Key Takeaways

A nursing practicum is a hands-on experience where nursing students apply classroom learning in real-world healthcare settings. Here’s what you need to know:

• When it happens: The practicum is typically completed during the final phase of your nursing program.
• Application timeline: Submit your practicum application six weeks before your intended start date.
• What’s required: A qualified preceptor, approved practicum site, and confirmation of availability are needed.
• Time commitment: Practicum hours vary depending on your program degree level.
• Support available: Resources like Walden’s Practicum Pledge® can help you secure placements and preceptors.

What Is a Nursing Practicum?

A practicum placement is an important and rewarding experience for RNs earning nursing degrees. When you arrive at that pivotal moment, you’ll get the chance to work with professionals in the field, using what you’ve learned in a real-world healthcare setting.

But how do you get there? If you’re planning to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), this may be your first practicum experience. There are several steps to arranging and engaging in a practicum. Here are some of the components you should know about as you anticipate your practicum placement.

Timeline: When Does the Practicum Occur?

Your nursing practicum typically comes toward the end of your nursing program. Planning ahead ensures a smooth application process.

For example, in Walden University’s online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program:

• Submit your practicum application by the first day of the quarter prior to your intended start.
• This means applying approximately six weeks before your practicum term begins.

Finding and securing a practicum placement can take longer than anticipated. Beginning your search early helps you:

• Avoid last-minute deadline pressure.
• Secure your preferred practicum site.
• Complete all required documentation on time.
• Build relationships with potential preceptors.

Get off on the right foot by familiarizing yourself with your nursing school’s practicum schedule as soon as possible.

The Application Process: Finding Your Preceptor and Site

When it’s time to put your coursework into practice, you’ll need to identify your preceptor and practicum site. Think of your preceptor as both an advisor and coach. Consider these questions:

• Who is doing the kind of work you aspire to do?
• What healthcare professionals inspire your career goals?
• Which practitioners work in your target specialty area?

Before submitting your practicum application to your nursing program, you must:

1. Secure confirmation that your preceptor and site can host you.
2. Verify they meet your university’s specific requirements.
3. Gather all necessary documentation and agreements.

Many nursing programs offer resources to help with practicum placement. At Walden University, all BSN, MSN, and DNP students have access to the Practicum Pledge®, which provides:

• Personalized coaching throughout the placement process.
• Self-help tools and planning resources.
• Guidance on identifying qualified preceptors.
• Support for securing local practicum sites.

In Walden University’s online BSN degree program, you can receive feedback—before you submit your application—on whether the preceptor you’ve selected meets needed criteria.

During Your Practicum: Applying What You’ve Learned

Now it’s time to put what you’ve learned in your coursework into practice. Practicum experiences vary by nursing program and degree level, but here’s what you could expect:

• BSN programs: Vary by program length; RN-BSN completion programs require fewer practicum hours than traditional four-year programs.  
• MSN programs: Requirements vary by specialization
• DNP programs: More extensive practicum hours required

For example, Walden’s BSN degree program includes a capstone that requires 100 practicum hours . You’ll work in a clinical practice setting and develop an evidence-based, patient-centered nursing project focused on a healthcare environment of your choosing. The capstone course will culminate with a presentation of your project to peers and others in the practice and academic community.

Completing Your Practicum Successfully

Graduating with a BSN degree means you’ve satisfied the requirements of the practicum component of your nursing program. But to get there, you can set yourself up for a successful practicum experience by following these recommendations from Walden’s Nursing Practicum Manual:

• Plan ahead: Develop a clear plan to meet course objectives and outcomes for the practicum.
• Be professional: Arrive on time and come prepared for each practicum activity.
• Seek feedback: Regularly request input from both your faculty member and preceptor on your progress.
• Stay adaptable: Remain flexible and responsive to changing learning opportunities.
• Engage actively: Take initiative and demonstrate commitment to your learning.

The Online Nursing School Advantage

As an RN with a busy nursing career, you may find earning a nursing degree online is a convenient way to achieve your education goals. 

Walden, one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S., offers CCNE-accredited BSN, MSN, and DNP degree programs that offer flexible learning options. You can tailor your graduate-level education by choosing a specialization, such as nurse practitioner or nurse leadership, in the MSN and DNP programs. 

When you’re ready to advance your education and training, choose a nursing degree program that can help you realize your dreams. 

Walden University is an HLC-accredited institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) Completion Program . Earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.