Clinical placement is the required clinical education component of Baylor University’s Online Doctor of Nursing Practice program (DNP) and the Distance ABSN program. Clinicals work closely with the classroom-based coursework to prepare you for your future providing primary care in the field. 

Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing believes you are only as successful as your training, which is why we collaborate with students to identify and secure clinical sites and preceptors for all clinical rotations. This enables you to focus on coursework and developing core competencies rather than spending a significant amount of time on the logistics of clinical placements. However, if you already have a placement site or preceptor in mind, students are encouraged to refer them to the placement team to secure. Additionally, you may find clinical placement sites to be potential locations for future employment opportunities upon graduation.

Shortly after enrollment, you will be provided with a placement intake form you are required to complete that captures your competencies, experience, and placement preferences. 

Baylor University will collaborate with you to identify a quality placement site and preceptor. While the placement team is securing sites and preceptors, you will be responsible for completing clinical clearance requirements in preparation for placement, including:

• Drug screening
• Background check
• Recommended vaccinations

You will not be permitted to begin your placement rotations without your clearances complete. Once the sites have been approved by the School of Nursing, Baylor University will share the placement site details with you prior to placement.

During the placement experience, you will have access to faculty and other resources. Faculty will be available to mentor and support you throughout the rotation if there are any specific questions about procedures, patient interactions, and general proficiencies. At the end of the placement rotation, you and your preceptor will review requirements, complete surveys and officially end the placement rotation. If you have multiple rotations, you will receive the next preceptor/site details.