Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive and innovative education designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in healthcare. This program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experiences, enabling students to develop the essential skills, knowledge, and competencies required to deliver high-quality patient care across diverse healthcare settings. Throughout the program, students will gain a solid foundation in the biological, social, and behavioral sciences, along with advanced nursing practice, leadership, and research methods, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the complex needs of patients and communities. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and cultural competence, fostering a holistic approach to health and wellness. Students will have the opportunity to engage in clinical placements in hospitals, community health centers, and other healthcare facilities, working alongside experienced professionals to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. The program also encourages development of critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills, which are vital for success in the fast-paced healthcare environment. Graduates of the BSN program will be eligible to write licensing examinations and pursue a variety of career paths, including registered nurse positions in acute care, public health, mental health, and specialized areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and maternity care. The University of British Columbia is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning community that emphasizes innovation and excellence in nursing education. With state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and strong industry partnerships, students will be supported throughout their educational journey to become competent, compassionate nurse leaders dedicated to improving health outcomes and contributing positively to society.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at The University of British Columbia is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in professional nursing practice, research, and leadership roles within diverse healthcare settings. The program combines a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for providing high-quality patient care. Throughout the program, students engage in rigorous coursework covering anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, nursing theory, ethics, and health policy to build a strong foundational understanding of human health and disease processes.

Practical clinical experience is a core component of the program, offering students opportunities to apply their learning in real-world environments such as hospitals, community clinics, and specialized care facilities. This hands-on training ensures graduates are well-equipped to assess patient needs, develop individualized care plans, administer treatments, and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, communication skills, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations with professionalism and compassion.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with leading healthcare institutions, providing an immersive learning environment. The curriculum encourages research engagement and continuous learning, equipping students with the skills necessary for evidence-based practice. Graduates of the BSN program are prepared to pursue licensure as registered nurses and are well-positioned for advanced education, including graduate studies in nursing, healthcare administration, or specialty practice areas.

The program also emphasizes leadership development and advocacy for health promotion, emphasizing the nurse’s role in influencing health policies and advancing community health initiatives. Students participate in community outreach and service projects, fostering a holistic approach to health and wellness. Overall, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing at UBC aims to shape compassionate, skilled, and innovative nurses who will contribute meaningfully to the evolving healthcare landscape locally, nationally, and globally.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) at The University of British Columbia:

Applicants must meet admission requirements including completion of a recognized secondary school diploma with a strong academic record, particularly in sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. A minimum grade point average (GPA) is typically required, with competitive applicants often exceeding the average standards. Prospective students are also expected to submit official transcripts demonstrating their academic history.

English language proficiency is mandatory for international students, with accepted tests including TOEFL or IELTS. For TOEFL, a minimum total score of 100 with at least 22 in each section is generally required; for IELTS, a minimum score of 7.0 overall with no section below 6.5 is standard. Additionally, applicants may need to provide proof of prerequisite coursework; for Nursing, this frequently includes Biology with a lab component, Chemistry with a lab, and Mathematics courses such as Statistics or Calculus.

Application forms must be completed and submitted via the university's online application system before the designated deadline. Some programs may require supplementary materials, such as a personal statement, resume, and references. An interview process may be part of the selection process to assess motivation and suitability for nursing practice.

Once admitted, students are required to complete the core nursing curriculum, which consists of both theoretical coursework and practical clinical placements. The coursework emphasizes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, health assessment, pharmacology, ethics, and leadership in healthcare. Clinical placements are arranged in various healthcare settings to provide students with hands-on experience under supervision.

To graduate, students must successfully complete all coursework, including clinical hours, and meet the university's academic standards—typically maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 to 3.0, depending on the year's parameters. The program culminates in a comprehensive examination or capstone project, and graduates are eligible to sit for licensing exams such as the NCLEX-RN to become registered nurses.

Continuing education or specialization options may be available post-graduation, but the core program requirements focus on academic achievement, practical competence, and adherence to professional standards as outlined by the Nursing Department at The University of British Columbia.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Nursing undergraduate program to support their educational and living expenses. Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program vary depending on the student's residency status, with domestic students benefiting from subsidized rates and international students paying higher fees. For the 2023/2024 academic year, domestic students can expect to pay approximately CAD 9,000 per year, while international students may pay around CAD 42,000 annually. These figures are indicative and subject to annual adjustments set by the university. In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for auxiliary costs such as books, supplies, health insurance, and accommodation. The UBC Student Services website provides detailed estimates of these expenses to help students plan accordingly.

Financial assistance is available through multiple channels. Scholarships and bursaries are offered based on academic merit, financial need, community involvement, and leadership qualities. For example, the UBC Undergraduate Scholarships and Awards program provides various scholarships specifically for students in health sciences, including Nursing. Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore eligibility requirements and application deadlines on the university’s official website. Furthermore, students can access government-funded student aid programs such as student loans and grants, which are administered through the British Columbia Student Assistance Program (BC StudentAid). These financial aids can cover tuition fees and living expenses, making higher education more accessible.

Work-study opportunities are also available on campus, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income to support their education. UBC’s co-op programs and part-time employment options are tailored to fit within students’ academic schedules, providing valuable work experience in healthcare settings and related fields. Additionally, some Nursing students may qualify for specialized funding such as research assistantships or project-based grants if involved in faculty-led research initiatives. International students have access to specific scholarships and financial aid programs; they are advised to consult UBC’s International Student Office for detailed guidance.

The university emphasizes that planning finances early is essential for a successful academic journey. It recommends creating a detailed budget that includes tuition, living costs, and personal expenses, and to actively seek out financial support options well before the start of the program. UBC also provides resources and workshops on financial literacy and debt management to equip students with the skills needed to manage their finances responsibly throughout their studies. Overall, UBC’s diverse financing options aim to minimize financial barriers, enabling students to focus on their education and professional development in the Nursing program.

The University of British Columbia offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program designed to prepare students for professional nursing practice. This program provides comprehensive education in the biological, behavioral, social, and health sciences, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver high-quality patient care across diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with extensive clinical practice, enabling students to develop critical thinking, clinical judgment, communication, and leadership skills essential for effective nursing practice.

Students in the program engage in classroom learning complemented by hands-on experiences in hospitals, community health agencies, and other clinical environments. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, cultural competence, and interprofessional collaboration. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop a holistic understanding of health and wellness, disease prevention, and health promotion strategies.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at UBC is designed to prepare graduates for registration as Registered Nurses (RNs) with the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP). The program is accredited by relevant nursing accreditation bodies, ensuring that graduates meet national and provincial standards for nursing education. UBC’s nursing faculty comprises experienced educators and practicing healthcare professionals who provide mentorship and support to students.

Admission to the program is competitive and requires meeting specific prerequisites, including high school coursework in sciences and mathematics, along with a strong academic record and demonstrated interest in healthcare. The program promotes a commitment to social justice, diversity, and inclusion, reflecting UBC’s broader institutional values. Graduates are well-prepared for employment in hospitals, community clinics, public health agencies, and other healthcare organizations or to pursue graduate studies in nursing or related fields.

UBC’s nursing program also offers opportunities for research, specialization, and advanced practice through collaborations with healthcare institutions and research centers. The program fosters lifelong learning and professional development, encouraging students to stay current with evolving healthcare practices and technologies. Graduates leave with a solid foundation in nursing theory and practice, ethical standards, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing the nursing profession.