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2-Year Nursing Programs in Canada for International Students

Last updated: 4 December 2023 Nursing

Studying a 2-year nursing course in Canada as an international student offers a comprehensive and globally recognized education in the field of healthcare. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in nursing theory, clinical skills, and practical experience. Courses often cover anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, and patient care. The program is structured to integrate both classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.

Clinical placements are a significant component of the nursing program, allowing international students to gain practical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. This hands-on experience is essential for honing nursing skills, building confidence, and establishing connections within the healthcare industry. Upon completing the 2-year nursing program, international students may be eligible to apply for a work permit, allowing them to gain valuable work experience in Canada.

Learn more about studying for a 2-year nursing degree in Canada below and begin your academic journey by contacting SI-Canada today for a free consultation

2 year nursing courses in canada

2-Year Nursing Program in Canada Highlights

As an international student who aspires to study in Canada, understanding the major highlights of this kind of course can help you make informed decisions. The major aspects of a 2-year nursing course in Canada are mentioned below:

Scope of 2-Year Nursing Programs

2-year nursing programs in Canada provide a focused and efficient pathway for students looking to enter the nursing profession. It allows them to acquire the necessary knowledge and relevant skill sets efficiently, enabling a faster workforce entry than the other longer programs.

One of the best aspects of these courses is that after graduation, students can pursue diverse career paths in the healthcare industry by working in hospitals, clinics, community health settings, or long-term care facilities, among other options. Canada has a high demand for qualified nurses, and nursing graduates are well-positioned to enter the workforce promptly after the 2-year nursing course. Graduates can pursue advanced degrees, specializations, or certifications in nursing to enhance their career prospects.

While the program provides general nursing education, graduates can later specialize in specific healthcare areas such as mental health, pediatrics, critical care, or community health through additional education or on-the-job training. By obtaining nursing credentials in Canada, individuals can also consider working in other countries, as Canadian degrees are globally recognized. 

2-Year Nursing Programs in Canada

Institution Program Duration Tuition Fees (In CAD)
McGill University Bachelor of Nursing (Integrated) 2 years 31,566
Toronto Metropolitan University Nursing BSCn (Post Diploma) 2 years 34,665
Langara College Post-degree Diploma in Nursing 2 years 8,500
Conestoga College College Diploma in Practical Nursing 2 years 20,067
Thompson Rivers University Master of Nursing 2 years 36,045
Durham College College Diploma in Practical Nursing 2 years 17,924

2-Year Nursing Programs: Eligibility & Requirements

Students applying to an undergraduate program must have completed a high school biology, chemistry, and mathematics diploma. Students pursuing master's degree programs must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field. All international students must be proficient in English or French, which depends on the language in which the course is being taken. 

Applicants must also submit transcripts from their secondary or degree education completed before applying to the program. Canadian institutions also ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or other professionals who can assess an applicant's suitability for the program. Many institutions also ask for a personal statement or letter of intent where applicants can articulate their motivation for pursuing nursing and their career goals.

Due to the nature of the nursing profession, students are often required to meet specific health and immunization requirements. Some institutions may conduct interviews as part of the admission process to assess an applicant's interpersonal skills and suitability for the nursing profession.

Applying for a 2-year Nursing Program

Applying for a 2-year nursing program in Canada as an international student involves several steps. Here is a general guide to the application process:

Jobs

After completing a 2-year nursing program in Canada, graduates can pursue various entry-level positions in the healthcare sector. Some of the potential job opportunities are mentioned below:

Study Nursing Canada

If you want to study a 2-year nursing course, book a free consultation with SI-Canada today to start your application.

Universities featured in this article:

  • McGill University
  • Toronto Metropolitan University
  • Langara College
  • Conestoga College
  • Thompson Rivers University
  • Durham College
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Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Canada specializes in selecting the right Canadian university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Canada.

"Everything was explained well to me by Vidushi. There was a 100% transparency in everything and Vidushi was highly responsive throughout the process making it smooth and hassle free for me. Rahul from the Visa team also was really patient in the entire process and made sure I understood and get things done timely."

Amanpreet KaurInternational Business Management (May 2024 intake)

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