Practical Nursing Diploma
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Diploma |
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Priority admission for Indigenous students |
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Domestic applicants only |
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Applications open. |
Overview
Learn to provide holistic client-centered care while meeting LPN standards in BC. Over 24 months, gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, a six-week preceptorship and blended online, in-person, case-based and skill-based training.
You'll learn:
- Foundations of nursing practice: Introduction to healthy adults.
- Chronic illness care: Focus on older adults and chronic conditions.
- Community health and specialized areas: Mental health, maternal and child care across the lifespan.
- Acute care nursing: Medical/surgical care for clients with acute or chronic conditions.
Requirements and courses
Practicum
Practice placements are a crucial part of the Practical Nursing program. You’ll gain experience in various health agencies, including:
- Community agencies: Offering services to different age groups.
- Residential care facilities: Primarily supporting older adults.
- Acute care hospitals: Providing care for clients with episodic health events.
Most placements are near NIC, but some require travel. You’re responsible for transportation costs and may work 8 or 12-hour shifts, including days, nights and weekends during your final preceptorship.
Careers
LPNs are in high demand across BC, providing essential care in hospitals, community care, clinics and correctional facilities. Regulated by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives, they take on leadership roles, manage complex care and have opportunities for advanced education.
Costs
Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.
Curious about funding?
Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.
How to apply
Apply for this program through EducationPlannerBC. After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.
Questions? We’re with you along the way. To contact a recruiter, email futurestudents@nic.bc.ca.
"We get lots of one-on-one support from our teachers, one-on-one time in the lab and it’s more personal. The teachers actually know us and we can text them and ask them questions. Even when we’re in practicum, we’re really well directed. You can tell that the teachers trust us."
Marissa Hunter - NIC Practical Nursing alum
“The Indigenous education component of the program was so enriching and I got to be part of cultural and leadership opportunities, which I loved.”
Josh Duncan - NIC Bachelor of Science in Nursing alum
"I had some pretty old ideas of what nurses do and I didn’t think it would be challenging enough. I thought it was taking doctors’ orders, not advocating for patients. Meanwhile, here I am now in the most rewarding and challenging degree ever."
Dawn Tisdale - NIC Bachelor of Science in Nursing alum
Frequently asked questions
To succeed in the Practical Nursing program, you should:
Familiarize Yourself with Competencies:
Understand the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives Entry-Level Competencies for Licensed Practical Nurses.
Basic Computer Skills:
- Navigate the internet and access online resources.
- Create and manage Word documents.
- Attach documents to emails and submit assignments via email.
- While not required, a laptop or similar device is recommended.
Math Skills:
Accurate math calculations are crucial. You’ll need to complete a math evaluation upon admission to identify any learning needs. Aiming for 90% is recommended. If needed, seek remedial help or take the online course “Calculations for Caregivers” (course code LPN-016).
Transportation:
A valid driver’s license and access to personal transport are strongly recommended, as they are crucial for meeting the requirements of clinical practice components.
Before classes start, you must:
Submit a Criminal Record Check Permission Form:
This form will be sent when you are offered a seat in the program.
Hold Current Certifications:
CPR Certification: BLS CPR - FAC 019 or equivalent. Maintain this certification throughout
the program.
WHMIS Course Completion: Submit electronic copies of these certificates to the faculty
after the first day of classes.
Submit an Immunization Form:
This form will be sent when you’re offered a seat. Have it validated by a public health nurse and submit a photocopy to the faculty after the first day of classes.
Attend a Group Information Session:
This mandatory session helps you make an informed decision about a nursing career. Details will be sent with the invitation.
Complete a Respiratory Fit Test:
This is required before your fourth clinical rotation.
You will learn from expert faculty and have access to comprehensive training to ensure you graduate ready to enter a high-demand industry and work as an LPN.
