Practicum Frequently Asked Questions
How long is my practicum?
BSN students must spend a total of 72 hours each during the course engaged in practicum-related experiences in both NURS 4210/4211 Role of the Nurse Leader in Population Health and NURS 4220/4221 Leadership Competencies in Nursing and Healthcare, a total of 144 hours or 100 hours in NURS 4300/4301 BSN Capstone.
Do I have to finish all the practice hours during the practicum course?
Yes, you must complete the required practice hours during each course.
What if I do not complete all the practicum activities and project by the end of the course?
Students usually complete their practicum without any problems. However, if the project is not completed, the student will need to request an Incomplete (I) from the instructor for the course until the work is complete. If students are concerned about this, they should contact their practicum course Faculty Member immediately.
What if my preceptor does not complete the required evaluation at midterm or end of course?
Students are encouraged to ensure the preceptor provided feedback by completing the required Meditrek® evaluation, and then notify Faculty when the preceptor evaluation is complete. Students will earn an “F” in the practicum course if the preceptor does not complete the required Meditrek® final evaluation by the course deadline. If the preceptor evaluation form is not complete within 80 days of the last day of the course, the grade of “F” will become permanent regardless of course points. Students should contact the field experience coordinator if they encounter problems.
When should I submit my practicum application?
The deadline for course-based students submitting the BSN practicum application is the first day of the quarter before the quarter students wish to begin the practicum, which is 6 weeks prior to the term. The deadline for Tempo Learning students is 6 weeks before they plan to enroll in practicums.
When can I begin my practicum?
Students may only begin their practicum once they are enrolled in the related theory portion of the courses.
Do I need an Affiliation Agreement or on-site preceptor?
Yes, an Affiliation Agreement is required. Students are required to have an on-site preceptor.
Can I be paid for my practicum?
No. Students cannot engage in a paid practicum under any circumstances. Practicums undertaken at your place of employment cannot be scheduled during your working hours.
Can my practicum be in a private care or private home setting?
No. Practicum applications requesting a site that is a private care setting or private home will not be approved.
Will my preceptor be compensated?
Although Walden University College of Nursing does not compensate preceptors financially for preceptorships, they are provided with the following benefits:
- Honorary Clinical Instructor status
- Access to our Walden Library
- No-cost continuing education opportunities
- Tuition reduction (See: Tuition Reduction Opportunities for Field Experience Supervisors)
- Job and internship posting specifically for Walden Students
Walden discourages students from paying preceptors or sites, or site placement agencies, due to conflicts of interest that can arise.
Please Note: More details and specifics regarding these benefits may be found on our Preceptor Resources page.
For questions regarding preceptor benefits, contact the Office of Field Experience.