Top Nursing Program in Canada for Students in 2025

April 9, 2025

SPS Canada

Nursing has become one of the most vital roles in the healthcare field, and Canada is considered one of the top destinations for international students pursuing nursing studies. If you’re planning to study nursing in Canada, this comprehensive guide is for you.

Lets take a Deeper look into the course and how can you start with it

Why Study Nursing in Canada?
There are several compelling reasons to choose Canada for your nursing education.

Practical Learning Opportunities
Canada’s healthcare system offers nursing students extensive hands-on training across diverse medical settings.

Work Opportunities After Graduation
With a post-graduation work permit, you can gain valuable professional experience in Canada after completing your studies.

Globally Recognized Qualifications
Nursing degrees from Canadian institutions are accredited by respected organizations and recognized around the world.

High Demand and Competitive Salaries
Canada’s growing elderly population and rising healthcare needs have led to a strong demand for nurses, offering attractive salaries and benefits.

Pathway to Permanent Residency
Graduates who work in Canada can gain the required experience to become eligible for permanent residency.

Top Universities Offering Nursing Programs in Canada

Canada is home to approximately 67 universities that offer nursing programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Impressively, 18 of these institutions are featured in the QS World University Rankings. Below are the top 10 universities in Canada renowned for their nursing programs:

• University of Toronto
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia
• McMaster University
• Université de Montréal
• Western University
• University of Calgary
• Queen’s University at Kingston
• University of Ottawa
• Dalhousie University

Nursing Courses in Canada for International Students

• Nursing colleges in Canada offer a wide range of programs with various specializations across all academic levels.

Undergraduate Level:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Graduate Level:

• Master of Applied Science in Nursing (MASc)
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Graduate Certificate Programs
• Graduate Diploma Programs

Doctoral Level:

• PhD in Nursing (awarded after completing a doctoral program)

Specializations Offered:

• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Practical Nursing
• Critical Care Nursing
• Community Mental Health
• Nursing Administration
• General Nursing
• Global Health
• Mental Health Nursing Practitioner
• Midwifery

Types of Nursing Programs in Canada

Canada offers various types of nursing programs, each with its own focus and duration:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4 years)
  A foundational undergraduate degree that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical training.

• Master of Science in Nursing (2 years)
  A graduate program designed for advanced clinical practice, healthcare leadership, specialization areas, and research development.

• Diploma in Practical Nursing (1–2 years)
  This program equips students with essential nursing skills through practical training and simulations. Graduates are eligible to become licensed practical nurses (LPN) after passing the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (4–6 years)
  The highest level of academic achievement in nursing, ideal for those committed to research and improving healthcare practices at both individual and systemic levels.

Eligibility Criteria for BSc Nursing in Canada

International students must meet certain basic requirements to enroll in a bachelor’s program in nursing. These include:

• Completion of 12th-grade education with a minimum of 65%.

• Some universities require English, mathematics, or science subjects in high school, depending on the program.

• Successful completion of the CASPer Test (Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics).

• Proof of English language proficiency:

1. IELTS with an overall band score of 6.5, or
2. TOEFL with a minimum score of 80.

Nursing Course Duration and Fees in Canada

International students can pursue a BSc Nursing degree in Canada after completing their 12th grade. The duration of the program varies based on the type of course. A regular BSc Nursing program typically takes four years to complete, while an accelerated program allows students to finish their degree in just two years, offering a faster route into the nursing profession.

The tuition fees for international students range from 52,000 CAD to 169,000 CAD, depending on the institution and program. For Indian students, this translates to approximately ₹28,99,471 to ₹94,23,281. It’s important to check with individual universities for exact fee structures and available financial aid options.

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