The Rural California Nursing Preceptorship (RCNP) Program is designed to give student nurses and graduate nurses an opportunity to work in a rural clinical setting. The opportunities are varied and encompass a large geographic area in Northern California.

The placement period lasts a minimum of four weeks. During this time, students work one-on-one with a preceptor, engaging in as much independent nursing practice as their skills permit.

Applications and subsequent placements are made on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

     

Frequently Asked Questions  
  How do I apply?  
  How much does it cost?  
  How does the placement process work?  
  How long is the preceptorship?  
  Who will be my preceptor?  
  Who provides advising and supervision?  
  Does RCNP provide housing?  
  Are continuing education units available for registered nurses?  
  Is academic credit available for students?  
 

How do I apply?
Placements are available during summer and intersession. The application period for summer participation opens the previous January, closing no later than the following April 1. The winter application period opens the previous August, closing no later than the following November 1. In the event that we reach our maximum capacity of participants for a given session, we may close the application period before the stated deadlines.

Applications can be downloaded from the website. Placements will be made according to the order in which fully completed applications are received. Please be advised that sites fill up quickly.

How much does it cost?
All applications are subject to a $100 non-refundable application fee. In addition, there will be a $400 course fee.

How does the placement process work?
All clinical placements are made in the Northern California area. RCNP Map. The RCNP coordinator is dedicated to providing the student with the best clinical experience available in the specialty area the student desires Compare Sites. Placements are made on a first come, first served basis.

How long is the preceptorship?
The placement period lasts a minimum of four weeks. Each participant will complete 150 clinical hours.

Who will be my preceptor?
Preceptors are selected, based on their availability and their willingness to work individually with a student. The RCNP Program coordinator works with a group of preceptors who enjoy teaching in a style that combines monitored independence for students with appropriate clinical supervision.

Who provides advising and supervision?
The RCNP Program coordinator is available for advising any time during the application and placement period. In most cases, the coordinator will visit the student "on site" during the placement period. During the preceptorship, the preceptor is the student's immediate supervisor.

Does RCNP provide housing?
Locating housing is a service that the RCNP Program provides for students who need housing in their placement area. Our housing providers are community members who are willing to open their homes to students. Students are charged approximately $325 for a 4-week stay.

Are continuing education units available for registered nurses?
Any registered nurse who has a current California license may participate and receive 30 contact hours from the Board of Registered Nursing. Nurses must participate for a minimum of four weeks (150 hours) at an RCNP site.

Is Academic Credit Available for Students?
All students will receive academic credit through a CSU, Chico extension course.

 
     
 

Map About RCNP Contact Us Compare Sites