Anesthesiologist Assistants

High School

If you are interested in becoming an anesthesiologist assistant, take college preparatory courses, such as mathematics and science classes, especially biology and chemistry. Communication skills are important also, so be sure to take English classes. Knowledge of a foreign language also shows proficiency in another language, which may be a requirement in your future schooling.

Postsecondary Training

Anesthesiologist assistants typically have a bachelor's degree that may be in nursing, respiratory therapy, medical technology, physics, chemistry, or biology. Undergraduate courses include math, physics, chemistry, and biology. Some schools require students take the Medical College Entrance Test for admission. Many employers require anesthesiologist assistants have a master's degree in health science. Course work in anesthesiology assistant programs features training in how to deliver and monitor anesthesia to patients. Students receive real-world training through clinical rotations at hospitals. Students also receive training through mock operating rooms and in anesthesia laboratories.

Certification

The National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants provides certification programs for anesthesiologist assistants. It also provides ongoing medical education and interval certification exams to help anesthesiologist assistants maintain best practices.