Can a nurse anesthetist become an anesthesiologist?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

Yes, a nurse anesthetist can become an anesthesiologist, however, to do this they must continue their education by attending medical school. While a nurse anesthetist (CRNA) can hold a doctorate degree, they are not considered a medical doctor, unlike an anesthesiologist.

Getting into medical school as a CRNA is an easier task than for those that have only completed bachelor's degrees. There is some chance that the CRNA might have to take classes that they have already taken in their CRNA education. To get into medical school the CRNA would still have to pass the MCAT, but this shouldn't be as hard for them as most pre-med students.

After graduating from medical school they would then have to complete a three to four-year residency, and after that possibly a medical fellowship that lasts another three to four years. In addition, they would also have to take the physician licensing exam and board licensing exams to become an anesthesiologist.