Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Prepare to transform your caring and compassionate nature into a rewarding career. With all four years of classes offered at College of the Rockies, students will study in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of southeastern British Columbia (BC) and graduate with a University of Victoria Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. We offer small class sizes, personalized instruction, up-to-date technology including simulation technology, inter-professional experiences, rural practice placements, great support services, and professional, friendly staff who are dedicated to student success.
Program Overview
Each academic year, 40 students are admitted to the BSN program at College of the Rockies. After completion of semester 5 at the College, students will become University of Victoria students while remaining at the College in Cranbrook, BC, and will complete all their remaining undergraduate degree requirements through the College.
Our program is approved by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) and is nationally accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN). Upon graduation, students will be prepared for entry level practice in diverse health care settings ranging from acute care hospitals to community-based programs.
Learn more about how to become a registered nurse in British Columbia and what it means to be a nurse in British Columbia.
As there is high-demand for this program, you are encouraged to complete your English 100, Biology 181 and 182, and three non-nursing electives while awaiting an available seat. This will reduce your course load once you are admitted and help you to be more successful.
While in the program, practicum opportunities that you will take part in at local and regional hospitals, health care agencies and community partners can provide you with a valuable rural health perspective that will enhance your nursing career.
Practicum Information
Where possible, students will complete their requirements for practicum in their own communities. If they are not able to complete practicum requirements in their own communities, students must be prepared to travel elsewhere, and will be responsible for their own transportation as well as any travel and living expenses.
Students may be able to complete their practicum in their current workplace if the supervisor and center meet workplace practicum requirements.
Course Descriptions
Year 1 – Semester 1
NURS-110 – Health and Healing 1: Living Health
This course introduces students to research methods and design related to the areas of kinesiology, health and wellness. Focus is on understanding the scientific method, interpretation and evaluation of research literature, and issues related to research practices. Students will explore current research topics and develop their critical thinking skills to promote their understanding of quality research activities.
- Minimum Credits: 6
- Length: 84 hours
- Prerequisites: None. Corequisites: NURS 111, 113, 115 and BIOL 181
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-111 – Professional Practice 1: Introduction to the Profession of Nursing
This course is an introduction to the profession of nursing. Participants examine the foundational concepts of the curriculum and how the concepts relate to nursing practice. Participants also explore the history of the profession of nursing and have the opportunity to explore and critically reflect upon the political and socioeconomic forces that have shaped the status of nurses in society and the evolution of the nursing profession. Standards of nursing practice and responsibility for safe and ethical nursing practice are also explored.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 42 hours
- Prerequisites: None Corequisites: NURS 110, NURS 113, NURS 115
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-113 – Relational Practice 1: Self and Others
The premise underlying this course is that nursing is an experience lived between people. Students explore the multiple factors that influence their own capacity to be in caring relation to others
(individuals, families, groups, populations, and communities). They learn to question personal perspectives of experience, to uncover attitudes, beliefs and values, and to share and acknowledge
differences. Emphasis is placed on a phenomenological attitude to view the structure and experiences that make up their own and other people’s lives.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 42 hours
- Prerequisites: None. Corequisites: NURS 110, NURS 111, NURS 115, BIOL 181 and ENGL 100
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-115 – Nursing Practice 1
This course is an opportunity for learners to integrate their learning from other Semester One courses with their beginning understanding of nursing practice. Learners are engaged with healthy individuals and families in the community and with nurses in practice to explore the breadth of nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 65 hours
- Prerequisites: None Corequisites: NURS 110, NURS 111, NURS 113 and BIOL 181
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Off-site
- Course Outline
BIOL-181 – Introductory Human Anatomy and Physiology 1
This course is an introduction to the structural and functional aspects of the human musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. BIOL 181 is presented in a lecture-lab format. The physiology portion of the course is primarily taught during the lecture portion while the anatomy and application portion of the course is dealt with during the laboratory periods.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 90 hours
- Prerequisites: Either BIOL 090, ATPH 12, BIOL 101, or equivalent. Life Sciences 11 and Chemistry 12 are highly recommended.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Cost: $365.28
- Lab Fees: $83.73
- Total: $449.01
- Course Outline
ENGL-100 – English Composition
English 100 focuses on composition strategies for writing across academic disciplines. Over the course of the term, students will develop an awareness of how rhetorical situations affect composition and refine their understanding of the fundamentals of essay writing (and clear communication more broadly), including paragraphing, thesis statements, essay structure, and citation methods. Students will also learn the fundamentals of critical thinking and analysis, persuasive writing techniques (including rhetorical appeals and modes), scholarly research, and academic reading.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English 12, English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? Blended, On-campus, Online
- Cost: $365.28
- Course Outline
Year 1 – Semester 2
NURS-120 – Health and Healing 2: Health Indicators
Building on Health and Healing 1, this course focuses on individual, family and community health assessments. Participants have opportunities to explore and critique various theoretical and conceptual frameworks in relation to health assessment, including early childhood development, family development, healthy aging and community development. The concept of assessment within the context of decision making is explored. Opportunities to learn basic health assessment skills are included in this course.
- Minimum Credits: 6
- Length: 84 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of Semester One of the first year of the BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 121, NURS 125 and BIOL 182.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-121 – Professional Practice 2: Introduction to the Discipline of Nursing
This course is an introduction to the discipline of nursing. Participants explore the historical development of nursing knowledge and theory as well as contemporary understandings of nursing as a discipline and the body of knowledge that defines it. Relationships between practice, theory and research are explored.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 42 hours
- Prerequisites: Successful completion of semester one of the first year of the BSN program Corequisites: NURS 120, NURS 125
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-125 – Nursing Practice 2: Coming to Know the Client
This nursing practice experience provides opportunities to develop caring relationships with groups, families and individuals across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on health assessment and coming to know how clients understand and promote their health, and the role of the nurse in partnering with the client in this process. Learners work with groups, families and individuals in the home and community, in agencies, and in care facilities to incorporate concepts and learning from all the courses in this semester into their nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 5
- Length: 133 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of Semester One of the first year of the BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 120, NURS 121, and BIOL 182 should be taken concurrently with this course.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
BIOL-182 – Introductory Human Anatomy and Physiology 2
A continuation of BIOL 181, this course is designed to allow the student to explore the anatomical and physiological details of the nervous, endocrine, digestive, excretory, immune and reproductive systems. Attention is given to the integrated homeostatic balance of the body. BIOL 182 is designed to provide the student with a solid foundation in anatomy and physiology on which to build.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 90 hours
- Prerequisites: BIOL 181
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Cost: $365.28
- Lab Fees: $83.73
- Total: $449.01
- Course Outline
INDG-105 – Introduction to Health and Wellness in Indigenous Communities
This course focuses upon an understanding of health and wellness within Indigenous communities, from Indigenous Peoples’ Perspectives. Students examine many factors and conditions that impact Indigenous Peoples’ health stemming from both the individual and collective experiences. Additional focus emphasizes how community health and wellness is articulated and maintained according to Indigenous Peoples Place Based Worldviews and definitions. Indigenous scholarship, including what is referred to as ‘traditional knowledges’ are incorporated alongside interdisciplinary perspectives, privileging Indigenous Peoples’ voices.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Minimum 65% in either English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, ENGL 090, or equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Online
- Cost: $365.28
- Course Outline
Spring Semester 1
NURS-136 – Consolidated Practice Experience 1
The consolidated practice experience is designed to assist learners to move forward with the health focus of year one towards the focus on health challenges in year two. Learners have the opportunities to develop caring relationships with individuals and families, furthering the development of their assessment skills and their understanding of health and health promotion.
- Minimum Credits: 5
- Length: 75 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of the first year BSN Program.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Off-site
- Course Outline
Year 2 – Semester 3
NURS-210 – Health and Healing 3: Health Challenges and Healing Initiatives
This course provides learners with the opportunity to integrate knowledge from pathophysiology, pharmacology and nursing practice with their understanding of health, healing and the nursing approaches that reflect this understanding.
- Minimum Credits: 6
- Length: 84 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of the first year of the BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 213, NURS 215, BIOL 218
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-213 – Relational Practice 2: Creating Health and Promoting Relationships
In this course participants move beyond the personal discovery focus of Relational Practice 1 to a focus on relational caring. The major emphasis of the course is relational practice with individuals, families and groups from diverse backgrounds of age, culture and experience. This is an experiential course designed to deepen the participant’s understanding of caring, and how the connection between caring and relationship provides the context for health and healing. Participants explore theories and processes of caring, relational identity, development of self as a nurse and relational practice as enacted across a range of settings and contexts.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 42 hours
- Prerequisites: NURS 113 Corequisites: NURS-210, NURS-215, and BIOL-218
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-215 – Nursing Practice 3: Promoting Health and Healing
This nursing practice experience provides opportunities for learners to develop caring relationships with individuals and families for the purpose of health promotion while coming to understand their health and healing processes when experiencing more complex health challenges, both episodic and chronic. Learners will have opportunities to practice nursing approaches that accompany this understanding. Learners work with families and individuals in the home and community, in agencies, and in care facilities to incorporate concepts and learning from all the courses in this semester into their nursing practice. The community and society are considered as contextual influences on the promotion of health for the individual and the family.
- Minimum Credits: 8
- Length: 211 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of the first year of the BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 210, NURS 213 and BIOL 218
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
BIOL-218 – Pathophysiology 1
An introductory background to pathophysiology, pharmacology, microbiology and immunology. The emphasis is on concepts and how alterations in physiological, biochemical, microbial or immunological factors can have an impact on homeostasis. Prototype diseases and prototype drugs are examined, with an emphasis on integrating scientific processes with nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: BIOL 181 and BIOL 182 or the equivalent.
- Delivery Method: ? Blended, On-campus
- Cost: $365.28
- Course Outline
Non-Nursing elective
Please see an Education Advisor for acceptable courses.
Year 2 – Semester 4
NURS-220 – Health and Healing 4: Health Challenges and Healing Initiatives
Participants in this course continue to develop an understanding of people’s experience with healing related to a variety of increasingly complex chronic and episodic health challenges within a variety of practice contexts. This course provides learners with the opportunity to integrate knowledge from pathophysiology, pharmacology and nursing practice with their understanding of health, healing and the nursing approaches that reflect this understanding.
- Minimum Credits: 6
- Length: 84 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of NURS 210, NURS 213, NURS 215 and BIOL 218 Corequisites: NURS 221, 225 and BIOL 228
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-221 – Professional Practice 3: Nursing Ethics
Building on previous Relational Practice and Professional Practice courses, this course focuses on the growing body of knowledge related to nursing ethics. Beginning with an understanding of bio-medical ethics that have dominated nursing ethics in the past and moving to an understanding of developing ethical theory related to nursing and nursing issues, participants have opportunities to explore nursing ethics in the context of their nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: Enrollment in the Bachelor of Science Nursing Program.
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-225 – Nursing Practice 4: Promoting Health and Healing
The nursing practice experience continues to provide opportunities for learners to develop caring relationships with individuals and families for the purpose of health promotion, while coming to understand their health and healing processes when experiencing more complex health challenges, both episodic and chronic. Learners will have opportunities to practice nursing approaches that accompany this understanding. Learners work with families and individuals in the home and community, in agencies, and in care facilities to incorporate concepts and learning from all semester’s courses into their nursing practice. The community and society are considered as contextual influences on the promotion of health for the individual and family.
- Minimum Credits: 8
- Length: 211 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of semester three of BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 220, NURS 221, and BIOL 228
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Off-site
- Course Outline
BIOL-228 – Pathophysiology 2
A continuation of BIOL 218, BIOL 228 is an introductory background to pathophysiology and pharmacology. The emphasis is on concepts and how alterations in physiological, biochemical, microbial or immunological factors can have an impact on homeostasis. Prototype diseases and prototype drugs are examined, with an emphasis on integrating scientific processes with nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 45 hours
- Prerequisites: BIOL 218
- Delivery Method: ? Blended, On-campus
- Cost: $365.28
- Course Outline
Spring Semester 2
NURS-236 – Consolidated Practice Experience 2
In this consolidated practice experience, opportunities are provided to develop caring relationships for the purpose of healing and health promotion with individuals and families experiencing increasingly complex chronic and episodic health challenges. The community and society are considered as contextual influences on the promotion of health for the individual and the family. Learners have opportunities to consolidate learning from the first and second year of the program in a variety of settings.
- Minimum Credits: 5
- Length: 123 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of second year BSN program (Semester three and four) Current CPR Certification (Level C)
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Off-site
- Course Outline
Year 3 – Semester 5
NURS-310 – Health and Healing 5: Complex Health Challenges/Healing Initiatives
This course builds on previous Health and Healing courses, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing practice. Participants have the opportunity to develop and integrate their nursing knowledge and understanding of health and healing in relation to complex episodic and chronic health challenges. This advanced course focuses on current topics and emerging knowledge related to a variety of health care contexts.
- Minimum Credits: 6
- Length: 84 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of Year 2 of the BSN program. Corequisites: NURS 313 and NURS 315
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-313 – Relational Practice 3: Connecting Across Difference
Building on the concepts introduced in Relational Practice 1 and 2 and other previous courses, Relational Practice 3 provides a synthesis of knowledge that is the basis of critical analysis. This course focuses on enhancing participants’ everyday relational practice with individuals, families and groups. The emphasis is on engaging with the complexities of difference in everyday nursing practice and the challenges these complexities might pose for being in-relation with clients.
- Minimum Credits: 3
- Length: 42 hours
- Prerequisites: All previous courses in years one and two of the BSN program at College of the Rockies. Corequisites: All courses in semester five of the BSN program at College of the Rockies
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
- Course Outline
NURS-315 – Nursing Practice 5: Promoting Health and Healing
This nursing practice experience continues to provide opportunities for learners to develop caring relationships with individuals and families experiencing complex and chronic health challenges while coming to understand their health and healing processes. Learners have the opportunities to practice nursing approaches that accompany this understanding. Learners work with families and individuals in the home and community, in agencies, and in care facilities to incorporate concepts and learning from all the courses in this semester into their nursing practice.
- Minimum Credits: 8
- Length: 211 hours
- Prerequisites: Satisfactory completion of semester four and CPE 2 of the BSN program Corequisites: NURS 310 and NURS 313
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus, Off-site
- Course Outline
Non-Nursing Elective
Please see an Education Advisor for acceptable courses.
Students entering Semester 6 will register as University of Victoria students at College of the Rockies and complete their studies on site in Cranbrook, BC.
Year 3 – Semester 6
NURS-341 – Professional Practice IV: Nursing Inquiry
Building upon concepts introduced in Professional Practice I, II, and III, in this course, participants will explore the historical and philosophical approaches to the development of nursing knowledge and inquiry.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-342 – Health & Healing VI: Global Health Issues
Participants in this course continue to develop an understanding of people’s experience with health and healing related to a variety of increasingly complex chronic and episodic global health challenges and issues. Emphasis is placed on the role of the nurse as care provider, community organizer/facilitator, educator, global citizen and advocate within the context of global societies (within and outside Canada) and the changing health care environment. Participants examine a variety of emerging health issues and trends using these as a context for further developing their personal understanding of nursing practice that supports meaningful interactions with individuals, families, groups, communities and society.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-350 – Health & Healing VII: Promoting Community and Societal Health
This course focuses on the role of the nurse in the promotion of community and societal health. It is intended to be a companion course with Health and Healing VI. Participants will continue to develop their competencies in relational practice with a focus on community and society as client. The political role of the nurse is explored as the emphasis is placed upon working with communities from a social justice and equity perspective. Community development and capacity building, as a pattern of community health promotion practice, is explored. In addition students will further develop their understanding of teaching and learning focusing on transformative and emancipatory approaches.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-351 – Nursing Practice VI: Promoting Health of Communities and Society
This nursing practice experience provides opportunities to develop caring relationships with families, groups, and communities within a societal and global context with emphasis on health promotion and community empowerment. Participants have opportunities to work with a community (geographical, self-identified, population based, institutionally based, etc.).
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
Spring Semester 3
NURS-370 – Consolidated Practice III
These two consolidated practice experiences will provide you with an opportunity to build on previous practice and classroom learning experiences and to integrate and consolidate your learning, enabling you to advance your professional nursing practice. By working with registered nurses in particular areas, you will be able to practice previous skills, learn new ones, and expand your knowledge base, thus developing a solid foundation for clinical decision-making.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
Year 4 – Semester 7
NURS-430 – Professional Practice V: Leadership in Nursing
This course explores the ways nurses can provide leadership, influence, create and manage change for the promotion of health for individuals, families, groups and communities within the context of society and the world. Emphasis is placed on leadership roles of the nurse within practice contexts. The role of the nurse within the current and evolving Canadian health care system is explored including considerations of the impact of global trends and issues. Issues facing nurses in the current work environment will be discussed. Collaborative and ethical approaches for working within institutional philosophies and frameworks will be explored.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-431 – Nursing Practice VII: Engaging in Leadership
This nursing practice experience provides opportunities for participants to further develop their competencies in the areas of leadership, influencing and managing change, and the utilization of research for the purpose of promoting the health of individuals, families, communities and society, within the context of the Canadian health care system. This nursing practice experience focuses on participants’ growth in their practice as professional nurses. They have opportunities to explore inter-professional practice and nursing leadership in the context of emerging Canadian and global health issues and trends.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-360 – Professional Practice VI: Nursing Research
Building on Professional Practice II, III, and IV, the intent of this course is to enhance participants’ understanding of nursing scholarship and enhance their abilities to comprehend, critique, and utilize nursing research. Participants critically reflect on various scholarly works and research methodologies. Participants experience ways to critically examine their practice in relation to nursing research and to pose research questions for evidence-informed practice.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
Nursing Elective
A nursing elective may be a 300 or 400 level university transferrable Nursing elective which may be taken at any institution as long as it meets the requirements approved by UVic.
Year 4 – Semester 8
NURS-475 – Consolidated Practice V
This nursing practice experience is designed to provide opportunities for participants to integrate learning from previous semesters, and to advance their professional nursing practice and assume the role of a BSN graduate. In a variety of settings, students have opportunities to consolidate learning and advance their decision-making for nursing practice skills.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
NURS-491 – Nursing Practice VIII: Transitions
This nursing practice experience provides opportunities for participants to consolidate their learning and prepare for assuming the role of BSN graduate. Participants also explore and critique changes and issues in the health care system, and the workplace, that affect nurses. Participants develop their nursing competencies and enhance their nursing knowledge so that they may practice in a variety of settings at a novice level. Participants may choose to focus their practice within a specific area, for example, a particular setting of practice, a certain client population, or a specific health challenge.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
Summer Semester
NURS-470 – Consolidated Practice IV
These two consolidated practice experiences will provide you with an opportunity to build on previous practice and classroom learning experiences and to integrate and consolidate your learning, enabling you to advance your professional nursing practice. By working with registered nurses in particular areas, you will be able to practice previous skills, learn new ones, and expand your knowledge base, thus developing a solid foundation for clinical decision-making.
- Prerequisites: None
- Delivery Method: ? On-campus
Admission Requirements
Admission Process:
Applications are received by the College of the Rockies BSN program each academic year commencing on November 1 until February 15 inclusive. All academic admission requirements must be completed and submitted by February 28.
Applicants may apply for recognition of Advanced Credit (See policy 2.5.6 Transfer Credit)
Eligibility:
- Admission to the BSN program is determined through a selective holistic admission process.
Academic Requirements:
The following BC secondary school or equivalent academic courses must be completed for application to the program:
- Earned a minimum grade of B- (70%) in at least 1 of the following:
- ENST 12 – English Studies 12
- ENFP 12 – English First Peoples 12
- ENGL090 – English – Provincial Level
- Earned a minimum grade of B- (70%) in at least 1 of the following:
- PREC 11 – Pre-Calculus 11
- PREC 12 – Pre-Calculus 12
- FOM 11 – Foundations of Mathematics 11
- FOM 12 – Foundations of Mathematics 12
- MATH080 – Mathematics – Advanced Level
- MATH082 – Mathematics, Advanced Level (Developmental Mathematics)
- MATH090 – Mathematics – Provincial Level
- Earned a minimum grade of B- (70%) in at least 1 of the following:
- ATPH 12 – Anatomy and Physiology 12
- BIOL090 – Biology-Provincial Level (Human Biology)
- Earned a minimum grade of B- (70%) in at least 1 of the following:
- CH 11 – Chemistry 11
- CHEM080 – Chemistry – Advanced Level
- Undergraduate courses completed prior to application to the program may be deemed to satisfy the above academic admission requirement
- All applicants to the BSN program at the College of the Rockies must complete an online assessment – Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASPer) as a component of the BSN admission and selection process. Completion of CASPer is a mandatory step in consideration for admission eligibility. Refer to: takecasper.com for more information, to sign-up and to reserve a test time and date. Completion of CASPer testing and submission of results to Registration is required.
Important note for applicants who are applying to the BSN program:
Please note that priority admissions will be given to those applicants who have completed the academic admission requirements (CHEM 11, MATH 11, BIOL 12, and ENGL 12) and submitted these final grades by the transcript deadline of February 28.
It is recommended that applicants complete the academic admissions requirement by the application deadlines as noted above.
Applicants, who are enrolled in the academic required courses but may not complete the academic requirements by February 28th, are encouraged to apply to the program and complete the CASPer assessment. In the event that there are available seats after priority admissions are offered, applicants who have not met the above deadline may be eligible for admission if they:
- Provide proof they are currently enrolled in the academic required courses (CHEM 11, MATH 11, BIOL 12, and ENGL 12), and
- Submit final grades immediately upon completion of the academic course requirements prior to the start of the program. Applicants need to maintain the required grade average for admission into the BSN Program.
Additional Requirements:
Students will be required to complete*:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing Requisite Skills and Abilities Declaration
- A criminal record check through the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
- Notice of Collection, Use and Disclosure Agreement
*Details of these requirements will be included in your admissions package.
Practicum Requirements*
- CPR for Health Care Providers BLS or HCP or equivalent, to be kept current for the duration of the program. Acceptable CPR courses must include a face-to-face component and may be combined with a first aid course
- BCCDC Immunizations for BC Health Care Workers
- Annual influenza immunization
- COVID-19 vaccination
- Negative TB testing results, must be completed no earlier than 7 months before the beginning of the BSN Program
*Details of practicum requirements will be included in your admissions package.
Thank you for your interest in applying to be a student in one of our Health and Human Services programs at the College of the Rockies. As a successful applicant, you will receive or have received a request to provide documentation confirming you are current in immunizations and First Aid/CPR.
Immunizations:
Immunization services in BC are in flux as Public Health Departments must regularly reprioritize resource distribution. Public Health agencies will do their best to accommodate College of the Rockies student immunizations by individual appointment. Immunizations are also available through local pharmacists and Travel Clinics. We recommend that students continue to pursue obtaining required immunizations to complete program admission and practicum placement requirements as soon as available.
It is the responsibility of the student to continue to actively seek to obtain and complete these requirements.
Obtaining and completing these admission requirements can be more difficult, your admission into the Health and Human Services programs will not be held up while you wait to complete these requirements.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter
First Aid/CPR:
In accordance with provincial/territorial public health authorities, in-person training options are now available in certain jurisdictions. Red Cross Training Partners will adopt safe classroom protocols to promote the safety of all participants. Please check for blended delivery options as well to support your training needs. College of the Rockies accepts blended format CPR certifications (online theory supported by face-to-face practical application), but does not accept certifications obtained exclusively online. Students are expected to continue to seek CPR recertification, as courses come available, and to update their certification as soon as possible.
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Level C or a higher level of CPR certification, current for the duration of the program. Certificate must indicate the level of CPR and when it expires. Acceptable CPR courses must include a face-to-face component and may be combined with a first aid course. Please check with the course provider prior to enroling, and ensure that the course is CPR Level C. CPR Level A and Level B are not accepted.
- One of the following first aid certifications:
St. John Ambulance Standard First Aid | Workplace Emergency First Aid |
St. John Ambulance Emergency First Aid | Red Cross Standard First Aid |
Lifesaving Society Emergency First Aid | Emergency Medical Responder |
Lifesaving Standard First Aid | Primary Care Paramedic |
Occupational First Aid Level 1, 2 or 3 | Advanced Care Paramedic |
Red Cross Emergency First Aid BC | Critical Care Paramedic |
English Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to undergo the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). An overall score of 6.5 in all bands is required to enter the program.
- It is the applicant’s responsibility to arrange this assessment through Student Services or an Education Advisor at the College. For test locations, refer to: https://ieltscanadatest.com/.
Your Costs
Tuition and Fees for Domestic Students:
For the 2024/25 academic year (2024/SU, 2024/FA, 2025/WI, 2025/SP)
Tuition Year 1: | $4,680.78 |
Tuition Year 2: | $4,680.78 |
Tuition Year 3: | $1,950.90 |
Application Fee: | $30.00 |
Student Association Fee: | $190.90 |
Bus Pass Fee: | $222.00 |
Health and Dental Fee: | $720.00 |
Total | $12,475.36 |
The above costs cover Semesters 1-5 at College of the Rockies. Semesters 6-8 tuition can be found on the University of Victoria website
*These prices are for domestic students and may not be 100% accurate. However, these estimates will give you an adequate idea of tuition and fees for our programs. These prices do not include textbook costs. All prices are subject to change. Tuition fees include an alumni fee, student activity fees, and a student technology fee. In certain cases a materials and supply fee may also be included. For more information, visit: Tuition and Fees.
Additional Costs:
Travel within the Program
Nursing practice experiences are essential in the BSN program. It may not be possible to arrange nursing practice experiences in the location and at the time preferred by students. Students must arrange their own transportation. Travel and accommodation arrangements and costs associated with practice experiences are the responsibility of the student.
Computer
In the BSN program, teaching and learning strategies incorporate the use of technology through various platforms such as online learning and communication. Students must have access to a computer in order to engage in this learning.
Books and Supplies
In addition to tuition and other fees, students can expect to spend approximately $3,000 for books and supplies. Uniforms and shoes are about $250. Visit our bookstore for textbook information and costs.
Canadian Nursing Student Association (CNSA) Fee
$10.00 annual fee. This fee is in addition to your regular tuition and fees and is collected when you pay your tuition. See more about CNSA under the “Additional Info” tab.
Career Info and Pathways
Upon completion of your BSN program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), careers available to you include:
With additional education, career options expand and may include:
- Nurse Practitioner *
- Cardiology technologist / electrophysiological diagnostic technologists *
- Manager in Health Care *
* High Opportunity Occupation
Additional Info
CNSA
While students are in the BSN program, they have the opportunity to join the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA). CNSA is the national voice of Canadian nursing students. Their goal is to increase the legal, ethical, professional and educational aspects which are an integral part of nursing. CNSA is actively dedicated to the positive promotion of nurses and the nursing profession as a whole. CNSA operates under the Canadian Nurses’ Association. The College of the Rockies CNSA is a chapter of the Western Northern Regional CNSA. Check out their Facebook Group.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q: When is the application period?
A:
- Applications are accepted from November 1 to February 15.
- All academic requirements must be completed and submitted by February 28.
- Specific application dates will be posted on the College website each year.
Q: What happens if I apply outside of the application period?
A: Your application will not be accepted outside of this time frame.
Q: Can I apply if I do not have all of my admission requirements completed?
A: Yes, you can apply anytime between November 1 and February 15. Applicants who are considering applying to the BSN program, please note that priority admissions will be given to those applicants who have completed the academic admission requirements and submitted these final grades by the transcript deadline of February 28. It is recommended that applicants complete the academic admissions requirement by the deadline as noted above.
Applicants, who are enrolled in the academic required courses but may not complete the academic requirements by February 28th, are encouraged to apply to the program and complete the CASPer assessment. In the event that there are available seats after priority admissions are offered, applicants who have not met the above deadline may be eligible for admission if they:
- Provide proof they are currently enrolled in the academic required courses, and
- Submit final grades immediately upon completion of the academic course requirements prior to the start of the program. Applicants need to maintain the required grade average for admission into the BSN Program.
Q: How many students are admitted into the program each year?
A: We welcome 40 new students into the program each September.
Q: What is CASPer?
A:
- CASPer stands for Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics. We utilize CASPer as part of our admissions process to assess for non-cognitive skills and interpersonal characteristics that are important for student success in the College’s BSN program.
- CASPer is an online assessment that uses scenarios that focus on personal and professional characteristics such as professionalism, ethics, communication, and empathy.
- No studying is required for CASPer but we do advise you to familiarize yourself with the test structure and requirements at takecasper.com.
Q: Is there a waitlist?
A: Applications are accepted on a yearly basis and a waitlist is not maintained. If you are not awarded a seat, you will need to reapply again the following year.
Q: What can I do to improve my chances for success in the program?
A:
- English 100, Biology 181, 182 and three non-nursing electives that transfer to the University of Victoria are available without entry into the BSN program. Completing these courses prior to entering the program will reduce your course load once you are admitted. We recommend you meet with an Educational Advisor prior to choosing your courses. You can make an appointment with an Education Advisor.
- The BSN program is challenging. In addition to completing some of the non-nursing courses required prior to entry into the program, we would recommend you consider upgrading your math, science and english courses to keep the information fresh and current. Enrolling in an academic writing course will also help you complete course requirements once you are admitted into the program.
- Arrange to be a Student for a Day.
Q: What if I require an accommodation?
A: Once you receive your admissions package, if you have concerns that you might need accommodation to meet one or more of the requisite skills and abilities required for admission, you will need to make an appointment with the College’s Accessibility Coordinator.
While program requirements must be met, the College of the Rockies Accessibility Coordinator and Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program faculty will work with students to accommodate limitations to the point of undue hardship. This process will be as supportive and inclusive as possible.
Q: Can I get credit for courses taken in a Practical Nursing or Health Care Aide program?
A: Credits from a Health Care Aide certificate and Practical Nursing diploma programs do not transfer to a BSN program.
Q: Can I transfer university courses from another institution for my electives?
A: Courses from many institutions may meet the requirements for BSN electives. We recommend that you speak with an Education Advisor or check on the BC Transfer Guide website.
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Program Details
Delivery Method:?
Blended, Off-site
Credential:
Degree
Categories:
Health & Human Services, University Studies, UVic Partner
Interests:
Care for Others, Complete a Degree
Contact Details
Cranbrook
2700 College Way,
Box 8500, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 5L7
Phone: 250-489-2751
Toll-free: 1-877-489-2687
Email: info@cotr.bc.ca