Diploma in Practical Nursing, Mohawk College - Institute for Applied Health Sciences at McMaster

16 Months

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About this course

This Practical Nursing program at Mohawk College is designed to prepare students to become Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) in Ontario. It offers a collaborative learning environment with simulated and real-life opportunities in state-of-the-art labs. The program lasts 16 months and incorporates a hybrid learning model, mixing online theory courses with in-person labs and clinical practice. Students engage in clinical placements at healthcare agencies, with shifts scheduled during weekdays and weekends to mimic real-world settings. The curriculum is grounded in the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) competencies, ensuring graduates meet professional standards. Upon successful completion, students are eligible for registration as RPNs in Ontario.

Why this course is highly recommended

The program is approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario and prepares students to become eligible to apply for registration as an RPN, opening up diverse job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, retirement and long-term care homes, and community agencies. The hybrid format offers flexibility to balance study and personal commitments. The program's comprehensive clinical placements and simulation-based training equip students with essential practical skills, making it a strong pathway into the healthcare industry with various employment options.

Specialisation

This program focuses specifically on practical nursing, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and professional accountability needed for nursing practice in various healthcare settings. It prepares students to interact effectively with faculty and healthcare teams while applying concepts from nursing and related disciplines in classroom, laboratory, and clinical environments.

Course fees

Application fees

11.18L

1st year tuition fees

11.18L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including Grade 12 English and Mathematics at C, U, M level, along with two Grade 11 or 12 Science courses. A competitive average of 85%–88% in these courses is recommended. International applicants must meet specific language proficiency requirements including TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL, or PTE scores, and complete a level of GAS-EAP or other accepted equivalents.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Mohawk College - Institute for Applied Health Sciences at McMaster admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program can look forward to working as Registered Practical Nurses in a variety of healthcare environments such as hospitals, physicians' offices, retirement homes, community agencies, and long-term care facilities. Additional opportunities include research, policy development, occupational health, and private practice areas like foot care or private duty nursing. After licensing by the College of Nurses of Ontario, graduates can join professional associations like the RPNAO and explore further educational pathways, including transfer options to degree programs.

FAQs

What is the duration of the Practical Nursing program?

The program is completed over 16 consecutive months, across four semesters.

What are the clinical placement requirements?

Students must complete in-person clinical placements, which may occur in various healthcare settings, requiring them to have transportation and meet specific immunization, criminal record check, and safety requirements.