“Radiology is a very specialized area of nursing that students don’t typically get to experience on their clinical rotations. Through this program, I was able to connect the textbook material with real life practices and procedures. I gained great experience.”

— Kenzie Nugent, nurse extern 2025

“I’m feeling immensely grateful for this opportunity. Over the past few months, I’ve been able to grow both clinically and personally—strengthening my assessment skills, improving my confidence in critical care, and gaining firsthand experience in the world of neuro nursing.”

— Madison Johnson, nurse extern 2025

“Working in a Level I Trauma Center has taught me invaluable lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my career. Communicating with families, advocating for patients, and using my critical thinking skills in high-stakes situations has truly taught me what it means to be a nurse in an intensive care setting.”

— Libby Pleva, nurse extern 2025

When will I receive my work schedule?  Work schedules are distributed in May. Nurse externs work 36 hours per week (8, 10 or 12 hour shifts) and may be assigned to any shift, including evenings, nights and weekends.  Specific shift requests cannot be accommodated.

What is the rate of pay? The hourly rate of pay for nurse externs is $21 per hour, plus additional differentials for evening, night and weekend shifts.

Will I need to purchase a uniform for the externship?  Select departments may provide hospital-issued scrubs, but most nurse externs provide their own uniforms. 

Is housing available for the summer?  Single or double occupancy air-conditioned rooms with laundry and kitchen facilities are reserved on the UW-Madison campus for a reasonable rate. A meal plan option can be purchased from a nearby university dining hall.  Pricing and location information will be made available in the spring.

Is parking available for the summer?  There is a fee for on-campus parking at University Hospital and American Family Children’s Hospital and space is limited.  All UW Health employees are encouraged to take advantage of the Madison Metro Transit bus program, which provides free transportation throughout the city.  Free bus passes are available for UW Health employees can be picked up beginning on your first day of employment.  Additional transportation and parking information is distributed closer to the program start date.

Can I apply for the Nurse Residency Program while I am in the Nurse Externship?  Yes!  December 2026 graduates may begin applying for the 2027 Winter Nurse Residency Program in June 2026. Spring 2027 graduates can begin applying for 2027 Summer Nurse Residency cohorts in September/October 2026. 

Additional questions may be directed to: Adam Eder, Sr. Recruitment Specialist, AEder2@uwhealth.org

Program dates: May 26–July 31, 2026

Program dates: May 26–July 31, 2026

Program highlights

• This 10-week summer program provides valuable clinical experience to nursing students at Wisconsin’s No. 1-rated medical center. 
• Nurse externs work alongside RN clinical coaches for the full duration of the program. 
• Provide nursing care in high-acuity settings that will expand clinical knowledge and increase technical competency. 
• Learn about career pathways for new graduates, including the UW Health Nurse Residency Program.
• Placement is available in a variety of departments at University Hospital, American Family Children’s Hospital, East Madison Hospital and outpatient clinics.
  • Clinical areas of interest will be discussed during your interview. You can review some of our departments here.
• Affordable campus housing is available a short distance from the medical center.