Working and Clinicals

[Toast&Butters]

I am just starting my research into the NP career field. My question is, is working, part time at least doable while completing clinical requirements in NP school? Or is it more like you have a set number of hours you have to finish for clinicals, and you complete them at your own pace? Thanks in advance for any input on this topic!

[ToFNPandBeyond]

There are so many factors to consider (home life, commute, etc.), but generally speaking, it is possible to work part time while completing clinicals, but you need a flexible job. Additionally, you'll likely need not work more than 10 hours/week to do well in clinicals and still complete coursework.

At least, this is what worked for me.

[babyNP., APRN]

Yeah too many factors to consider...my own experience was 1-2 days of in class, 1-2 days of clinical (12 hours each), and then I worked every Saturday and Sunday 12 hour shifts. It was extremely grueling...! I quit right before the last semester because I was doing 50-60 hours a week of clinical (school intended for it to be this way to have an intense period for 6 weeks, but at least no classes).

[ArmaniX, MSN, APRN]

You’ll make things work when you need to, similar to others statements, it varies.

I maintained a full-time job, three 12-hr shifts and clinical/school. There were weeks where I legitimately did my 3 work shifts and 3 clinical shifts (six 12-hrs). I don’t have regrets, but it’s not a path I recommend.

[AutumnLeaves, MSN, RN, NP]

Personally, I went to a brick and mortar school with in- person classes and a lot of clinical hours.I had to cut back to 2 sixteen hour shifts on weekends,which put me to 32 hrs ,but I could keep my benefits. It was hard but I made it.

[WestCoastSunRN, MSN, CNS]

I work part-time. It's absolutely grueling. There's no way I could do full-time (I have a family). I'm almost done. Like someone said, you can make it work, but it's been super hard --- and quite honestly the time I spent working would have been EXCELLENT time spent studying or picking up more clinical hours. Something to think about.

[AnnieNP, MSN, NP]

I have been an NP preceptor for 10 years and every one of my student NPs have worked at least part time.

[thinbluelineRN, MSN, NP]

It's gruelling but not impossible. I did 3 clinical days and 4 work days everyday for 1.5 years. But I do have great support at home. It was not easy, I worked every holiday one year and I did have a job that wasn't hectic at times so I could complete assignments during downtime.