FAQs about the NP Fellowship in Cardiology
General
What is a nurse practitioner fellowship in cardiology?
Nurse practitioner (NP) fellowships in cardiology are structured post-graduate training programs for licensed NPs. The program provides clinical and didactic training, as well as, professional development experiences for NPs who are new to cardiology and are seeking dedicated cardiology specialty training.
Why do an NP fellowship in Cardiology?
Post-graduate fellowship training in cardiology provides newly or recently graduated NPs the opportunity to refine their clinical knowledge and skills in many key inpatient and outpatient cardiology settings. It also enables them to engage in professional development opportunities, develop confidence, and work in a collaborative environment with practicing cardiologists. Our fellowship program promises to provide a strong clinical foundation that facilitates the transition to an independent cardiology practice, helps NPs work at the top of their licenses, and improves job satisfaction.
What is the role of the NP fellow in cardiology?
NP fellows in cardiology are licensed advanced practice providers who work within their scope of practice as clinicians. They are expected to perform patient evaluations and physical exams, as well as to formulate and execute plans of care in collaboration with their supervising provider (NP or physician). Additionally, training is provided in cardiovascular procedures, such as reading 12-lead EKGs, interpreting basic echocardiography and coronary angiography images, supervising stress tests, and observing invasive cardiac procedures. NP cardiology fellows have a diverse and robust outpatient clinic experience with seasoned clinic mentors. The goal is that, by the end of the fellowship, the NP Cardiology Fellow will be prepared to practice independently.
Why choose the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine & College of Nursing NP Cardiology Fellowship Program?
The College of Medicine and College of Nursing at UIC are established leaders in training advanced practice providers in specialty care. However, there is a training gap between post-graduate nurse practitioners and NPs practicing in specialties such as cardiology. Additionally, there are currently only a few NP cardiology fellowship programs in the Midwest, so most NPs receive specialty-specific training on the job, which can be frustrating and inefficient. The UIC NP fellowship curriculum combines structured and comprehensive training experiences across multiple settings, allowing fellows to optimize their clinical expertise and prepare to work independently after graduation. Nationally, graduates of NP fellowship programs in cardiology report better preparation for cardiology practice, more confidence at their job, and a quicker pathway to maximal efficiency.
Application and Interview
What makes someone a strong candidate to become a UIC NP fellow in cardiology?
We seek candidates who have a passion for cardiology and are excited to continue learning and growing professionally. Being able to demonstrate clinical excellence through letters of recommendation, grades, and/or personal statements also makes candidates more competitive. Prior clinical rotations or work experience in cardiology are helpful but not required.
What is the recruitment timeline? Is there flexibility in the start date?
In our inaugural year, 2026, applications closed on Feb. 27, with virtual interviews offered only on Mar. 3 and 11. The fellowship start date of July 1, 2026, was set to coordinate the NP fellow’s educational curriculum with the other incoming cardiology fellows. This timeline is subject to change in subsequent years.
Can I apply prior to having my NP board certification?
Yes, you can apply before taking the board exam, but it is recommended that you have taken your board exam by the time the program begins.
What should I address in my personal statement?
Personal statements should address your interest in cardiology and why you are interested in fellowship training.
Who should I ask to be my references?
At least one letter of recommendation must be from a supervising provider (physician or APRN) who can speak to your clinical knowledge and skills. Other common references are professors, program directors, and supervisors. We may contact your letter writers if we require further information about your application.
Is the program only for new graduates?
No, we also accept NPs who are considering transitioning into cardiology from another NP role.
What does the interview process look like?
If you are selected for an interview based on your application, we will invite you to a half-day virtual interview with members of the Admissions Committee.
Program Details
What is the salary?
NP fellows in cardiology are paid $82,000 for the 12-month fellowship.
Can I work another job while I’m in the fellowship?
Given that the fellowship is a full-time job, we do not allow fellows to work an additional job. This helps to ensure they can be successful in the program.
What do I get when I graduate from the fellowship?
Upon completion of the fellowship, UIC NP fellows in cardiology are well-positioned for a successful career in both inpatient and outpatient settings related to cardiology.
Is a job guaranteed at UIC after the fellowship?
While we cannot guarantee an NP Cardiology position will be available at UIC/UI Health, we hope to recruit as many of our fellows as feasible. If there is no current position available with us, the faculty will make every attempt to help the fellow secure a position elsewhere. As such, we do not require a commitment from the NP fellow to work for UIC/UI Health upon graduation.
Will I be eligible to apply for a full-practice authority (FPA) license in Illinois after completing the program?
This depends on your previous experience and number of hours practicing as an NP under a collaborative practice agreement. This program adds more than 2,000 hours of practice to your FPA qualification of 4,000 total practice hours. In addition to this, our program directors will help you apply to the FPA program as soon as you’re qualified.