Study in Canada

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IDP Education , IndiaCounsellor
  • 5 min
  • Published: 6 October 2025
  • Updated: 5 October 2025

Apply for the most demanding field in Canada

The demand for practical nurses in Canada remains high, offering promising job prospects. Practical nursing offers a fulfilling pathway in the healthcare field, focusing on providing direct patient care. Canadian institutions provide comprehensive practical nursing programs that meet national standards. The role of a PN allows for a thoughtful personal impact, making it a fulfilling choice for those driven by the desire to help others. This personal connection makes practical nursing an exceptionally rewarding career. PNs are often on the front lines of patient care, making hands-on interaction essential to their daily work. The ability to advance is particularly meaningful for PNs, as it may allow them to start working sooner while still having the option to elevate their careers over time. It enables Practical Nurses to continuously evolve in their profession, gaining new skills and responsibilities. For those who value close, interpersonal connections with patients, practical nursing may provide a unique opportunity to make a difference in a hands-on, compassionate way. The Nurses deliver hands-on care, emotional support, and critical health information to those in need. Practical Nurses are a professional bridge the gap between the healthcare system and the patients. It plays a vital role in the healthcare field, providing necessary care and support to patients across various settings. With an empathetic approach and focused training, Practical Nurses help ensure that patients receive the attention and care they need, contributing significantly to overall healthcare outcomes. Practical nursing may provide a unique pathway in the healthcare industry. Whether one is seeking job firmness, opportunities for advancement, or a meaningful way to make a difference. Practical Nurses have the unique opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives, providing compassionate care and support when it is most needed. Through direct patient interaction, PNs often serve as a comforting presence and advocate for patients’ needs. Whether providing routine care or supporting patients emotionally, PNs positively influence patient health and quality of life.

Why study Practical Nursing in Canada

A practical nursing program is carefully structured to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. Program requirements typically involve a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory mockups, and clinical placements in various healthcare settings. Canada offers high-quality education with renowned universities and research institutions. Canadian institutions provide comprehensive practical nursing programs that meet national standards. Practical Nursing is in high demand in Canada, with a growing need for skilled professionals. Canada offers various immigration programs for international students, making it easier to stay and work after graduation. The Canadian government provides funding and support for education and research initiatives. Canada invests heavily in nursing profession research, providing students with opportunities to work with top researchers. Canadian universities have modern facilities and equipment, providing students with hands-on experience also have a strong network of industry partners, offering students collaboration and internship opportunities. Graduates and GNM students are eligible to become registered practical nurses, playing a vital role in various healthcare environments. Nursing is Exciting with endless opportunities and meaningful experiences, and outcomes. The graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and judgment necessary to provide safe and effective patient care. The curriculum covers various subjects, including composition, physiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and specialised areas such as paediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health. Notably, the College of Nurses of Ontario plays a crucial role in regulating the nursing profession.

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Licensed Practical Nurse

A licensed practical nurse is in much of demand and the one who provides direct nursing care for people who are sick, injured, disabled and convalescent. LPNs play important roles in healthcare settings. Because obtaining licensure as a licensed practical nursing (LPN) requires an amount* of clinical work. Practical nursing offers several pathways for career advancement, providing opportunities to grow and develop within the nursing field. PNs can pursue further education to become registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners, or specialise in a specific area of healthcare. Many healthcare facilities may provide educational support or tuition assistance for PNs seeking to advance. Practical Nurses have the opportunity to work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to home health, giving them flexibility in choosing an environment that suits their interests. PNs can work in nursing homes, clinics, schools, correctional facilities, and more. This diversity provides options for PNs to find a work environment that aligns with their interests, lifestyle, and career goals. It also offers an adaptable career that can change with life circumstances.

Top institutions offering the Practical Nursing program

Here are the top institutions in Canada offering exceptional programs related to nursing:

Institution Name

Programs offering (Diploma / Certificates)

Canadore College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Centennial College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Graduate Certificate in Bridging to University

Cambrian University

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Coast Mountain College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

College of New Caledonia

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Conestoga College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Graduate Certificate in Enhanced Nursing Practice – Clinical and Critical Care

Confederation College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing

Douglas College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Durham College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Certificate in General Arts and Science – Nursing Preparation UOIT Transfer

Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing*

Fanshawe College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Gerontology – Interprofessional Practice

George Brown College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Humber College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Georgian College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Lambton College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Advanced Healthcare Leadership

Loyalist College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Mohawk College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Niagara College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

NorQuest College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

North Island College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Northern College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Parkland College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Red Deer College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Saskatchewan Polytechnic College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Sault College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Selkirk College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Post Graduate Diploma in Gerontological Nursing

Seneca College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Sheridan College

Diploma in Practical Nursing

SIAST

Primary Care Nurse Practitioner – Advanced Certificate

Parkland College

Certificate in Continued Care Assistant

Selkirk College

Certificate Nursing Unit Clerk

Laurentian University

Nurse Practitioner Certificate

Langara College

Post Degree Diploma in Nursing Practice in Canada

Post Degree Certificate in Nursing Leadership and Management

Northern Lights College

Post Degree Diploma in Health Administration

Northern College at Pures

Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Nursing Management and Leadership

St. Lawrence College

Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health Nursing

Stenberg College *

Post Graduate Diploma in Canadian Nursing

McEwan University

Diploma in Practical Nursing

Western University

Primary Health Care Nursing Petitioner Certificate

York University

Certificate in Post BScN Primary Nurse Practitioner

University of Northern British Columbia

Certificate in Rural Nursing

Mount Royal University

Gerontology

Ryerson University

Certificate in Leadership and Management for Nurses

McGill University

Graduate Diploma in Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

Memorial University

Graduate Diploma in Nursing

University of Calgary

Graduate Certificate in Family Systems Nursing

Institution Name

Programs offering

British Columbia Institute of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Brock University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Canadore College

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Cape Breton University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Centennial College

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

College of New Caledonia

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

College of Rockies

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Loyalist College

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Medicine Hat College

Bachelor of Nursing

Mohawk College

Nursing – BScN Degree

North Island College

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Parkland College

Bachelor in Nursing

Red Deer College

Bachelor of Science in Nursing – University of Alberta

Saskatchewan Polytechnic College

Nursing – Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Bachelor of Nursing

Selkirk College

Baccalaureate in Nursing

Seneca College

Bachelor in Nursing

The University of Winnipeg

Bachelor's in Psychiatric Nursing

Thompson River University

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Ontario Tech University

Bachelors in Nursing

Post RPN/ Collaborative

McEwan University

Bachelor of Nursing

Trent University

BSc in Nursing

Graduate Diploma in Mental Health and Addictions Nursing

University of Winnipeg

Bachelor in Nursing

University of New Brunswick

Bachelor in Nursing

Bachelor of Nursing – Advanced Standing

University of Regina

BSc in Nursing

University of Saskatchewan

Bachelor in Nursing

Queen’s University

Bachelor of Nursing Science

Ryerson University

BScN Bachelor of Science in Nursing

University of British Columbia

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Trinity Western University

Bachelor in Nursing

University of New Brunswick

Bachelor of Nursing

University of Northern British Columbia

Bachelor of Science in Nursing in Post Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Bachelor of science in Nursing (Honors) Post Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)

University of Ottawa

Bachelor of Science in Nursing for Registered Nurse

University of Prince Edward Island

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

University of Toronto

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Graduate Diploma in Anaesthesia Care for the Nurse Practitioner Field

University of Victoria

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

York University

BSCN Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Collaborative Program)

Lakehead university

Master’s in Public Health: Nursing specialisation

Laurentian University

MSc in Nursing

Thompson River University

Masters of Nursing

Dalhousie University

Master of Nursing

McMaster University

Masters of Nursing

Graduate Diploma in Advanced Neonatal Nursing

University of Ottawa

MSc in Nursing

University of Prince Edward

Master of Nursing

University of Toronto

Master of Nursing

MHSc Health Administration

University of Victoria

Nursing (Master's)

University of Western Ontario

MScN in Nursing

York University

MSc in Nursing

Eligibility to study the Practical Nursing Program

Admission requirements for practical nursing programs in Canada typically include a high school diploma, GNM or equivalent. In addition to this foundational qualification, specific prerequisite courses are often necessary. These courses commonly encompass subjects such as. While a high school diploma forms the basis of eligibility, some institutions may grant admission to mature students or those with equivalent credentials, such as a university degree, like a Bachelor of Science. However, applicants are advised to verify the specific requirements of their chosen institutions. Furthermore, possessing strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills is paramount in healthcare. These skills are crucial for effective teamwork, patient interaction, and navigating complex clinical scenarios. Upon successful completion of a practical nursing program, aspiring RPNs must adhere to the standards set by regulatory bodies for the province or territory in which they want to practice. To become a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) in Canada, meeting provincial registration requirements is essential. Additionally, applicants should possess a valid study permit, work permit, or be Canadian citizens or permanent residents to practice legally. Understanding these provincial registration requirements is crucial for a smooth transition into professional practice.

Criteria

Bachelor's Practical Nursing Programs

Master's in Nursing and Health Related Programs

Education

High school diploma, GNM or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Grades

65% - 70% in Mathematics and Science

GPA: 70% - 80%

English Proficiency

- IELTS: 6.0 to 7.5

- IELTS: 6.5 to 7.5

Optional Work Experience

N/A

2 to 5 years*

Additional Requirements

English, Mathematics (often at a senior level), and a science subject like Biology or Chemistry

- Minimum 16 years of education

- Four-year undergraduate degree for postgraduate programs

- Relevant academic criteria: 65% to 70% in a related field

Academic Requirement

  • Minimum required grade in Class XII Medical with Maths: You will need at least 70 %, and in Bachelor, you will need at least 70-75%* (depending upon the institution)

  • Universities/institutions must also submit a resume or any Additional tests like IELTS.

  • 3 Letters of Recommendation for Master's

  • Apply before the deadline*

  • Students must have English, Mathematics (often at a senior level), and a science subject like Biology or Chemistry

  • Work experience: 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience (optional).

English proficiency proof

  • A minimum of 6.5-No Bands less than 6.0 score in IELTS for Bachelors or Diploma

  • IELTS (7.0 Overall, no band less than 6.5 in each module for Master's

  • Some universities may accept if the applicant has good scores in Grade 12th English above 80 / 100 * or on receiving the MOI (Medium of Instruction – from the School)

Cost and Duration for Bachelors

  • The average duration and Cost for Undergraduate Degree or Diploma programs in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.

  • 2 years (Diploma degree)

  • Duration: Tuition fees: International students: $16,000 - $35,000 per year

  • Duration: 4 years (Bachelor's degree)

  • Tuition fees: International students: $28000 - $54,000 per year

  • Scholarship is also available on a merit* basis

Cost and Duration for Master's

The average duration and Cost for master’s programs in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.

  • Duration: 2 years (Master’s degree)

  • Tuition fees: International students: $ $16,000 - $30,000 per year

  • Scholarship is also available on a merit* basis

Salary and Career Prospects

The demand for practical nurses is expected to rise, fueled by the evolving healthcare. LPNs/RPNs in these settings monitor vital signs, administer medications, assist with daily living activities, and provide emotional support to patients and their families. The ageing population, with its increasing demand for long-term care and home health services. Hospitals, particularly those specialising in acute care, heavily rely on practical nurses to provide direct patient care. Furthermore, have an increasing need for practical nurses in home health agencies, community care settings, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation clinics, etc. The shift towards providing more care in community-based settings underscores the vital role of LPNs/RPNs in ensuring patients receive quality care closer to home.

Field

Average Salary (CAD per year)

Entry Level Nurses

60,000 – 70,000

Mid-Level Nurses

70,000 – 85,000

Experienced Nurses (With Good work experience)

90,000

Registered Nurses

72,935

Conclusion:

In the evolving landscape of modern medicine, practical nurses remain the backbone of patient-centred care. Practical nursing is more than just a profession; it is a calling to provide care, comfort, and compassion. Practical nurses play a vital role in healthcare systems worldwide, and their influence is undeniable. As we look to the future of healthcare, the need for skilled and dedicated practical nurses has never been greater. Whether you are considering a career in nursing or advocating for the profession, remember that your voice and actions can help shape the future of this essential field. As we look to the future of healthcare, the need for skilled and dedicated practical nurses has never been greater. Their unwavering commitment to bridging medical expertise with human empathy makes them indispensable.

Vanshika Sood, the Author

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Vanshika Sood is an international education expert with IDP, specializing in the Canada study abroad destination. A certified Canada Counsellor (now Assistant Manager - Counselling). With Over 10 years of experience in the Industry, she has been with IDP for the past almost 7 years.

Vanshika Sood is a true leader in the field of international education – transforming lives and advancing knowledge.

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