Last updated on 2026-05-07
Program overview
The Practical Nurse program at NorQuest College is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become licensed practical nurses. This program, which is one of the largest in Canada, emphasizes hands-on training and clinical placements, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to provide high-quality care in various healthcare settings. Over the course of the program, students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, culminating in the ability to write the Canadian Licensed Practical Nurse registration exam. With flexible study options available, students can choose a delivery method that best fits their lifestyle.
Program structure
The Practical Nurse program at NorQuest College is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a length of 5 to 9 terms. The program offers various delivery options to accommodate different learning preferences:
- In-person: 2 years, offered in Edmonton or Wetaskiwin with face-to-face instruction.
- Online anytime with in-person labs: 3 years, allowing students to work on their own schedule with in-person labs occurring over one to two weeks.
- Blended: 2 years, combining online lectures and in-person components, offered in Edmonton, Wetaskiwin, or through mobile/rural labs.
Students will engage in:
- 195 hours of hands-on practice in lab settings.
- 680 hours of clinical placements through four practicums, which may require travel up to 100 km.
This program is designed to be flexible, catering to the needs of rural students and providing various scheduling options, including daytime, evening, and weekend classes.
Featured Experiences
The Practical Nurse program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the learning process:
- Hands-on training with standardized patients and high-fidelity manikins.
- Access to the Olson Centre for Health Simulation, which provides advanced simulation experiences.
- Multiple clinical placements that allow students to gain real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings.
- Flexible delivery options to accommodate different lifestyles and learning preferences.
- Support for students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive educational environment.
Career Options
Graduates of the Practical Nurse program can pursue a variety of career opportunities in Canada, including:
- Licensed Practical Nurse: Provide essential nursing care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
- Home Care Nurse: Deliver care to patients in their homes, assisting with daily living activities and medical needs.
- Long-Term Care Nurse: Work in nursing homes or assisted living facilities, providing care to elderly patients.
- Community Health Nurse: Focus on health promotion and disease prevention in community settings.
- Clinical Nurse: Assist in various clinical settings, supporting registered nurses and healthcare teams in patient care.
These roles not only offer rewarding career paths but also provide opportunities for further education and advancement in the nursing field.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
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