Piedmont Hospital Dedicated Education Unit

Nursing students in the final year of their degree program can work alongside nursing professionals and gain the necessary skills to work in one of Atlanta’s largest healthcare systems.

The Dedicated Education Unit (DEU) at Piedmont Fayette Hospital is a floor or unit in the health facility specifically developed for nursing students and staffed by clinical nursing faculty. This unit allows Clayton State nursing students to work one-on-one with a registered nurse and creates a pathway to employment upon graduation. Nursing students have the advantage of learning about the equipment, protocols and processes of the facility thus making them a stronger candidate upon employment.

The DEU unit was established In August of 2017 through an agreement with Piedmont Fayette Hospital and Clayton State University’s School of Nursing. Clinical Nursing Instructor Emily Kilburg was very instrumental in facilitating the development of the program. She has since partnered with the health system and created another DEU site at Piedmont Henry. Nursing professors Dr. Rebecca Morgan and Dr. Elicia Collins have helped in overseeing the progress of the students at this site.

Program Eligibility

Interested students must be seniors admitted to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program basic licensure track. This experience is counted as clinical hours and practicum hours for students. Students selected will complete all clinical coursework/experiences through Piedmont health care facilities.

Participation in the DEU is not required and students must apply.

Apply to the Dedicated Education Unit program

Download the application and submit it to Dr. Rebecca Morgan.  An interview with representatives from the Piedmont Health System will also be required as part of the selection process.

DEU Application