Nursing has evolved into a critical profession within the medical field, and Canada stands out as a premier destination for international students seeking to study nursing abroad. This comprehensive guide provides valuable information on studying nursing in Canada, covering reasons to choose Canada, top universities, available courses, eligibility criteria, fees, and opportunities for scholarships.
Reasons to Study Nursing in Canada:
Canada is renowned for offering high-quality nursing programs with globally recognized degrees. The country provides ample opportunities for internships, enhancing job prospects in the nursing field. Additionally, Canada boasts 10 nursing universities listed among the top 100 globally according to the QS World Rankings of 2020. International nurses in Canada enjoy competitive salaries, starting at $75,000 annually for a 40-hour workweek, along with annual increments. Furthermore, numerous scholarships are available for international students, making it feasible to study nursing in Canada for free.
Top Nursing Universities in Canada:
Among the top-ranking nursing universities in Canada are:
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- McMaster University
- University de Montreal
- Western University
- University of Calgary
- Queen’s University at Kingston
- University of Ottawa
- Dalhousie University
Other universities accepting international students include York University, Brock University, and the University of Saskatchewan.
Nursing Courses in Canada for International Students:
Nursing colleges in Canada offer a variety of courses at different degree levels and specializations:
Bachelor Level:
- Bachelor in Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Bachelor in Science (BSc)
Graduate Level:
- Master in Applied Science in Nursing (MASc)
- Master in Science in Nursing (M.S.N)
- Graduate certificate and graduate diploma degrees
PhD Level:
- PhD in Nursing
Specializations Include:
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Practical Nursing
- Critical Care Nursing
- Community Mental Health
- Nursing Administration
- Global Health
- Mental Health Nursing Practitioner
- Midwifery
Eligibility Criteria for BSc Nursing in Canada:
Minimum requirements include a 12th-grade education with a minimum of 65%, English or Mathematics or Science subjects at the 12th-grade level, successful completion of the CASPer Test, and English language proficiency (IELTS overall band of 6.5 or TOEFL minimum of 80).
Documents Required for Bachelors in Nursing Admission:
- Official Academic Transcripts
- English Language Test Scores
- CASPer Test Document
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Resume
BSc Nursing Course Duration and Fees in Canada:
A regular Bachelors in Nursing takes 4 years to complete, with fees ranging from 52,000 CAD to 169,000 CAD for international students.
Master in Nursing in Canada for International Students:
Master’s courses after BSc nursing in Canada provide advanced education and include options like M.S.N, M.N, and specialized graduate diplomas.
Eligibility Criteria for MSc Nursing in Canada:
Requirements include a four-year bachelor’s degree in Nursing, at least one year of clinical experience, and language proficiency test scores (IELTS minimum 6.5, TOEFL minimum 90).
Documents Required for Admission in MSc Nursing Courses:
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Language Test Scores
- Clear Criminal Record Certificate
- Valid Nursing License
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Curriculum Vitae (C.V)
PhD in Nursing in Canada:
PhD in Nursing prepares certified nurses for leadership and research roles. Eligibility criteria include a master’s degree in Nursing, GRE scores, and language proficiency test scores.
Documents Required for PhD in Nursing Admission:
- Official Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume
- Research Paper (if any)
Duration and Tuition Fees for PhD in Nursing Programs:
PhD courses in Nursing in Canada typically last 4 years, with tuition fees ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 CAD per annum.
Short Nursing Courses in Canada:
Diploma nursing courses in Canada include Practical Nursing, Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner, and Advanced Studies in Critical Care Nursing.
Cheapest Universities for Nursing Studies in Canada:
Affordable options for international students include Brandon University, Cape Breton University, Mount Royal University, and others.
Nursing Scholarships in Canada:
Various scholarships, such as The Class of 1966 Nursing Scholarship and University-specific scholarships, support international students studying nursing in Canada.
Scope After Pursuing Nursing Courses in Canada:
To practice nursing in Canada, international students must obtain a license from the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA), involving clearing the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination.
Job Roles and Average Annual Salaries in CAD:
- Critical Care Nurse Supervisor: $40,320 – $96,000
- Psychiatric Nurse: $44,160 – $88,320
- Nurse Practitioner – Adult Care: $42,240 – $115,000
- Nursing Professor: $38,400 – $145,920
- Nurse-Midwife: $42,240 – $115,000
- Nurse Team Leader: Salary Range Available
Conclusion:
Studying nursing in Canada offers international students a pathway to high-quality education, diverse specializations, and rewarding career opportunities. With renowned universities, diverse courses, and the chance to secure scholarships, Canada stands as an attractive destination for those aspiring to pursue a fulfilling career in nursing.