PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The graduate program is based on earning 48 semester credits in the twenty-seven month period. Only full-time students are admitted to the program. The program integrates clinical and academic experiences throughout the curriculum.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants seeking admission to the graduate program must meet the admission requirements of the Minneapolis School of Anesthesia and Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Schools of Graduate and Special Programs.
These include:

1. Complete an application file for the Minneapolis School of Anesthesia by November 30. It is the applicant’s responsibility to contact the School to make sure the file is complete.
2. Graduate from High School (or possess GED).
3. Possess an appropriate baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited College or University. Degrees must be completed and final transcripts submitted prior to the enrollment date in August. Appropriate degrees include:
      a. Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing
      b. Associate Degree or Diploma in Nursing plus another appropriate baccalaureate degree.
4. Possess a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 or greater.
5. Possess Minnesota Registered Nurse License. (Any state for application.)
6. Complete one year of nursing experience in an acute patient care setting within the last three years. (Operating room, emergency room, post-anesthesia recovery and ground/flight transport nursing experience do not fulfill this requirement.)
7. Complete a course in college chemistry within the past five years.
8. Possess advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) recognition. Maintain ACLS and PALS recognition through graduation.
9. Complete the interview process.
10. Complete a physical examination.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

The deadline for completing the application process is November 30 of any year. A completed application file consists of the following:

1. Completed application form.
   Download the MSA Application
2. Application fee of $100.00, non-refundable.
3. A copy of a current Registered Nurse License.
4. One page summary indicating reasons for choosing anesthesia as a career.
5. Personal résumé.
6. Two (2) official transcripts from high school, nursing school, and all colleges/universities attended. Transcripts must be forwarded directly to the School from the Registrar. Copies issued to the student are not acceptable. One (1) of the transcripts will be provided to St. Mary’s University upon acceptance into the program.
7. Letters of recommendation from the following persons:
      a. Director, School of Nursing
      b. Immediate Superior, Current Employment
      c. Immediate Superior, Last Employment
      d. Two (2) Professional Colleagues.
      NOTE: The applicant requests the references letters be submitted directly to the School.
8. All application material MUST be received by the School no later than November 30 to be considered for admission.
9. Upon completion of the above items, applicants may be selected for a personal interview.
10. Complete application to the University Graduate Program following acceptance to the Minneapolis School of Anesthesia.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

Because the class size is limited, applicants who meet minimum admission requirements may not be selected.

The file of each applicant who has completed the application procedure and who was granted an interview will be carefully reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Academic achievement, nursing experience, references, and interview reports will be considered in this evaluation. The School reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant.

Applicants will be notified of the decision of the Admissions Committee. Applicants may be accepted, placed on an alternate list, or not accepted.

Letters of appointment will be mailed in February. Within a specified time, the student must send a letter of acceptance and a $400.00 non-refundable enrollment fee.

ALTHOUGH THE FOLLOWING ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPLY, THEY ARE REQUIRED PRIOR TO ENROLLMENT:

Registered Nurse License. A current copy of both a Minnesota Registered Nurse License and a Wisconsin Registered Nurse License must be on file with the School.

ACLS and PALS Recognition. A current copy of ACLS and PALS recognition must be on file with the School.

Bachelors Degree. An official transcript, designating the bachelors degree has been completed and awarded, must be on file with the School.

Critical Care Experience. Complete one year of nursing experience in an acute patient care setting within the last three years.

Chemistry Course. Complete a course in college chemistry within the past five years. An official transcript, with the chemistry grade posted, must be on file with the School.

Physical Examination. The examination will be completed by the applicant's personal physician at the applicant's expense. The form will be furnished by the School.