The purpose of this study was to investigate the needs of nursing students participating in a gerontological nursing practicum. Method: From June 2007 to September 2008, 114 nursing students were surveyed using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: For nursing service, the need to be able to do position change, wound discharge sampling, urine glucose test, fluid monitoring, bedsore care, exercise therapy was high. A practicum program for the students needs to include programs on health promotion, physical treatment, oriental medical care, and health exercise. Many students want to have practice directed by general nurses in gerontological nursing, in the long-term care hospitals and in social welfare centers. Conclusion: These results indicate that in planning a gerontological nursing practicum the needs of the nursing students should be considered.