion of the Financial Assistance Exit Interview if applicable
Students who have not been able to complete all the requirements for the final scholarly project by the conclusion of the sixth semester, at the end of the second year, will be allowed to continue enrollment in the program for one additional semester, during which they are expected to complete all course and program outcomes.
MTSA expects that all DNAP level coursework should result in a minimum earned grade of “B”. A course grade of a “C” will result in dismissal from the program.
Students will automatically be dismissed from the program for receiving a failing grade for any course. Failing is defined as any grade below 80%.
Students must keep a current RN license and APN/APRN (as applicable) license for the state in which they reside on file with MTSA during the entire program.
Completion of DNAP Student Portfolio Records: MTSA utilizes an online portfolio to demonstrate DNAP students’ achievement and scholarship. The DNAP curriculum has been developed with the Doctoral Student Learning Objectives (DSLOs) as the foundation.
Each student is responsible for reviewing the program learning objectives and uploading coursework that demonstrates the SLO has been met. Students will review the online portfolio and progression toward meeting the SLOs with their project chairperson.
For more information
Applicants are invited to contact mandy.kelly@mtsa.edu or hallie.evans@mtsa.edu for more information and to make an appointment to visit the school.
