Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses

What to expect from the program

This two-year diploma program is designed to train internationally educated nurses to achieve academic and professional success. Language training instructors and practical nurse instructors will help you acquire the nursing knowledge, clinical judgement, and communication skills needed to become a practical nurse in Canada.

Collaborative classes, labs, workshops, and innovative learning strategies are designed to target specific student needs to prepare you for practicum, writing the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam, and future career success.

Students are more likely to be successful in this program if they:

• are physically and emotionally able to manage workplace demands
• have access to a vehicle to travel to complete their clinical practice
• have access to a computer and Internet, and basic computer skills
• are able to demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour

Refer to the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta website for more information about becoming a licensed practical nurse.

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity.

You’ll graduate this program with 465 hours of work experience from three practicums.

Clinical placements

You will work full-time during the practicum and provide your own transportation to the facility.

• The instructor-led clinical placement (NPRT 1001) will occur in the Edmonton area for a four-week rotation. Your schedule may include days or evenings on weekdays.
• Your preceptored clinical placement (NPRT 2006 and NPRT 2007 ) may be arranged in or close to your community. Your schedule may include day, evening, or night shifts any day of the week, including weekends and holidays.

Prior Learning Assessment Recognition

NorQuest provides Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) for students in this program. Have your skills and knowledge in nursing assessed and, if successful, gain credits without having to take courses in full. PLAR allows you to save money and time as you complete the Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses.

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Career opportunities

Graduates can pursue a career in a variety of health care settings, including, but not limited to; acute care hospitals, continuing care centres, community care settings, client homes, clinics, or doctors’ offices.  

For more information on related careers see:

• ALIS OCCinfo occupational profiles
• ALIS WAGEinfo salary info

What to expect as a practical nurse

Applicants should assess their ability to fulfill the demands of the practical nurse occupation.

As a practical nurse, you must be able to:

• work shifts and weekends
• be on your feet for extended periods of time
• use your knees, back, and arms to move clients who have minimal body strength
• provide care to support people of various diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual preferences, and socio-economic status
• function effectively in stressful situations
• perform all skills independently