Nurse Extern Programs
The Nurse Extern Programs offer pediatric nursing skill-building, educational workshops, and career development opportunities for junior and senior 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 2027 (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 4-8, 2027
- Begin shifts on unit: week of January 10
- Workshops run from noon to 4 p.m. on Jan. 22, Feb. 19, March 26, and April 23.
- Graduation: May 21
Applications
- Applications will be accepted August 31 through October 1, 2026.
Summer Nurse Extern Program For Junior Nursing Students
About the Program
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
- Three 8-hour educational workshops
- Opportunity for future career development
Program Dates
The dates for 2027 Summer Nurse Extern program will be:
- Program dates: May 24 – Aug 11
- Orientation: May 24 – 28
- Workshops: May 26, June 16, July 28
- Graduation: Aug. 11
Required Selection Criteria
- Enrollment in nationally accredited (ACEN or CCNE) BSN program
- Junior standing with graduation in the 2027-2028 school year
- 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 3 required workshops, and graduation
Applications
- Applications will be accepted October 19 through November 30, 2026.