Transition Into Practice Program
TIPP allows students to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of an RN preceptor to help them prepare for careers as registered nurses.
A Pathway to Employment for Nursing Students
West Coast University is committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and leaders. As part of this preparation, WCU has launched the Transition into Practice Program (TIPP) to help students transition from student to nurse.
TIPP is a collaboration between WCU and the university’s clinical partners to provide senior nursing students in their last term of study additional education, mentoring, coaching, and clinical experiences to improve competency, build professional skills, and enhance employability within the healthcare industry.
In addition to regular coursework, clinical practice, and technical skill development, program participants will work directly with a pre-approved preceptor RN in a pre-approved clinical setting, following the preceptor’s schedule, caseload, and responsibilities. Students have the potential opportunity to possibly work in their unit of interest. If there is a match, the clinical partners may elect to interview candidates for possible employment opportunities.
“What I love is, I get that special attention, I get more of the training that I don’t think I would have gotten in a group clinical setting. So I think that is what I really enjoy and like most about this true crucial one-to one experience that I’m receiving right now.”
-Jonathan M., BSN Graduate ‘22
“It did meet all of my expectations. I got a one-on-one preceptor, I got to actually do a full-blown clinical, and I didn’t have to fight for anyone’s attention. I didn’t have to try to track down a preceptor, try to track down a nurse. We were doing everything together.”
-Assyiah Mae G., LVN to BSN graduate ‘22
How Do Students Benefit?
Gain a competitive edge in your nursing education.
The Transition Into Practice Program gives students the opportunity to learn and grow both professionally and personally while completing their final clinical rotation.
TIPP is a professional development program designed to prepare students for entrance into the clinical nursing role. This culminating nursing practicum course provides students with hands-on experience so they can build confidence in the clinical setting and prepare for a career as a registered nurse.
Discover the program benefits:
- On-site interview with participating hospital
- Exclusive preceptorship
- Specialized unit selection
- Customized TIPP scrubs
- Integration into clinical culture
- Honorary recognition
- Limited openings
- Network with healthcare professionals and partners
To pass this course, students must demonstrate the essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice.
This program is currently offered at our Orange County, Los Angeles (North Hollywood), Ontario, and Richardson Campuses.
Who Is Eligible for TIPP?
To be eligible for the Transition into Practice Program, students must meet these requirements:
Be currently enrolled in Advanced Medical-Surgical Course (NURS 480)
Maintain good standing in the nursing program
Have no conduct/judicial sanctions
All students who meet eligibility requirements may visit the Career Services department for application information. Additionally, students must complete a supplemental questionnaire and provide a professional resume. Selection is competitive, so meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee acceptance.
“I absolutely love my job and am so happy for the opportunity that West Coast University gave me. If it wasn’t for the TIPP program, I wouldn’t have this job today.”1
– Allison H., BSN Graduate ‘17
Orange Coast Memorial, OR RN
How to Apply
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your completed application no later than the specified deadline.* You can submit your application via email or deliver it to the Career Services department.
- For Orange County, email: WCUTIPP-OC@westcoastuniversity.edu
- For Ontario, email: CareerServicesOntario@westcoastuniversity.edu
- For Los Angeles (North Hollywood), email: WCUTIPPLA@westcoastuniversity.edu
- For Richardson, email: WCUTIPP-TX@westcoastuniversity.edu
*Please use these email addresses above to inquire about the next application deadline and program start date.
Step 2: Application Review
Only completed applications will be reviewed.
If you pass the preliminary review, you will be given a date and time for an interview with the TIPP panel. If your application is not accepted, you will be notified via email.
Step 3: Interviews
Interviews will have up to up to five panelists, which may include one or more hospital partners. Please prepare copies of your resume and references.
Step 4: Finalizing Your Placement
The hospital partner(s) will notify WCU Career Services if you are accepted for a placement. You will be informed about the hospital and unit to which you will be assigned.
It will be your decision to either accept or decline acceptance into the Transition into Practice Program.
Step 5: Start the Program
TIPP begins on the first day of your NURS 498L course.
Our team is here to answer any questions you have about the program!
*The opinion is the individual’s sole opinion and not necessarily representative of that of the school, any instructor, or any other student.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment.
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