UA launches new Early Assurance Pathway to Nurse Anesthesia Program

The highly competitive Nurse Anesthesia Program at The University of Akron will become an accessible reality for a dozen incoming high school students thanks to the launch of the Dr. Brian Radesic - Early Assurance Pathway to Nurse Anesthesia. This prestigious pathway ensures participants meet essential milestones and provides undergraduate students with early access to one of the nation’s most successful nurse anesthesia programs. Last year alone, 160 highly qualified applicants competed for just 45 spots in UA’s program, highlighting its competitive edge and reputation for excellence.

“We are proud to be Ohio’s largest nurse anesthesia program, offering more than 50 clinical sites throughout Ohio in cities such as Cincinnati, Columbus, Toledo, Cleveland, Akron, Canton and Youngstown,” stated Dr. Brian Radesic, program director. “We aim to attract candidates from these areas to pursue their bachelor of science in nursing at UA, where they can receive exceptional education and training.”

The Early Assurance Pathway grants a direct pathway to UA’s Nurse Anesthesia Program to up to 12 high school graduates each year. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic performance, including a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.8, an ACT score of 28 or SAT score of 1300, and completion of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) job shadowing hours. Participants will receive mentorship from UA’s anesthesia faculty and guidance to meet academic and clinical benchmarks throughout their journey. 

As a leader in the field, UA’s program boasts a 98% first-time pass rate on the National Certification Examination (NCE) for 10 consecutive years and a 99% retention rate during the same period. These outcomes far exceed national averages, with the national first-time pass rate for CRNA programs at approximately 83% and attrition rates reaching as high as 20-25% annually in some programs. UA’s program has maintained zero percent attrition since 2017.

UA’s Nurse Anesthesia Program is also the most cost-effective option in Ohio, offering students savings of $15,000 to $110,000 compared to other programs across the state. CRNAs who complete this program can expect a starting salary of $221,000 in 2025, with strong job demand and opportunities nationwide. 

Graduates of the program will progress through UA’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, gain critical ICU nursing experience and ultimately transition into UA’s Post-BSN-Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Nurse Anesthesia Program. This program offers hands-on training in anesthesiology, pain management and perioperative care, preparing students to sit for the National Certification Examination (NCE) to become licensed CRNAs.

For students not eligible for the Early Assurance Pathway, UA offers a traditional route to the Nurse Anesthesia Program. This pathway requires a BSN degree, ICU work experience and a competitive application to UA’s Post-BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Program. 

Prospective students can apply to The University of Akron and the Early Assurance Pathway through the applicant portal. Start your application by visiting our Admissions page.

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd; cboyd@uakron.edu; 330-972-6476