Experiential Learning
Real-world learning is central to our curriculum. Every student applies classroom knowledge in simulation labs and clinical settings, with additional opportunities for hands-on experience through co-ops, Dedicated Education Units (DEUs), and global clinical programs.
Co-Op Program
Watch some of our students share their co-op experiences in different organizations and units.
The College of Nursing’s co-op program offers BSN students a paid, one-on-one mentorship with experienced preceptors at UC Medical Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Through this unique experience, students gain up to 600 hours of hands-on clinical practice, developing the confidence, critical thinking and professional skills needed to transition smoothly into their roles as registered nurses.
Co-op participants work across a variety of specialties—including medical-surgical care, intensive care, obstetrics, emergency medicine and pediatrics—while contributing to hospital committees and projects that showcase nursing leadership beyond bedside care.
Dedicated Education Units (DEU)
Through strong partnerships with local healthcare organizations, the College of Nursing offers undergraduate students Dedicated Education Units (DEUs)—unique clinical experiences where each student is paired one-on-one with a staff nurse throughout the semester.
DEUs provide hands-on, real-world preparation by emphasizing peer teaching, collaborative learning and improved clinical outcomes. Students are placed in medical-surgical teaching units at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center or the Cincinnati VA Medical Center, working alongside nursing staff and faculty to gain insight into patient care, workflow, and professional practice.
Global Programs
Watch some of our students share their experience participating in our Global Program trips.
The college offers undergraduate and graduate students opportunities to study abroad in various locations. Unlike mission trips, the college’s study abroad program emphasizes learning alongside health providers and nursing students in other countries.
Designed to develop responsible citizens of the world, participants earn course credits while challenging their understanding of global health issues and disparities.
In recent years, students have traveled to destinations in the United Kingdom, Thailand, Japan and Tanzania.