New Graduate RN Residency Transition Program

Professional growth opportunities for new nurses

At Scripps, we understand that the transition from nursing student to professional nurse is both exciting and challenging, so we provide a supportive, structured environment to facilitate this adjustment. To ensure a smooth transition, we offer quality programs that provide you with the education, skills and emotional support you need to enter clinical practice as a confident, well-prepared nurse.

Hands-on learning environment

Scripps is committed to meeting the needs of new graduates by combining classroom learning, skills practice and individual clinical instruction from experienced nurse mentors and support groups to ease the transition from novice to seasoned caregiver. You will learn and develop effective decision-making skills that will enhance your clinical judgment and make you an important member of our exemplary team.

Program highlights

Scripps’ system-wide new graduate RN training program is a 40-week training and development program for recent registered nursing (RN) graduates through our New Graduate Residency Program. This program consists of:


  • One-on-one clinical training with a clinical coach/preceptor
  • Classroom education
  • Computer training
  • Support groups
  • Mentorship


Patient care training includes assessment, planning and implementation of a care plan and evaluating patient progress toward expected outcomes. At the program’s completion, the new grad RNs take primary responsibility for the patient’s care, working collaboratively with the care team under their supervision.


New graduates are trained as a collective group in various units. Upon successful completion of the program, nurses will be placed in a position within the Scripps system.


New graduate nursing positions are offered in the following units:


  • Medical/surgical
  • Telemetry
  • Oncology


Scripps clinical educators and leaders have developed special training programs to facilitate the growth and development of employees at Scripps. Employees who complete a Scripps transition program will be fully prepared to work at any Scripps facility.

2024 program dates

View the 2024 calendar (PDF, 560 KB) to see all program dates, application periods and interview dates for each program.

How do I apply?

To apply, visit the Scripps Careers website and search by job title during the application periods listed in the calendar above.   


All programs and dates are subject to change at any time based on business need. 

Frequently asked questions

You will find answers below to frequently asked questions about the new nursing graduate training program. You can also download our FAQs (PDF, 60 KB).

When is the best time to apply for a new grad position and what is the process?

New graduate programs typically open during the spring and/or fall. The first step is to complete an online application when a position becomes available. A position will be posted on the Careers website when applications are being accepted for the next program. You can search for “New Grad RN” positions. 

How many hours per week will a new grad work?

All training program positions are full time, which require 72 to 80 hours per pay period (2 weeks) for the length of the program, including weekends.

What time will the position be posted?

Positions will automatically open on the first day of the posting period.

What is required to fill out the application?

A standard employment application is required for each position. You will need to provide your educational and employment history. Also, you can upload a resume, cover letter or letters of recommendation during the application process if you would like, but these items are not required.

Who should a cover letter be addressed to?

Please address your cover letter to "Hiring Manager."

What are the start dates for each session?

We have five program starts a year. Programs will start in January, March, June, August and October.

Will I be working weekends and holidays?

Yes. Each new grad follows the preceptor’s schedule.

At which facility do new grads work?

All Scripps hospital locations accept new grads on their Med/Surg/DOU/Tele units/Med Oncology.

Which shift do new grads work?

Both days and nights.

Do I need a California Interim Permit or a California RN license in order to be hired?

We require that you have a current California interim permit or RN license by the time the program you are applying for begins.

What other requirements are needed?

Current Basic Life Support (BLS) for the Healthcare Provider through the American Heart Association. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) from the American Heart Association may be required for select units.

Do you offer a sign-on bonus and loan forgiveness?

We do not offer any sign-on bonus or loan forgiveness for new grad RNs at this time.

Who can apply for the new grad program?

New graduate RNs who have graduated from nursing school less than a year ago at the time of the application and have less than six months of experience working as an RN may apply.

When will I know if I get an interview?

Selected candidates will receive an invite to do an on-demand interview video. Managers will view the on-demand video to determine the candidates who will be invited for a live virtual interview. Candidates will be notified by email if they are not selected for the live virtual interview.