- B.S.N. degree from a regionally accredited college or university, and nationally accredited (National League for Nursing (NLNAC) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing education (CCNE) nursing program.
- Complete application for admission to the Graduate School, including official copies of transcripts from all colleges/universities attended. One-page application to the School of Nursing.
- Completion of undergraduate or graduate courses in basic statistics and research.
- Basic, Pediatric, and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification (BCS, PALS, and ACLS).
- Personal interview.
- At least one year of acute care experience as a registered nurse with emphasis placed on interpretation and use of advanced monitoring, ventilatory care, fine psychomotor skills, and independent decision making. Appropriate experiences include: Surgical Intensive Care, Medical Intensive Care, Cardiac Intensive Care, and Pediatric or Neonatal Intensive Care.
- Satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination (not more than 5 years old).
- An overall grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Three professional references: one reference must be from a current or recent employer.
- Current unrestricted license, or eligibility for licensure, to practice as a registered nurse in North Carolina.
Selection will be based on the applicant's qualifications, intellectual curiosity, communication skills, and potential for professional growth. Exception to any of the admission requirements will be considered on an individual basis. Meeting minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Application Process
Applicants must apply directly to the WCU Graduate School. Completed applications are due to the Graduate School by June 15 preceding the January matriculation date. Graduate applications can be accessed at: Graduate School Application. Transcripts, references, and GRE scores should be sent directly to the Graduate School at:
Western Carolina University
Graduate School
109 Cordelia Camp Building
Cullowhee, NC 28723-9022
Phone: (828) 227 7398 or (800) 369 9854
Facsimile: (828) 227 7480
Students must also complete a one page application to the School of Nursing accessed at M.S.N. Application. Mail to:
School of Nursing
Nurse Anesthesia Program
Western Carolina University
AB-Tech Enka Campus, G33
1459 Sand Hill Road
Candler, NC 28715
Western Carolina University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, or any factor protected by law.