Graduate Nurses
UPMC enthusiastically welcomes graduate nurses from all over the country. We hire a large number of new graduates each year for positions throughout our health system. To help welcome our graduates into the profession of nursing and introduce them to life at UPMC, we offer robust orientation programs as well as a GN Residency Program.
Currently, our positions are not titled as graduate nurses, so you may apply to any nursing position that does not indicate that experience or certifications are required. Although some jobs may include “BSN” in the title, note that this is preferred, and not required, unless it is specifically stated in the job posting.
As you near graduation, you may find it helpful to visit the home page of the Pennsylvania Board of Nursing website. There you will find a "Letter to Student Nurses" and an updated "Frequently Asked Question" document that includes important information about licensure by exam, temporary practice permits, and authorization to test. You are able to download these documents. The State Board encourages Pennsylvania graduates to take advantage of the online application. You may submit a temporary practice permit (TPP) application and/or application for exam up to 90 days prior to the date you complete your nursing education program.
GN Residency Program
The GN Residency Program helps support new graduate nurses as they transition from the academic setting to the clinical practice setting. The program emphasizes the development of clinical and leadership skills that will assist the new graduate in becoming a successful professional nurse and an integral part of the health care team. Leadership development, education, and support will be provided for the unit director, preceptor, and graduate nurse in an integrated curriculum. The residency program is designed to be one year in length and incorporates key elements such as networking, learning about self, how to be a leader, and clinical competence.