Why a Residency Changes Everything
The difference between a rough first year and a great one often comes down to this one decision.
Research shows new grad nurses who complete a formal residency program have significantly higher first-year retention rates, lower reported burnout at 12 months, and stronger clinical confidence than those who go through standard orientation alone.
- Paid from day one — residency programs are full-time paid positions, not unpaid training
- Cohort-based learning — go through the experience with a group of new grads who actually understand what you're dealing with
- Mentorship built in — dedicated preceptors and mentors, not just whoever's least busy that shift
- Specialty exposure — many programs offer rotations before you're locked into a unit
- Simulation lab time — practice critical scenarios in a controlled environment before they happen in real life
- Magnet hospital access — many top residency programs are at Magnet-designated facilities
How to Use It
Find your program in three steps.
Enter Your Preferences
Pick a state, one or more of 10 specialties, a program length, and whether you want ANCC PTAP-accredited programs only.
Get Matched Programs
The finder lists the programs that match your filters, PTAP-accredited Magnet programs first, with program length, specialties, estimated pay, cohort timing, and a link to each program site.
Build Your Apply List
Use the cohort timing and program links to confirm current deadlines on each program's site, then shortlist the ones that fit.
Specialties Covered
The finder filters programs by these 10 specialties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a nurse residency program?
A nurse residency program is a structured transition-to-practice program for new graduate RNs. Lasting 6–12 months, residencies combine clinical rotations, simulation lab training, mentorship, and classroom education to help new nurses develop critical thinking and specialty skills before practicing independently.
Do I need a residency as a new grad RN?
You don't legally need one, but studies show new grad nurses who complete a residency have significantly lower first-year turnover and higher confidence. Many ICU, OR, and specialty units now require or strongly prefer new grads to complete a formal residency program before independent practice.
How long are nurse residency programs?
Most programs run 6 to 12 months. Some specialty programs — particularly critical care, perioperative, or emergency nursing — run up to 18 months. You are paid as a full-time employee during the entire residency.
Do nurse residency programs pay?
Yes — residency programs are paid positions. You receive a full RN salary while in the program. Some hospitals start residents at a slightly lower rate and increase pay after completion; others pay full market rate from day one. Always ask about the compensation structure before accepting.
What's the difference between nurse residency and orientation?
Orientation is typically 4–8 weeks of unit-specific onboarding with a preceptor. A residency is a formal, structured 6–12 month program with cohort-based learning, simulation, classroom components, multiple specialty rotations, and dedicated mentorship. Residencies are significantly more comprehensive.