Nursing

The Bachelor of Nursing program at Red Deer College offers students a comprehensive pathway to becoming a professional registered nurse, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to excel in diverse healthcare settings. Designed to meet the growing demand for qualified nursing professionals, this program emphasizes a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on clinical practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to provide compassionate and competent patient care. Students will explore a wide range of topics including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, mental health, community health, family nursing, and leadership in healthcare. The curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry experts and aligned with accreditation standards to ensure relevance and high quality of education.

Throughout the program, students engage in simulated labs, case studies, and real-world clinical placements in hospitals, clinics, and community health agencies. This experiential learning allows students to develop critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills essential for nursing practice. Faculty members are experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals committed to mentorship and support, fostering a collaborative learning environment. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical practice, cultural competence, and lifelong learning, preparing graduates to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.

Completion of the program qualifies graduates to write the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE), leading to licensure as a registered nurse (RN). Graduates are equipped to enter various healthcare settings, including hospitals, community clinics, long-term care facilities, and public health organizations, where they can make a meaningful difference in patients' lives. Red Deer College’s nursing program is committed to fostering leadership, innovation, and excellence in health care, ensuring that students graduate ready to meet the challenges of modern nursing with confidence and compassion.

The Nursing diploma program at Red Deer College is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in healthcare. This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical practice to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality patient care. Throughout the program, students engage in a variety of learning experiences that span the fundamentals of nursing, ethical and legal considerations, health promotion, and disease prevention. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and evidence-based practice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of patients across different settings.

Students in this program will explore a wide range of subjects including anatomy and physiology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, mental health nursing, pediatric nursing, and adult health nursing. The program also focuses on developing cultural competence and understanding the social determinants of health to foster inclusive and patient-centered care. Hands-on clinical placements are integrated throughout the program, providing students with valuable real-world experience in hospitals, community health settings, and long-term care facilities. These clinical opportunities are supervised by experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals, ensuring students develop confidence and competence in practical skills.

In addition to technical skills, the program emphasizes ethical considerations and professional responsibilities essential for nursing practice. Students learn to advocate for their patients, collaborate effectively within healthcare teams, and uphold the standards of the nursing profession. The program also prepares students for the licensing exam required to become a registered nurse, supporting their transition from students to licensed healthcare professionals.

Graduates of the Nursing diploma program will be equipped to pursue employment in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics, community organizations, and long-term care facilities. They will be capable of providing holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based nursing care while continuously upholding safety and ethical standards. Red Deer College's nursing program is committed to fostering lifelong learning and professional development, empowering graduates to adapt to advancements in healthcare and to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of their communities.

Program Requirements for the Nursing Diploma at Red Deer College include a combination of academic prerequisites, practical experience, and application procedures. Prospective students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, with a strong background in sciences such as biology and chemistry to ensure foundational knowledge for nursing studies. Applicants are typically required to achieve a satisfactory grade point average in their previous education, reflecting their academic readiness for rigorous coursework. Additionally, applicants must complete the Alberta Education requirements or equivalent, which may include specific courses in math, sciences, and English.

Practical experience is an essential component of the admission process; therefore, applicants are often encouraged or required to have volunteer or work experience in healthcare settings to demonstrate their commitment and understanding of the nursing profession. Some programs may also require applicants to complete a health screening, including immunizations and a criminal record check, to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations.

Candidates must submit a completed application form along with official transcripts, proof of prerequisites, and any required documentation by the stipulated deadline. There may be an interview or assessment that evaluates the applicant’s communication skills, critical thinking, and suitability for the nursing profession.

Once admitted, students are expected to participate in both theoretical coursework and clinical practice. The program emphasizes the development of competencies in patient care, health promotion, and evidence-based nursing practice. Attendance at all lectures, seminars, and clinical placements is mandatory. Students are also required to complete simulation labs and adhere to the college’s codes of conduct and professional standards.

Some students may need to meet additional criteria for specific specializations within the nursing program or for advanced placement opportunities. The program aims to prepare graduates for licensure exams necessary to become registered nurses. Overall, the program’s requirements ensure that students are well-prepared both academically and practically for a career in nursing, fostering competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.

The Nursing program at Red Deer College offers various financing options to support students throughout their educational journey. Prospective students can explore multiple avenues for funding their studies, including government-sponsored financial aid, scholarships, bursaries, and student loan programs. Federal and provincial governments in Canada provide financial assistance schemes such as Canada Student Loans and Alberta Student Aid, which can significantly reduce the financial burden for eligible students. These programs typically require applicants to meet specific criteria, including Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, demonstrated financial need, and enrollment in a designated post-secondary institution like Red Deer College.

In addition to government support, numerous scholarships and bursaries are available specifically for nursing students based on academic achievement, community involvement, leadership qualities, and financial need. Red Deer College's financial aid office actively promotes these funding opportunities, guiding students through the application process. Many external organizations also offer scholarships and grants targeted at health sciences students, including nursing. These awards vary in amount and eligibility requirements, and students are encouraged to research and apply early.

Apart from scholarships and loans, students may have access to work-study programs or part-time employment opportunities within the college campus or related healthcare facilities. These positions help students gain practical experience while earning income to offset tuition costs and living expenses. Red Deer College also provides information about payment plans that allow students to pay their tuition fees in installments rather than a lump sum, making budget management more feasible.

Financial planning is an important aspect of enrollment, and students are advised to consult the college’s financial aid advisors to understand eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines. Overall, the college strives to make nursing education accessible by providing comprehensive support in securing the necessary funding, ensuring that students can focus on their academic and practical training without undue financial stress.

The Nursing program at Red Deer College is designed to prepare students for a career in healthcare as professional registered nurses. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical learning with practical hands-on experience, enabling graduates to provide high-quality patient care in diverse healthcare settings. The program is structured to develop critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and effective communication skills essential for nursing practice. Students engage in classroom lectures, simulation laboratories, and supervised clinical placements in hospitals and community health settings. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and nursing practice fundamentals. Emphasis is placed on patient-centered care, ethical practices, and cultural competence to prepare students for the complexities of modern healthcare environments. The program typically spans two years, leading to a diploma in nursing, and meets the standards of the Canadian Council of Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR) and the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA). Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE) or the NCLEX-RN to become licensed registered nurses in Canada. Red Deer College prides itself on fostering a supportive learning environment, with experienced faculty members dedicated to guiding students through their academic journey. The program also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, encouraging students to work effectively with other healthcare professionals. Admission requirements usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, with acceptable grades in sciences such as biology and chemistry. Advanced standing or transfer credits may be available for students with prior healthcare education or experience. Upon completion, students are well-equipped to enter the workforce as registered nurses or pursue further education in nursing or related health fields. The college offers resources such as academic advising, student support services, and career counseling to assist students throughout their studies. The Nursing program at Red Deer College is committed to producing competent, compassionate nurses who are ready to meet the evolving needs of healthcare in Alberta and across Canada.