You’ve come to the right destination if you’re seeking for the best nursing schools in Ontario, Canada in 2024. The top 10 nursing programs in the Canadian province of Ontario are highlighted in this article.
There are numerous educational alternatives available to people interested in becoming nurses because nursing is a well-respected and in-demand profession.
There are numerous top-notch nursing schools in Ontario that provide students with top-notch instruction and training. These institutions are renowned for their robust clinical offerings, top-notch faculty, and cutting-edge infrastructure.
Talking about nursing colleges and programs, check out the top 10 best nursing schools in South Africa. Some of the top nursing schools in Ontario include the University of Toronto, Western University, McMaster University, Queen’s University, and the University of Ottawa.
These schools offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, and are dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in the nursing field.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, these nursing schools in Ontario are sure to provide you with the education and training you need to succeed.
Who is a Nurse?
A nurse is a member of the medical team who gives patients their first-hand care. Registered nurses (RNs) are licensed health care providers with training in assessment, care coordination, administration of medications and treatments, patient monitoring, and health condition education.
Nurses are in high demand and can be found in a variety of locations, including schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and clinics. They may also decide to concentrate on a particular branch of medicine, such as working with young children, the elderly, cancer patients, or those who have mental health problems. Both licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) are employed in the nursing field, although the qualifications for each are different.
Registered nurses (RNs) typically hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing, while licensed practical nurses (LPNs) typically hold a diploma or certificate in practical nursing.
All nurses, regardless of educational background, are required to obtain a state license and pass a national certification exam before they can legally work in the field.
Also Read: The Top 10 Best Universities in Canada for International Students
The Top 10 Best Nursing Schools in Ontario 2024
The second-largest and most populous province in Canada, Ontario is home to one-third of the country’s citizens. The financial and commercial center of the country, Toronto, plays a significant role in Canada’s success. The majority of the population was made up of immigrants even before World War II.
Here are some of the best nursing schools in Ontario:
- The University of Toronto
- University of Windsor
- West Coast University
- McMaster University
- University of Ottawa
- Stanbridge University
- University of Lambton
- George Brown College
- St. Clair College
- San Joaquin Valley College
Now, let’s take it one after the other.
1. The University of Toronto – Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing
A top-tier nursing program in Ontario is available at the Institution of Toronto, which was established in 1827 and is now ranked as Canada’s best university. The institution is at the vanguard of a new way of thinking about education and does a great deal of groundbreaking research.
It collaborates with organizations and schools all around the world to provide educational exchanges between students and teachers and study abroad opportunities. Mississauga, St. George, and Scarborough all have campuses.
The nursing program at the university is housed at the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, which has been consistently regarded as one of the best nursing schools in all of Canada. Estimated annual nursing school costs are US$6,400 for bachelor’s degree programs, US$9,600 for master’s programs, and US$11,800 for doctoral programs.
As one of the best nursing schools in Ontario, the university is committed to ensuring that all students have access to higher education, thus they have established an MoU to ensure that students of all financial means have the opportunity to study at the institution of their choice.
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2. University of Windsor
The University of Windsor is one of the best nursing schools in Ontario. It was originally established in 1857 as Assumption College and renamed the University of Windsor in 1963 when it merged with Essex College, Canterbury College, Iona College, and Holy Redeemer College, and is widely regarded as one of the best nursing schools in Ontario.
In 1954, the first students enrolled in what would become the School of Nursing. In 1963. In addition to its previous offerings of diplomas and certificates, the institution has begun providing degree programs in nursing.
In conjunction with St. Clair College (Windsor and Thames/Chatham campuses) and Lambton College, it provides an undergraduate nursing program (Sarnia). The anticipated cost of a semester’s worth of tuition and fees is $2,300 for residents of the United States and $14,500 for students from outside.
The MSN curriculum offers three areas of concentration: advanced clinical practice nursing, nursing administration, and primary health care nurse practitioner.
Its Ph.D. program requires a thesis and pairs students with faculty advisors. The anticipated cost of a Master’s or Doctorate degree program each semester is $1,900 for domestic students and $6,000.
Related: List of Universities in New Brunswick Canada
3. West Coast University
When it comes to nursing education in Ontario, few institutions can match the prestige and excellence of West Coast University. Students are encouraged to develop an analytical mindset and acquire practical skills via internships and other experiential learning opportunities as part of the university’s commitment to a student-centered learning environment.
The university has many locations around the United States, including Texas, Florida, California (including Ontario and Los Angeles), and California (including Orange County). The university’s nursing program is nationally recognized and well regarded, having earned accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
4. McMaster University
Next on the list of the best nursing schools in Ontario is McMaster university. Though it was established in Toronto in 1887, McMaster University’s main campus did not relocate to Hamilton until 1930. Times Higher Education placed the institution at No. 4 in Canada and No. 16 in the globe in its 2021 rankings. In addition, the nursing programs at McMaster University in Ontario are among the best in the world.
The School of Nursing at this institution, part of the Faculty of Health Sciences, has been around since 1934, and it just started offering graduate-level instruction in 1973. It has grown into one of the top nursing schools in the world, ranking 15th overall and third in Canada.
Since 2004, students enrolled in the university’s undergraduate nursing program have worked with community health care organizations in Hamilton, Halton, Brantford, and Niagara to get hands-on experience in preparation for careers as registered nurses.
Yearly tuition and fees average US$4,800 for domestic students and US$34,200 for foreign students.
Related: Top 10 Best Nursing Colleges in Texas
5. University of Ottawa
In 1848, it opened as a Catholic college teaching in both French and English; nowadays, it is known simply as the University of Ottawa. The University of Ottawa is now the most prominent French immersion university in Canada and the largest bilingual university in the world.
The school of nursing at the Faculty of Health Sciences is responsible for the university’s nursing program. Courses in English are provided in partnership with other institutions including Algonquin College (Woodroffe) and Algonquin College (Pembroke), while courses in French are provided in partnership with La Cites College, so that students may complete their nursing education in either language.
Through its many affiliations with different organizations, the university provides students with opportunities to get practical experience in settings like as community centers, main hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care institutions.
The expected tuition fees each semester for foreign students are US$17,600 for undergraduate nursing, US$8,900 for Master’s, and US$2,500 for the Ph.D. program. For local students, the costs are US$2,900 for undergraduate nursing, US$2,700 for Master’s, and US$2,200 for the Ph.D. program.
6. Stanbridge University
Stanbridge University is one of the best nursing schools in Ontario, Canada. Nursing and other health-related programs are available at Stanbridge University. Over 1,800 pupils have attended since its 1996 founding.
The on-campus programs provide students with both theoretical and practical instruction in the university’s labs and those of its clinical partner sites in Southern California.
The Orange County Campus and the Los Angeles Branch Campus of Stanbridge University provide a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that has been authorized by the California Board of Registered Nurses.
Expenses related to an RN program consist of: The price of school is $57,980 per year.
Funds for learning materials: $2,015
Related: List of Universities in Manitoba, Canada
7. University of Lambton
The school equips its students with the theoretical background and practical experience they’ll need to thrive in the health care industry upon graduation. Class sizes are reduced, and teachers are able to devote more time and energy to each student.
Nurses who already have a practical nursing certificate may apply to the university for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.
Registered Practical Nurses who are interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing will benefit greatly from this program. Because of this alternative route, students may get their BSCN in three years rather than the usual four.
8. George Brown College
George Brown College offers a wide variety of courses, such as; The Ontario College Diploma is required for admission to the Practical Nursing program. This course of study is full-time and may be completed in two years. In-country tuition is $5,732.
Students in a two-year practical nursing program learn the fundamentals of nursing. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree may be earned in four years of full-time study. Domestic tuition is $7,160 per year.
Full-time and costing just $2,026 in-country, the PSW-to-PN program lasts for around 14 weeks and prepares students for careers in the medical field.
The cost of in-state tuition for the RPN Bridge to BScN program is $6,278 each academic year. International students may expect to pay between US$11,320 and US$23,900 per year to attend one of Ontario’s top nursing schools.
9. St. Clair College
Located in the southwestern Canadian provinces of Essex and Chatham-Kent, St. Clair College is one of the best nursing schools in Ontario, Canada, and is a community college. There are a total of one hundred courses available at the college in the certificate, diploma, degree, and graduate certificate levels.
The academic institution first opened its doors in 1966. More than a hundred and twenty post-secondary diploma, graduate certificate, and degree programs in fields including business, health technology, and the social sciences are available at St. Clair College to meet the needs of the college’s 10,000+ students.
Students in St. Clair College’s nursing degree program get the skills necessary to care for patients in a wide range of healthcare facilities. Students will be expected to work within the scope of nursing practice and in accordance with the standards set out by the College of Nurses of Ontario.
Students in the nursing profession are tasked with providing services to a variety of people, including those who are close to them in both familial and romantic relationships. Studying at St. Clair College requires a commitment of four academic years.
Tuition: In-country students: $3,814.75 CAD
Number of students from outside of Canada: 12,280.4 CAD
10. San Joaquin Valley College
In addition to its main campus in Ontario, San Joaquin Valley College has fourteen more locations in the United States. Robert and Shirley Perry started the school back in 1977.
Healthcare, business, and technology-related continuing education are just few of the areas where the institution excels. Registered nursing programs at both the Visalia and Ontario campuses may be finished in as little as 20 months.
The institution also provides an accelerated 14-month RN certificate program. Full-time students at San Joaquin Valley College may expect to pay a minimum of $14,415 each year. All students, wherever they may be living, are included. Tuition, required textbooks, and required supplies are $14,315, with an additional $100 in other charges.
2 Year Nursing Programs In Canada
Candidates have increasingly preferred short-term courses in recent years. As a result, individuals can pursue one- or two-year nursing programs. If you are interested in pursuing comparable courses, there is a blog that focuses on 2-year nursing schools in Canada.
NOTE: With an eligibility criteria of 10 + 2 with BiPC subjects (minimum marks as per university), popular schools offering a short term nursing programs in Canada include University of Ottawa, McGill University, Stenberg College & others.
The popular nursing programs in Canada, which last only two years, are listed below:
- Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing
- Diploma in Practical Nursing
- Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing
- Graduate Certificate in Enhanced Nursing Practice- Clinical and Critical Care
- Master of Science in Nursing Primary Health Care: Nurse Practitioner
- Master of Science in Nursing specialization in feminist and gender studies
- Master of Nursing
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Master in Public Health Nursing
Range of Subjects to be Covered for a 2 Year Nursing Program
| Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing | Human Anatomy and Physiology | Midwifery and Gynaecology |
| Paediatric Nursing | Sociology | Psychology |
| Medical-Surgical Nursing | Genetics | Health Education and Communication Skills |
| Nutrition | Fundamentals of Nursing | Microbiology |
| Pharmacology | Personal Hygiene | Community Health Nursing |
Eligibility NOTICE: As the 2-year nursing programs in Canada are available for various levels of study, the prerequisites for them differ. Mentioned below are the general details that you must abide by-Â
- For diploma or bachelor’s level courses, the candidates must have completed the usual formal schooling of 10 + 2 with BiPC Subjects from a recognized institution with minimum marks demanded
- For Masters or graduate diplomas, you must have a bachelor’s degree in nursing like BSc nursing or in some other relevant field
- A good score in English language proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, etc
- SOP and LORs in the prescribed formatÂ
What Do Nurses Do?
Nurses are medical professionals who help people of all ages stay healthy, avoid getting sick, and recover from illness. They’re needed everywhere from hospitals to clinics to nursing homes to people’s own homes to provide medical care.
Nurses perform a variety of duties, including evaluating patients’ health, creating and executing nursing care plans, dispensing and monitoring medications and treatments, and educating and supporting patients and their loved ones. They work with other medical professionals to develop treatment plans, track patients’ progress, and make necessary adjustments.
The medical staff also notes the patient’s vitals, symptoms, and medications in the patient’s record. In addition to direct patient care, nurses may participate in scientific studies and quality assurance projects. In addition, nurses can choose to focus on a particular area of practice, such as pediatrics, gerontology, oncology, or intensive care.
Nurses can also work in more advanced roles, such as that of the nurse practitioner, who is trained to assess patients, make diagnoses, and even write prescriptions. As a whole, nurses are essential to the healthcare system because of the care and attention they give to patients.
How Long Does it Take to Study Nursing?
The duration of nursing education can vary depending on the level of education and the type of program. Generally, it takes about 2 to 4 years to become a registered nurse (RN).
An associate degree in nursing (ADN) usually takes 2 years to complete.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) usually takes 4 years to complete, although some schools offer accelerated options that can be completed in as little as 12-18 months.
After completing an ADN or BSN program, graduates must pass a national licensing examination, called the NCLEX-RN, to become licensed as an RN.
For those who want to become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), such as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife, or certified registered nurse anesthetist, additional education and certification is required.
- A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) usually takes 2-3 years to complete.
- A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) usually takes 2-3 years to complete.
It’s important to note that these are approximate time frames and the actual time it takes to complete a nursing program can vary depending on factors such as the program’s structure, the student’s prior education, and the student’s availability to attend classes.
What Requirements Must I Meet Before Gaining Entry Into A Nursing School?
The admission requirements into any of the best nursing schools in Ontario or other provinces you must meet before gaining BScN program include;
Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent with Six-level 4 courses from U or M stream and an overall average of 70% minimum including;
- Grade 12 Mathematics (C, U or M level)
- Grade 12 Biology USBI4U*
- Grade 12 English U*
- Grade 12 Chemistry USCH4U*
The minimum combined average of 70% for Chemistry and Biology
A minimum grade of 65% required.
How many hours do nurses work a week in Ontario?
Weekly hours range from zero to forty. It is assumed that you would perform 24-hour shifts, seven days a week, in a healthcare facility that operates around the clock.
Who earns the most as an Ontario nurse?
Not only in Canada, but globally, CRNAs (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) have the highest salaries, averaging $202,000 per year (or $97 per hour).
What is a Registered Nurse Salary in Ontario?
In Ontario, RNs make a median annual pay of $111,700, much less than the median compensation of nurse anesthetists ($283,550).
Best Nursing Schools in Ontario (Summary)
The nursing schools in Ontario, Canada, are among the best in the world. If you choose to work as a nurse there, it’s a simple place to migrate to and offers a variety of nursing schools. This is due to the fact that, despite the province’s growing population, its nursing workforce is getting older.
Courses at the undergraduate level might last anywhere from two to four years. Master’s degrees typically take 2 years, doctorates take 5 years, and both specialties and the diploma in nursing require 1 year to complete.
Nursing is a challenging and rewarding profession that requires dedication, compassion and strong critical thinking skills.
If you’re interested in becoming a nurse, some of the best nursing schools in Ontario can help you achieve your dream..
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