Perioperative Nursing Program

PerioperativeNP

The Perioperative 101 Program, a formal education program developed by the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN), prepares registered nurses for careers in the operating room. This 18-week course provides nurses with clinical education to practice in the role of circulator in the operating room.  This program is offered to RNs and new graduates. New graduates are required to have an RN temporary permit prior to passing National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

See more information about the Perioperative Nurse role:

Investing in You: Get Paid While You Train

Students are paid during their 18 weeks of training, with full benefits. If selected for this program, students are considered full-time (36 hours/week) Huntsville Hospital Health System employees. Students that are selected for the program are required to sign a contract for a two-year work commitment, which reflects the training investment. 

Student Incentives 

  • Those nurses new to the HHHS team are eligible for a $15,000 Sign-On Bonus, to be paid over three years.
  • Beginning in December 2025, all students that successfully graduate from the program, will receive a $5,000 Graduation Bonus, at graduation.

How to apply

To apply for consideration for the next class, please go to the Huntsville Hospital Careers portal, select Training Programs under categories, or key in RN Periop Trainee to apply. All applications must include a resume with the job application.  For questions regarding this program, email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Important dates

  • Application for Classes Currently Open
  • Upcoming Program Dates:
    • 3/30/26 - 7/31/26*
    • 6/22/26 - 10/23/26*
    • 8/31/26 - 1/1/27*
    • 11/9/26 - 3/12/27*

      *Information is subject to change.