Clinical Placements
Clinical experiences are a key component of the program, allowing students to apply leadership principles in real‑world healthcare environments. These placements provide opportunities to collaborate with experienced nurse leaders, participate in organizational projects, and develop competencies essential for executive nursing practice.
How Clinical Placements Work
Flexible, Student‑Centered Model: Students may complete clinical hours within their current workplace or another approved healthcare organization that aligns with program objectives.
Supported Placement Process: Our clinical placement team and faculty advisors guide students through selecting appropriate sites and preceptors, ensuring experiences meet accreditation and curriculum requirements.
Qualified Preceptors: Preceptors are experienced nursing leaders—such as nurse managers, directors, or executives—who provide mentorship and support as students develop advanced leadership skills.
Professional Growth Opportunities: Clinical experiences focus on strategic planning, quality improvement, financial and workforce management, regulatory compliance, and strengthening organizational culture.
Requirements
Students must complete all required clinical hours as outlined in the program curriculum.
All clinical sites and preceptors must receive formal approval before hours may be logged.
Additional requirements—such as background checks, immunizations, or site‑specific onboarding—may apply depending on the placement location.
State Approvals for Clinical Placements
Universities offering distance education must abide by the laws of each state in which students are placed for their practicum experience. There are several states at this time that may not allow WVU nursing students to participate in a practicum experience, and therefore a site placement cannot be guaranteed. A State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) must be in place to allow a WVU nursing student to participate in clinicals. Visit WVU Online to determine if your state has been approved for clinical placements or request information below.