Explore Student Nurse Externship Program

The Explore Student Nurse Externship provides BSN & MSN students with valuable clinical training, enabling them to gain direct patient care experience or contribute to quality improvement initiatives.

Program Highlights

  • Semester-length program
  • 120 externship hours
  • RN preceptor pairing
  • Clinical experiences available in various areas of interest
  • Welcome Orientation Event 
  • Access to Skills Training & Professional Development Workshops
  • Free Parking
  • Awarded Certificate of Completion
  • Extension of externship may be possible (pending manager approval)

Eligibility Requirements

  • Enrollment in a nursing program that has an active clinical affiliation at UCSDH through the Allied Health Professions Education Committee (AHPEC-N).
  • Enrollment in an externship course through their school's nursing program.
  • Students are eligible to participate during their final academic year. (In most cases, the application deadline will be before your final two semesters.)
  • Provide evidence of valid health insurance and professional liability insurance, Complio Immunization and Background Compliance Report and other required documentation.

Application

Applicants should be prepared to upload a PDF or PNG copy of the following items:

  • Resume/CV
  • Cover Letter
    • Letters can be generally addressed "To Whom it May Concern,"
  • Two Letters of Reference
    • Letters must be dated within 1 year.
    • Applicant will be responsible for uploading the letters.
  • Proof of health insurance
    • PNG or JPG file type will work.

For further details, dates, and deadlines, please visit our Explore Program website.

  • Applicants will need to create an account to access open applications.
  • For any questions, please reach out to rnexterns@health.ucsd.edu