Anesthesiologist Assistant Studies (M.S.)

Program Overview

Impact Lives as a High-Demand Anesthesiologist Assistant.

Lipscomb University’s Master of Science in Anesthesiology is designed to prepare the next generation of anesthesiologist assistants, delivering highly skilled professionals to meet a growing demand in the health care workforce. This new program—the first of its kind in Tennessee—will produce graduates who are thoroughly trained in anesthesiology support and patient care.

Anesthesiologist assistants play a crucial role in the health care system, operating as physician extenders in the anesthesia care team and performing essential patient safety measures, including life support interventions. Recognized for their extensive science and pre-medical training, anesthesiologist assistants help improve patient outcomes and enhance care delivery, according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Nationally, the anesthesiologist assistant job market is projected to grow by 26.6% by 2032, with an estimated median salary of $215,000, according to Salary.com.

Lipscomb’s Anesthesiology Assistant Studies program is uniquely structured to prepare students to thrive in this expanding field. Upon successful completion of the certification exam, graduates will enter the workforce equipped with cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) expertise. The rigorous 24-month curriculum includes coursework in pharmacology, airway management, perioperative assessments, and anesthesia monitoring and technology. Students will gain an appropriate sequence of classroom and laboratory experience along with approximately 2,000 clinical hours—including 600 patient cases—to ensure they are fully prepared for certification and practice.

The Anesthesiologist Assistant Studies program will produce competent, caring professionals dedicated to contributing meaningfully to the health care field. Lipscomb graduates will not only be clinically prepared but will also embody Christian values, going out into the workforce with strong ethics, compassion, and a commitment to patient-centered care—distinct qualities that set them apart in health services.

Why Be an Anesthesiologist Assistant in Tennessee?

Nashville’s booming health care sector, with an estimated impact of over $97 billion and supporting nearly 500,000 jobs worldwide, presents an ideal environment for health care students and professionals. More than 500 healthcare companies operate from Nashville, making the city an international hub for healthcare innovation and training. This new program will be the first in Tennessee to add to this thriving ecosystem, producing high-quality graduates.

Interested in Being a Preceptor?

As a senior clinician with experience in anesthesiology, you play an imperative role in bridging the gap between theoretical and practical learning for students. The growing need for qualified anesthesiologist assistants means a parallel need for leaders who can mold them into experienced health care professionals.

 

If you are passionate about advancing the field of anesthesiology, consider becoming a preceptor for students in this program. Preceptors located in Tennessee will be prioritized, but feel free to contact us if you practice in another state.

With an anticipated application opening in early 2026, classes will begin in June 2026 pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the Accreditation Review Committee for the Anesthesiologist Assistant (ARC-AA), the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and Lipscomb's academic council.