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

Learn More and Apply

2026 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.