This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Program overview

The Practical Nursing Ontario College Diploma program is a two-year course designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and judgment necessary for a successful career in healthcare. This program emphasizes patient-centered care, focusing on the processes of assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care for individuals, families, and populations. Students will engage in a combination of classroom learning, lab work, and simulation exercises, which prepare them for real-world clinical placements. Graduates will be eligible to write the REx-PN and Jurisprudence Exams to become licensed Registered Practical Nurses in Ontario, allowing them to contribute effectively to healthcare teams and support excellence in patient care.

Program structure

The Practical Nursing program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a period of two years. The program includes:

Classroom instruction to build foundational nursing knowledge.
Hands-on lab practice in simulated environments to develop critical skills.
Clinical placements in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Students will have opportunities for:

Clinical placements that provide real-world experience.
On-campus simulation labs that offer realistic patient care scenarios.

This program prepares students to work in diverse healthcare environments, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the nursing profession.

Featured Experiences

The Practical Nursing program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Clinical Placements: Students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care homes, and community agencies.
Simulation Labs: On-campus labs provide realistic scenarios for students to practice nursing skills in a controlled environment.
Collaborative Learning: Students work closely with healthcare teams, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for nursing practice.
Patient-Centered Care Focus: The program emphasizes the importance of providing care that respects the needs and preferences of patients.

Career Options

Graduates of the Practical Nursing program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in the healthcare sector. Some potential job roles include:

Registered Practical Nurse (RPN): Provide nursing care to patients in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Community Health Nurse: Work in community clinics or home care settings, providing care and support to individuals and families.
Geriatric Nurse: Specialize in caring for elderly patients, addressing their unique health needs and promoting quality of life.
Pediatric Nurse: Focus on the care of infants, children, and adolescents, ensuring their health and well-being.
Rehabilitation Nurse: Assist patients recovering from surgery or illness, helping them regain independence and improve their quality of life.

With a high demand for nurses in Ontario, graduates can expect strong employment prospects upon completion of the program.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Program overview

Academic Requirements

College Eligibility

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) with a grade of 65% or higher.
Biology, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
Chemistry, Grade 11 or 12 with a grade of 65% or higher.
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

International Applicants:
International applicants who meet the program eligibility requirements are required to complete preparatory courses (4-months in duration): Introduction to Canadian Health Studies (ICHS). Students who successfully complete the introduction will then proceed to their original health program of choice. The ICHS requires applicants to submit an academic IELTS score.

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Language Requirements

IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken prior to January 21, 2026 overall 88, with a minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken after January 21, 2026 overall 4, with a minimum in each component: Reading 4; Listening 4; Speaking 4; Writing 4; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2026-10-19

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
January 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
May 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available
September 2027	Open	Not Available	Not Available	Not Available