Apprenticeship Resources
Apprenticeship Recommendation
The NCWS recommendation on nursing apprenticeship is an educational, evidence-based document that demonstrates that nursing apprenticeships are a proven, underutilized workforce strategy. It addresses persistent nursing shortages by integrating paid, structured on-the-job training with accredited nursing education, producing practice-ready nurses while reducing financial barriers for students. It explains how nursing apprenticeships are distinct from traditional models due to regulatory and accreditation requirements, operating alongside—not in place of—formal education and clinical hours while strengthening education-practice alignment.
Drawing on national and state examples, the recommendation shows that apprenticeship programs improve retention, diversity, licensure outcomes, and workforce stability, with some programs demonstrating near-perfect National Council Licesnure Examination,NCLEX, pass rates and high post-graduation employment. Despite upfront costs, nursing apprenticeships deliver a strong return on investment through reduced turnover, lower recruitment and orientation costs, and the creation of a sustainable, employer-aligned nursing talent pipeline. Read the full NCWS Recommendation.