fbpx

How to become a nurse in Canada?

Western Community College > Blog > Guidance > How to become a nurse in Canada?

The nurse is the backbone of the healthcare system and frequently the first member of the medical team to engage with patients. However, nursing is also one of the most infamously difficult professions to enter into and calls for extraordinary effort and commitment.

This article will provide all the information you need to learn about how to become a nurse in Canada.

 Let’s get going!

Who is a Nurse?

A nurse is a healthcare professional who is responsible for providing care, support, and treatment to individuals who are sick, injured, or in need of medical attention. They work in a various hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and community health centers.

The roles of a nurse involves;

  • Assessing patients
  • Diagnosing patients
  • Treating patients
  • Administering medication
  • Monitoring vital signs
  • Managing patient care plans

How to become a nurse in Canada:

In order to become a nurse in Canada, it is crucial to meet the following requirements:

  1. Educational Requirements: The first step is to obtain a diploma or degree from a recognized nursing program in Canada. The programs are usually offered at universities, colleges, or specialized nursing schools. The minimum education requirement for an RN is a diploma or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The duration of the program depends on the level of education you choose.
  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing the educational requirement, the next step is to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam. The exam is designed to test your knowledge and competence in nursing practice. The NCLEX-RN exam is administered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
  3. Apply for Registration: Once you pass the NCLEX-RN exam, you can apply for registration with the regulatory body in your province or territory. The regulatory body is responsible for licensing and regulating the nursing profession in each province and territory in Canada.
  4. Complete the Language Requirements: If English is not your first language, you may need to complete a language proficiency test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).
  5. Obtain Work Experience: Many employers prefer to hire registered nurses with some work experience. You may consider gaining work experience through internships, co-op placements, or volunteer work.
  6. Maintain your RN License: Once you are registered as an RN, you will need to renew your license periodically and fulfill the continuing education requirements of your regulatory body.
  • CTA Title
    Get trained and start a rewarding career as a HCA.
    Currently the Health Care Assistant program has 97% graduate employment rate, 270 hours of practicum placement, 6 month program, flexible schedule.

How long does it take to become a nurse in Canada?

The length of time it takes to become a nurse in Canada depends several factors such as level of education and the type of nursing program you choose. Here is an overview of the different nursing programs and their duration:

  • Practical Nursing Program: This program usually takes 1-2 years to complete and results in a diploma or certificate. Practical nurses work under the direction of registered nurses to provide basic care to patients.
  • Registered Nursing Diploma Program: This program typically takes 2-3 years to complete and results in a diploma. Registered nurses with a diploma are qualified to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program: This program takes 4 years to complete and results in a Bachelor’s degree. A BSN degree is the minimum requirement for many nursing positions, including public health, community health, and research.
  • Accelerated BSN Program: This program is designed for individuals who already have a degree in another field and want to pursue a career in nursing. It typically takes 2 years to complete.

After completing the nursing program, graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) before becoming registered nurses. 

In addition, nurses must fulfill the licensing requirements of their respective provincial or territorial regulatory body before they can practice as registered nurses in Canada.

Salary of a nurse 

The average registered nurse salary in Canada is $72,933 per year or $37.40 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $59,762 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $83,168 per year. (Talent)

Educational Requirements/Qualifications to Become a Nurse.

Educational requirements /Qualifications to become a nurse in Canada include the following factors:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): To become an LPN in Canada, you must complete a practical nursing program at a college or technical school. The program typically takes 1-2 years to complete, resulting in a diploma or certificate. LPNs work under the direction of registered nurses and are responsible for providing basic care to patients.

Registered Nurse (RN): To become an RN in Canada, you must complete a diploma or degree program in nursing. The program can be completed at a university, college, or specialized nursing school. The duration of the program varies depending on the level of education you choose. A diploma program typically takes 2-3 years to complete, while a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program takes 4 years to complete.

Nurse Practitioner (NP): To become an NP in Canada, you must complete a Master of Nursing (MN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program. These programs typically require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree as a prerequisite. NPs are advanced practice nurses who can diagnose and treat patients, prescribe medications, and perform procedures.

Moreover, to the educational qualifications, nurses in Canada must also pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and fulfill the licensing requirements of their respective provincial or territorial regulatory body before they can practice as registered nurses in Canada.

Conclusion 

By completing the necessary education and exams, obtaining licensure, and participating in continuing education, nurses can provide high-quality care to patients and contribute to the healthcare system in Canada. If you are passionate about healthcare and helping others, a career in nursing may be the right choice for you.

We are glad that you chose us to learn how to become a nurse in Canada and we hope that this article was of some use to you.

Related Posts

single program cta bg 1
about icon 2 white

Why Study at Western Community College

  • Installment-based, low tuition fee.
  • 100% Practicum Placement
  • Weekday, weekend, and evening classes optionally available
  • Part-time or full-time class schedule
  • Free CLB preparation classes * Conditions Apply
  • Graduate employment rate: 97%

Admissions Contact Information

Mon – Sunday 9:00A.M. – 5:00P.M.

Surrey, BC

Unit 201 8318 120 St
Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

Video Tour in WCC

Take a tour inside WCC and explore our classrooms, labs and student spaces to get a feel for life on campus. At Western Community College, we believe in an affordable, high-quality education that gives you the opportunity to thrive. We have a 97% grad employment rate.

icon play
Central Surrey Campus

Unit 900 13761 96 Ave,
Surrey, BC V3V 0E8

CC3 Campus Tour

Our campus is strategically located at 13761 96 Ave #900, Surrey, BC V3V 0E8. With its proximity to major transit hubs, including prominent bus loops and the King George SkyTrain station, commuting to and from the campus has never been easier.

icon play
Abbotsford, BC

Unit 201, 3670 Townline Rd
Abbotsford, BC V2T 5W8

Video Tour in WCC

Welcome to our beautiful Abbotsford campus. Western Community College has 46 programs designed to meet the current needs of the market and to provide students with an affordable, high-quality education.

icon play
Flying School Abbotsford Campus

Hanger F, 120-1185 Townline Road, Abbotsford BC, V2T 6E1
Tel : 604.776.1301
View Map

Upcoming Events

There're no item that match your search criteria. Please try again with different keywords.