The Rural Clinical Nurse Placement Center (RCNP) was begun in Chico, California, in 1975 to develop, implement, evaluate, and disseminate a model of a rural internship program in an effort to attract nurses to rural communities. Run by a director, clinical coordinator, full-time secretary, and half-time typist, the program places BS/RN degree nursing students in 6- to 8-week credit internships in rural health care facilities. Students usually reside with rural families and are guided by a preceptor (local health care professional employed by the placement facility). Following the internship, students complete post placement questionnaires; placement, preceptor, and housing provider evaluation forms; and projected employment plans. Participants also receive an annual longitudinal study questionnaire to assess effects of RCNP participation. From 1976 through fall 1983, RCNP placed 352 participants from California schools--and 2 out of state colleges--in approximately 70 rural health care facilities in northeastern California. On-site supervision had been provided by more than 100 preceptors. Results from 247 responses to the longitudinal questionnaire from 1976-1981 graduates indicated 89% were working as health care professionals and 38% had worked in a rural area. Graduate level programs based on the RCNP model have been established in Michigan, Georgia, and Idaho. (NEC)