Education
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill |Research University
May 19, 2025
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5 min read
Nursing programs in Canada offer a strong foundation for a thriving career in healthcare, providing students with hands-on experience in world-class hospitals and clinics. The country ranks among the top destinations for nursing education, with over 450,000 registered nurses currently employed across various healthcare sectors. With nursing job vacancies projected to rise by 13% in the next decade, Canadian universities emphasize both theoretical learning and practical training to ensure graduates are career-ready. This guide covers tuition fees, top universities, career prospects, and everything you need to start your nursing journey in Canada.
Why Study Nursing in Canada?
If you're considering a healthcare career, nursing in Canada is an incredible opportunity. Canada’s healthcare system ranks among the top 10 globally, with a growing demand for over 60,000 new nurses by 2028 due to an ageing population and workforce shortages. By pursuing nursing programs in Canada, you’ll gain a globally recognized degree, preparing you for a career where the average salary for registered nurses is CAD 60,000–100,000 per year. Tuition is affordable, with some programs starting at just CAD 10,000 annually. Build your future in a country that values your skills and ambitions. International students interested in further education also explore PhD scholarships in Canada for continued academic growth.
What All Types of Nursing Programs Are Available in Canada?
Canada offers a wide range of nursing programs in Canada, catering to different career goals and educational backgrounds. You can choose from diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs based on your interests and qualifications. Some of the main types of nursing programs available include:
1. Diploma in Practical Nursing: A 1-2 year program focusing on essential patient care skills
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN): A 4-year undergraduate degree providing in-depth knowledge and clinical experience.
3. Accelerated Nursing Programs: For students with a prior degree, these programs fast-track nursing education, typically completing in 2 years.
4. Postgraduate Nursing Diplomas: Short-term programs designed for international students.
5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) & Master of Nursing (MN): Advanced degrees focusing on leadership, research, and specialization in nursing fields.
Top 10 Nursing Programs in Canada
Canada is home to some of the best nursing programs, offering a mix of theoretical learning and hands-on clinical experience. From undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) to advanced programs like the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), students can choose a path that aligns with their career goals. These programs are designed to equip aspiring nurses with the skills needed to work in hospitals, community health, research, and leadership roles. Below is a list of the top nursing programs in Canada, including details on universities, tuition fees, and career opportunities.
1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)
Best Universities for BScN: University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia (UBC), Dalhousie University.
Tuition Fees: CAD 17,000–25,000 per year.
Students Enrolled: 25,000 students
Duration of Program: 4 years
Eligibility: GPA requirement ( 70–85% ), (IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+)
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) is one of the most sought-after nursing programs in Canada, offering a balance of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience. Students complete over 1,400 clinical practice hours in top healthcare facilities, preparing for diverse roles in hospitals, community health, and specialized care. Throughout the program, students study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing theory, healthcare ethics, patient care, community health nursing, and mental health nursing to build a strong foundation in nursing practice.. Ranked among the top nursing programs in Canada, it’s a gateway to a fulfilling career with an average starting salary of CAD 60,000–75,000 annually.
2. Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
Best Universities for BNSc: Queen’s University, University of Calgary, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000–22,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 18,000 students
Duration of Program: 4 years
Eligibility: GPA requirement (75%+), IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 88+
The Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) program is designed to prepare you for a successful career from day one. The curriculum covers human biology, pathophysiology, pharmacotherapeutics, clinical nursing practice, gerontological nursing, and leadership in nursing, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for various nursing roles.You’ll also work in state-of-the-art simulation labs and participate in practical placements that emphasize critical thinking and leadership. Ranked among the top nursing programs in Canada, this degree opens doors to roles like an emergency nurse or clinical nurse educator, with an average starting salary of CAD 65,000–80,000 annually.
3. Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Best Universities for CBSN : Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University) in collaboration with Centennial College and George Brown College
Tuition Fees: CAD 16,000–22,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 12,000 students
Duration of Program: 4 years
Eligibility: GPA requirement (75%+), IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 88+
The Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is a standout among nursing programs in Canada, offering students the chance to benefit from the expertise of multiple institutions. This program focuses heavily on community and urban healthcare, preparing you to address the diverse needs of city populations. Students explore subjects such as professional nursing practice, pediatric nursing, women’s health, research methods in nursing, health promotion, and clinical placement, giving them a well-rounded education in patient care.. As one of the most practical nursing courses in Canada, this degree equips you for roles like public health nurse or pediatric nurse, with starting salaries averaging CAD 60,000–75,000 annually.
4. Practical Nursing Diploma
Best Universities for Practical Nursing Diploma: University of Saskatchewan, University of the Fraser Valley, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Tuition Fees: CAD 10,000–15,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 8,000 students
Duration of Program: 2 years
Eligibility: GPA requirement (60–70%), IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+
The Practical Nursing Diploma offers a focused curriculum that prepares you to address immediate patient care needs in various healthcare settings. The curriculum includes fundamentals of nursing, medication administration, wound care, infection control, community health, and palliative care, providing students with the essential skills needed to support patient recovery and well-being. Graduates of this program often pursue careers as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. With the growing demand for LPNs in Canada, starting salaries range from CAD 50,000 to 60,000 annually, making it a rewarding choice for students seeking hands-on roles in healthcare.
5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Best Universities for MSN: University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia (UBC), Dalhousie University.
Tuition Fees: CAD 20,000–35,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 6,000 students
Duration of Program: 2 years
Eligibility: BScN degree, GPA requirement (3.0+), IELTS 7.0+ / TOEFL 92+
The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is one of the most advanced nursing programs in Canada, designed for students aiming to specialize or take on leadership roles in healthcare. This program emphasizes research, advanced clinical practice, and policy development. With opportunities to specialize in fields like pediatrics, oncology, and gerontology, students develop expertise to address complex healthcare challenges.: Graduates often secure roles as Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists, or Healthcare Administrators, with salaries averaging CAD 80,000–120,000 annually. Recognized as one of the good nursing programs in Canada, the MSN program equips you with the skills to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.
6. Bachelor of Nursing (Collaborative Program)
Best Universities for Bachelor of Nursing (Collaborative Program): Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of New Brunswick, University of Manitoba.
Tuition Fees: CAD 12,000–20,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 10,000 students
Duration of Program: 4 years
Eligibility: GPA requirement (75%+), IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 88+
The Bachelor of Nursing (Collaborative Program) is a unique initiative among nursing programs in Canada, designed to integrate academic excellence with practical experience. Offered in partnership with colleges and healthcare institutions,the curriculum includes microbiology, nursing ethics, community health, geriatric nursing, acute care nursing, and maternity & pediatric nursing, ensuring graduates are fully prepared for diverse nursing roles. Graduates often work as Registered Nurses (RNs) in various healthcare settings, including public health, acute care, and home care. As one of the most versatile nursing programs in Canada, it ensures high employability with starting salaries ranging from CAD 60,000 to 75,000 annually.
7. Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing
Best Universities for Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing : University of Toronto, University of Alberta, University of Ottawa
Tuition Fees: CAD 18,000–25,000 per year
Students Enrolled: Over 5,000 international students annually
Duration of Program: 1 year
Eligibility: BScN degree, 2–3 years of clinical experience, IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+
The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing is tailored to help international students upskill and gain expertise in nursing in Canada. The coursework includes clinical decision-making, nursing research, health informatics, advanced patient care, and interprofessional collaboration, preparing graduates for higher-level roles in healthcare institutions. Graduates are well-prepared for roles like Nurse Educator and Advanced Clinical Nurse, with salaries ranging from CAD 70,000 to 90,000 annually. Recognized as a leading option among nursing programs in Canada, this diploma equips you with the knowledge and credentials needed to thrive in Canada’s healthcare system.
8. Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Best Universities for ABSN: McMaster University, University of Calgary, Western University
Tuition Fees: CAD 20,000–30,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 4,000 students
Duration of Program: 2 years
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, GPA requirement (3.0+), IELTS 7.0+ / TOEFL 92+
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a dynamic option among nursing programs in Canada, specifically designed for individuals with a prior undergraduate degree who are looking to switch to a career in nursing. Key subjects covered include advanced anatomy & physiology, pharmacokinetics, clinical nursing practice, emergency & trauma nursing, and cardiac & respiratory care, enabling students to handle high-pressure healthcare environments. Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as Critical Care Nurse and Rehabilitation Nurse, with starting salaries ranging from CAD 70,000 to 85,000 annually. As one of the most efficient nursing courses in Canada, the ABSN program provides the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in high-demand healthcare roles. Need more information about universities? Check out the best and cheapest universities in Canada.
9. Master of Nursing (MN)
Best Universities for MN: University of Toronto, University of Alberta, University of Ottawa
Tuition Fees: CAD 22,000–35,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 3,000 students
Duration of Program: 2 years
Eligibility: BScN degree, 2+ years of clinical experience, GPA 3.0+, IELTS 7.0+ / TOEFL 92+
The Master of Nursing (MN) program is a prestigious choice among nursing programs in Canada, tailored for students aiming to take on leadership and administrative roles in healthcare. This advanced degree emphasizes healthcare policy, administration, and strategic decision-making, providing students with the expertise to influence and improve healthcare systems.Graduates often pursue roles such as Nurse Administrator or Policy Advisor, with average salaries ranging from CAD 85,000 to 120,000 annually. Recognized as one of the most impactful nursing courses in Canada, the MN equips you with the tools to lead and innovate in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.
10. Diploma in Health Care Assistance
Best Universities for Diploma in Health Care Assistance: Vancouver Community College, University of the Fraser Valley, Camosun College
Tuition Fees: CAD 8,000–12,000 per year
Students Enrolled: 5,000 students
Duration of Program: 1 year
Eligibility: High school diploma, IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+
The Diploma in Health Care Assistance is a practical entry-level option among nursing programs in Canada, aimed at students who want to begin their careers in healthcare quickly. This one-year program focuses on personal care assistance and equips you with the skills to support patients in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community settings. Coursework includes patient assistance, medical terminology, nutrition & dietetics, communication in healthcare, and safe medication practices, ensuring graduates are prepared for essential caregiving roles. Graduates can pursue roles such as Healthcare Assistant or Nursing Support Worker, with starting salaries ranging from CAD 40,000 to 50,000 annually. This diploma is an excellent way to begin your journey in nursing training in Canada, offering both valuable skills and rewarding job prospects in the healthcare industry.
Best Nursing Colleges in Canada
Canada boasts several prestigious institutions offering top-tier nursing programs that combine rigorous academics with practical experience. Below is a curated list of some of the leading nursing colleges in Canada, along with their QS World University Rankings, annual tuition fees, and potential salary prospects for graduates:
Best Nursing Colleges in Canada
| University | QS World University Ranking | Annual Tuition Fees Range (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | #26 | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| McGill University | #27 | $22,000 – $45,000 |
| University of British Columbia | #46 | $9,000 – $40,000 |
| University of Alberta | #126 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| McMaster University | #140 | $8,000 – $60,000 |
Career Prospects After Completing Nursing Programs in Canada
Pursuing a nursing program in Canada opens the door to a diverse array of career opportunities across various healthcare settings. Depending on the level of education and specialization, graduates can explore roles that align with their interests and expertise. Below is a table outlining potential career paths corresponding to different nursing qualifications:
Frequently Asked Questions
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