CRNA Prerequisite Courses Explained: What You Need Before Applying

One of the most overlooked parts of the CRNA application process is prerequisite coursework. Many applicants assume their nursing degree alone is enough — only to discover missing or outdated courses late in the process.

In this guide, we explain CRNA prerequisite courses, which classes matter most, how recent they need to be, and how to fix gaps without delaying your application unnecessarily.

Why CRNA Prerequisite Courses Matter

CRNA programs are academically rigorous, especially in science-heavy subjects. Prerequisite courses help programs determine whether applicants are prepared for advanced anesthesia coursework.

Strong prerequisite performance signals:

• Academic readiness
• Ability to handle complex material
• Lower risk of academic difficulty in the program

Prerequisites are often used as initial screening criteria.

Most Common CRNA Prerequisite Courses

While requirements vary by program, most CRNA schools require or strongly recommend the following:

• Anatomy and Physiology (I & II)
• Chemistry (general, organic, or biochemistry)
• Microbiology
• Statistics
• Pathophysiology (often graduate-level preferred)

Always verify requirements with individual programs, as details differ.

Chemistry Requirements Explained

Chemistry is one of the most important — and most misunderstood — prerequisites.

Programs may require:

• General chemistry
• Organic chemistry
• Biochemistry

Some schools accept any chemistry course, while others specify organic or biochemistry due to its relevance to anesthesia pharmacology.

Strong performance in chemistry can significantly strengthen an application.

How Recent Do Prerequisites Need to Be?

Many CRNA programs require science courses to be completed within a certain timeframe.

Common expectations:

• Courses completed within the last 5–10 years
• Older coursework may need to be retaken

Programs want assurance that your knowledge is current, especially in fast-evolving scientific fields.

What If Your Grades Are Weak?

Lower grades in prerequisite courses do not automatically disqualify you.

Ways to improve:

• Retake courses with low grades
• Take graduate-level versions if available
• Show an upward academic trend

Improvement often matters more than perfection.

Online vs In-Person Prerequisites

Some programs accept online coursework, while others prefer in-person classes.

Important considerations:

• Labs may need to be in-person
• Accreditation of the institution matters
• Program-specific policies vary widely

Always confirm acceptance of online coursework before enrolling.

Common Prerequisite Mistakes to Avoid

Frequent issues include:

• Assuming all programs have the same requirements
• Waiting too long to check prerequisite policies
• Taking unnecessary courses instead of required ones
• Ignoring course expiration timelines

Early planning prevents last-minute stress.

How to Plan Prerequisites Without Delaying Your Application

Smart strategies include:

• Reviewing program requirements early
• Prioritizing high-impact courses
• Completing prerequisites while gaining ICU experience
• Avoiding unnecessary overloading

Efficient planning can keep you on track.

Where This Prerequisite Information Comes From

The prerequisite guidance in this article is based on:

• Admissions requirements published by CRNA programs
• University nurse anesthesia program handbooks
• Common prerequisite patterns across accredited programs
• Trends observed among accepted applicants

Wise CRNA emphasizes program verification and early planning, not assumptions.

Final Thoughts

CRNA prerequisite courses are not just boxes to check — they are indicators of readiness.

When you understand which courses matter, how recent they need to be, and how to strengthen weak areas, you gain control over your application timeline.

Wise CRNA exists to help you prepare strategically and avoid preventable setbacks.