Minneapolis School of Anesthesia and Northwestern Health Sciences University Announce Intent to Partner
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Last updated: June 9, 2026
A New Chapter in Nurse Anesthesia Education
The Minneapolis School of Anesthesia (MSA) and Northwestern Health Sciences University (NWHSU) are pleased to announce our new academic affiliation in support of the next generation of nurse anesthetists.
Pending all required approvals, the partnership will launch a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program, with the first cohort expected to start in spring 2027. The first cohort will consist of 33 students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing, an unencumbered license as a registered nurse, and at least one year of experience in a critical care setting within the last three years. The DNAP program, being offered on NWHSU’s Bloomington, MN campus, has one start per year and is a three-year program.
Leveraging the Expertise of Two Respected Organizations
This partnership is intended to build on MSA’s long-standing reputation in nurse anesthesia education while leveraging NWHSU’s commitment to whole-person care, academic and campus resources, and expertise in training prescribing providers on nonpharmacological alternatives to opioids for pain management.
“This agreement strengthens NWHSU’s commitment to whole person care, bringing anesthesia students into our collaborative community of future healthcare professionals.” said Dr. Deb Bushway, president and CEO of NWHSU. “Students who graduate from this program will be unique among their peers, equipped with deep understanding of nonpharmacological approaches to managing pain.”
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
MSA and NWHSU share a commitment to educational quality, student success, and the advancement of healthcare professions. The partnership will create an educational experience honoring MSA’s distinguished history and NWHSU’s commitment to integrative care.
Established in 1928, MSA boasts nearly 100 years of excellence in anesthesia education. Their mission is to provide an accessible and high-quality, accredited nurse anesthesia educational program that promotes safe, evidence-based care within a doctoral framework.
NWHSU has been a national leader in person-centered healthcare education for over 80 years. The university, based in Bloomington, offers a diverse range of evidence-informed programs and experiences including chiropractic, acupuncture, clinical nutrition, undergraduate health sciences, and more.
About the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)
A Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) is a terminal clinical doctorate. It’s designed for registered nurses who want to practice as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA).
The DNAP programs prepare registered nurses with clinical care experience to meet the growing demand for nurse anesthesiology. It combines advanced biomedical science, anesthesia-focused clinical training, and leadership skills. NWHSU and MSA will offer a 9-semester (3-year) DNAP with community-based clinical rotations in years two and three.
Stay Informed
NWHSU and MSA will share additional updates as the approval process progresses. Interested in learning more about the anticipated DNAP program? Email MSA@nwhealth.edu to express interest, and the team will reach out with updates. You can also watch for information on MSA’s website.