Nurses are in high demand, and are expected to remain so for quite some time. If you’re in the nursing field, Ontario college nursing bridging programs may be the right option for you; programs provide the education needed for Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) to get BScNs and become Registered Nurses (RNs), for internationally trained nurses to get certified for work in Ontario and for RNs to improve their current skills.
If you’re interested in furthering your nursing education, here’s what you need to know. More
Nursing Bridging Courses
Nursing courses in bridging programs provide in-depth knowledge and an enhanced learning experience for RPNs and RNs - those who already have a certain level of education and experience in the nursing field.
Program lengths will vary, but all programs will consist of different types of nursing courses that allow students to bridge into Bachelor of Science Nursing programs if a certain academic level is achieved. Course subjects in lectures and lab practice may include (but aren’t limited to):
- Ethics
- Research
- Technology in health care
- Health assessment
Some nursing bridging programs offer clinical placements, where students will gain real-life experience applying the skills they’ve learned in the program.
General Nursing Bridging Program Requirements
For Registered Practical Nurses, nursing bridging programs at Ontario colleges require proof of certification in Ontario, as well as transcripts from your college program.
Some bridging programs are used by RNs, including those wanting to brush up on their medical knowledge and those who are internationally educated. Requirements for these cases vary, so check program details carefully.
Nursing Bridging Jobs and Salaries
Nursing jobs can be found in a variety of medical settings, such as clinics, hospitals, nursing homes and other health centres. Nurses work in a wide range of medical departments, including (but not limited to):
- Intensive care
- Long-term care
- Pediatrics
- Emergency
- Surgery
Graduates may choose to further their nursing education in a program that has an area of specialization, like critical care or operating room perioperative.
The average starting salary for graduates of Ontario college nursing bridging programs is $46,000 per year. RN salaries are much higher with experience, averaging around $70,000 per year and even higher for those with a specialty.
Ontario Colleges Offering Nursing Bridging Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of nursing bridging programs at Ontario colleges. Less
