{"id":22,"date":"2023-09-07T00:25:51","date_gmt":"2023-09-07T00:25:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/?page_id=22"},"modified":"2026-03-04T02:15:20","modified_gmt":"2026-03-04T02:15:20","slug":"faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n    \n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--hero-primary horizontal-navigation\"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--hero-primary\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper has-horizontal-nav\">\n\n          <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n\n                  <div class=\"eyebrow-container\">\n                              \n<div class=\"f--field f--eyebrow\">\n\n    \n  <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/\"  aria-label=\"Read more about Nurse Anesthesia Program\">Nurse Anesthesia Program<\/a>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n                              \n<div class=\"f--field f--eyebrow\">\n\n    \n  <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/\"  aria-label=\"Read more about Admission Information\">Admission Information<\/a>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n                      <\/div>\n        \n                      \n<div class=\"f--field f--page-title has-stripe\">\n\n    \n  <h1>FAQ<\/h1>\n\n\n<\/div>\n        \n              <\/div>\n    \n              \n<div class=\"f--field f--link eyebrow-link\">\n\n    \n    \n  \n<a\n  class=\"link \"\n  href=\"\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/\"\n    aria-label=\"Read&#x20;more&#x20;about&#x20;Apply&#x20;Now&#x21;\">\n        Apply Now!\n    <\/a>\n\n\n<\/div>\n    \n    \n      \n              <div class=\"horizontal-nav\">\n                      <div class=\"horizontal-menu-container\">\n              <button class=\"expand-menu\">\n                                  In This Section\n                                <svg class=\"menu\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\"\n                  y=\"0px\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 35 35\" xml:space=\"preserve\">\n                  <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" fill=\"#000\" d=\"M4,23h3v3H4V23z M4,16h3v3H4V16z M10,23\n                  h21v3H10V23z M10,16h21v3H10V16z M10,9h21v3H10V9z M4,9h3v3H4V9z\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n\n                <svg class=\"close\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" x=\"0px\" y=\"0px\"\n                  viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" enable-background=\"new 0 0 35 35\" xml:space=\"preserve\">\n                  <polygon fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" points=\"26,10.4 24.6,9 17.5,16.1 10.4,9 9,10.4 16.1,17.5\n                  9,24.6 10.4,26 17.5,18.9 24.6,26 26,24.6 18.9,17.5 \"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n              <\/button>\n\n              <nav\n  class=\"mc--menu mc--\"\n  >\n  <ul class=\"m--menu m--\">\n    \n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-home menu-item-20 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/\" >Nurse Anesthesia Program<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Nurse Anesthesia Program\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-31\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/course-information\/rotation-facilities\/\" >Rotation Facilities<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\"has-submenu menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-21 menu-item-has-children\">\n      <div class=\"link-arrow-wrapper\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/\" >Admission Information<\/a>\n\n      <button class=\"expand-children has-submenu arrow-toggle\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-haspopup=\"true\" aria-label=\"Display Submenu for Admission Information\">\n        <svg height=\"35\" viewBox=\"0 0 35 35\" width=\"35\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n          <path d=\"m17.5 20.2142857 6.2142857-6.2142857 1.2857143 1.2857143-7.5 7.5-7.5-7.5 1.2857143-1.2857143z\" fill=\"#000\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"\/>\n        <\/svg>\n      <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper\">\n      <div class=\"submenus-wrapper-inner\">\n        <ul class=\"submenu\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-27\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/course-information\/\" >Course Information<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-50\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/financial-aid\/\" >Financial Aid<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n                  <\/ul>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-23\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/\" >FAQ<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-35\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/faculty\/\" >Faculty<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <li class=\" menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page menu-item-36\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/contact\/\" >Contact<\/a>\n  \n  \n<\/li>\n\n    \n      <\/ul><!-- m--menu -->\n<\/nav>\n\n            <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n   aria-label=\"Content Accordions\"\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Program Admission Information\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-6RTIarBLSp\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-6RTIarBLSp\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Admission Requirements &amp; Prerequisites<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-6RTIarBLSp\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-6RTIarBLSp\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ol type=\"a\">\n<li>Baccalaureate degree in nursing or another discipline, e.g., BSN, BS, or BA (Graduate degrees are acceptable, e.g., MSN)<\/li>\n<li>Registered nurse with active licensure in the United States\n<ol type=\"a\">\n<li>Applicants must have <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\">ONE<\/span> completed year in critical care to apply, and <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\">TWO<\/span> completed years by program matriculation (every May).<\/li>\n<li>California licensure is required by program matriculation \u2013 <strong>begin the license process early<\/strong>!\n<ol type=\"a\">\n<li>Admission is contingent on obtaining an active, unencumbered professional registered nursing license in California.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>English comprehension or equivalent writing course.\n<ol type=\"a\">\n<li>AP English is accepted, but evidence of an upper-division course with writing assignments should be submitted with the application. A graded, writing example may be requested.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Undergraduate Prerequisites:\n<ol type=\"a\">\n<li>Anatomy and physiology: (1 [ONE] semester each or 1 [ONE] year combined course) &#8211; <em>expires 10 years from completion date<\/em><\/li>\n<li>Chemistry: 2 (TWO) semesters. One semester of general (inorganic) chemistry and one semester of either biochemistry (preferred) or organic chemistry. Combined courses are acceptable, but TWO semesters are required.\u00a0<strong>No lab required\u00a0<\/strong>&#8211;\u00a0<em>expires 10 years from completion date<\/em><\/li>\n<li>Physics: (introductory or general) ONE semester.\u00a0<strong>No lab required<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Biology or microbiology: ONE semester<\/li>\n<li>Nursing research<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>All prerequisite coursework must be completed by March 31<sup>st<\/sup>\u00a0of the enrollment year.\n<ol type=\"a\">\n<li>Anatomy, physiology, general chemistry, and biochemistry or organic chemistry older than ten years must be retaken and completed by March 31st of the enrollment year. <strong>Admission offers are contingent on completion of all prerequisites.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>The Program of Nurse Anesthesia does not offer advanced standing; however, up to 12 units of transfer credit <em>may<\/em>\u00a0be applied to the applicant\u2019s plan of study\u00a0<strong>but is subject to program administration approval and university policy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n                                                                            \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n   aria-label=\"Content Accordions\"\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Frequently Asked Questions\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">When will USC review my official transcripts?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"76\" data-end=\"467\">The USC Graduate Admissions Office reviews all official transcripts submitted to <strong data-start=\"157\" data-end=\"175\"><a class=\"decorated-link cursor-pointer\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"159\" data-end=\"173\">etrans@usc.edu<\/a><\/strong>. Electronic transcripts are strongly preferred over paper copies. Processing typically takes <strong data-start=\"269\" data-end=\"290\">two to four weeks<\/strong>, depending on volume and other factors. In many cases, transcripts are received on time but experience delays due to the high volume of documents processed by the university.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"474\" data-end=\"708\">Please note that transcripts are indexed to the applicant\u2019s <strong data-start=\"534\" data-end=\"593\">university profile and program supplemental application<\/strong>. As a result, the program is unable to review transcripts until the supplemental application has been submitted.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"876\"><strong data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"818\">Applicants must retain the transcript request receipt and upload it to the supplemental application<\/strong>, along with a copy of their <strong data-start=\"847\" data-end=\"873\">unofficial transcripts<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"883\" data-end=\"971\"><strong data-start=\"883\" data-end=\"971\">International and non-U.S.\u2013based transcripts must be received no later than July 31.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-2-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-2-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">When should I submit (request) my official transcripts be sent to the University of Southern California?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-2-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-2-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"160\"><strong data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"158\">Please follow the steps below in the order listed:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"882\">\n<li data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"299\">\n<p data-start=\"170\" data-end=\"299\">Applicants must complete and submit the <strong>university application<\/strong> <em>before<\/em> requesting official undergraduate transcripts.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"302\" data-end=\"420\">\n<p data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"420\">Request all official post-secondary transcripts.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"882\">\n<li data-start=\"302\" data-end=\"420\">\n<p data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"420\">Undergraduate coursework is used to calculate the admission GPA.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"423\" data-end=\"518\">\n<p data-start=\"426\" data-end=\"518\">USC will index all received transcripts to the applicant\u2019s university application profile.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"521\" data-end=\"608\">\n<p data-start=\"524\" data-end=\"608\">Applicants must complete and submit the <strong>supplemental program-specific application<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"167\" data-end=\"882\">\n<li data-start=\"611\" data-end=\"757\">\n<p data-start=\"614\" data-end=\"757\"><strong>Retain<\/strong> each <strong>transcript request receipt<\/strong> and <strong>upload<\/strong> them to the supplemental application, along with a copy of your <strong>unofficial transcripts<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"760\" data-end=\"878\">\n<p data-start=\"763\" data-end=\"878\">International applicants and transcripts issued outside the United States must be received <strong>no later than July 31<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"text-align: center\" data-start=\"885\" data-end=\"1043\"><strong data-start=\"885\" data-end=\"899\">Important:<\/strong> An application profile is not created until both the university application and the supplemental application have been completed and submitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-3-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-3-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Are electronic or paper transcripts preferred?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-3-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-3-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"84\" data-end=\"283\">The program prefers <strong data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"139\">electronic transcripts<\/strong> submitted by the institution(s) or clearinghouse to <strong data-start=\"153\" data-end=\"171\"><a class=\"decorated-link cursor-pointer\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"155\" data-end=\"169\">etrans@usc.edu<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"84\" data-end=\"283\">Paper transcripts should be submitted only by institutions that do not offer electronic transcript delivery.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"290\" data-end=\"580\">If an electronic transcript has been requested and successfully submitted, a paper duplicate is <strong data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"402\">not required<\/strong>. Although the application system may indicate that both formats are needed, paper transcripts are appropriate only for institutions without electronic transcript capabilities.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"714\"><strong data-start=\"587\" data-end=\"714\">Do not send transcripts until the university application application has been submitted.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-4-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-4-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I have completed courses outside the United States. How do I handle my transcripts?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-4-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-4-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"118\" data-end=\"482\">If you completed your prior studies outside the United States, please review USC\u2019s country-specific requirements to determine whether original-language academic records are required. In such cases, applicants must submit transcripts issued in the original language of instruction, along with a separate, word-for-word English translation of all academic records.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"784\">Translations must be issued either directly by the institution or by a professional, certified translator. The translation must include all information contained in the original-language documents and reflect the content as precisely as possible. Dual-language transcripts are also acceptable.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"979\">USC does not accept credential evaluation reports from external agencies such as WES or ECE for admission review. Only academic records issued directly by the institution are acceptable.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"791\" data-end=\"979\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/tools-resources\/transcript-requirements\/\">https:\/\/gradadm.usc.edu\/tools-resources\/transcript-requirements\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1089\"><strong data-start=\"986\" data-end=\"1089\">All transcripts from institutions outside the United States must be received no later than July 31.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-5-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-5-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to submit both a university application and a supplemental application, or can I submit one and not the other?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-5-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-5-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"111\" data-end=\"360\">Both the university application and the program supplemental application must be submitted, <em>preferably at the same time<\/em>. The program cannot review or index letters of reference or university transcripts until both applications have been submitted.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"440\">Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered for admission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-6-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-6-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I am an undergraduate nursing student interested in nurse anesthesia; may I apply to the program upon graduation?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-6-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-6-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>The program requires applicants to hold an active registered nurse license and to have <strong data-start=\"160\" data-end=\"255\">at least one completed year of critical care nursing experience at the time of application submission<\/strong>. In addition, applicants must have <strong data-start=\"291\" data-end=\"381\">a minimum of two completed years of critical care nursing experience by the start of the program<\/strong>, which typically begins in May each year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-7-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-7-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to be certified in critical care nursing (e.g., CCRN) for my application to be considered?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-7-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-7-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"79\" data-end=\"366\">While not a program requirement, the nearly every applicant holds the CCRN credential. The CCRN is a respected certification that demonstrates foundational knowledge in critical care nursing and is an important qualification to convey to the Admissions Committee.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"373\" data-end=\"592\" data-is-last-node=\"\">Eligibility requirements and timing restrictions apply to obtaining the CCRN credential. Applicants are encouraged to review the American Association of Critical Care Nurses website for additional information about the certification qualifiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-8-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-8-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I practice nursing in an Emergency Department (ED), Stepdown\/Intermediate Care Unit, or Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Do I meet the critical care nursing requirement?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-8-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-8-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"86\" data-end=\"267\">While emergency department, stepdown, and post-anesthesia care unit nursing are complex and highly skilled practice areas, they do not meet the program\u2019s definition of critical care nursing.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"274\" data-end=\"662\">For the purposes of admission, the program defines critical care nursing as the <strong>regular<\/strong> and <strong>consistent<\/strong> (current) delivery of high-acuity professional registered nursing care to patients with complex pathology and unstable hemodynamic profiles. This care may include the management of mechanical ventilation, vasoactive infusions, life-sustaining technologies, and advanced hemodynamic monitoring.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"669\" data-end=\"763\" data-is-last-node=\"\">Eligible critical care populations include neonatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-9-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-9-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Does flight nursing experience meet the definition of critical care nursing?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-9-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-9-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"364\">Flight nursing experience may qualify as critical care experience for admission purposes. If the majority of your flight nursing shift involves providing <strong data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"277\">direct patient care<\/strong> at a critical care level, this experience may meet the program\u2019s admission criteria.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"371\" data-end=\"713\">However, flight nursing experience does not qualify if critical care services are provided only for brief periods or on an inconsistent basis. Applicants should assess whether they are providing critical care nursing <strong data-start=\"588\" data-end=\"604\">consistently<\/strong>, meaning for the majority of each shift, and <strong data-start=\"650\" data-end=\"668\">longitudinally<\/strong>, meaning across multiple shifts over time.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"720\" data-end=\"877\" data-is-last-node=\"\">A letter from your employer describing and attesting to the scope of services you provide may be requested and can be helpful in supporting your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-10-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-10-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I used to practice in critical care, but now I work in a different clinical department. Do I meet the professional practice admission requirements?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-10-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-10-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Because critical care is a dynamic and continuously evolving specialty, the program requires all applicants to be <strong data-start=\"183\" data-end=\"207\">currently practicing<\/strong> in a critical care setting at the time of application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-11-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-11-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">My undergraduate grade point average (GPA) was below 3.0. Can I apply to the program?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-11-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-11-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"312\">The University of Southern California calculates all applicants\u2019 undergraduate GPAs. A cumulative undergraduate GPA <strong data-start=\"217\" data-end=\"267\">below 3.0 does not meet admission requirements<\/strong>, and conditional admission is not offered.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"734\">The program requires a <strong data-start=\"342\" data-end=\"393\">cumulative undergraduate GPA greater than 3.000<\/strong>, calculated from all undergraduate-level coursework completed at a <strong data-start=\"461\" data-end=\"498\">regionally accredited institution<\/strong>. Coursework may be completed at a community college, four-year university, or accredited online extension program, either before or after completion of a bachelor\u2019s degree. Graduate coursework is <strong data-start=\"695\" data-end=\"702\">not<\/strong> included in GPA calculations.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"741\" data-end=\"972\">Applicants with lower GPAs may choose to repeat undergraduate coursework to improve their academic record. When courses are repeated, USC calculates a <strong data-start=\"892\" data-end=\"906\">mean grade<\/strong> across all attempts and uses that value in the GPA calculation.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1202\">All GPA calculations are performed exclusively by the USC Graduate Office. The Program of Nurse Anesthesia does not calculate, estimate, or disclose applicant GPAs or GPA formulas and follows all Graduate Office policies.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1209\" data-end=\"1339\">For reference, the most recently admitted doctoral cohort (2026) had a <strong data-start=\"1273\" data-end=\"1307\">mean undergraduate GPA of 3.71<\/strong>, consistent with prior cohorts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-12-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-12-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">My undergraduate GPA was below 3.0, but I have a graduate degree with a GPA greater than 3.5. Will USC consider my graduate GPA<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-12-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-12-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>The University of Southern California considers <strong data-start=\"121\" data-end=\"162\">only the cumulative undergraduate GPA<\/strong> for admission purposes. Applicants with a lower undergraduate GPA may improve their academic standing by retaking undergraduate science coursework to raise the cumulative GPA above the minimum threshold. Graduate coursework does not replace or offset undergraduate coursework for GPA calculation, regardless of when it was completed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-13-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-13-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do my letters of recommendation need to be signed?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-13-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-13-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"132\" data-end=\"266\">All letters of reference must be signed. Electronic signatures are acceptable, and letters must be submitted on official letterhead.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"273\" data-end=\"510\">Applicants must list the names and email addresses of <strong data-start=\"327\" data-end=\"347\">three references<\/strong> on the university application. Each reference will receive a secure email link and must upload the completed letter directly through the portal using that link.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>One letter from a direct nurse manager or supervisor or charge nurse<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left\">One letter from an advanced practice clinician (CRNA, NP, MD, or PA)<\/li>\n<li>The applicant\u2019s choice of someone who has evaluated the applicant\u2019s professional practice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left\" data-start=\"517\" data-end=\"629\"><strong>Only signed, completed letters on letterhead submitted directly by the reference through the secure portal will be considered.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-14-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-14-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Is the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) required for the application?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-14-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-14-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p><strong>Effective January 1, 2024<\/strong>, the GRE is no longer required or considered. Please do not submit any GRE scores with your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-15-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-15-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to have current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support certifications to apply and matriculate into the program?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-15-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-15-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"91\" data-end=\"249\"><strong data-start=\"91\" data-end=\"112\">Effective in 2024<\/strong>, applicants are not required to hold BLS, ACLS, or PALS certification to apply to or matriculate into the Program of Nurse Anesthesia.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"256\" data-end=\"539\">A two-day, in-person American Heart Association certification course in BLS, ACLS, and PALS will be provided for all first- and third-year students during program orientation. A designated student fee will be assessed for first- and third-year cohorts to cover certification costs.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"546\" data-end=\"741\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong>Regardless of prior certification status or expiration dates, all first- and third-year students are required to complete the certification course offered through the Program of Nurse Anesthesia.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-16-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-16-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I graduated from my nursing program more than ten years ago. Do I meet the admission criteria?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-16-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-16-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"96\" data-end=\"315\">Applicants must meet all admission requirements, including the minimum professional practice experience in an appropriate critical care setting. <strong>The program does not impose a maximum professional practice requirement.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"322\" data-end=\"703\">Professional registered nurses who graduated more than ten years prior to program enrollment may be required to repeat anatomy and physiology coursework and complete two chemistry courses, including general chemistry and either biochemistry or organic chemistry. Prerequisite currency is determined based on the date of program enrollment, not the date of application submission.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"710\" data-end=\"869\">In addition, introductory physics is required, as most undergraduate nursing programs do not include physics in their curriculum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-17-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-17-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Does USC accept quarter units?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-17-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-17-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Yes. The <strong><span style=\"color: #ad1717\">University of Southern California<\/span><\/strong> accepts quarter units, but applicants are reminded that undergraduate coursework is not transferred into the doctoral nurse anesthesia curriculum. The <strong><span style=\"color: #ad1717\">USC<\/span><\/strong> <strong>Graduate Office<\/strong> reviews the academic record of every applicants and calculates a cumulative undergraduate GPA. <span style=\"color: #b51212\"><strong>USC<\/strong><\/span> has an established quarter-to-semester unit conversion process<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-18-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-18-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Are quarter units the same as semester units?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-18-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-18-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"146\">Quarter units and semester units are not equivalent. In general, <strong data-start=\"69\" data-end=\"145\">one quarter unit is approximately equal to two-thirds of a semester unit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"148\" data-end=\"306\"><strong data-start=\"148\" data-end=\"167\">Quarter System:<\/strong> The academic year is divided into four terms, typically fall, winter, spring, and summer. Courses generally span approximately 10 weeks.<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"451\"><strong data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"328\">Semester System:<\/strong> The academic year is divided into two primary terms, fall and spring. Courses generally span approximately 15 to 16 weeks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"950\"><span style=\"color: #b51212\"><strong>USC<\/strong><\/span> has an <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\">established quarter-to-semester unit conversion process<\/span>, and quarter-unit coursework is not generally problematic for graduate applications. Applicants are reminded that undergraduate coursework is <strong data-start=\"659\" data-end=\"666\">not<\/strong> transferred into the <em>Doctoral<\/em> <em>Program of Nurse Anesthesia.<\/em><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"950\">Instead, <strong><span style=\"color: #b51212\">USC<\/span><\/strong> reviews undergraduate records for grades, academic rigor, and whether coursework satisfies prerequisite requirements. <strong><span style=\"color: #b51212\">USC<\/span><\/strong> <strong>Graduate Admissions<\/strong> evaluates academic records as part of the admissions review process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-19-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-19-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Why does the USC Program require science prerequisites? <\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-19-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-19-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"294\">The program mandates prerequisite coursework to ensure that all matriculating students enter with a <strong data-start=\"100\" data-end=\"158\">consistent and robust foundation in the basic sciences<\/strong>. This prerequisite framework is essential to supporting academic readiness and student success in a rigorous doctoral-level curriculum.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"296\" data-end=\"723\">As pathways to becoming a professional registered nurse continue to diversify across institutions, degree structures, and educational timelines, there is increasing variability in the depth, scope, and recency of foundational science education. These differences can result in significant disparities in preparation for advanced coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and anesthesia-related sciences.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"725\" data-end=\"1024\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Accordingly, the program\u2019s prerequisite policy establishes a standardized baseline of scientific knowledge that enables students to engage effectively in graduate-level instruction, supports curricular continuity, and promotes equitable evaluation of applicants from diverse educational backgrounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-20-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-20-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Can I submit a program application with outstanding prerequisites?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-20-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-20-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Applicants may submit an application to the program with outstanding prerequisites. All remaining prerequisite coursework must be completed by <strong data-start=\"240\" data-end=\"252\">March 31<\/strong> of the program enrollment year. During the application review process, a faculty advisor may request information regarding a plan for completing any outstanding prerequisites. Admission offers are contingent upon the successful completion of all prerequisite requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-21-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-21-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">In my nursing program, I completed two semesters of anatomy and physiology more than ten years ago. Do I need to repeat both semesters?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-21-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-21-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Two semesters of combined anatomy and physiology, or one semester each of standalone anatomy and physiology, must be repeated if the coursework is more than ten years old at the time of program enrollment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-22-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-22-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to retake a full undergraduate anatomy and physiology course, or can I take a \u201crefresher\u201d course?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-22-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-22-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"87\" data-end=\"386\">All coursework must be completed through an accredited institution of higher learning, such as a regionally accredited college or university. Refresher or survey courses, as well as courses taken for audit or without academic credit, do not satisfy the program\u2019s science prerequisite requirements.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"393\" data-end=\"504\" data-is-last-node=\"\">Sample course descriptions are provided below. Proposed courses should generally align with the sample content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-23-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-23-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to complete two semesters of chemistry?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-23-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-23-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Two semesters, consisting of two separate courses, are required. One course must be general chemistry, and the second course must be biochemistry, which is preferred, or organic chemistry. Anesthesiology relies heavily on core chemistry concepts, making this foundational coursework essential for success in the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-24-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-24-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I completed a combined general, organic, and biochemistry course in nursing school. Does this meet the program prerequisite?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-24-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-24-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"87\" data-end=\"309\">Provided the course was completed within ten years of program matriculation, it may satisfy one chemistry prerequisite. A second chemistry course in general chemistry, biochemistry, or organic chemistry is also required.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"490\" data-is-last-node=\"\">Please review the sample course descriptions below for examples of acceptable chemistry prerequisite content. Course content should generally align with the samples provided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-25-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-25-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Why do anatomy and physiology and both chemistry courses have a 10-year expiration?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-25-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-25-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Anesthesia coursework builds upon the scientific foundations established during undergraduate study. Because the sciences are dynamic and continuously evolving, it is important that all students enter the program with a strong understanding of both foundational principles and emerging concepts before engaging in advanced graduate-level coursework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-26-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-26-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Why is physics a prerequisite?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-26-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-26-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Similar to anatomy and physiology, physics plays a critical role in anesthesia practice. Principles of applied physics are foundational to physiology, pathophysiology, anesthetic pharmacology, and the use of anesthesia equipment and monitoring systems. For example, ultrasound technology relies heavily on core physics concepts. Accordingly, all students entering the program are expected to have a solid foundation in physics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-27-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-27-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Do I need to complete a lab with the science prerequisites?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-27-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-27-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>While many anatomy, chemistry, and physics courses include a laboratory component, <strong>a lab section is not required to meet the prerequisite.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-28-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-28-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I completed a \u201cTransition to Nurse Anesthesia\u201d course offered by a nurse anesthesia program. Does this course fulfill any prerequisite coursework?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-28-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-28-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>No, \u201cTransition to Nurse Anesthesia\u201d does not fulfill or supplant any prerequisite coursework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-29-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-29-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I completed a combined chemistry and physics course during my undergraduate. Does this satisfy the chemistry and physics prerequisites?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-29-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-29-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>Combined or survey courses do not meet the program\u2019s prerequisite requirements, except when they are within the same subject domain, such as chemistry courses covering introductory general, organic, and biochemistry. Prerequisite courses must be focused on a single subject area, such as introductory physics or anatomy and physiology I and II, and must meet the offering institution\u2019s required semester credit hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-30-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-30-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I am not certain when my science coursework will expire according to the program. Can you provide me with a few examples?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-30-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-30-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <table style=\"width: 100%\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"color: #ffffff;text-align: center;height: 48px;background-color: #000000 !important;width: 22.0472%\" align=\"left\">Prerequisite Course<\/th>\n<th style=\"color: #ffffff;text-align: center;height: 48px;background-color: #000000 !important;width: 19.0945%\" align=\"left\">Date or Semester Completed<\/th>\n<th style=\"color: #ffffff;text-align: center;height: 48px;background-color: #000000 !important;width: 26.9685%\" align=\"left\">Program Enrollment Date <span style=\"color: #ffcc00\">(Matriculation)<\/span><\/th>\n<th style=\"color: #ffffff;text-align: center;height: 48px;background-color: #000000 !important;width: 16.9291%\" align=\"left\">Current or Expired<\/th>\n<th style=\"color: #ffffff;text-align: center;height: 48px;background-color: #000000 !important;width: 12.5984%\" align=\"left\">Retake the course<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 22.0472%\">Introductory to General Chemistry<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 19.0945%\">Spring 2016<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>EXPIRED<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>Yes<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 22.0472%\">Anatomy &amp; Physiology I<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 19.0945%\">April 2015<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 26.9685%\">May 2025<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>EXPIRED<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>Yes<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 22.0472%\">Anatomy &amp; Physiology II<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 19.0945%\">December 2017<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 26.9685%\">May 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff\"><strong>Current<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 22.0472%\">Introductory Physics<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 19.0945%\">Summer 2014<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2027<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff\"><strong>Current<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><strong><span style=\"color: #008000\">No &#8211; Does not expire<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 22.0472%\">Introductory General, Organic, &amp; Biochemistry<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 19.0945%\">Fall 2017<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff\"><strong>Current<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 22.0472%\">Introductory General, Organic, &amp; Biochemistry<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 19.0945%\">Fall 2017<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2028<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>EXPIRED<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>Yes<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 22.0472%\">Microbiology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 19.0945%\">Winter 2018<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 48px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff\">Current<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><strong><span style=\"color: #008000\">No &#8211; Does not expire<\/span><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 22.0472%\">Anatomy<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 19.0945%\">Spring 2020<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff\"><strong>Current<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\">No<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 22.0472%\">Physiology<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 19.0945%\">Fall 2017<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 24px;width: 26.9685%\">Summer 2028<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 16.9291%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>EXPIRED <\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 12.5984%\"><span style=\"color: #990000\"><strong>Yes<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-31-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-31-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I completed AP science coursework in high school. Am I exempt from certain prerequisites?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-31-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-31-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"85\" data-end=\"361\">AP courses do NOT replace prerequisite coursework completed through a <strong data-start=\"136\" data-end=\"173\">regionally accredited institution<\/strong> at the undergraduate level. In addition, certain science prerequisites (anatomy &amp; physiology and two chemistry courses) must have been completed within <strong data-start=\"277\" data-end=\"307\">ten years of matriculation<\/strong>, calculated from the May of the matriculating year.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"368\" data-end=\"595\" data-is-last-node=\"\">The only exception is AP English. In this case, applicants must identify an upper-division undergraduate course that includes substantial writing assignments. A course syllabus and description may be requested for verification.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-32-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-32-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Can a graduate pathophysiology course substitute for an undergraduate anatomy and physiology course?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-32-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-32-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>The program requires applicants to complete undergraduate-level science coursework. In addition, graduate-level pathophysiology courses may not cover all organ systems or provide the depth of foundational knowledge necessary for success in advanced anatomy and physiology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-33-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-33-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Does USC or the Program of Nurse Anesthesia recommend a university or college to complete prerequisite work?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-33-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-33-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>The Program of Nurse Anesthesia does not recommend or endorse a specific institution, college, or university. Prerequisite coursework may be completed in person, in a hybrid format, remotely, or asynchronously through an extension program. All prerequisite coursework must be completed through an institution that holds regional accreditation<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-34-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-34-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Can prerequisites be completed through an online or an extension program?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-34-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-34-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"285\">Prerequisites may be completed through a community college, a four-year university, or an accredited online extension program.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"409\" data-end=\"645\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Applicants must verify that the chosen institution is accredited by a <strong data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"511\">regional accrediting body<\/strong>, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\">not a national accrediting body<\/span>. Accreditation status can be found on the institution&#8217;s website, typically under the &#8220;ABOUT&#8221; section.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"409\" data-end=\"645\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"><strong>The program does not review, recommend, or approve institutions that offer prerequisite coursework.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-35-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-35-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">What is regional accreditation?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-35-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-35-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"372\"><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"26\">Regional accreditation<\/strong> is a form of institutional accreditation in the United States granted to colleges and universities by one of the federally recognized regional accrediting agencies. It evaluates an institution as a whole, including its academic quality, faculty qualifications, governance, financial stability, student support services, and educational outcomes.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"374\" data-end=\"760\">Institutions with regional accreditation meet established standards for higher education and are widely recognized by other universities, professional programs, licensing boards, and employers. Credits earned at regionally accredited institutions are generally transferable, and degrees from these institutions are typically required for admission to graduate and professional programs.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"762\" data-end=\"897\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Regional accreditation is most commonly held by public universities, private nonprofit colleges, and established research institutions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"762\" data-end=\"897\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Learn more about\u00a0<u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.chea.org\/regional-accrediting-organizations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.chea.org\/regional-accrediting-organizations&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1767199126561000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1kW7tNSXjbqLPfSI7hbaUx\">Regional Accreditation<\/a><\/u>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-36-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-36-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">How do I know if the college or university has regional accreditation?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-36-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-36-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"114\" data-end=\"418\">A college, university, or other institution of higher learning typically lists its accreditation status on its website under the \u201cAbout\u201d or \u201cAccreditation\u201d section. If you are unable to locate this information, please contact the institution directly.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"639\" data-end=\"738\">The program does not review, recommend, or approve institutions that offer prerequisite coursework.<\/p>\n<p><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-37-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-37-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">I have the university\u2019s course name and number but not the course description. Can you determine if the course meets the prerequisite<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-37-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-37-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"88\" data-end=\"435\">The program does not review or pre-approve prerequisite courses from other institutions. In addition, the program is unable to determine whether a course satisfies prerequisite requirements without a course description or summary of course content. For previously completed coursework, the applicant should review an archived syllabus from the institution to evaluate course content.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"442\" data-end=\"508\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong>Please refer to the sample course descriptions below for guidance.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-38-b84JPHSO97\" aria-controls=\"section-1-38-b84JPHSO97\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">Will the program review a prerequisite course before I take it to be certain it meets the program requirements?<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-38-b84JPHSO97\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-38-b84JPHSO97\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"302\">Applicants should review the sample course descriptions below and compare them to the proposed course. In general, the content should closely align. Most undergraduate courses cover similar material across institutions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"443\"><strong>If the courses contain substantially similar content, the prerequisite is satisfied and prior program approval is not required<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text white\"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n  <div class=\"inner-wrapper\">\n        \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <h2 style=\"text-align: center\">Sample Course Descriptions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Anatomy &amp; Physiology I:<\/strong>\u00a0This course studies in detail the structure and function of the human body, and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it from modern evidence-based anatomical and physiological perspectives. Topics include the study of cells, histology, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Emphasis is placed on the integration of systems as they relate to normal health. Laboratory exercises provide first-hand experience with the structures and processes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Anatomy &amp; Physiology II:<\/strong>\u00a0This course studies in detail the structure and function of the human body, and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it, based on modern evidence-based anatomical and physiological perspectives. Topics include blood, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, immune system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and male and female reproductive systems. Emphasis is placed on the integration of systems as they relate to normal health. Laboratory exercises provide first-hand experience with the structures and processes.<\/p>\n<p><strong>General Chemistry I<\/strong>:\u00a0This course covers the fundamental principles and laws of chemistry, familiarizing students with chemical principles, symbols, and notation. The nature of atoms and molecules in predicting the properties and behavior of more complex systems are considered. Students manipulate rudimentary mathematical equations in order to appreciate the quantitative nature of atomic and chemical interactions. The gas laws are introduced so students learn the statistical handling of large populations of atoms and molecules. The periodic table of elements is the focal point of this course, illustrating chemical periodicity, bonding, and reactions in an aqueous solvent environment.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Biochemistry:\u00a0<\/strong>This course presents in detail the structure and functions of biological macromolecules in the context of cellular integrity, dynamics and metabolism. Principles of enzymology, bioenergetics, catabolism, anabolism, regulation of gene expression, biotechnology, hormone regulation of mammalian metabolism and the pre-biotic evolution of life on earth are also explored.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Organic Chemistry I:<\/strong>\u00a0This course allows students to gain a detailed understanding and appreciation for simple organic compounds as distinguished from simple inorganic compounds. It introduces them to the various classes of aliphatic and aromatic carbon compounds, their nomenclature, structures and properties. The class also presents the diversity of functional groups with regard to reactivity and reaction mechanisms, in particular nucleophilic and electrophilic mechanisms. Students learn stereochemistry as it relates to chemical structure and function. Additionally, they develop an understanding of hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity, and the utility of these properties in standard organic chemistry techniques of extraction, partitioning between phases, absorption and chromatography.<\/p>\n<p><strong>General, Organic, and Biochemistry (combined course):\u00a0<\/strong>This course is designed for students majoring in health sciences professions, and in particular nursing. It combines the fundamentals of general and organic chemistry as well as biochemistry as applied to the health professions. The course is focused on the chemistry of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen containing compounds and examines the structures, properties, nomenclature, reactivity and, in some cases, synthesis of simple organic molecules. The structures and functions of biological macromolecules and common biochemical pathways are also examined as well as their relationship to human health. This course is designed to meet the requirements for nursing curricula and other allied health professions majors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Introductory Physics:<\/strong>\u00a0This course studies in detail the foundational principles of physical science as related to: motion in one dimension, vectors and two-dimensional motion, Newton\u2019s laws of motion and their applications, energy and work, momentum and collisions, generation and mediation of circular motion, hydrostatics, and hydrodynamics. All subjects are taught with emphasis on their applications to the health and biological sciences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":17,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-22","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.9 (Yoast SEO v26.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>FAQ - Nurse Anesthesia Program<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"FAQ\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Nurse Anesthesia Program\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-04T02:15:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"19 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/keck.usc.edu\/nurse-anesthesia-program\/program-admission-information\/faq\/\",\"name\":\"FAQ - 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