What do I do if my preceptor leaves mid-practicum?

Preceptors change jobs, go on leave, or get reorganized out of their role, and it rarely lines up with your practicum calendar. It's disruptive, but it's manageable if you move quickly.

Before they leave

Ask for a meeting as soon as you hear the news. Use it to:

• Review the status of every project you're working on
• Confirm where files live and get access to anything you'll need
• Get contact information for key stakeholders
• Ask who will supervise you, and request a warm introduction or a joint handoff meeting
• Get any pending signatures, timesheet approvals, or evaluations done while they're still there

If the relationship was good, ask whether they'd be willing to be a reference later, and exchange contact information that works outside the organization.

Tell your program immediately

Contact your practicum coordinator the same week. Most programs have to approve a new preceptor, and your replacement may need to meet specific qualification requirements. Don't assume the switch is automatic. Getting written confirmation protects the hours and competency work you log from here on.

If no one at the site can supervise you, your program needs to arrange a solution, such as faculty supervision, an external preceptor, or a site change. Hours worked without approved supervision may not count, so check with your program.

Start fresh with the new supervisor

Schedule an orientation meeting. Share your learning objectives, what you've completed, and what's still in progress. Then be open to their priorities, which may differ from your original preceptor's. A clear record of your hours and deliverables helps them catch up fast.

Keep your objectives in view

Your competencies and requirements haven't changed. Only the person verifying them has. If the transition threatens a deliverable, raise it early. For a fuller walkthrough, see navigating preceptor turnover mid-practicum.