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MSN Handbook

Practicum Setting Selection

Choosing the right practicum site is crucial for the success of your MSN program and Aspen University has the Office of Field Experience to assist students with identifying and selecting an appropriate practicum site and preceptor. Through working with the Office of Field Experience - many students utilize their place of employment as their practicum site.

Here are the key criteria to consider when selecting a practicum site:

Preceptor Affiliation: The Registered Nurse preceptor needs to be affiliated with the practicum site and possess a master's degree with the necessary expertise relevant to your chosen MSN specialty track.

Adequate Resources: Verify that the practicum site offers sufficient space and resources to enable you to meet the practicum requirements of your MSN track specialty effectively. This includes access to relevant equipment, technology, and facilities.

Ongoing Support: The practicum site should be committed to providing ongoing support to both you and your affiliated preceptor throughout your practicum experience. This support should encompass guidance, mentorship, and resources to ensure your success.

Documentation Completion: It is essential to complete all required documentation to obtain the Practicum Approval Letter. The required documentation includes any agreements, contracts, or forms necessary for your placement at the site and with your preceptor.

Here are some specific recommendations for practicum site considerations based on the various MSN specialty tracks:

Administration and Management:

  • Acute, sub-acute, assisted-living, skilled nursing healthcare facilities.
  • State professional organizations.
  • Hospital and clinic systems.
  • Union headquarters.
  • Magnet facilities.
  • Educational institutions, among others.

Nursing Education:

  • Acute, sub-acute, assisted-living, skilled nursing healthcare facilities.
  • State professional organizations.
  • Hospital and clinic systems.
  • Staff education departments in healthcare facilities.
  • Companies specializing in continuing education for nurses.
  • Public health departments, and more.

Public Health:

  • Local health departments.
  • Medical reserve corps.
  • Organizations like the American Heart Association and MADD.
  • Home health agencies.
  • School nurse offices.
  • State health departments.
  • Population-specific outreach programs, and others.

Forensic Nursing:

  • Emergency departments.
  • Fire departments.
  • Emergency medical services.
  • Law enforcement agencies.
  • Search and rescue teams.
  • Hospital emergency departments.
  • Correctional facilities.
  • Law offices.
  • Agencies involved in risk management.
  • Environmental protection agencies and departments.
  • Medical examiner's offices.
  • Certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners and trainers.
  • The court system, and more.

Informatics:

  • Acute care facilities.
  • Sub-acute care facilities.
  • Ambulatory care centers.
  • Outpatient clinics.
  • Community health organizations.
  • Home health agencies.
  • Other healthcare service providers' informatics departments.
  • Health Information Management service providers, and others.