The Master of Nursing (MN) - Advanced Nursing Specialization program at Lakehead University is designed to prepare Advanced Practice nurses to meet the diverse needs of the population. This coursework master's program includes a clinical placement component, making it ideal for those interested in nursing education, research, leadership, or policy. The program aims to equip students with the skills to synthesize advanced nursing knowledge, implement nursing practices, engage in research, and demonstrate leadership in healthcare settings. This program is perfect for individuals looking to enhance their nursing careers and make a significant impact in the field.
Program structure
The Master of Nursing - Advanced Nursing Specialization program is structured to be completed within a maximum of six terms (2 years) of continuous full-time registration. However, students have the option to extend their studies to a Flexible (Flex) Option, allowing for a total of 12 terms (4 years), which is particularly beneficial for working professionals. The program includes:
2.0 FCE of core graduate nursing courses
4.0 FCE in the Advanced Nursing Specialization
All courses are delivered synchronously through a web-based videoconferencing and teleconferencing system. Students will also complete an Advanced Nursing Practicum, which requires collaboration between the student, course leader, and agency preceptor. Each student will have one practicum placement based on their interests and geographical location. It is important to note that students should not solicit their own placements.
Featured Experiences
Clinical placement component to gain hands-on experience in advanced nursing practice.
Advanced Nursing Practicum (NURS 5805) that fosters a triad relationship between the student, course leader, and agency preceptor.
Courses delivered via web-based videoconferencing, allowing for flexible learning.
Focus on diverse client needs, preparing students for various roles in nursing.
Opportunities to engage in therapeutic relational practice with individuals, families, and communities.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Nursing - Advanced Nursing Specialization program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:
Advanced Practice Nurse: Provide specialized care and support to patients, often in a clinical setting, utilizing advanced skills and knowledge.
Nursing Educator: Teach and mentor nursing students in academic settings, sharing expertise and fostering the next generation of nurses.
Healthcare Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies that impact healthcare delivery and nursing practice, advocating for improvements in the system.
Clinical Research Coordinator: Oversee clinical trials and research studies, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating data collection.
Nursing Leadership Roles: Take on leadership positions within healthcare organizations, guiding teams and influencing change in nursing practices.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
Applicants for admission must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute as well as show evidence of scholarly achievement. Except where otherwise stated in the Admission Requirements of a particular program, degree students must have a four year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least second class standing (B) based on their last 20 half courses or equivalent.
For applicants from countries that follow a British-patterned grading system, please note:
Overall standings are normally reported in lieu of an average. The CGPA can be determined on the basis of annual or overall standings as reported on the transcript or degree certificate.
A minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
The National Diploma and Higher National Diploma are not recognized for admission to a graduate-level program.
Be sure to include a copy of your institution grading scale when uploading your transcripts.
An applicant holding a degree other than one in the discipline area to which admission is sought will be considered on the basis of courses taken and academic standing.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission. No candidate will be admitted unless the academic unit recommends admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.
View English Language Proficiency Requirements
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Official Transcript
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Proof of Degree
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Official English Test Results (If required)
For information about English test results, please see our Calendar
In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, the following requirements also apply for the Master of Nursing program with Advanced Nursing Specialization:
Four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, or its equivalent, from a university of recognized standing with a minimum 70% average
Evidence of a commitment to nursing as contained in the student's Curriculum Vitae and personal essay
Proof of current registration "without restrictions" with the College of Nurses of Ontario or another jurisdiction in Canada
Two references (one academic and one clinical reference) - the link will be automatically emailed to each of the referees you have identified in your application.
Graduate Studies Reference Form (2 references required)
An electronic reference form will be automatically sent by email to the references you identify on the Graduate Studies Online Application Form
This form is requested in support of the applicant's ability to undertake advanced study and research
Program Specific Supporting Documents
In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, the following requirements also apply for the Master of Nursing program:
Four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or its equivalent from a university of recognized standing with a minimum 70% average
Evidence of a commitment to nursing as contained in the student's Curriculum Vitae and personal essay
Proof of current registration "without restrictions" with the College of Nurses of Ontario or another jurisdiction in Canada
Applicants to the Advanced Nursing Specialization do not need any previous clinical practice hours in order to apply.
Two references (one academic and one clinical) - the link will be automatically emailed to each of the referees you have identified in your application.
Applicants to the Master of Nursing should indicate their interest in the Advanced Nursing Specialization at the time of application to the MN program. Such applicants must submit:
A complete application package to the MN program with Advanced Nursing Specialization as the program of study; unofficial academic transcripts; curriculum vitae; statement of goals and intentions; two references; proof of current registration "without restrictions" with the College of Nurses Ontario.
A cover letter indicating interest in completing the MN Advanced Nursing Specialization
Use this MN Application Checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a complete application.
In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, the following requirements also apply for the Master of Nursing program:
Four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree or its equivalent from a university of recognized standing with a minimum 70% average
Evidence of a commitment to nursing as contained in the student's Curriculum Vitae and a personal essay question
Proof of current registration “without restrictions” with the College of Nurses of Ontario or another jurisdiction in Canada
Two references (one academic and one clinical references) - the link will be automatically emailed to each of the referees you have identified in your application.
Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
Accepted tests and minimum scores:
Cambridge Academic English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): Overall 185, Listening 176, Reading & Use of English 176, Speaking 185, Writing 185
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Overall 7, Listening 6.5, Reading 6.5, Speaking 7, Writing 7
Michigan English Test (MET): Overall 90
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): Overall 65, Listening 58, Reading 58, Speaking 65, Writing 65
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Institution Code 0888: 5.0 overall (no section below 4.5) for tests completed as of January 2026; Overall 103, Listening 24, Reading 24, Speaking 28, Writing 28 for valid tests completed prior to January 2026
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.
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