Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Master of Medical Science Program in Anesthesiology at Emory University is designed to provide rigorous didactic and clinical education for individuals aiming to become proficient anesthetists. The program spans over 27 months, starting in August and culminating in graduation in December after seven semesters of intensive training.

Program Structure

The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for anesthesia practice. It emphasizes the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to prepare graduates for roles as Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAs) in various clinical settings. The program follows strict guidelines set by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring high educational standards and the necessary accreditation for practice.

Clinical Rotations

Students are placed in diverse clinical sites associated with Emory Healthcare, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings. This exposure is pivotal to developing the skills required for implementing anesthesia care plans effectively.

Application Process

The application cycle initiates each year in May, employing a rolling admission process where candidates are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible to increase their chances of acceptance. All applicants must utilize the CASAA (Centralized Application Service for Anesthesiologist Assistants), providing a complete set of materials that includes official transcripts, standardized test scores (GRE or MCAT), and various supporting documents such as letters of recommendation and proof of clinical experience.

Applicants are required to meet specific academic prerequisites, holding a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.1, ideally competitive candidates have a GPA of 3.4 or higher. Additionally, a strong performance in requisite courses, with a preference for grades of B or better, is essential.

Interview Process

After initial evaluations, selected candidates will be invited for an in-person interview, which plays a crucial role in the admission decision. Candidates are assessed based on their academic performance as well as non-cognitive traits such as professionalism, leadership potential, and commitment to healthcare.

Visa Support

The program follows a policy where permanent residency is required for applying. While international students who studied outside of the U.S./Canada may apply, they must complete specific English coursework at an accredited institution and meet other requirements. However, due to U.S. government regulations, the program does not sponsor student visas like F-1 or J-1 for incoming students.

Competitiveness

Admission into the Emory Anesthesiologist Assistant Program is highly competitive. Over 2000 applicants may seek a spot, with only a limited number of seats available for each cohort. Historical data indicates an applicant pool of approximately 2404 with 549 verified applications leading to about 40 accepted students for a class.

Prerequisites and Special Requirements

Key prerequisites for application include coursework in anatomy, biology, chemistry, and a medical admissions test (GRE or MCAT). Candidates may also meet a maximum limit of four prerequisite courses in progress at the time of application, allowing flexibility for those completing their academic requirements.

Research Opportunities

Students are encouraged to engage in research initiatives throughout their training. This not only enhances their learning experience but also contributes valuable insights into the field of anesthesiology and patient care practices.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Emory program prides itself on a high first-time pass rate for the National Certifying Exam (NCE) at 95.3% and an overall pass rate of 100%. This reflects the comprehensive education offered, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and employment opportunities upon completion.

Furthermore, the program fosters a collaborative learning environment alongside faculty who are engaged in both teaching and clinical practices, providing real-world insights that enrich students' educational experiences.