Nursing Courses in Canada

As per the Canadian demographics profile for the year 2018, More than 6 million people are over 55 years and this number is increasing. it is expected that by 2025, the median age of the Canadian population will increase from 40.7 years to 42.4 years. There is a growing need for care and nursing services for Canadian middle and old age people. In addition to this, the increasing population and rising medical infrastructures demand additional nursing personals. looking at this scenario, International students have a wonderful opportunity in nursing services in Canada.

Nursing courses in Canada can open the doorways of this country for International students, as there is a high possibility of getting permanent residency for professional nurses. The Canadian government gives preference to immigrants with healthcare background over other professionals. Also, the average salary of a nurse is high in Canada as compared to other countries. Those who are from a nursing background can take part in bridging courses to cover the gap between their knowledge and Canadian healthcare requirements.

Nursing is quite a demanding profession as it has a broad range of activities. Nurses must work in many different conditions with a variety of patients without failing or demoralising. A caring attitude, the desire to keep learning and ability to alter oneself according to situations are one of the most desirable characteristics of a good nurse. Nursing has many types in Canada which differ according to the level of qualification and responsibilities.

Types of Nursing and Nursing courses in Canada

Registered Nurses

Registered Nurses in Canada are commonly known as RNs. To become an RN, students have to complete three to four years in a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) programs. These nursing courses provide in-depth knowledge to of clinical practices to the students and make them job ready to face any type of situations in the real world.

Nurse Practitioners

A nurse practitioner is also known as NP. To become a Nurse Practitioner, the students have to complete a Master’s degree or an advanced diploma in nursing. Nurse Practitioners have to register with the regulatory body. The role and responsibilities of NPs are greater than RNs. NP has many specializations.

Registered Practical Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses

There is no difference between registered Practical Nurse (RPN) and Licenced Practical Nurse (LPN). The term LPN is used all over Canada except Ontario. They prefer the term RPN. To become RPN and LPN students need to complete 2 years of practical nursing diplomas from the approved colleges.

Registered Psychiatric Nurses

Many students get confused due to the abbreviation RPN which also stands for Registered Psychiatric Nurses. Generally, the provinces - Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia use this abbreviation for Registered Psychiatric Nurses. The students have to complete psychiatric nursing programs and register with a provincial regulatory body.

Internationally Educated Nurses

The students who have already completed their nursing programs are called Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs). However, to meet the standards of Canadian nursing requirements, students have to take admission in the nursing bridging programs. Every province has its own bridging program. Generally, it covers in 2 semesters.

Nursing courses in Canada: Specializations

  • Critical Care Pediatric Nursing
  • Emergency Nursing
  • Enterostomal Therapy Nursing
  • Gastroenterology Nursing
  • Occupational Health Nursing
  • Oncology Nursing
  • Orthopaedic Nursing
  • PeriAnesthesia Nursing
  • Perinatal Nursing
  • Perioperative Nursing
  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
  • Rehabilitation Nursing
  • Gerontological Nursing
  • Hospice Palliative Care Nursing
  • Medical-Surgical Nursing
  • Nephrology Nursing
  • Neuroscience Nursing
  • Cardiovascular Nursing
  • Community Health Nursing
  • Critical Care Nursing

Many universities and colleges are offering these nursing courses in Canada. Moreover, their names may differ. For more information and visa related query please consult with our immigration advisors.