Last updated on 2025-05-30
Program Overview
Humber’s Practical Nursing program is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required for a fulfilling career as a registered practical nurse (RPN). Graduates are prepared to meet the registration exam requirements to practice as RPNs in Ontario, with potential job opportunities in various settings such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, and community health services. The program features a comprehensive curriculum that combines nursing theory with practical experiences, including a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and liberal studies. Notably, Humber is the only English-speaking college in Ontario that offers access to an on-campus cadaver lab specifically for practical nursing students, enhancing the learning experience. With small class sizes and state-of-the-art simulation labs, students gain a competitive edge in their nursing education.
Program Structure
The Practical Nursing program at Humber spans 4 semesters, providing a structured and immersive learning experience. Key features of the program structure include:
- Comprehensive curriculum integrating nursing theory and practical experiences.
- Mandatory professional practicums totaling 1,030 hours, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.
- Opportunities for community-service learning (CSL) practicums in various community settings.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs and bioscience labs.
- Optional co-operative education component for students seeking paid work terms in their field.
Throughout the program, students will engage in a variety of learning environments, including clinical simulation activities and supervised practicums in long-term care, rehabilitation, and acute-care settings. The program is designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of a nursing career upon graduation.
Featured Experiences
The Practical Nursing program offers several unique experiences that enhance the educational journey:
- Access to an on-campus cadaver lab, providing invaluable hands-on learning opportunities.
- Mandatory professional practicums in diverse settings, including community agencies, schools, long-term care facilities, and hospitals.
- Community-service learning (CSL) practicum, allowing students to engage with the community while learning about social justice and health determinants.
- Clinical simulation activities that prepare students for real-world nursing scenarios.
- Small class sizes that foster a supportive learning environment and personalized instruction from experienced faculty.
Career Options
Graduates of the Practical Nursing program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:
- Registered Practical Nurse (RPN): Provide direct patient care in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and long-term care facilities.
- Community Health Nurse: Work with community agencies to promote health and wellness among diverse populations.
- Mental Health Nurse: Support patients dealing with mental health issues in clinical and community settings.
- Rehabilitation Nurse: Assist patients recovering from injuries or surgeries, focusing on restoring their functional abilities.
- School Nurse: Provide healthcare services and health education to students in educational settings.
Many graduates also choose to further their education by completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or pursuing advanced skills education in specialty areas such as surgery, dialysis, and emergency care.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
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