As a registered nurse in Canada, you understand the value of your job. Whether you are a fresher or an experienced professional, higher education opens a wider avenue for career prospects. But life is busy, and it becomes increasingly difficult for nurses, especially those who, for the most part, take many hours, personal obligations, and professional development into account. This is why accredited online nursing schools have been increasingly considered an option to upgrade one’s qualifications while one has no time to step away from work.
This guide provides you with all the information you need about accredited online nursing programs in Canada, from eligibility to accreditation by top schools.
Let’s get started!
What does it mean to be accredited for nursing programs?
Before exploring online options, it is important to know what being accredited exactly means and what is the significance of the issue. In simple terms, accreditation is the means by which a nursing program is reviewed to ensure it meets predetermined standards and criteria by regulatory bodies. In Canada, these include:
- The Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN)
- Provincial Nursing Regulatory Bodies
When a program is accredited, it means that the education you receive will be recognized across Canada, allowing you to practice anywhere in the country. Additionally, an accredited program ensures that you’re meeting the standards required to maintain or enhance your RN licensure.
Why Should You Avoid Non-Accredited Nursing Programs?
Many non-accredited nursing programs are to be found, especially on the several websites of institutions offering what appear to be quicker or cheaper nursing programs. Attending such schools will generally result in many complications you presently might not understand—except, perhaps, a dentist turned nursing student. Here are some of them:
Poor Job Prospects: Most employers would only accept graduation from an accredited program.
Difficulty in Further Studies: Later, in case you may want to pursue a Master’s or any other advanced nursing course, schools may not accept such a degree from a non-accredited institution.
Licensure Issues: The regulatory body in your province might not acknowledge your education thus causing problems while renewing or upgrading your license as a nurse.
In a nutshell, one should always go for an accredited program because it’s not about having a diploma, but it is about securing a future of being a nurse.
Eligibility Criteria of Online Nursing Programs in Canada
Now that we are clear about this, let’s talk about what it takes to get into an online nursing program. Most online nursing programs for RNs in Canada have similar eligibility requirements, which will typically include:
Most of all programs are going to want you to have already done some college work in nursing, be it a diploma or an ADN. You might also have to have reached a certain level of GPA and have prepared for other areas through your coursework, such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology.
You also must have current RN registration with the provincial or territorial regulatory body for nursing. Most programs require proof of current RN licensure, so some part of the application may request this, in addition to the required years of nursing experience. Some programs may also have more strict registration-related requirements than required as a minimum to enter a program, so be sure to confirm these at each school where you are considering applying.
Types of Online Nursing Programs Available for RNs
Different online nursing programs cater to RNs at various stages of their careers. Here are the main types of programs available:
1. RN to BSN Bridge Programs
If you acquired your RN via a diploma program or an ADN, then the RN to BSN programs will be excellent for furthering your education from a diploma to a degree level. A BSN allows for better opportunities career-wise for management, specialty areas, and better compensation.
2. Master’s Programs (RN to MSN)
For advanced practice registered nurse career paths, such as NP or CNL, a great option is an RN to MSN program. This degree mirrors the academic programs in specialized areas of family practice, psychiatric care, or leadership and will prepare one for greater responsibility and autonomy in the healthcare setting.
3. Continuing Education and Certifications
If you’re not ready for full commitment to a degree program and want some specialization with an area of focus, many schools even offer continuing education certificates or postgraduate certifications. These will allow you to hone your skills in subjects like oncology, critical care, or pediatrics without the pressures of a full-time degree.
Top Accredited Online Nursing Schools in Canada for RNs
When considering the best online nursing programs in Canada, there are so many schools to consider. Check out the following best online nursing schools:
1. University of British Columbia (UBC)
This system of open schooling through the University of British Columbia presents online courses and online programs through their School of Nursing meant for RNs who are ready to elevate their education. Both the BSN and MSN degrees are highly well-reputed and appreciated throughout the Canadian lands.
Athabasca University is particularly different due to the model of distance education in offering the RN to BSN and MSN programs that are online. Both programs are conveniently scheduled to allow working nurses ample time to carry out studies in full and still not necessarily put their careers on hold.
2. McMaster University: Online RN to BSN
This online BSN for RNs at McMaster University is perfect and very convenient for working nurses. It builds on existing skills and knowledge areas to prepare one for an advanced leadership role in health care.
3. University of Alberta: Online Nursing Programs
The University of Alberta offers various online nursing bridge programs and online advanced nursing degrees. They further offer support for clinical placements to ensure you meet the practical requirements of your education.
How Do Online Nursing Programs Work?
One of the questions that runs through most nurses’ minds is the functionality of online programs. Here is how online nursing programs are designed.
Course Formats
Online nursing programs are available in two major formats in Canada, including:
Synchronous learning: This is a method that requires you to join live virtual classes at stipulated times. This means you get to chat with your instructors and coursemates one-on-one.
Asynchronous learning: This provides you with more flexible options, so that you may access the class material and complete the course assignments at your own pace.
Clinical Practicum Requirements
The theoretical part of your learning process might be conducted online, but you will be required to go on-site to complete your clinical hours. In most online programs, an affiliation is set up with different healthcare facilities to help you fulfill the requirements in your locality. It is good to check what each school offers and the support they offer in clinical placement.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations of RNs with Online Degrees
After completing an online nursing degree, different and more promising career opportunities will probably come your way. Here is what you might get:
Career Advancement
After obtaining a BSN or MSN, one has opportunities for nursing specialties in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or oncology, and with that qualification, one can also consider becoming a leader in nursing administration and healthcare management.
Salary Outlook
RNs with advanced degrees are generally better compensated compared to diploma-hiring RNs. Several sources indicate that the average pay for a BSN-prepared RN is higher than that of a diploma-holding RN.
Conclusion
Online learning can be a lonely process, in the absence of face-to-face interaction with classmates and instructors. Besides this, certain employers do not take an online degree as seriously as a traditional one, though this seems to be changing with many accredited institutions offering their degree courses online.
Step directly to the front line of your career as an RN by earning a DNP in Canada from an accredited online nursing school. With extremely flexible programs to friendly working professionals, there has never been a better time to consider online education.
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