2 Year Nursing Program in Canada for International Students 2024

Are you an international student looking to study nursing in Canada and you are working with a timeline or you're looking to further your education? A 2 year nursing program in Canada here is a great choice. This article talks about the essentials you need to know as an international student to enter into the 2 year nursing program. 

Pursuing a career in Nursing is one of the smartest decisions to take if you're in the healthcare sector.. Not only does it guarantee lucrativity, it provides meaningful work, career growth opportunities, job stability with diverse specialty options. The reasons are numerous! It is in fact a great deal to be a nurse. To look back through the years of your career and feel wholesome and accomplished, finding peace in your service.

A nursing program in Canada sets you up to become a globally recognized medical practitioner, boosts your job opportunities, a broad range of positions in the field and also provides good working conditions. 

Read; 2 Year Nursing Degree in UK 2024 

 

Table of Content

1. 3 reasons why you should study nursing in Canada

2. Qualifications for Nursing programs 

3. Subjects covered in Nursing courses 

4. Top University that offer Nursing Programs in Canada and their locations

5. Admissions into Top Universities and their eligibility criteria

6. Career prospects

 

3 Reasons Why You should study Nursing in Canada

Nursing is one of the highest paying and sought-after careers in Canada and in the world. Canada is also home to many top universities that offer outstanding nursing programs, providing students with quality education and opportunities for professional growth in the field of nursing. In Canada your path to becoming a registered nurse is supported every step of the way. Below are a few reasons why you should study nursing in Canada; 

1 . Clinical Experience

Nursing requires clinical experience. It is the bread and butter of your nursing education. Programs in Canada provide access to extensive hands-on clinical experience in hospitals and community agencies. This is because clinicals give you experience, teach teamwork, cement knowledge, help network and expose you to a nursing career, facilitating the transition from student to professional, working nurse.

 

2. Word Class Recognition

Back in May 2021, the government of Canada officially provided internationally trained nurses global recognition of their foreign credentials. This means that a qualification from most nursing schools in Canada will enable you to work from anywhere in the world in your desired field. This provides the students with a secure career. 

 

3. Networking

During your period of education you will have many opportunities to interact with students and faculty from a wide variety of disciplines such as dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, sociology, clinical psychology, physiotherapy, nutrition, veterinary medicine and kinesiology. It is relevant to build relationships with individuals who will be working in other health science professions. 

 

Qualifications for Nursing programs

When discussing 2 year practical nursing programs in Canada especially for international students, you can discover multiple level degrees such as diploma, graduate diploma, PG diploma, masters and much more. 

 

• Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing.

• Diploma in Practical Nursing.

• Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing.

• Graduate Certificate in Enhanced Nursing Practice – Clinical and Critical Care.

• Master of Nursing.

• Master in Public Health Nursing.

• Master of Science in Nursing.

• Master of Science in Nursing Specialisation in Feminist & Gender Studies.

• Master of Science in Nursing Primary Health Care: Nurse Practitioner.  

• Bachelor of science in Nursing

 

Subjects Covered in Nursing Programs

• Genetics.

• Personal hygiene.

• Mental health and psychiatric nursing.

• Nutrition.

• Pediatric nursing.

• Pharmacology.

• Medical-surgical nursing.

• Health education and communication skills.

• Midwifery and gynaecology.

• Microbiology.

• Psychology.

• Community health nursing.

• Human anatomy and physiology.

• Fundamentals of nursing.

• Sociology.

 

Top Universities that offer Nursing Programs in Canada and their locations

Below are top universities that offer a 2 years nursing program here in Canada. 

 

Top Universities	Program	Location
The University of Ottawa	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
McGill University	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Stenberg College	Post Graduate Diploma in Canadian Nursing	Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.
Lakehead University	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ontario, Canada.
Ryerson University	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Langara College	Bachelor of Science in Nursing	Vancouver, Canada.
Conestoga College of Applied Arts and Technology	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Ontario, Canada.
Durham College	Diploma in Practical Nursing	Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.
Thompson Rivers University	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada,
Georgian College	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Ontario, Canada.
Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology	Bachelor of science in Nursing	Greater Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology	Diploma in Practical Nursing	London, Ontario, Canada.

Admission into Top Universities and their Eligibility Criteria

For pursuing a Nursing degree program or a diploma course, you must have some basic requirements in order to be able to meet up with the school's criteria for admission.

 

Links to some of the underlisted universities have been made available for your perusal.  In this section, we’ll delve into them accordingly;

1 . University of Ottawa

 

 

The University of Ottawa is known as the largest bilingual university in the world, with its major languages being English and French. 

The university strives to ensure inclusivity and equity amongst its diverse population. It also provides resources and fundings for research and innovation purposes. It is relevant to note that uOttawa has a 30% to 40% acceptance rate. When admitted, be rest assured that the education experience is top notch. 

 

Admission Requirements;

1. International students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or 70% to apply for graduate admissions in the university.

2. The candidates need to demonstrate a competitive IELTS and TOEFL score of 6.5 with 6.0 band scores as proof of English proficiency. 

3. They are required to pay application fees as part of the admission process. 

4. For Masters, the candidates must have completed Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and have the minimum required score of 70% to 80%.

5. You will also need the Statement of Purpose(SOP) and Letter of Recommendations (LORs) in the format prescribed by the university.

6. Students must apply during fall and winter intakes at the university.

Learn More; https://www.uottawa.ca/en 

 

2 . McGill University

McGill University is one of Canada’s best renowned institutions for higher education and is one of the leading universities worldwide.  

McGill is recognised globally for their excellence in teaching and research programs. It is ranked #27 amongst universities in Canada. 

 

Admission Requirements;

1. The students require a good score in English language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc.

2. You will also need the Statement of Purpose(SOP) and Letter of Recommendations (LORs) in the format prescribed by the university.

3. Proof of french proficiency 

4. For diploma or bachelor's level degrees, the candidates must have finished necessary formal schooling with minimum marks in subjects like mathematics, english, biology, chemistry and physics (75% to 85%) from a certified school.

5. For Masters, the candidates must have completed Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), obtained a registered nurse (RN) license, and have a minimum GPA and GRE scores required for the chosen university program.

 

Location; Montreal, Quebec,Canada.

 

Learn more; https://www.mcgill.ca/ 

 

3 . Stenberg College

 

The College of Stenberg is an accredited institution officially recognized by the Government’s Ministry of Advanced Education. They have an exceptional institution with unparalleled dedication towards the success of their students. 

They have equally received the award of B.C. government’s Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, which is British Columbia’s brand or “seal” of quality post-secondary education for public and private institutions.

 

Admission Requirement; 

1. For Masters, proof of proficiency in English with IELTS minimum score of 7 is required.

2. Applicants may write challenge or entrance exams or be willing to take upgrade courses to meet admission requirements. 

3. Applicants may also have a minimum grade in formal schooling with at least 60% in math,english, anatomy, physiology.

4. Completion of Criminal Record Consent Form under the Criminal Record Review Act

Location; Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

 

Learn more; https://international.stenbergcollege.com/  

 

4 . Lakehead University

Lakehead’s Nursing Program aims to provide a culturally inclusive and supportive environment to ensure students succeed in their learning and research. 

Also, Lakehead offers transfer policies which are geared towards helping you maximize your credits from your current or previous studies at either college or university – or even both. 

 

Admission Requirement; 

1. Candidates must have successfully passed formal school with the minimum grade of 70% 

2. Ensure to select your program-specific prerequisite requirement when applying.

3. Make sure to create an OUAC account. 

4. Submit your application. 

 

Location; Ontario, Canada.

 

Learn more; https://www.lakeheadu.ca/programs/undergraduate-programs/nursing/node/1571#requirements 

 

5 . Ryerson University

Ryerson University, now renamed to Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is a renowned and well reputed institute for higher education in canada. 

TMU leads in innovative, career oriented education and with its urban, culturally diverse and inclusive environment, it is home to students from all parts of the world.  

 

Admission Requirement; 

1. Ensure to submit all your academic transcripts.

2. Proof of English language test proficiency(IELTS, TOEFL etc)

3. Minimum grade in math, chemistry, physics and biology is required.

4. For Masters, the candidates must have completed Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and have the minimum required score of 70% to 80%

5. Ensure to select your program-specific prerequisite requirement when applying.

 

Location; Toronto,Canada.

 

Learn more; https://www.studyincanada.com/Programs/22968/Nursing 

 

6 . Langara College

Langara College is one of British Columbia's leading undergraduate institutions which provides excellent learning and study programs. The College is also known as the House of Teachings. 

 

Admission Requirement; Applicants who receive offers of admission must submit the following:

1. A satisfactory Criminal Records Review

2. A complete and current Immunization and Communicable Disease Form

3. Certification in Standard First Aid

4. Certification in CPR Basic Life Support (BLS) or equivalent

5. Applicants may also have a minimum grade in formal schooling with at least 60% in math,english, anatomy, physiology.

6. Students are required to have a minimum GPA of 2.6 to be eligible for a graduate program to get admission.

 

Location; Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

 

Learn more; https://langara.ca/programs-and-courses/programs/nursing/admission-requirements.html 

 

7 . Conestoga College of Applied Arts and Technology

The Practical Nursing program at Conestoga College is approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario. Current graduates from this program are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Practical Nurse in Ontario. 

Conestoga is one of Ontario's fastest growing colleges. 

 

Admission Requirement;

Practical nursing in canada for international students requirements are as follows; 

1. Proof of English proficiency in TOEFL, IELTS with no band less than 6.0 to 6.5. 

2. Students must upload original educational documents to the admission portal.

3. Applicants may also have a minimum grade in formal schooling with at least 60%. 

4. International students are required to successfully complete the Pre Health sciences pathway to certificates and diplomas. 

 

Location; Ontario, Canada.

Learn more; https://www.conestogac.on.ca/fulltime/practical-nursing#:~:text=The%20Practical%20Nursing%20program%20at,Registered%20Practical%20Nurse%20in%20Ontario. 

 

8 . Durham College 

 

Durham College offers a 2 year practical nursing program in Canada for international students. As a practical nurse,you will combine your knowledge, skills and judgement to provide safe, competent and ethical nursing care. 

The Practical Nursing program at Conestoga College is approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario. 

 

Admissions Requirements; 

1. Minimum grade of 65% in math, chemistry, physics and biology is required.

2. Keyboarding/basic computer skills.

3. Students must upload original educational documents to the admission portal. 

Location; Ontario, Canada.

Learn more; https://durhamcollege.ca/programs/practical-nursing# 

 

9 . Thompson Rivers University

Thompson Rivers provides a diverse, inclusive environment that supports, teaches and empowers students to reach their potential. 

It is ranked #77 in Canada and #646 in the world. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

 

Admissions Requirements; 

1. Applicants may also have a minimum grade in formal schooling with at least 60% in math,english, anatomy, physiology.

2. Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher 

3. You must complete the CASPer Test which assesses non-cognitive skills and interpersonal characteristics of candidates. 

Location; Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. 

Learn more; https://www.tru.ca/nursing/programs/bsn/requirements.html 

 

10 . Georgian College

Georgian College provides a diverse and culturally unique community of students. Its campuses play important roles in the community, who in turn support the campuses through volunteer participation in programs, industry partnerships. 

 

Admissions Requirements;  

1. A minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.

2. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL) with no band less than 6.0 to 6.5.

3. A minimum grade of 70% in the 4 core subjects (biology, math, English, health sciences). 

4. A high school diploma or GED for applicants 18 years or older. 

5. A non-refundable application fee of $40. 

6. A certified criminal background check. 

7. Drug screen

 

Location; Ontario, Canada. 

Learn more; https://nursingdegreeprograms.net/georgia-rn-requirements-and-training-programs/ 

 

11 . Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology

Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology is the oldest publicly funded college in Ontario. 

It is accredited and is a diploma and  degree-granting college in Toronto, Ontario. 

The Practical Nursing program at Centennial College will offer you the in-depth knowledge, skills and judgement required in today's complex health care environment.  

 

Admissions Requirements; 

1. A non-refundable application fee of $110 must accompany applications. 

2. A minimum grade of 70% in the 4 core subjects (biology, math, English, health sciences). 

3. For Masters, A university degree or three-year college diploma is required. 

4. Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or GED. 

Location; Greater Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Learn more; https://www.centennialcollege.ca/admissions/how-to-apply/admission-requirements 

 

12 . Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology

Fanshawe College is one of the leaders in the development of co-operative education at the college level in Canada with 70 co-operative programs, more than any other college in Canada. 

Practical nurses in Ontario are relevant to the health care sector by administering medical services and promoting healthy lifestyles. 

Admissions Requirements; 

1. Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or GED. 

2. Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics test (CASPer) test is required. 

3. Minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.

4. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL) with no band less than 6.0 to 6.5. 

5. A minimum grade of 70% in the 4 core subjects (biology, math, English, health sciences). 

 

Location; London, Ontario, Canada.

Learn more; https://www.fanshawec.ca/programs/png5-practical-nursing/next#overview 

 

Career Prospects

• Travel Nurse

• Military Nursing

• Holistic Nursing

• Clinical Information Specialist

• Clinical Research Manager

• Nurse Educator

• Nursing Instructor

• Practical Nursing Instructor

• Research Nurse

• Nursing Manager

• Certified Nursing Instructor

• Nursing Assistant

• Entrepreneur

• Medical Writer

• Assistant Director of Nursing

• Certified Nurse Midwife

• Nurse Practitioner

• Forensic Nurse

• Consultant

• Associate Dean

• Entrepreneur

• Supplementary Nurse