BSc Nursing in Canada

Learn the skills, knowledge and confidence which is required to care for adult patients in hospital and community settings

The need for skilled nurses at all sectors has also increased manifold in almost all countries. To contribute to the healthcare sector as a registered nurse who can take care of patients, one must study a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) program. A typical bachelor of nursing combines theoretical knowledge with practical training, equipping students with the skills and expertise to provide quality healthcare and nursing services to different populations. 

Studying a BSc in Nursing in Canada can offer several advantages and opportunities as the courses offered by the institutions are recognized globally for their excellence. Upon completing a BSc Nursing degree in Canada, one can apply for the license and work as a registered nurse in Canada or many other countries worldwide. Canadian universities and colleges are also known for their high education standards and rigorous academic programs. Pursuing a BSc in Nursing in Canada ensures that students receive a quality education that emphasizes practical training and hands-on experience and meets international standards. 

BSc Nursing graduates are better positioned to pursue specialized nursing roles, move into management positions, or even explore avenues in research and education within the nursing field. Moreover, as the healthcare landscape evolves, BSN-prepared nurses are better equipped to adapt to these changes and contribute effectively to patient care.

BSc Nursing Course Curriculum

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing integrates classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare scenarios. Clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community centers, allow students to gain valuable patient care experience under the guidance of experienced nurses and healthcare professionals. These experiences help students develop critical thinking, decision-making, and interpersonal skills crucial for providing safe and effective patient care.

In addition to the technical aspects of nursing, a BSc nursing emphasizes developing leadership and communication skills. Graduates are equipped to provide direct patient care and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, contribute to healthcare policy discussions, and assume leadership roles within healthcare organizations. This broader skill set is increasingly important as nurses are called to play an integral role in shaping and improving the healthcare system.

Via a combination of theoretical knowledge, hands-on clinical experience, and essential interpersonal skills, nursing graduates are prepared to provide high-quality patient care, take on leadership roles, and contribute to the ongoing advancement of the nursing profession and the broader healthcare industry.

• International fees: $20,000 to $40,000 per year
• Entry requirements: Nursing requirements include a high school diploma, preferably in Biology, Chemistry, English, and Mathematics. Some nursing programs may require you to complete an entrance exam, such as the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), which assesses your knowledge in mathematics, reading, science, and English. All foreign students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency.

BSc Nursing Modules

Bachelor of nursing modules typically cover a range of theoretical and practical skills necessary for nursing practice.

• Anatomy and Physiology: In this module, the focus is on the structure and functioning of the human body, including systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems.
• Pharmacology: This module covers the principles of pharmacology, including drug classifications, medication administration routes, dosage calculations, and the effects and side effects of medications commonly used in healthcare.
• Microbiology and Pathology: This module explores microorganisms and their role in infectious diseases and covers topics such as immunology, pathogenic microorganisms, infection control, and the body's response to illness.
• Nursing Theory and Practice: This module introduces students to the core concepts, theories, and principles. 
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: This module focuses on promoting health and preventing diseases at the individual, family, and community levels.
• Adult and Geriatric Nursing: This module focuses on providing nursing care to adult and elderly populations.
• Pediatric Nursing: This module focuses on the care of infants, children, and adolescents. It generally covers topics such as growth and development, common pediatric health conditions, family-centred care, and nursing interventions specific to the pediatric population.
• Mental Health Nursing: This module addresses the assessment, care, and support of individuals experiencing mental health issues. 
• Maternity and Newborn Nursing: This module focuses on the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as the care of newborns.
• Community Health Nursing: This module explores the role of nurses in promoting health and providing care within the community. 

Scholarships

Many scholarships are available for nursing students, which can help support them financially and alleviate the burden of tuition fees and other living expenses. Prominent scholarships for nursing in Canada include:

• Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) Scholarships: The CNF offers many scholarships and bursaries, including the TD Aboriginal Nursing Fund, TD Indigenous Nursing Fund, CNF Aboriginal Nursing Award, and CNF Dr Kathryn J. Hannah Nursing Informatics Scholarship, among others.
• Association of Registered Nurses of British Columbia Scholarships: ARNBC offers various scholarships to nursing students in the province of British Columbia. These scholarships include the ARNBC Pat Fredrickson Scholarship, the ARNBC Collaboration in Nursing Education Scholarship, and the ARNBC First Nations and Aboriginal Nursing Award.
• Alberta Nursing Foundation (ANF) Scholarships: ANF offers scholarships and grants to nursing students in Alberta. The ANF Scholarships include the Leadership Scholarship, Margaret Scott Wright Memorial Scholarship, and Special Needs Assistance Scholarship.
• Ontario Nurses' Association (ONA) Scholarships: ONA offers scholarships for nursing students in Ontario. These scholarships include the ONA Scholarship for Nursing Students, the Anne MacLellan Memorial Award, and the Verna Huffman Splane Nursing Education Award.
• New Brunswick Nurses Foundation (NBNU) Scholarships: NBNU provides scholarships to nursing students in New Brunswick. The scholarships include the Judith McBride Memorial Scholarship, the Germaine de St. Germain Memorial Scholarship, and the W. B. Hickey Memorial Scholarship.
• Nova Scotia Nurses Union (NSNU) Scholarships: NSNU offers scholarships to nursing students in Nova Scotia. These scholarships include the NSNU Member Bursary Program and the Myrtle Simpson Memorial Bursary.

Jobs and Careers

Nursing offers a wide range of career opportunities across various healthcare settings in Canada and other countries. After completing their graduation, students need to pass the exam conducted by the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses, which assesses their knowledge and competency to practice as a registered nurse.

Once they pass the exam, the graduates can register to work in the specific province with their regulatory bodies and start practising as Registered Nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, home health settings, and other healthcare organizations. Other positions held by nurses include Nurse Practitioner, Licensed Practical Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Nurse Researcher, Nurse Administrator/Manager, Public Health Nurse, Occupational Health Nurse, and Flight Nurse.

Where can I study a BSc Nursing in Canada?

To learn more about the best bachelor of nursing universities in Canada, find details on the top ranking Nursing programs in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 below:

1. University of Toronto
2. University of Alberta
3. University of British Columbia
4. McMaster University
5. McGill University
6. Queen's University at Kingston
7. University of Calgary
8. University of Ottawa
9. Western University
10. University of Manitoba

Study BSc Nursing in Canada

Do you want to study nursing in Canada? Arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today to start your application.