Next program starts on May 26, 2026
Gain valuable experience providing remarkable patient care at the #1 hospital in Wisconsin and a Magnet-designated academic medical center as a nurse extern. This opportunity is for nursing students who are:
- Currently enrolled in a Baccalaureate Nursing Program and have successfully completed two clinical courses prior to the program start date.
- Current UW Health employees who are enrolled in an Associate Degree Nursing Program must complete two in-person clinical courses prior to program start date.
- Expected to graduate nursing school between December 2026 through May 2027.
You’ll help provide remarkable patient care alongside a RN Clinical Coach during this 10 week program. This opportunity will enhance your clinical knowledge and provide valuable direct patient care experience at our Magnet-designated academic medical center.
Program Highlights
- Nurse externs work alongside a RN Clinical Coach for 10 weeks.
- Inpatient placement will include adult and pediatric care units at our Level 1 Trauma Center – University Hospital, American Family Children’s Hospital and East Madison Hospital. Examples of participating specialties are medical, surgical, critical care, and psychiatry.
- Emergency Services, perioperative services and ambulatory procedural care placement options may also be available.
- Please review the department descriptions. Clinical areas of interest will be discussed during your interview.
- You will have many opportunities which will enhance your clinical knowledge and increase your technical nursing skills.
- Experience the culture of an academic, Magnet-designated medical center.
- Learn about UW Health career pathways, including the Nurse Residency Program.
- Placements are available at University Hospital, American Family Children’s Hospital, East Madison Hospital and a variety of outpatient clinics/urgent care.
- Affordable campus housing is available a short distance from the medical center.