How to become a nurse anesthetist?

How do you become a nurse anesthetist?

• i'm in my first year of college, doing well, majoring in nursing.. and thinking of pursuing a career in nurse anesthesia. i've done some research.. and some sources are saying i would need to take organic chemistry. is this true? i also just found out i will need at least a year of experience as an RN to get into nurse anesthesia school. I was looking at Columbia or Boston College for their programs. I know it's far off into the future, but I like to be prepared.. especially if I should be aware of any courses I should take as an undergrad. If there's anybody out there who knows the requirements or is, in fact,a nurse anesthetist.. please share your knowledge!! thanks!!

• Answer:

  You don't need organic chemistry. That's a pre-med course. You need a BSN, and a minimum of a year of critical care nursing experience. New nursing grads might not be able to land critical care jobs right out of school, so it may take longer than a year to get the experience that you need. Good luck with your plans.