The first step in becoming a CRNA is to enroll in an accredited licensed practical nurse, or registered nurse, program where you take courses including biology, anatomy, first aid, physiology, chemistry and nutrition.
Once you have your LPN or RN bachelor's degree, apply to graduate school. Although you do not need a master's degree to become a CRNA, you must complete a 24-month graduate-level CRNA program.
Upon graduation from the CRNA program, take the National Council Licensure Exam. When you pass the exam, you are certified to practice as a nurse anesthetist anywhere in the United States.
According to Nurse Anesthetist Salary, CRNA's are the highest paid of all the nursing professions, earning salaries in the $150,000 range, as of September, 2010.