Preceptors

Faculty & Staff

Mentor It Forward. Lasting Impact. Bold Steps.

What is a preceptor? A preceptor is an experienced clinician, such as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), Physician (MD or DO), or Physician Assistant (PA) — who volunteers their time and expertise to provide hands-on coaching, mentorship, and real-world training to NP students as they transition from classroom learning to clinical practice across diverse care settings. Preceptors play a vital role in shaping the next generation of healthcare providers by guiding students in patient assessment, diagnosis, and care management across the lifespan. By modeling evidence-based practice, professional integrity, and compassionate care, preceptors help students build confidence and competence in managing both common and complex patient conditions.

Make an Impact

Serving as a preceptor not only strengthens the healthcare workforce pipeline but also fosters professional growth, leadership, and the advancement of accessible, high-quality care for all. If you are passionate about teaching, collaboration, and shaping the future of primary care, we invite you to become a preceptor and make a lasting impact on the next generation of clinicians.

Becoming a preceptor is an opportunity to shape the future of healthcare while sharing your expertise and passion for nursing. Preceptors play a vital role in mentoring the next generation of advanced practice nurses, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to provide exceptional patient care.

Become a Preceptor

At the University of South Florida College of Nursing, we combine academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and clinical innovation to prepare nurse practitioners to lead in primary care and beyond. Our Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program is ranked No. 1 among Florida’s public universities and No. 23 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting our strong reputation in graduate nursing education.

We’re also deeply invested in research and community impact. The college recently climbed to #28 in NIH funding among nursing schools in the Blue Ridge Institute rankings, underscoring the strength and growth of our scientific contributions.

Preceptors Needed Across Florida

We are seeking dedicated preceptors throughout the state of Florida to help support NP students in their clinical rotations. Whether you practice in a large hospital, community clinic, or private office, your participation makes a meaningful difference. Students are placed in a wide variety of settings — from urban centers to rural communities — and qualified preceptors are needed in every region to ensure access to high-quality clinical education statewide.

By serving as a preceptor with USF, you will be part of a vibrant academic–clinical partnership that is dedicated to transforming healthcare, uplifting underserved communities, and shaping future leaders in nursing.

Clinical Preceptor Guide Preceptor Training Registration I'm Interested

Preceptor Overview

Qualified preceptors need:
- Minimum of a master’s degree in the specialty area
- One year or more of experience in clinical practice at the advanced level
- Current and unencumbered license (to practice in Florida) as an APRN, MD, DO, or PA
1. Will precepting fulfill CE credits?

No

2. What is the time commitment?

Students on average will complete 90-180 hours (this will change with the new curriculum).

3. What’s the onboarding process for students?

Depends on the office that the preceptor is in – could be as complicated as an interview, onboarding modules, EHR training...or as simple as showing up day 1.

4. May I request the type of student I would like to precept?

Yes. Preceptors can request 1st 2nd, 3rd or final semester students, and we also allow selection based on languages spoken. Or prior experience (ex: Cardiology experience as an RN for a Cardiology office).

5. Is there any paperwork required of the preceptor?

Depends on their office/ how their admin processes the student.

6. Who will conduct site visits to check on the preceptor and student?

Clinical Faculty

7. How will I know what to focus on with the students?

Students will provide information related to their course learning outcomes and a Clinical Learning Guide. This learning guide includes individualized goals for the semester and outlines the expected types of clinical experiences. It is a longitudinal document that is updated each semester, capturing the student’s ongoing development. Each clinical experience contributes uniquely to the guide, demonstrating the depth and breadth of learning that supports the student’s preparation for advanced nursing practice. Students should initiate review of the guide on Day 1 with the preceptor to plan the rotation.

8. Is the preceptor role paid?

No — the preceptor role is a volunteer opportunity. Preceptors generously dedicate their time to support the education and professional growth of future Nurse Practitioners. While there is no financial compensation, preceptors often find the experience deeply rewarding, gaining professional fulfillment, opportunities for collaboration, and the satisfaction of shaping the next generation of healthcare providers. Serving as a preceptor not only strengthens your professional impact, but can also count toward several national recertifications and may qualify for inclusion in employee incentive programs.

What Our Preceptors Say

Precepting APRN students keeps me current on best practices and allows me to enhance the student's education. We focus on techniques for managing difficult situations, enhancing empathy, and providing culturally sensitive and patient-centered care. - Amanda Nagy

In my career path, I've had a lot of people help me at different critical points in time, and so I love giving that back. - Anne Dempsey

Affiliate Faculty

Preceptors who regularly mentor students may be eligible for an Affiliate Faculty appointment with the USF College of Nursing.

Benefits of Affiliate Faculty

Precepting students provides a valuable opportunity to vet and orient potential hires—essentially serving as a semester-long job interview. This process helps reduce recruitment costs, shorten orientation time, and minimize turnover, making it a win-win for your practice.
Enjoy full access to USF Health Libraries, including health collections, journals, and eResources (e.g., Ovid, MedlinePlus, CINHAL, MD Consult) with a valid USF ID card.
Access various discounts through the USF Employee Perks Program, offering deals on goods, services, and recreation at over 60 local businesses.
Receive a USF email account with a valid USF ID.
Nurse practitioner preceptors can use preceptorship hours toward the recertification requirement.