Here are some of the easiest states to find NP preceptors as a student and obtain a job after graduating:
Easiest for Preceptors:
- South Dakota – Few NP schools leads to less competition for preceptors. Also offers liability protections and financial incentives.
- Nebraska – Has actively campaigned to recruit more preceptors. Liability immunity and online preceptor database available.
- Utah – Has funded campaigns to expand preceptor pool. Also fewer restrictions on student clinical activities.
- Oklahoma – Provides liability coverage and scholarships for preceptors. Increased number of rural sites available.
- Kentucky – Offers liability protection and financial incentives to preceptors. Also has telehealth precepting options.
Easiest Job Markets:
- Arizona – Has full practice authority for NPs and high demand in metro areas like Phoenix.
- New Mexico – Allows NPs full practice rights. Jobs abundant in rural underserved areas.
- Alaska – Gives NPs a very wide scope of practice. High demand due to rural locale.
- Wyoming – Shortage of healthcare providers creates high demand for NPs statewide.
- Idaho – Requires only 500 clinical hours for licensure. Primary care jobs abundant, especially rurally.
In general, states in the Great Plains and Southwest offer the best landscapes for NP students and graduates due to favorable laws, demand, and incentives.
