New Graduate Nurse Residency Program

The Nurse Residency Program at UNM Hospitals is designed to close the experience gap between nursing school and clinical practice at the bedside through mentorship and ongoing education.  New graduate Associate Degree (ADN) and Bachelor of Science (BSN) nurses transition from advanced beginner to competent professional nurses.

Acceptance into the RN Residency Program is contingent upon the following criteria: you are a graduate of an accredited nursing program within the last 6 months and have not worked as an RN; you hold an RN license or permit to practice as a graduate nurse in the New Mexico; you are willing to work full-time as a fully participating member of the clinical team; and you are willing to attend all of the general and specialized classes and other learning experiences.

Throughout the first year as a nurse the new graduate will receive support and services from the Nurse Residency Program Director, masters-prepared Nurse Educators, and clinically competent preceptors.  The Nurse Residency Program is committed to improving the new graduate nurse's bedside clinical skills and promoting the development of confident nursing staff. The goal of the program is to improve the quality of care, improve patient and employee satisfaction, and enable the new graduate to create a commitment to the hospital and the nursing profession.  All Nurse Residents are expected to take the NCLEX exam within 60-90 days of hire.

Baccalaureate-prepared nurse residents are expected to complete one evidence-based project. This project will include literature search/review and presentation of the project findings at a staff meeting, poster presentation or journal club session.   Final projects may also be displayed during Nurses Week or at other hospital events.  Outcome instruments are completed at hire, at 6 months, and at 12 months.   More information on the BSN Program

Nurse Residents with an Associates degree will be expected to attend monthly educational sessions of approximately 4 hours.  More information on the ADN Program

How to Apply:

Go to the UNM Hospitals' Career Center to apply for one of our positions. The job title to look for is UNM Academic RN Resident.

In addition to your on-line application we will also need to have the following items prior to your interview:

1. your current resume, showing all clinical experience;
2. a personal narrative letting us know what led to your decision to be a nurse;
3. a copy of your current transcripts (unofficial transcripts are ok);
4. your nursing school exit exams score; and
5. a cover letter stating your long- and short-term goals for nursing, the reasons you are interested in this program and hospital.