FAQs for potential and current ARNP students
ARNP clinicals and projects
Do I have to go to the UI College of Nursing to be an ARNP?
No. You can choose where you go for your ARNP education. But it’s important to remember when choosing your program that UI Health Care ARNP clinical placement and projects is only available to students enrolled in UI College of Nursing programs.
What if I’m enrolled in a program that is not offered by the UI College of Nursing?
We will make exceptions for students enrolled in some programs not offered by the UI College of Nursing. These include neonatal nurse practitioner and women’s health nurse practitioner. Before an affiliation agreement is put in place for these exceptions, your school must be approved, and the department chair must agree to allow the clinical hours required. Be sure to request your approval for these programs as soon as possible. This paperwork requires a few months to complete before clinical hours can be arranged.
I’m enrolled at a different school. Why can’t I just find my own preceptors?
There are legal ramifications and safety issues involved in clinical placement. Many programs lack adequate instructor oversight. That puts our ARNP/PA employees under the additional stress of having to teach critical skills and be exceptionally aware of patient safety. The Iowa Board of Nursing also has new administrative rules addressing this issue.
What if I am in school for an MSN/DNP nursing leadership role and not an ARNP student?
This change does not apply to you. The Department of Nursing will continue affiliation agreements with programs that support MSN and DNP nursing leadership roles if placements for the program are with other nursing leaders and not ARNPs.
What about my ARNP project?
All UI College of Nursing students will follow the same pathway as is currently in place through the Department of Nursing office of evidence-based practice. No outside school ARNP projects will be accepted.
What if I want to attend the UI College of Nursing for an MSN leadership track but not a DNP leadership track?
The College of Nursing has an MSN and a DNP track for nursing leadership. These are treated the same with practicum placement and project approval.
Who can I talk to for career counseling to understand the various options of ARNPs or nursing leadership tracks?
For career guidance, please contact [email protected].
If you have any other questions, contact Maria Lofgren at [email protected]