Preceptor Role

A preceptor is a qualified public health or healt care professional who mentors and supervises a student for a student practicum. A strong preceptor makes a difference in the student’s experience and professional development. Students with skilled preceptors make better decisions and experience greater professional growth due to their guidance.

Your role as a preceptor is one of mentor and/or supervisor for the student during the practicum or research experience. You may or may not be the student’s direct supervisor on a project/internship; however, we require that all preceptors follow the guidelines below.

Preceptors are expected to:

Help Arnold School of Public Health staff and students define short-term tasks of potential use to his or her organization;
Review the student’s “proposal” for usefulness to the organization;
Determine limits of preceptor’s role with the student;
Provide on-site direction to the work component of the practicum;
Provide student logistical support (e.g., arranging space, equipment, use of phones, computers and/or computer software, access to data, secretarial support, etc.); and;
If possible, attend the student’s required oral presentation, and assist with the assessment of the student’s work and growth in competence during the practicum.