Updated July 2026 · 9 min read
Part of the CRNA Career Hub — browse every related guide in one place.
Financial Disclaimer: Tuition figures are approximate and based on publicly available program data. Costs change annually; verify directly with each program's financial aid office before applying.
With CRNA program tuition ranging from $35,000 to $200,000 total, choosing a lower-cost program without sacrificing clinical quality can mean graduating with $80,000 to $120,000 less debt. Given that all NBCRNA-accredited programs produce the same credential and take the same licensure exam, cost should weigh heavily in your decision — especially since CRNA salary is largely determined by geography and practice model, not school prestige.
Public university CRNA programs consistently offer the lowest tuition, particularly for in-state residents. The programs below are examples of the most cost-competitive offerings; always verify current tuition directly with each program as fees are adjusted annually.
| Program | Approx. In-State Total Tuition | Degree | Program Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee Health Science Center | $45,000–$60,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| University of North Dakota | $50,000–$65,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| University of Kansas | $48,000–$65,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| University of Southern Mississippi | $42,000–$58,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| University of Pittsburgh | $55,000–$75,000 (in-state) | DNP | 36 months |
| Texas Wesleyan University | $65,000–$85,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| Murray State University (KY) | $45,000–$60,000 | DNP | 36 months |
| Uniformed Services University | $0 (military obligation) | DNP | 36 months |
Private programs and some university programs charge significantly more — often $120,000 to $180,000+ in total tuition. Examples of higher-cost programs include Georgetown University, Rush University, and various private medical center-affiliated programs. These programs are not necessarily better clinically or in terms of NCE pass rates. They do offer certain clinical site networks and research opportunities that may matter for specific career goals, but for most CRNA students, the ROI comparison does not favor the premium.
The Uniformed Services University and military-sponsored CRNA programs pay all tuition, fees, and a salary during school in exchange for a military service commitment (typically 3 to 5 years as a military CRNA). For nurses willing to serve, this is the most financially favorable CRNA pathway available. Military CRNAs gain exceptional experience rapidly (high-volume trauma settings, austere environments) and graduate with zero educational debt from the CRNA program itself.
Tuition is only part of the cost equation. A complete comparison should include:
A program in a high-cost-of-living city (New York, San Francisco, Chicago) requires significantly more in living expenses than a program in a mid-size Southern or Midwestern city. A $20,000 tuition difference can be entirely wiped out by 3 years of higher rent. Map the full cost of attendance — tuition plus estimated living expenses — for every program you're seriously considering.
A 28-month program versus a 36-month program means 8 months less of lost RN income and lower borrowing for living expenses. A 28-month program at a slightly higher tuition rate may still be cheaper overall when lost income is included in the calculation.
This is the quality metric that matters most. Program NCE pass rates are publicly available through the NBCRNA. Programs with pass rates below 85% are worth avoiding regardless of cost. Most accredited programs post rates above 90%. A program with a 95% pass rate and low tuition is the value sweet spot.
Related: CRNA school cost vs ROI, how to finance CRNA school, CRNA board exam pass rates by school.
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