The White Coat Ceremony

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The White Coat Ceremony

The transition from coursework to clinical rotation marks a significant achievement in the life of an aspiring advanced practice nurse. To acknowledge this milestone, nurse practitioner students are invited to take part in the White Coat Ceremony immediately preceding their entry into the first clinical course. More than properly outfitting students for the next chapter in their journey, the white coat is a physical reminder of the importance of professionalism, compassion and ethical conduct for all who wear it.

Upcoming White Coat Ceremonies

Beginning with the 2025-26 academic year, the Franklin University School of Nursing will hold a White Coat Ceremony in the fall, winter, and spring to recognize nurse practitioner students who are eligible to begin clinical placement. The next ceremony is scheduled for:

Thursday, May 7, 2026
6:30-7:30pm ET
Online via Zoom

The deadline for eligible students* to register to participate in the May ceremony is Wednesday, March 4. If you have not yet received an invitation and believe you qualify, contact the School of Nursing at whitecoat@franklin.edu.

*Students who will have completed the coursework necessary to enroll in NURS 701, 702 or 732.

What to Expect

Students who have completed the necessary coursework to enroll in their first clinical course (NURS 701,702 or 732) will receive an invitation via their university email to register for the next White Coat Ceremony, approximately 100 days prior to the start of the course.

Prior to the White Coat Ceremony, students will receive a box at the physical mailing address they provided in response to the ceremony invitation. The box will include instructions on how – and when – to open the box.

History of the White Coat Ceremony

Originating in the 19^th century, the white coat represents professionalism, authority and trust. Prior to this time, black coats were customary. However, as time progressed, advancements in germ theory, antisepsis and anesthesia highlighted cleanliness and scientific methodology. The shift to the white coat reinforced cleanliness and symbolized purity.

The White Coat Ceremony, a relatively recent tradition, became popular in the 1990s. It is seen as a rite of passage, with the coat itself signifying the responsibility and dedication required of healthcare professionals. Receiving a white coat represents the transition into a career dedicated to serving and healing others. The ceremony and the coat remind students of the trust patients place in them and the importance of upholding the highest standards of care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long will the ceremony last?

The ceremony will last approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What size coat should I order?

Because it will be worn over other clothes, it’s best to size your white coat the same way as you would a comfortable jacket.

Women’s Sizing

Size	Chest (Inches)	Sleeves (Inches)	Length (Inches)
XS	19 1/2	23 7/8	37
S	21	24	37 ½
M	22 ½	24 1/8	38
L	24	24 ¼	38 1/2
XL	25 ¾	24 3/8	39
2XL	27 ¾	24 ½	39 1/2
3XL	29 ¾	24 5/8	40
4XL	31 3/4	24 ¾	40 1/2
5XL	33 ¾	24 7/8	41

Men’s Sizing

Size	Chest (Inches)	Sleeves (Inches)	Length (Inches)
XS	21	23 7/8	41
S	22 1/2	24	41 ½
M	24	24 1/8	42
L	25 1/2	24 ¼	42 1/2
XL	27 ¼	24 3/8	43
2XL	29 1/4	24 ½	43 1/2
3XL	31 1/4	24 5/8	44
4XL	33 1/4	24 ¾	44 1/2
5XL	35 1/4	24 7/8	45

Chest: Measured across the chest one inch below the armhole when laid flat.

Sleeves: Measured from center back neck, down shoulder to finished sleeve hem.

Length: Measured from high point of shoulder to finished hem at back.

Can I order a color other than white?

No. The white color of the coat is symbolic of the community of practitioners and the commitment to shared values and professionalism.

Is there a fee to participate?

There is no fee to participate in the September 2025 White Coat Ceremony.

Should I register if I know I cannot participate in the ceremony?

Yes. Please register for the ceremony. We will send you a white coat and instructions for unboxing.

What should I do if I register for the ceremony, but my plans change, and I can’t participate?

Once you register, you’ll still receive your white coat and instructions to record your unboxing.

Can I invite family members and friends to watch the ceremony?

Yes. We will provide the Zoom link in advance for you to share with family and friends. They will be instructed to keep their cameras off and microphones muted during the ceremony.

What if I start my first clinical course in the summer?

You will receive an invitation to register to receive your whitecoat for the winter ceremony. You will have the opportunity to participate in the ceremony or record your unboxing.

I missed the deadline can I still participate?

Unfortunately, since the deadlines are set to allow adequate time for ordering and distributing the coats in time for the ceremony, we aren’t able to accommodate participants who register after the deadline has passed.

My coat was lost in the mail. How can I get a replacement?

Please email whitecoat@franklin.edu and we can investigate the issue.

I have already completed my first clinical course (NURS 701, 702 or 732). Can I participate in a White Coat Ceremony?

We are excited to introduce a White Coat Ceremony in the fall and winter terms beginning with the 2025-26 academic year for students transitioning from coursework to clinical rotation. Unfortunately, due to the large number of nurse practitioner students currently in clinical placements, we do not currently have a system in place to retroactively recognize all current students who already have passed this milestone. However, we are interested in your ideas. Please send them to whitecoat at franklin.edu.

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Franklin University Founded in 1902, Franklin is an accredited nonprofit university offering flexible college degrees online and at locations in Ohio and the Midwest.

Franklin University
201 S Grant Ave.
Columbus, OH 43215

Local: (614) 797-4700
Toll Free: (877) 341-6300
admissions@franklin.edu

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org/800.621.7440) and authorized by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

Franklin University is committed to being an inclusive community free from all forms of discrimination and harassment.

The White Coat Ceremony

Contact Us

Upcoming White Coat Ceremonies

What to Expect

History of the White Coat Ceremony

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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