Nurse Extern Programs
Nationwide Children's Hospital offers two extern programs to nursing students:
Extern to RN Program For Senior Nursing Students
About the Program
Nationwide Children’s Hospital offers a five-month program for senior nursing students, featuring:
- Temporary employment as a patient care assistant with pediatric nursing skill-building
- Monthly workshops with expert-led sessions and hands-on simulations
- Career development opportunities
Eligibility Requirements
- Pediatric clinical completed before January 2026 (preferred)• Enrolled in nationally accredited program (ACEN or CCNE); BSN preferred
- Final semester senior, graduating Spring 2026
- 3.0 GPA or higher (Unofficial transcript required)
- Two positive clinical instructor references
- Minimum 16 hours/week commitment
- Attendance required: orientation, monthly workshops, and graduation
Program Benefits
- Greater exposure to pediatric nursing as a professional pathway
- Focused pediatric content and skills to increase confidence in pediatric nursing practice
If program completed and recommended for employment by management:
- Priority interviewing for RN position
- Assistance with NCLEX preparation
Program Dates
- Hybrid Orientation: January 5-9, 2026
- Begin shifts on unit: week of January 11
- Workshops run from noon to 4 p.m. on Jan. 23, Feb. 20, March 27, and April 24.
- Graduation: May 22
Applications
- Applications will be accepted September 1 through October 15, 2025
2025 Summer Nurse Extern Program For Junior Nursing Students
Nationwide Children’s Hospital is offering an exciting and competitive summer program for baccalaureate nursing students. The 12-week Summer Nurse Extern Program provides students:
- Temporary employment as a patient care assistant
- An assigned RN preceptor
- Four 8-hour educational workshops
- Opportunity for future career development
Program Dates
The dates for 2026 Summer Nurse Extern program will be:
- Program dates: May 19 – Aug 7
- Orientation: May 18-22
- Workshops: May 27, June 17, July 29
- Graduation: Aug 5
Required Selection Criteria
- Enrollment in nationally accredited (ACEN or CCNE) BSN program
- Junior standing with graduation in 2026
- 3.0 GPA or above (unofficial transcript required)
- At least two excellent references from recent clinical instructors
- Must be able to attend required orientation, all 4 required workshops, and graduation
Applications
- Application info coming soon.