The best way an individual can secure an apprenticeship in nursing is by contacting local government health units. Many state-run institutions offer apprenticeship programs as a means to enable individuals to pursue higher education in health care. People interested in becoming nursing apprentices can also inquire at hospitals and clinics regarding privately-run programs. Individuals currently working on obtaining university degrees can also approach their schools' various science and placement departments for leads on apprenticeship programs. Those who would like to get an apprenticeship in nursing in a particular field, such as veterinary or dental nursing, should specify these intentions when inquiring about apprenticeships.
Most institutions that offer apprenticeship in nursing programs do it to give aspiring nurses a means to enter more formal education. A nursing apprenticeship gives individuals the opportunity to learn from experience, and sometimes even earn a little money to fund their future education, depending on the program. As such, there are often very few requirements applicants need to meet. Some programs require only a clean bill of physical and mental health, a statement of good moral character, and high-school level education for entry. Although some institutions might require that their applicants have a college education, those that require degrees are less common than those that accept undergraduate students.
Individuals interested in an apprenticeship in nursing can check the websites of their country's national health department for any available programs. If there are no details on any programs on the website, they can look for the department's contact information directly by phone or by a personal visit to one of the department's offices. The requirements for acceptance might vary between different jurisdictions, but the basic requirements tend to remain the same regardless of location. State-run apprenticeship programs often have a wide network of medical institutions accepting apprentices, making this the most optimal course for action for prospective apprentices.
Certain hospitals and clinics might also run their own apprenticeship programs to assist their nursing staff. Privately-run hospitals, for example, might offer programs to involve the community in health care, as well as promote the nursing vocation. These programs can also serve as additional training for nursing students, especially those in schools partnered with a particular hospital. Non-government and charity-based units, on the other hand, might offer an apprenticeship in nursing for individuals who support their cause. Application to these programs is often a matter of simply volunteering to help with the intention of gaining on-the-job learning experiences.
