The Quality and Safety education for Nurses (QSEN) competencies define quality and safety competencies for nursing and are reflected in the New Graduate Residency Program curriculum.
Now hiring graduates into our Nurse Residency Program.
Apply today or contact Erin McCaw with any questions at [email protected]
How to apply?
Complete an online application and attach the following documents to help us understand your nursing goals. If you have any difficulty uploading documents please forward them to Erin McCaw at [email protected]
- Resume – Include all education and experience, including dates.
- Cover letter – Start with “Dear Nurse Manager,” and introduce yourself and your goals.
- Unofficial transcript – This can be found on your school’s website.
- Clinical narrative – Your narrative will be most beneficial if you write about a specialty where you hope to interview.
To learn more about Penn State Health's Graduate Nurse Residency Program at our other entities, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a paid nurse residency?
Yes, all graduate nurse residents are selected to fill permanent staff nurse positions on the hiring unit. You will receive a full RN salary and comprehensive benefits beginning the day you start new employee orientation.
What shift will I be working?
You will most likely be assigned to a full-time night-shift rotation. Once the orientation period is complete (12 to 20 weeks), you will be able to apply to open positions on your unit. Your full-time status must be maintained for one full year.
I already have my RN license. Must I complete a nurse residency in order to be hired?
Yes, all new graduates without experience are required to be licensed and complete our Graduate Nurse Residency program. However, if you have a minimum six months of hospital acute care RN experience, you can apply for a staff nurse position and potentially be hired without the residency.
What happens if I fail boards before the residency begins?
Unfortunately, our policy states that you will need to pass boards to be eligible for a current position. If you can retake and pass boards before your scheduled start date, plan to do so. If not, contact your recruiter to discuss other options.
Is there a minimum GPA for acceptance?
Because the residency is an extension of the studying/learning experience, a GPA of 3.0 and higher is preferred.
Is a BSN required in order to be hired as a Graduate Nurse Resident?
No. If you do not hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing prior to the start date of the Graduate Nurse Residency program, you are encouraged to enroll in a BSN program and after six months of employment will be eligible to participate in the tuition reimbursement program.
Graduate nurses are hired year round and the formal Residency Education begins twice a year. The program spans 12 months and is composed of monthly meetings to facilitate the transition from student to professional nurse.