Job Shadow Opportunities at UPMC Hospitals (Non-Physician)
Step into the world of health care with UPMC’s dynamic shadowing program, a unique opportunity for students, visiting faculty, and individuals considering a career change into medicine or patient care. Whether you're exploring a new professional direction or deepening your current knowledge, shadowing at UPMC offers firsthand insight into clinical environments and health care roles.
To ensure a safe and supportive experience, participants must meet all outlined requirements. This includes submitting requests at least 30 days before your desired shadowing experience date and fulfilling any applicable health or immunization guidelines. Individual departments may have additional criteria, so early planning is key.
Ready to observe, learn, and be inspired? UPMC’s shadowing program welcomes your curiosity and commitment.
At UPMC, we offer shadowing opportunities for individuals currently in high school and above, or those exploring career opportunities within our owned and operated facilities. For those under the age of 18, parent or guardian consent is required to participate, along with a signature on the necessary forms.
We allow shadowing in any UPMC facility for up to two weeks. We don't allow any group shadowing.
We allow shadowing from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. only (excluding holidays).
UPMC clinics with vulnerable populations (infant, pediatrics, behavioral health) may require additional information to shadow. Regulatory entities may require this to make sure patients are safe.
International shadowing candidates must contact UPMC for shadowing requirements.
All shadowing requests must be made at a minimum of 30 days prior to the shadow start date.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
Understanding Infant Security (only required at UPMC facilities with L&D/NICU/Pediatric Services)
Returning Required Documentation to UPMC
Please provide a screenshot as proof of completion for each mandatory learning module and submit it along with all signed job shadowing documents to UPMC.
Ensure that documentation is not completed or returned to UPMC until a coordinator has confirmed your shadowing experience. The UPMC coordinator at the facility you request to shadow at will provide instructions on how to return the documentation.
Additional Job Shadow Requirement
UPMC Children’s Hospital requires a sex offender database check upon arrival at the hospital.
Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Job Shadow at UPMC
The Office of Advanced Practice Providers (OAPP) facilitates shadow experiences for individuals interested in shadowing practice personnel. This includes nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.
Shadowing experiences are observational only. Individuals can't assist in any way.
Please note:If you do not have an identified preceptor, it may add additional time to locate one.
The minimum education level is senior year of high school.
Participants under the age of 18 must prove parental consent.
Individuals under the age of 18 can't shadow in operating room settings.
Shadowing experiences are typically a one-day experience. You may shadow up to a two week time period.
Shadowing participants must pay $50 per shadow experience (with one preceptor for one to three days, for no more than eight hours per day) via our APP Shadow Program payment portal.
Current UPMC employees don't need to pay a fee. They also don't need to fill out any information via the payment portal.
The $50 fee also does not apply to Central Pa. APPs.
Unfortunately, we can't guarantee placement. A refund is available at any time upon request.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
When the OAPP receives all the necessary documentation and payment from the individual, at least 60 days must pass in order to find a placement (if requested). When a shadow placement has been secured, all communication regarding specific meeting places, times, and so forth shall occur between the APP and the individual.
Shadowing with UPMC Home Healthcare provides insight to the care that is provided to various patient populations, within the comfort of their home. Job shadowing experiences may be available for nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy dependent upon location.
At UPMC, we provide home health shadowing opportunities for individuals aged 18 and older who are interested in exploring career opportunities or learning more about home health care within a healthcare system.
We allow shadowing for one to two days. We don't allow any group shadowing.
We allow shadowing from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. only (excluding holidays).
Personal transportation is required.
All shadowing requests must be made at a minimum of 30 days prior to the shadow start date.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
Understanding Infant Security (only required at UPMC facilities with L&D/NICU/Pediatric Services)
Returning Required Documentation to UPMC
Please provide a screenshot as proof of completion for each mandatory learning module and submit it along with all signed job shadowing documents to UPMC.
Ensure that documentation is not completed or returned to UPMC until a coordinator has confirmed your shadowing experience. All documentation must be returned to the Education Department where the shadowing experience will occur, and a coordinator will provide instructions.
Neurodiagnostic is a field of healthcare focused on diagnosing diseases and conditions of the nervous system. This involves using various technological tools and techniques to monitor and assess the electrical activity and functioning of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. It's a fascinating and highly specialized area that combines medicine, technology, and a deep understanding of neurology. UPMC offers opportunities to shadow experienced professionals in Intraoperative Neuromonitoring and Neurodiagnostic Technology.
Shadowing in Intraoperative Neuromonitoring: Students majoring in neuroscience or other life sciences are welcome to shadow a surgical neurophysiologist in the operating room at UPMC Presbyterian. Shadowers come from 8 a.m. until noon and spend time learning about the neurodiagnostic modalities utilized to protect the nervous system of patients who are undergoing brain, spine, or heart surgery.
Shadowing in Neurodiagnostic Technology: Students are welcome to shadow a clinical neurodiagnostic technologist for up to eight hours on Mondays and Wednesdays at UPMC Presbyterian or Hamot hospitals. Based on availability and interest, students may choose to observe electroencephalography (EEG), nerve conduction studies and electromyography (NCS/EMG), and/or autonomic function testing. A statement of support signed by a teacher or guidance counselor is required for high school students.
At UPMC, we offer shadowing opportunities for individuals currently in high school and above, or those exploring career opportunities within our owned and operated facilities. For those under the age of 18, parent or guardian consent is required to participate, along with a signature on the necessary forms.
UPMC clinics with vulnerable populations (infant, pediatrics, behavioral health) may require additional information to shadow. Regulatory entities may require this to make sure patients are safe.
All shadowing requests must be made at a minimum of 30 days prior to the shadow start date.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
Returning Required Documentation to UPMC
Ensure that documentation is not completed or returned to UPMC until a coordinator has confirmed your shadowing experience. The UPMC coordinator at the facility you request to shadow at will provide instructions on how to return the documentation.
Discover the transformative power of rehabilitation at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, where healing goes beyond immediate treatment and into lifelong recovery. This shadowing program offers a compelling gateway for students, visiting faculty, and individuals exploring a career change to witness how physical medicine and rehabilitation play a vital role in restoring independence, mobility, and quality of life.
Participants will observe the synergy between therapists, physicians, and patients in a dynamic environment dedicated to holistic care. From stroke recovery to spinal cord injury treatment, rehabilitation is often the bridge between surviving and truly living. You’ll see that impact firsthand.
To join, you’ll need to fulfill all outlined requirements, including submitting your request at least 30 days before your desired shadowing experience date and meeting any applicable health and immunization standards. Additional department-specific criteria may apply.
Inspired to be part of someone’s journey toward recovery? The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute invites your passion and curiosity.
At UPMC, we offer shadowing opportunities for individuals currently in high school and above, or those exploring career opportunities within our owned and operated facilities. For those under the age of 18, parent or guardian consent is required to participate, along with signature on the necessary forms.
We allow shadowing in any UPMC facility for up to 50 hours. We don’t allow any group shadowing.
We allow shadowing from Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).
UPMC clinics with vulnerable populations (infant, pediatrics, behavioral health) may require additional information to shadow. Regulatory entities may require this to make sure patients are safe.
International shadowing candidates must contact UPMC for shadowing requirements.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
Returning Required Documentation to UPMC
Ensure that documentation is not completed or returned to UPMC until a coordinator has confirmed your shadowing experience. The UPMC coordinator at the facility you request to shadow at will provide instructions on how to return the documentation.
Curious about how a hospital operates behind the scenes? UPMC’s Facility Tours offer students an exciting chance to explore the many departments that keep a healthcare system running smoothly. From imaging and emergency care to labs and outpatient services, these tours provide a broad overview of clinical and non-clinical functions—all in one immersive experience.
While not in-depth, the program offers a valuable glimpse into the inner workings of hospital life and helps participants envision where their interests might lead in the healthcare field.
Whether you’re just starting to consider a future in medicine or exploring potential career paths, come take a look at what UPMC hospitals have to offer—you might find inspiration where you least expect it.
We allow individuals in middle school or above to tour UPMC facilities. An 18+ adult must accompany any tour participant who’s under 18 and a parent or guardian must sign all required forms.
UPMC allows tours of up to two hours at its clinics. Group tours can't exceed five participants.
Tours are only available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (excluding holidays).
UPMC clinics with vulnerable populations (infant, pediatrics, behavioral health) may restrict tour access for patient safety.
For the health and safety of staff and patients, UPMC requires proof of flu vaccination from November to May. Individuals who cannot provide proof of flu vaccination must wear a UPMC provided mask during influenza season while in a UPMC owned and operated facility.
Returning Required Documentation to UPMC
Ensure that documentation is not completed or returned to UPMC until a coordinator has confirmed your facility tour experience. The UPMC coordinator at the facility you request to tour at will provide instructions on how to return the documentation.
Additional Job Shadow Requirement
UPMC Children’s Hospital requires a sex offender database check upon arrival at the hospital.
For general questions about facility tours at UPMC, please email careerconnect@upmc.edu.
Labor & Delivery Tours for Expecting Mothers at UPMC
Welcoming new life is a remarkable journey, and UPMC is honored to support expecting families every step of the way. With expert obstetric care across our network—including nationally recognized facilities like UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital—we offer a full range of labor and delivery services designed around you. Expect private birthing suites, access to certified nurse-midwives, and advanced care for high-risk pregnancies. We also provide in-person and virtual tours so families can feel confident and prepared, along with childbirth education classes, breastfeeding support, and postpartum resources. From prenatal to postnatal, UPMC is your trusted partner in a healthy start.
To schedule a tour of a UPMC labor and delivery facility, please visit the webpage of your preferred hospital to access important details and booking information. Each location provides specific guidance regarding tour availability, requirements, and preparation to help ensure a safe and informative experience.
