College or University Student

As a college or university nursing student, you’re on the path to your chosen profession. Learn more about some important steps in the process.

The Program  

In both diploma and degree programs, nursing students study social and physical sciences and nursing. You can expect to take courses in psychology, child development, sociology, anatomy, physiology, theory and clinical practice. The university programs generally offer additional studies in leadership, health teaching, research and other disciplines.

Choosing a Specialty

While you’re in college or university, you will be introduced to different nursing specialties, such as obstetrics and gynaecology, emergency room, paediatrics, and public health.

Before choosing a speciality, consider which one interests you the most. If you like working with children, for instance, pediatrics might be the area for you. You’ll also want to consider your temperament when choosing a specialty.  If you excel in a fast-paced, high pressure situation, you might be well suited to emergency room nursing, whereas if you find those conditions stressful, you might prefer specializing in community health.

Additionally, think about whether you’d be willing to do additional training as some specialties may require it.

Getting Registered

RPNs
After completing a 2-year or 3-year college diploma in nursing, you will be eligible to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) through the College of Nurses of Ontario.

RNs
After completing a 4-year bachelor’s degree in nursing, you will be eligible to write the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE) through the College of Nurses of Ontario.

Successful completion of the CPNRE or CRNE examination is a requirement for registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario, which is necessary to practise nursing in the province.

Finding a Job

As you approach graduation, you’ll of course start thinking about getting a job. The Nursing Graduate Guarantee is an initiative of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care aimed at ensuring every new nursing graduate (RPN and RN) who wishes to work full time in Ontario will have that opportunity. Learn more about eligibility to participate.

Additionally, nurses can look for nursing jobs on HFOJobs.

Resources 

Read about nurse education resources.