Nursing (Post L.P.N.)

The Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University is designed to provide Licensed Practical Nurses (L.P.N.s) with advanced knowledge and skills necessary for the evolving healthcare environment. This online program offers a flexible and comprehensive educational experience, enabling practicing nursing professionals to enhance their expertise, expand their scope of practice, and improve patient care outcomes. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical application, students will develop advanced competencies in nursing theory, healthcare ethics, leadership, and evidence-based practice. The program's curriculum is carefully crafted to align with contemporary healthcare demands and prepare graduates for diverse roles within the nursing profession, including clinical, administrative, and educational positions. Athabasca University emphasizes accessible and flexible learning, allowing students to study at their own pace while balancing professional and personal commitments. The program includes core courses such as nursing science, health promotion, pharmacology, community health, and mental health nursing, among others, providing a well-rounded education grounded in current best practices. Graduates of this program will be equipped to provide high-quality patient care, participate in healthcare teams, and contribute to policy development and health system improvement. The program also offers opportunities for further specialization and career advancement within the nursing field. By completing this program, L.P.N.s will earn a recognized credential that supports their professional growth, enhances their employment prospects, and enables them to make meaningful contributions to their communities. Athabasca University prides itself on delivering a supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring that students receive a premier education tailored to the needs of working professionals in the healthcare sector.

Program Description: The Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University is designed to advance the knowledge and skills of Licensed Practical Nurses (L.P.N.s) seeking to expand their career opportunities and deepen their understanding of nursing practices. This comprehensive program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping graduates to take on more advanced roles within the healthcare system. Throughout the program, students will explore core concepts such as health promotion, disease prevention, patient-centered care, healthcare ethics, and nursing leadership. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and effective communication skills as essential components for delivering high-quality nursing care in diverse settings.

The program is tailored to meet the needs of working professionals, offering flexible online coursework that allows students to balance their education with existing commitments. Courses are delivered through a combination of digital lectures, interactive discussions, and independent study, supported by dedicated faculty with extensive clinical and academic expertise. Students will engage in simulated learning experiences and, where possible, clinical placements to apply their knowledge in real-world environments.

Graduates of the program will be prepared to assume expanded roles as registered nurses, participate in healthcare teams, and pursue further specialization or advanced degrees. The program also emphasizes leadership and management skills, preparing students to advocate for patient safety and quality care in dynamic healthcare settings. With a strong focus on lifelong learning, the program encourages students to continuously update their skills and stay current with the evolving landscape of healthcare.

Designed to meet accreditation standards and to support career advancement, the Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University offers a rigorous, flexible, and practical pathway for licensed practical nurses aiming to enhance their professional competencies and contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of the communities they serve.

Admission to the Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University requires applicants to hold a valid Licensed Practical Nurse (L.P.N.) license and possess a relevant college diploma or equivalent. Applicants must submit official transcripts demonstrating prior nursing education and successful completion of foundational nursing courses. The program emphasizes the development of advanced nursing skills, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice, so applicants are expected to have completed prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Work experience as a licensed practical nurse is highly recommended and may be considered during the admission process. Candidates must also provide a current résumé highlighting relevant clinical and practical experience, along with references from professional or academic sources attesting to their readiness for advanced nursing education. In addition, applicants are required to write a statement of intent explaining their motivation for pursuing the program and their career goals. The university may conduct interviews or assessments to evaluate applicants’ competencies and readiness for the program's rigorous coursework. There are also specific technical requirements for online learning, including reliable internet access, a computer meeting specified hardware standards, and familiarity with the university's learning management system. Successful applicants will need to complete a criminal background check and any immunizations required for clinical placements. The program encourages diversity and inclusive participation; thus, non-traditional students or those returning to education are welcomed and may need to provide additional documentation demonstrating their qualifications and preparedness. International students must meet specific language proficiency requirements, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores, and secure appropriate visas for study in Canada. The comprehensive admission process ensures that candidates possess the necessary academic background, practical experience, and personal attributes to succeed in the challenges of this advanced nursing program.

The Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University offers various financing options to support students in their educational journey. Tuition fees are established by the university and may vary depending on the number of courses taken per term. Athabasca University provides flexible payment plans, allowing students to spread out their payments over the duration of their studies, thus making higher education more accessible. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external financial aid opportunities, including government student loans, grants, and bursaries, which are available based on eligibility criteria. Athabasca University also offers awards and scholarships specifically for nursing students, recognizing academic achievement and financial need, which can significantly offset the costs of the program. International students should also investigate applicable visa regulations and associated work-study opportunities that may assist with financing their studies. The university's online delivery model reduces the need for commuting and on-campus living expenses, which can be a substantial financial saving. Furthermore, some students may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs or similar financial arrangements through their healthcare or educational institutions. The university's financial services team is available to provide guidance on budgeting, application procedures for financial aid, and managing tuition payments effectively. Overall, Athabasca University aims to ensure that students enrolled in the Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program have access to comprehensive financial support options to facilitate their educational and professional development.

The Nursing (Post L.P.N.) program at Athabasca University is designed for licensed practical nurses (L.P.N.) who wish to advance their education and expand their clinical skills within the nursing profession. This program provides a flexible, online learning environment that allows practicing nurses to continue their education while maintaining their employment. The curriculum is tailored to build on the foundational knowledge and practical experience gained in prior L.P.N. training, with a focus on evidence-based practice, leadership, and advanced nursing skills. Students in this program are introduced to a variety of specialized topics such as community health, mental health, and complex care management, preparing them for a broader scope of practice or for transition into registered nursing roles. Athabasca University emphasizes the development of critical thinking, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet diverse patient needs in various healthcare settings. The program may include practical components or clinical practice requirements, which are coordinated in local healthcare facilities in collaboration with clinical sites. The flexible online delivery model is paired with structured support from faculty advisors and nursing professionals, facilitating a comprehensive learning experience. Upon completing the program, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with regulatory bodies, subject to their jurisdiction's requirements. The program aims to respond to the evolving healthcare environment by fostering innovative, compassionate, and highly competent nursing practitioners capable of contributing to improving patient outcomes and healthcare systems.