The University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants program, offering a Master of Science in Anesthesiology (MSA), stands out for its 28-month curriculum that integrates rigorous didactic training with clinical immersion starting in the first semester. Located at the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, this program prepares students for certification as Anesthesiologist Assistants through hands-on operating room experience. For the 2025-2026 admission cycle, you must submit a Casper test score from one of the specified dates, with applications processed via CASAA and a distribution deadline of October 11, 2025. This guide details eligibility, selection factors including Casper requirements, interview process, curriculum structure, and preparation strategies, equipping you with the definitive resource to strengthen your application.
University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants Mission and Vision
The University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants program emphasizes delivering the highest caliber of training in a world-class clinical environment. Matriculated students describe a culture focused on early clinical exposure, where you engage in anesthesia-related roles from day one to build proficiency in perioperative care.
The University of Colorado Master of Science in Anesthesiology Program offers aspiring anesthetists the highest caliber of training and a world-class clinical environment.
This mission aligns with the program's goal of producing competent Anesthesiologist Assistants ready for diverse career paths in anesthesia delivery.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants Anesthesia Program
You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution to apply. Competitive candidates hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher, though the program sets no strict minimum.
- Complete at least 8 hours of shadowing with an anesthetist or anesthesiologist in an operating room environment; exceed this minimum to demonstrate commitment.
- Fulfill common prerequisites such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy, as requirements vary—verify specifics on the program's website.
- Anesthesia-related experience, like working as an anesthesia technician or medical assistant, strengthens your profile.
Some programs waived shadowing due to COVID, but University of Colorado maintains the 8-hour requirement.
Selection Factors University of Colorado Considers
GPA
The program reviews your overall and science GPA without a published minimum, targeting applicants with 3.0 or above. Aim for 3.5+ to align with competitive ranges reported by matriculated students.
Casper
Submit an English Casper test score only, taken between May 1, 2025, and September 28, 2025. The updated Casper format runs 65-85 minutes, featuring 11 scenarios: 4 video-response and 7 typed-response, with 2 questions per scenario and 3.5 minutes for typed responses. Scores are now assigned per typed response.
- May 1, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- May 15, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- May 29, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- May 29, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Jun 10, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Jun 10, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Jun 26, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Jun 26, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Jul 8, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Jul 8, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Jul 20, 2025 - 1:00 PM EDT
- Jul 20, 2025 - 4:00 PM EDT
- Jul 31, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Jul 31, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Aug 12, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Aug 12, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Aug 26, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Aug 26, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Sep 16, 2025 - 6:00 PM EDT
- Sep 16, 2025 - 8:00 PM EDT
- Sep 28, 2025 - 4:00 PM EDT
Complete your CASAA application, including your Casper score and letters of recommendation, before the October 11, 2025 distribution deadline. Many applicants practice at least 50 scenarios using resources like The Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank, which provides 100+ scenarios and 300+ expert responses.
Supplementary Application / Essays
Include a personal statement in your CASAA application. Highlight your shadowing experiences and anesthesia-related work to show fit for the program's clinical focus.
Other Factors
A background check is required. Test scores like GRE (mid-60th percentile Verbal/Quantitative) or MCAT may support your file, though not mandated.
Interview Format and Selection at University of Colorado
The program employs a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format to evaluate interpersonal skills, ethical reasoning, and proficiency in anesthesia scenarios. Prepare for stations assessing your operating room observations and career motivations. Students report questions on training programs, research, cases, and career paths.
Practice with timed, realistic simulations via The Bright Doctor's AI Interview Simulator to refine responses under pressure.
Prepare for Your Casper Test & Medical School Interview
Access The Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank with 100+ scenarios and 300+ expert-crafted responses, AI Interview Simulator with realistic practice conditions, and personalized mentorship from current medical students — all on one web-based platform.
Start Practicing FreeCurriculum at University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants
The 28-month MSA program blends didactic coursework with clinical rotations beginning in the first semester. You gain immersion in anesthesia cases, research opportunities, and competency-based assessments tailored to CAA certification.
Our 28-month MSA Program combines a rigorous didactic curriculum with a clinical immersion experience that starts your first semester.
Rotations occur at affiliated sites on the Anschutz Medical Campus, emphasizing perioperative management and advanced procedures.
University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants Campus and Facilities
Situated on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colorado, the program leverages University Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado for clinical training. Facilities support simulation labs and operating room observations essential for your shadowing requirement.
How to Prepare Your University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants Application
- Secure 8+ hours of shadowing by early summer 2025; log details for your personal statement.
- Take Casper by August 2025 to meet the October 11 distribution deadline—practice 50+ scenarios on The Bright Doctor's web platform.
- Complete CASAA with transcripts, letters, and essays by priority dates; aim for GPA 3.5+.
- Prepare for MMI using The Bright Doctor's Current Med Student Mentorship and AI tools.
- Connect with alumni via forums for insights on anesthesia technician roles.
Strategic applicants finalize files early, even in August, without penalty at University of Colorado.
Master Your Casper & Medical School Interview
Practice with Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank featuring 100+ scenarios with expert answers, plus AI Interview Simulator and personalized mentorship from current medical students.
Start Practicing FreeFrequently Asked Questions About University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants Anesthesia Program 2025-2026
Is Casper required for University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants 2025-2026?
Yes, submit an English Casper score via CASAA by the October 11, 2025 distribution deadline. Test dates run from May 1 to September 28, 2025.
What is the minimum GPA for University of Colorado AA program?
No strict minimum exists, but the program seeks 3.0+; competitive applicants achieve 3.5+. Science GPA receives emphasis.
Does University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants require shadowing?
You must complete 8 hours observing an anesthetist or anesthesiologist in the OR; more hours enhance competitiveness.
What is the interview format at University of Colorado AA program?
The Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) assesses ethical reasoning, interpersonal skills, and anesthesia knowledge through scenario-based stations.
How long is the University of Colorado Anesthesia program?
The MSA spans 28 months, starting with clinical immersion alongside didactic training.
Is MCAT required for University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants?
No, Casper is the primary situational judgment test; GRE or MCAT scores may supplement if strong.
Can I apply late to University of Colorado AA program 2025-2026?
August applications remain viable; complete your CASAA file promptly to align with Casper distribution by October 11.
What are tuition costs for University of Colorado Anesthesiologist Assistants?
Check the official website for current rates, as specific figures are not published here; explore funding via CASAA resources.