Nursing (BScN Program)

Sylvia Barton, Professor Emerita
Martha MacLeod, Professor Emerita

Catharine Schiller, Associate Professor and Chair
Davina Banner-Lukaris, Professor
Caroline Sanders, Professor
Shannon Freeman, Associate Professor
Aderonke Agboji, Assistant Professor
Viviane Josewski, Assistant Professor
Esther Alonso, Adjunct Professor
Gerrit Clements, Adjunct Professor
Tina Fraser, Adjunct Professor
Kelly Gunn, Adjunct Professor
Cindy Milner, Adjunct Professor
Rose Perrin, Adjunct Professor
Ann Syme, Adjunct Professor
Cathy Ulrich, Adjunct Professor
Lela Zimmer, Adjunct Professor
Ngoc Huynh, Lecturer
Lena MacBlain, Senior Lab Instructor II
Deb Carter, Senior Lab Instructor
Amanda De Smit, Senior Lab Instructor
Heidi Dodenberg, Senior Lab Instructor
Phil Dovey, Senior Lab Instructor
Braylin Jantz, Senior Lab Instructor
Kimberly Cameron, Senior Instructor
Amy Klepetar, Senior Instructor
Kristine Rowswell, Senior Instructor
Valerie Sokolowski, Senior Instructor
Heidi Dunbar, Instructor
Madison Friesen, Instructor
Erika Giesbrecht, Instructor
Crystal Patenaude, Instructor
Breanna Siemens, Instructor

Website:http://www.unbc.ca/nursing

Statement of Nursing

Nursing is a professional practice discipline which offers a valuable service to the public by working with individuals, families, groups, and communities, to develop and implement strategies to meet health care needs. Caring is a central and dominant feature of nursing.

Nursing:

  1. considers the physical, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual domains of clients; 
  2. requires cultural sensitivity; and,
  3. collaborates with clients, other health care providers, and the community.

Nursing is based on knowledge and skills developed in its own and related disciplines. Nursing knowledge is developed through research and other methods.

Nursing advocates for a health care system that:

  1. emphasizes health promotion, and illness prevention,
  2. is based on practical, affordable, manageable, and culturally acceptable care and technology, and
  3. is available for all clients in a universal, equitable manner.

Statement of Nursing Education

Nursing education responds to societal concerns by developing a curriculum that is relevant and considers future trends in health care. Nursing education strives to provide an environment that is challenging and supportive, where all students learn the practice of nursing through the application and evaluation of knowledge, the practise of skills, and the internalization of caring and professional attitudes. A dynamic and positive relationship occurs between health care services and education through the sharing of knowledge, skills, and research.

Undergraduate Programs of Study

UNBC offers the following programs:

  • Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NCBNP)  is offered collaboratively between UNBC, the College of New Caledonia (CNC), and Coast Mountain College (CMTN), providing entry into the nursing profession. The integrated program of studies culminates in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN), awarded by UNBC. Graduates are eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and to apply for registration with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) after passing the exam.
  • Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) is offered by UNBC and provides entry into the nursing profession. This condensed program of studies culminates in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN). Graduates are eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and to apply for registration with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) after passing the exam.
  • Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program for registered nurses is offered by UNBC. Acknowledging the previous learning of post-RNs, the program is organized to expand and update knowledge and skills for nursing practice. Students have the opportunity to focus in one area of practice. Successful completion of the program leads to a BScN.

Aims of the BScN Program

The goal of the BScN program is to improve access to and successful completion of nursing education for residents of the north. The aim of the nursing program is to prepare professional nurses who:

  • practice with cultural sensitivity;
  • practice with awareness of particular health needs of northern populations;
  • practice assessment and promotion of holistic health with individuals, families, groups, and communities;
  • participate in the appraisal of population health needs and implement and evaluate the appropriate interventions to meet those needs;
  • make nursing judgements that reflect application of current nursing research and research from related disciplines;
  • practice in a broad range of settings with an emphasis on northern communities;
  • influence health services to bring about policy development that meets the health needs of northern populations;
  • practice effectively within collaborative interdisciplinary and intersectorial health care teams;
  • demonstrate critical thinking skills and effective clinical decision making;
  • demonstrate skills of a self-directed learner;
  • meet professional practice requirements as identified in the BCCNM Professional Standards for Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners;
  • meet professional practice requirements as identified in the current BCCNM Competencies in Context of Entry-level Registered Nurse Practice in British Columbia (NCBNP and NBNP graduates).

General Requirements

Nursing courses are normally restricted to students admitted into the BScN program, unless otherwise specified in a course description. Not all courses in the Calendar are offered every semester or academic year. Admission to the BScN program does not guarantee registration in any specific course; early registration is advised.
The admission criteria and general requirements set out in the Admissions section of this Calendar are applicable to this section.

Standards of Professional Conduct

In addition to fulfilling all University and Program expectations, all students are expected to abide by professional standards as set forth in the current BCCNM Professional Standards for Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners and the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses. Violation of professional standards may result in suspension or dismissal from the program or the educational institution. 

British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives Requisite Skills and Abilities

All students who apply to the Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NCBNP) and the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) must demonstrate the capacity to meet British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) Requisite Skills and Abilities. Certain basic skills and abilities are required for a student to attain the Competencies in the Context of Entry-Level Registered Nurse Practice in British Columbia. These Requisite Skills and Abilities can be found on the BCCNM website.

Clinical Practica Scheduling and Expectations

Clinical practica may be configured and offered outside of the existing timetable structure and session dates. The students in the NCBNP must complete a consolidating nursing practicum following both their fourth and sixth semesters of study in the program, and a focused nursing practicum in the seventh or eighth semester. Students in the NBNP must complete a consolidating practicum in the fourth semester and a focused nursing practicum in the fifth semester.

Attendance in each clinical course is mandatory. Students who do not complete their total required practicum experience hours are at risk of failure. Students who are unable to attend practicum due to unforeseen circumstances must contact the clinical instructor and the clinical area with as much notice as possible. The opportunity to make up missed clinical time is not guaranteed and may only be granted for extreme extenuating circumstances.

Program Costs

Costs associated with study in the BScN programs are the responsibility of the individual student, including transportation costs and any expenses involved in academic studies, labs, and clinical practica. Students may be required to complete clinical experiences at sites other than Prince George, Fort St. John, Quesnel, or Terrace. Provision for all travel, accommodation, and living expenses associated with required clinical practice is the sole responsibility of the student.

Academic Performance

Students must adhere to all policies and regulations of the institution(s) where they are registered for courses. This requirement includes but is not limited to matters related to academic appeals and academic dishonesty. Progression through the program is governed by guidelines on academic standing and continuance. However, probation guidelines are governed by UNBC.

Students must obtain the minimum passing grade for all required Nursing and Health Sciences (NURS, NRSG, and HHSC or equivalent) courses as defined under “Qualification for Degree.”

Students are required to withdraw from their respective Nursing programs if they have two instances of not meeting the minimum passing grade requirement either in the same Year or in two consecutive Years, in any combination of the following:

  • NURS laboratory, theory and/or practice courses;
  • NRSG theory and/or practice courses;
  • required HHSC courses;
  • equivalents of the above.

A 'Year' is comprised of all the mandatory NURS, NRSG and HHSC (or equivalent) courses in a given Level (e.g. Year 1 includes all 100-level courses listed under the Lower-Division requirements in the Calendar) regardless of how long it takes the student to complete the courses.

Students who are required to withdraw in Year 1 or Year 2 may reapply to the NCBNP after a minimum of one year.  Those required to withdraw in Year 3 or 4 (including NCBNP, RNCP and Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program students) may reapply after three years.

For NCBNP students, assessments are performed on an individual basis by a joint committee of the UNBC School of Nursing, CMTN, and CNC with no guarantee of readmission.  Students who are readmitted to the NCBNP must begin the Program at Year 1 and repeat all NURS and HHSC (or equivalent) courses. Any reapplications to the RNCP and Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program are assessed by the UNBC School of Nursing. Readmission to the NBNP is reviewed on an individual basis. The School of Nursing reserves the right to readmit students and to stipulate conditions attached to readmission.

Students may be removed from a clinical setting due to unsafe or unprofessional performance or conduct, and may receive a grade of F in the clinical component of the course. When a student receives a grade of F for the clinical component of a course, the overall course grade is calculated on the basis of the grade achieved in all other components of the course, to a maximum grade of C-.

Students who withdraw from more than one NURS, NRSG and/or HHSC course (or equivalent) in an academic year are required to meet with the Program Coordinator at the institution they are currently attending to discuss whether the student is suited to continue in the program.  Consultation must occur with and permission must be granted by the Program Coordinator before the student is allowed to register in subsequent courses.

Misconduct

Any conduct that violates the ethical or legal standards of the institution at which the student is currently registered, particularly those related to academic dishonesty, is a serious offense. Academic misconduct and/or professional misconduct may result in the student being required to withdraw from the respective Nursing program and possibly the University. Satisfactory academic performance is not the sole criterion for progression or graduation. The School of Nursing and the NCBNP institutional partners reserve the right to require a student to withdraw from the student’s respective program if the student is considered to be unsuited to proceed with the study or practice of nursing. 

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit may be awarded for coursework completed at other recognized institutions.

Individual Nursing (NURS) or Health Sciences (HHSC) courses, or their equivalents, must have been completed within five years prior to the semester of admission to the specific nursing program in order to be eligible for transfer credit. Other coursework must be completed within 10 years prior to the semester of admission in order to be considered for transfer credit. Coursework taken at other institutions after admission may also be eligible for transfer credit (Refer to Letter of Permission in the General Requirements for Nursing). Students are encouraged to consult with the advisor in their specific program prior to registration for courses completed outside of UNBC.

Students who have completed a Registered Nurse Diploma at a recognized post-secondary institution may be eligible for transfer credit towards the Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program or Rural Nursing Certificate Program/BScN Completion. Students may also be eligible for transfer credit for post-diploma coursework (Refer to Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program and/or the Rural Nursing Certificate Program/BScN Completion).
Students who are admitted to the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) may use a maximum of 60 credit hours towards the BScN degree (Refer to Admission Requirements: Academic Requirements and Required Pre-Admission Courses under the NBNP).

Students who have completed a Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate or Diploma may be eligible for specific transfer credit towards the Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (Refer to Admission Requirements: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Access under the NCBNP). Students applying to the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program may be eligible for up to a maximum of 15 unspecified elective transfer credit hours towards the BScN (Refer to Admission Requirements: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Access under the NBNP).

Previous UNBC Coursework

Nursing (NRSG, NURS) and Health Sciences (HHSC) courses, or their equivalents taken at UNBC more than five years prior to the semester of admission or re-admission to a nursing program are evaluated on an individual basis to determine eligibility towards the program of study.

Qualification for Degree or Certificate

It is the students' responsibility to ensure that their degree or certificate requirements are met. Graduation requirements are found in the Regulations and Policies section of this Calendar. To fulfill the requirements of graduation, students must do the following:

  • attain a minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.33 (C+) on all courses used for credit towards the degree or certificate;
  • attain a minimum passing grade of (P) in NRSG 310-3, NURS 220-5, NURS 328-(1, 2), NURS 329-1 and NURS 330-4, as applicable to the specific program;
  • attain a minimum passing grade of 2.00 (C) in the following courses, or their equivalents, as applicable to the specific program:

Note: Students enrolling in any required course must have completed all prerequisites with a grade of (C) or better, or if NRSG 310-3, NURS 220-5, NURS 328-(1, 2), NURS 329-1 or NURS 330-4 is the prerequisite, a passing grade of (P) is required.

  • confirm all eligible transfer credit has been awarded;
  • complete all outstanding requirements for the specific program of study, starting from the first semester of registration following admission to one of the following programs:
    • NCBNP BScN within eight years;
    • NBNP BScN within five years;
    • Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing Program BScN or RNCP/BScN Completion within eight years;
    • Rural Nursing Certificate Program within six years;

Letter of Permission

Once admitted to the Nursing Program, students who want to take coursework at other institutions for transfer credit towards the degree require a Letter of Permission prior to registration in the course. A student who has committed an academic offense may be denied a Letter of Permission for subsequent coursework. Students who complete courses without having first obtained a Letter of Permission risk not having those courses accepted for transfer credit.

Students should contact the Nursing Advisor at the institution they are currently attending for further information. (Refer to Academic Regulation on Letters of Permission in this Calendar).

Course Challenge

Course challenge is available for up to 6 credit hours of the required nursing courses in the Post-Diploma Baccalaureate Nursing program. Up to 6 credit hours of course challenge may be applied towards the degree if less than 9 credit hours of nursing courses have been transferred in. Only 3 credit hours of course challenge can apply towards the degree if the maximum of 9 credit hours in nursing have been transferred in.

Part-time Studies

With prior approval by the Nursing Advisor at the institution the student is applying to or currently attending, and subject to course availability, undergraduate Nursing programs may be taken on a part-time basis; however, students may be required to enroll full-time during a portion of their program.

Auditing Courses

Under certain circumstances, students may be able to audit an NURS (or equivalent)* course. Courses with lab or clinical components cannot be audited.

Students wishing to audit an NURS (or equivalent) course must obtain approval from the Instructor as well as the Undergraduate Nursing Programs Coordinator. Forms for audit approval are available from the Office of the Registrar. Priority for registration will be given to students taking the course for credit. Approval from the Instructor in no way guarantees that an audit student will be able to register in the course.

Audit courses do not meet prerequisites or course/program requirements, but will be recorded on a student’s transcript.

The degree of participation in a course for an audit student is at the discretion of the instructor. Audit students are not entitled to write the final exam or be granted credit for the course. Students may need to pay an auditing fee.

*Students should consult with an Advisor regarding equivalency.

Leave of Absence

Students wanting to take a Leave of Absence must apply, in writing, to the Nursing Advisor at the institution that the student is currently attending. Upon approval, students are eligible for up to a one-year Leave of Absence. Students who do not apply for a Leave of Absence will be considered to be out-of-sequence and will lose their priority for registration.

Time Lapse Between Clinical Practica

Students who are out of clinical practice in a Nursing education program for more than 18 months are reassessed to determine what clinical practice remediation is needed. This may include repeating all components of courses taken previously, regardless of whether the student successfully completed the course.

Students are assessed on an individual basis as to when the 18 months is initiated and which courses are to be repeated.

Students reapplying to the program after a leave of over 18 months are re-evaluated as to the level at which they will need to re-enter the program. 

Withdrawal from the Nursing Program

Students who voluntarily withdraw from the Nursing program must notify, in writing, the Nursing Advisor at the institution that the student is currently attending. Where students fail to notify the Nursing Advisor, the Nursing Advisor will deem a student to have voluntarily withdrawn from the Nursing program where the student has not registered in Nursing courses in any of the last three semesters.

Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program

The Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NCBNP) requires students to take at least 95 credit hours of Nursing courses. The minimum requirement for completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is 136 credit hours.

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit may be awarded for coursework completed at other recognized institutions. All transfer credit for coursework taken prior to admission to the BScN program will be evaluated at the request of the student.

The total transfer credit awarded on the basis of acceptable coursework completed at non-collaborative partner institutions may not exceed 60 credit hours. Nursing (NURS) and Health Science (HHSC) courses, or their equivalents, must have been completed within five years prior to the semester of admission to be eligible for transfer credit into the NCBNP.

Criminal Records Search

NCBNP students are required to undergo criminal records searches prior to being admitted, as well as upon entry to Year 3. (Refer to Academic Regulation on Criminal Records Review in this Calendar).

Immunization and CPR Certification

All students accepted into the NCBNP are sent documentation and information regarding immunization policies. Once accepted into the Program, all students must submit:

  • A record of immunization status and any annual vaccination requirements, such as the Influenza Vaccine, based on release date of vaccine.
    • A completed immunization form must be submitted to the institution the student is currently attending prior to September 15 in the first year of attendance. Students entering the Program in Year 2 or above must submit the completed immunization form before the first week of classes in September. Failure to do so may result in the student not being allowed to practice in the clinical setting.
  • Documentation of one of the following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certifications, which must be successfully maintained throughout the program: CPR-C or Basic Life Support (BLS).
    • BLS is highly recommended.
    • Online CPR courses that do not include face-to-face practice components are not acceptable.
    • Proof of CPR certification (and recertification) must be submitted annually prior to commencement of classes, regardless of the expiry date on the card.

Admission Requirements

Self-identified Aboriginal applicants who meet or exceed the minimum requirements for admission to the program will be given priority for up to twenty percent (20%) of the first-year seats for the Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NCBNP).

Students must apply at the collaborative colleges: The College of New Caledonia in Prince George or Quesnel, or Coast Mountain College in Terrace. Admission is based on academic qualifications and available space. Priority admission will be given to students who meet admission criteria (see Admissions Section in this calendar) and apply by the deadline of March 31. Applications received after the deadline may be reviewed based on available space in the program.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • UNBC admission requirements with a minimum 70% average; and
  • completion of the equivalent BC secondary school courses with a minimum 70% in each course:
    • one of Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or Principles of Math 11
    • Chemistry 11
    • one of English Studies 12, English 12 or English First Peoples 12;
  • completion of the equivalent of Anatomy and Physiology 12 or Biology 12 with a minimum 73% within five years prior to the semester of admission to the NCBNP.

Applicants whose first language is not English, regardless of citizenship or country of origin, must submit evidence of English language proficiency prior to admission.  For the NCBNP, the following are required for admission:

  • fulfillment of the BC Secondary School English 12 requirement (70%), or equivalent, and;
  • either an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic, or a CELBAN (Canadian English Language Assessment for Nurses) with current, valid results and scores as set by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) for the year of admission

Admission Requirements: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Access

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who are applying for admission to the NCBNP must

  • meet all Northern Collaborative Baccalaureate Nursing Program admission requirements;
  • be graduates of a Practical Nursing program recognized by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) since 1994;
  • have current practicing registration or be eligible for practicing registration with the BCCNM.

LPN applicants will be assessed on an individual basis and may be eligible for up to a maximum of 15 transfer credit hours of NCBNP courses.

Applicants who have completed a BC Practical Nursing Certificate prior to 1994, or have completed a certificate or diploma from a program outside of British Columbia, or have graduated from an institution not listed in the BC Transfer Guide, may not be exempt from any of the Year 1 or Year 2 NCBNP courses.

In order to have their documents referred to Nursing faculty members for transfer credit assessment, all successful LPN applicants must meet individually with the Nursing Advisor at the institution to which they are applying. Further criteria may be required in order to receive transfer credit.

Program Requirements

Lower-Division Requirement

Year 1

ANTH 213-3 Peoples and Cultures (or equivalent)
BIO 105-3 Basic Microbiology (at CNC) 
     or BIOL 133-3      Applied Microbiology (at CMTN) 
HHSC 111-4 Anatomy and Physiology I (at UNBC)
    or BIO 111-3  Anatomy and Physiology I (at CNC) 
    or BIOL 131-3  Human Anatomy and Physiology I (at CMTN) 
HHSC 112-4 Anatomy and Physiology II (at UNBC)
    or BIO 112-3  Anatomy and Physiology II (at CNC) 
    or BIOL 132-3  Human Anatomy and Physiology II (at CMTN)
NURS 101-3 The Art and Science of Nursing
NURS 102-3 Communication Theory and Practice
PSYC 101-3 Introduction to Psychology I (or equivalent)
STAT 240-3  Basic Statistics (at UNBC)
       or ECON 205-3  Statistics for Business and the Social Sciences (at UNBC) 
       or MATH 104-3  Introduction to Statistics (at CNC)
       or MATH 157-3  Business Statistics (at CNC)
       or MATH 131-3  Introduction to Statistics (at CMTN)
       or MATH 251-3  Statistics (at CMTN)

Note:  UNBC STAT 240-3, CNC MATH 104-3, or CMTN MATH 131-3 are recommended for the Statistics requirement.

Year 2

NURS 201-4 Introduction to Health Assessment
NURS 202-3 Pathophysiological Concepts (at CNC)
    or BIOL 220-3  Pathophysiology (at CMTN) 
NURS 203-3 Health Promotion in Families
NURS 204-3 Healing Modalities (at CNC)
    or BIOL 221-3  Pharmacology for Nurses (at CMTN) 
NURS 205-3 Introduction to First Nations Health
NURS 206-3 Basic Nutrition (at CNC)
    or BIOL 222-3  Human Nutrition (at CMTN)
NURS 215-8 Nursing Care of the Adult
NURS 220-5 Extended Clinical Practicum I

Upper-Division Requirement

Prior to each academic year, students will be advised which courses are being offered at each campus. Courses may be offered face-to-face, online, or using a combination of delivery methods. 
Students must expect to complete at least one practicum rotation at a site other than Prince George, Quesnel, or Terrace. 

Year 3

NURS 304-3 Introduction to Nursing Knowledge
NURS 306-3 Introduction to Epidemiology
NURS 308-3 Ethics and Law in Nursing
NURS 317-5 Nursing Theory and Practice: Maternity
NURS 318-5 Nursing Theory and Practice: Pediatrics
NURS 323-5 Nursing Theory and Practice: Older Adult
NURS 326-5 Nursing Theory and Practice: Mental Health
NURS 328-(1, 2) Nursing Laboratory*
NURS 329-1 Year 3 Objective Structured Clinical Examination
NURS 330-4 Extended Clinical Practicum II

*Students must successfully complete 2 credit hours of NURS 328-(1, 2), either as two 1-credit hour courses or one 2-credit hour course (minimum 36 hours of structured laboratory practice), no more than eight months prior to undertaking the NURS 329-1 Year 3 Objective Structured Clinical Examination. Students must successfully complete the September semester of NURS 328-1 before progressing to the January semester of NURS 328-1 and subsequent Year 3 combined theory and practice courses.

Year 4

NURS 403-3 Introduction to Nursing Research
NURS 408-3 Nursing Leadership
NURS 418-7 Introduction to Community Health and Nursing
POLS 403-3 Social and Health Policy and Administration

At least one of the following areas of clinical focus:

NURS 420-8 Community Health Nursing
NURS 422-8 Indigenous Health and Nursing
NURS 426-8 Acute Care Nursing
NURS 432-8 Mental Health and Addictions Nursing
NURS 435-8 Pediatric Nursing
NURS 454-8 Perinatal Care
NURS 455-8 Foundations in Emergency and Trauma Nursing
NURS 461-8 Rural Health and Nursing
NURS 497-8 Specialty Focus in Nursing

Elective Requirement

Eighteen credit hours chosen to fulfill the requirements below, and to ensure completion of a minimum of 136 credit hours. A course may not be used to satisfy the requirements in more than one category. Students are strongly advised to complete the following elective coursework prior to Year 4:

  • Three credit hours in First Nations Studies at any level, or HIST 215-3 Global History of Indigenous People, or equivalent;
  • Three credit hours in Humanities, or ENGL 170-3, or equivalent;
  • Three additional credit hours in Nursing at the 200 level, or 3 credit hours at the 200 level or above in a subject related to Nursing (with permission of Program);
  • At least 3 credit hours at the 200 level or above in any subject;
  • At least 3 credit hours at the 300 level or above in any subject;
  • Three credit hours at any level in any subject.

Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program

The Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) is a Year 3 and Year 4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree program offered in Fort St. John and Prince George, BC. Students are expected to commit to a full-time program of combined theoretical and clinical coursework delivered over five consecutive semesters.

The Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) requires students to take at least 68 credit hours of Nursing courses. The minimum requirement for completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is 128 credit hours.

Transfer Credit

Students who are admitted to the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) may use a maximum of 60 credit hours towards the BScN degree.

Criminal Records Search

NBNP students are required to undergo criminal records searches prior to admission (refer to Academic Regulation on Criminal Records Review in this Calendar).

Immunization and CPR Certification

The UNBC School of Nursing sends documentation and information regarding immunization policies to all students accepted into the NBNP. Once accepted into the Program, all students must submit:

  • a record of immunization status and any annual vaccination requirements, such as the Influenza Vaccine, based on release date of vaccine.
  • Students must submit a completed immunization form to the UNBC School of Nursing prior to September in the first year of attendance. Students who fail to submit a completed form may not be allowed to practice in the clinical setting.
  • documentation of one of the following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certifications, which must be successfully maintained throughout the program: CPR-C or Basic Life Support (BLS).
  • BLS is highly recommended.
  • Online CPR courses that do not include face-to-face practice components are not acceptable.
  • Students must submit proof of CPR certification (and recertification) annually prior to commencement of classes, regardless of the expiry date on the card.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the NBNP is a competitive, criteria-weighted process consisting of the following two parts:

  • compiled minimum admissions qualification score based on admission GPA and supplemental application materials; and
  • the online CASPer assessment.

UNBC grants priority admission to students who meet admission criteria (see Admissions Section in this calendar) and apply by the deadline of January 15th. The University may review applications received after the deadline based on available space in the program.

The fulfillment of admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the NBNP. The UNBC School of Nursing considers all applicants who complete the application process and meet the minimum requirements; however, it gives preference to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Fifty percent (50%) of NBNP seats in Fort St. John are allocated to applicants who complete a minimum of 15 university transfer credit hours at Northern Lights College (within 10 years prior to the semester of admission). A further twenty-five percent (25%) of seats in Fort St. John and twenty-five percent (25%) of seats in Prince George are allocated to self-identified Indigenous applicants. If the allocated seats listed above are not filled, UNBC offers the remaining seats to other qualified applicants.

The UNBC School of Nursing reserves the right to select and admit those students who demonstrate academic potential, strong motivation to study nursing, and the qualities, judgement and clinical aptitude necessary to be a caring and professional nurse.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • meet UNBC admission requirements;
  • have a minimum B average on the most recent 60 credit hours of university level coursework;
  • meet the 24 credit hours of required prerequisite coursework; and
  • have a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level coursework completed at the 200 level or above.

Required Pre-Admission Courses

Students must have a minimum grade of B- in the following university level courses. Students may not use a course in more than one category to satisfy the requirements:

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology (6 credit hours; lab components highly recommended);
  • Microbiology (3 credit hours; lab components highly recommended);
  • Statistics (3 credit hours);
  • Social Sciences (3 credit hours);
  • English (3 credit hours);
  • Indigenous Studies (3 credit hours);
  • Psychology (3 credit hours).

Note: All pre-admission courses must normally be completed within 10 years prior to the semester of admission.

CASPer Requirement

All applicants to the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program (NBNP) are required to complete an online computer-based assessment (CASPer) test in addition to meeting academic requirements.

CASPer is an online, video-scenario-based, situational judgement test that assesses the non-academic attributes and personal/professional characteristics of applicants that are important for the success of students and graduates of the NBNP.

It is mandatory for applicants to complete the CASPer test and submit the results to the UNBC School of Nursing prior to the NBNP application deadline.

Applicants can only write the CASPer test once within an admission cycle, and test results are only valid for one admission cycle.

Supplemental Application Information Requirements

Applicants must also submit the following documentation:

  • a Rural Remote Suitability Index questionnaire;
  • a résumé detailing education, work and volunteer experience and any credentials, accomplishments or experiences relevant to nursing;
  • a personal statement outlining the reason(s) the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program is the applicant’s program of choice and demonstrating why the applicant is a suitable candidate for the program; and

The applicant is responsible for arranging two references submitted directly by the referees to UNBC on the BScN Confidential Reference form. One academic and one work-related reference are preferred.

English Language Requirement

Applicants whose first language is not English, regardless of citizenship or country of origin, must submit evidence of English language proficiency prior to admission. For the NBNP, either an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic, or a CELBAN (Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses) with current, valid results and minimum scores as set by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) for the year of admission is required.

Applicants who have completed 60 credit hours at recognized post-secondary institutions where English is the language of instruction, and who also have completed a university-level English course with a final grade of 75% (B) or better, may be exempt from this requirement.

Admission Requirements: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Access

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) who are applying for admission to the NBNP must

  • meet all Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program admission requirements;
  • be graduates of a Practical Nursing program recognized by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) since 1994;
  • have current practicing registration or be eligible for practicing registration with the BCCNM.

The UNBC School of Nursing assesses LPN applicants on an individual basis. Applicants may be eligible for up to a maximum of 15 unspecified elective transfer credit hours towards the minimum 60 UNBC or university transferable credit hours for admission. Applicants cannot apply the block of transfer credit hours towards the 24 credit hours of required prerequisite courses.

Applicants who have any of the following may not be eligible for transfer credit:

  • a BC Practical Nursing Certificate prior to 1994;
  • a certificate or diploma from a program outside of British Columbia;
  • graduation from an institution not listed in the BC Transfer Guide.

The NBNP Coordinator, in consultation with the Program Advisor, assesses transfer credit. Further criteria may be required in order to receive transfer credit.

Program Requirements

300 Level

NRSG 300-4 Fundamentals of Nursing
NRSG 301-3 Health Assessment
NRSG 302-3 Pathophysiological Concepts
NRSG 303-3 Pharmacology
NRSG 304-3 Ethics and Law for Nursing Practice
NRSG 305-3 Concepts for Evidence-Informed Nursing
NRSG 310-3 Introduction to Nursing Practice
NRSG 311-7 Medical and Surgical Nursing Practice 1

 400 Level

NRSG 400-3 Nursing Leadership for Quality Care
NRSG 410-7 Professional Practice: Mental Health and Addictions Nursing
NRSG 411-7 Professional Practice: Community Health Nursing
NRSG 412-7 Professional Practice: Perinatal Health and Care of the Childbearing Family
NRSG 415-7 Medical and Surgical Nursing Practice 2

At least one of the following areas of clinical focus:

NRSG 420-8 Community Health Nursing
NRSG 421-8 Rural Health and Nursing
NRSG 422-8 Indigenous Health and Nursing
NRSG 423-8 Mental Health and Addictions Nursing
NRSG 424-8 Acute Care Nursing
NRSG 425-8 Pediatric Nursing
NRSG 497-8 Specialty Focus in Nursing

LPN Pathway - NBNP

The LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) Pathway – NBNP (Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program) is a Year 3 and Year 4 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree program offered in Fort St. John and Prince George, BC. Delivered in tandem with the NBNP, the LPN Pathway – NBNP offers an entry-route explicitly for graduates of Practical Nursing (PN) diploma programs recognized by BCCNM or elsewhere in Canada. Students are expected to commit to a full-time program of combined theory-based and clinical coursework delivered over five consecutive semesters.

The LPN Pathway – NBNP requires students to take at least 51 credit hours of Nursing courses. The minimum requirement for completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is 128 credit hours.

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit may be awarded for coursework completed at other recognized institutions. Applicants who are admitted to the LPN Pathway – NBNP are awarded a block transfer of 53 credit hours. The total transfer credit awarded on the basis of acceptable courses completed at other institutions may not exceed 77 credit hours. All transfer credit used to meet program and elective requirements must normally be completed within 10 years prior to the semester of admission.

Criminal Records Search

LPN Pathway - NBNP students are required to undergo criminal records searches prior to admission (refer to Academic Regulation on Criminal Records Review in this Calendar).

Immunization and CPR Certification

The UNBC School of Nursing sends documentation and information regarding immunization policies to all students accepted into the NBNP. Once accepted into the Program, all students must submit:

  • a record of immunization status and any annual vaccination requirements, such as the Influenza Vaccine, based on release date of vaccine.
    • Students must submit a completed immunization form to the UNBC School of Nursing prior to September in the first year of attendance. Students who fail to submit a completed form may not be allowed to practice in the clinical setting.
  • documentation of one of the following Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certifications, which must be successfully maintained throughout the program: CPR-C or Basic Life Support (BLS).
    • BLS is highly recommended.
    • Online CPR courses that do not include face-to-face practice components are not acceptable.
    • Students must submit proof of CPR certification (and recertification) annually prior to commencement of classes, regardless of the expiry date on the card.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the LPN Pathway - NBNP is a competitive, criteria-weighted process consisting of a compiled minimum admission qualification score based on all application materials.

The application deadline is January 15th. The University may review applications received after the deadline based on available space in the program.

The fulfillment of admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the LPN Pathway - NBNP. The UNBC School of Nursing considers all applicants who complete the application process and meet the minimum requirements; however, it gives preference to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Fifty percent (50%) of  LPN Pathway - NBNP seats in Fort St. John are allocated to applicants who complete a minimum of 15 university transfer credit hours (within 10 years prior to the semester of admission) or the PN Diploma at Northern Lights College. A further twenty-five percent (25%) of seats in Fort St. John and twenty-five percent (25%) of seats in Prince George are allocated to self-identified Indigenous applicants. If the allocated seats listed above are not filled, UNBC offers the remaining seats to other qualified applicants.

The UNBC School of Nursing reserves the right to select and admit those students who demonstrate academic potential, strong motivation to study nursing, and the qualities, judgement and clinical aptitude necessary to be a caring and professional nurse.

Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • meet UNBC admission requirements;
  • be a graduate of a Practical Nursing (PN) diploma program recognized by BCCNM or a PN diploma program recognized by the PN regulatory body in another Canadian jurisdiction; and
  • have completed 6 credit hours of Human Anatomy and Physiology (lab components highly recommended) with a minimum grade of B- within 10 years prior to the semester of admission.

Supplemental Application Information Requirements

Applicants must also submit the following documentation:

  • Proof of current registration and license as a full scope Licensed Practical Nurse with BCCNM;
  • A letter of recommendation from a current or most recent former employer demonstrating the applicant has at least two years of Acute Care experience in British Columbia as an LPN within the last five years. The referee submits the letter of recommendation directly to UNBC via the BScN Confidential Recommendation form;
  • A Rural Remote Suitability Index Questionnaire;
  • a current résumé detailing education, work and volunteer experience and any credentials, accomplishments or experiences relevant to nursing;
  • a personal statement outlining the reason(s) the LPN Pathway - NBNP is the applicant’s program of choice and demonstrating why the applicant is a suitable candidate for the program; and
  • One additional work-related or academic reference letter submitted directly to UNBC via the BScN Confidential Reference form.

Program Requirements

300 Level

NRSG 302-3 Pathophysiological Concepts
NRSG 303-3 Pharmacology
NRSG 304-3 Ethics and Law for Nursing Practice
NRSG 305-3 Concepts for Evidence-Informed Nursing

 400 Level

NRSG 400-3 Nursing Leadership for Quality Care
NRSG 410-7 Professional Practice: Mental Health and Addictions Nursing
NRSG 411-7 Professional Practice: Community Health Nursing
NRSG 412-7 Professional Practice: Perinatal Health and Care of the Childbearing Family
NRSG 415-7 Medical and Surgical Nursing Practice 2

At least one of the following areas of clinical focus:

NRSG 420-8 Community Health Nursing
NRSG 421-8 Rural Health and Nursing
NRSG 422-8 Indigenous Health and Nursing
NRSG 423-8 Mental Health and Addictions Nursing
NRSG 424-8 Acute Care Nursing
NRSG 425-8 Pediatric Nursing
NRSG 497-8 Specialty Focus in Nursing

Elective Requirement

Eighteen credit hours chosen to fulfill the requirements below, and to ensure completion of a minimum of 128 credit hours. A course may not be used to satisfy the requirements in more than one category. Students are strongly advised to complete the following elective coursework prior to Year 4:

  • Three credit hours in Indigenous Studies (FNST) at any level;
  • Three credit hours in English (ENGL) at any level;
  • Three credit hours in Microbiology (HHSC or BIOL) at any level;
  • Three credit hours in Statistics (STAT) at any level, (or ECON 205-3);
  • Three credit hours in Psychology (PSYC) at any level;
  • Three credit hours in Social Science (i.e., ANTH, COMM, ECON, INTS, POLS, PSYC), at any level.

Rural Nursing Certificate Program

The Rural Nursing Certificate Program provides the opportunity for Registered Nurses to pursue a concentrated program of courses in Rural Nursing. The Certificate provides students with some of the essential knowledge and clinical skills needed to provide nursing care in rural practice.

The Certificate Program has been developed as an academic program that is practice-driven, and is supported by health authorities across British Columbia. It is based upon the principles of primary health care, and provides an orientation to the needs of nurses working in rural and remote communities.

The Certificate requires successful completion of 30 credit hours. Admission occurs in September and January.

The Certificate is designed to be completed on a part-time basis through distance education. Students can complete their BScN through the attainment of 15 additional credit hours of prescribed courses.

This Certificate does not replace the UNBC Post-Diploma BScN program as it offers a focus in one specialized area only. Other focus areas provided through the UNBC Post-Diploma BScN, notably community health, community continuing care, First Nations health and nursing, and nursing management are not included in the Certificate program.

Nursing Program policies for Registered Nurse students pursuing a degree apply to Certificate students.

Transfer Credit

A maximum of 15 credit hours from other recognized institutions may be transferred into the Certificate and the BScN Completion. Nursing courses must have been completed within five years prior to the semester of admission to be eligible for transfer credit into the nursing program.

Students who have completed a Registered Nurse Diploma at a recognized post-secondary institution may be eligible to receive up to 60 credit hours towards the BScN Completion. 

Admission Requirements

Applicants must:

  • meet UNBC admission requirements
  • submit official transcript(s) from degree or diploma program
  • provide evidence of active practicing registration as a nurse in the jurisdiction in which the student resides for the duration of enrollment without conditions or limitations on the license. Annual submission of documentation of current licensure is required while enrolled in the program.

Once accepted to the Rural Nursing Certificate Program, all students must complete and submit the specified immunization forms prior to commencing a course with a clinical component. If clinical hours are to be completed, all students must submit active registration without conditions or limitations within the jurisdiction in which a clinical component is to be completed. Failure to do so may result in the student not being allowed to practice in the clinical setting.

Certificate Requirements

NURS 451-3 Health Assessment and RN First Call
NURS 453-3 Nursing Practice with Older Persons
NURS 454-6 Perinatal Care
NURS 455-6 Foundations in Emergency and Trauma Nursing
NURS 456-3 Mental Health and Addictions
NURS 457-3 Living and Working in a Rural Community
NURS 462-3 Chronic Disease Management and Wound Care
NURS 463-3 Palliative Care

BScN Completion

Students wishing to complete the UNBC Post-Diploma BScN will be required to successfully complete 15 credit hours in addition to the Rural Nursing Certificate to a total of 45 credit hours.

200 Level

STAT 240-3 Basic Statistics, or equivalent

300 Level

NURS 304-3 Introduction to Nursing Knowledge

400 Level

NURS 403-3 Introduction to Nursing Research
NURS 408-3 Nursing Leadership
POLS 403-3 Social and Health Policy and Administration

Updated: December 5, 2024