College Diploma - Practical Nursing (PNRS) at Georgian College - Program overview

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

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

The Practical Nursing Ontario College Diploma program at Georgian College is designed for students who aspire to build a career in healthcare. With a focus on caring and committed faculty, students benefit from extensive clinical time to enhance their skills in state-of-the-art facilities. The program emphasizes the importance of accountability, collaboration, and ethical care, preparing students to excel in the complex healthcare system. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as Registered Practical Nurses in Ontario, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the profession.

Program structure

The Practical Nursing program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a 2.5-year duration. The program is available in both full-time and part-time formats, allowing flexibility for students. Key features of the program structure include:

In-person delivery method, ensuring hands-on learning experiences.
Clinical placement component, providing real-world experience under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Innovative nursing education through a mix of classroom learning and simulation labs.
Opportunities for placements in various healthcare settings, enhancing practical skills.

Students engage in a curriculum that incorporates the philosophy of caring, focusing on the lived experiences of individuals and communities. This program is highly competitive, and students are encouraged to meet all admission requirements to secure their place.

Featured Experiences

The Practical Nursing program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
State-of-the-art simulation laboratories that provide a safe environment for practicing nursing skills.
Engagement with experienced faculty who are dedicated to student success and professional development.
Opportunities for collaborative learning through team-based activities and projects.
Access to a variety of agencies for practicum placements, ensuring a broad range of experiences.

Career Options

Graduates of the Practical Nursing diploma program have a wide array of career opportunities in Canada. Here are some potential job roles:

Registered Practical Nurse (RPN): Provide direct patient care in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and clinics.
Community Health Nurse: Work in community settings to promote health and wellness among populations.
Case Manager: Coordinate care for patients, ensuring they receive appropriate services and support.
Health Care Coordinator: Oversee patient care plans and collaborate with healthcare teams to improve patient outcomes.
Home Health Care Nurse: Deliver nursing care to patients in their homes, focusing on rehabilitation and recovery.

Other roles may include wellness nurse, personal support worker, and positions in health administration or policy development. The program equips graduates with the skills necessary to thrive in these diverse roles within the healthcare sector.

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

Visit Georgian College official website

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The admission requirements for the Practical Nursing program at Georgian College are as follows:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, mature student status
Grade 12 English (C or U)
Grade 12 Mathematics (C or U)
Grade 11 or 12 Biology (C or U)
Grade 12 (C) or Grade 11 or 12 (U) Chemistry OR Grade 12 (C) or Grade 11 or 12 (U) Physics

Mature students, non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older), and home school applicants may also be considered for admission. Eligibility may be met by applicants who have taken equivalent courses, upgrading, completed their GED, and equivalency testing. For complete details, please contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support.

Applicants will be assessed and ranked based on academic grades. A minimum grade of 75% in each prerequisite subject is recommended.

Placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to going out on placement. Students should obtain their criminal reference three months prior to placement; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the completed document prior to placement start.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

In addition, students must have a completed and verified Clinical Preparedness Permit to be eligible for practicum placements. Requirements for the permit include:

A mask fit test, renewed every two years
Level HCP/BLS CPR and Standard First Aid prior to commencing the program (online courses are not acceptable)
Up-to-date immunization records in compliance with the Public Hospitals Act
An up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector screen (renewed regularly)

Individuals who have been charged or convicted criminally and not pardoned will be prohibited from proceeding to a clinical or work placement.

Language Requirements

For the College Diploma - Practical Nursing (PNRS) program, applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements. The following English language tests are accepted:

Duolingo Language Test: Minimum score of 110
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT): Minimum score of 79
TOEFL paper-based test: Minimum score of 550
IELTS Academic only: Minimum score of 6.0
YELT: Minimum score of 1-5
TOEIC (Public Test): Minimum score of 800
Graduate of Level 8 of Georgian’s GAAS – English for Academic Purposes: 60% in certificate or completion of level 8 with 70% or higher
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)/CAEL Online: Minimum score of 60
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE): Minimum score of 58
Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE): Minimum score of 170

Please check with our team for more details.

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 2026-03-23

Program overview