Best Nursing Programs in Canada
Nursing is a calling, but your education matters. Why settle for anything but the best nursing programs in the country?
Imagine where your career could take you with the right training. The knowledge, the opportunities, the real changes in your patients’ lives.
Good nursing programs have a ripple effect. Their nursing grads go on to become the top nurses in the country – the ones that go far in their careers, win accolades and are loved by all their patients.
Here’s GrantMe’s list of Canada’s best nursing programs so you can start planning ahead!
Is There a “Best” Nursing Program?
Your patients each have their own needs and preferences, and you should see your choice of nursing school in the same way. It should check the right boxes for you.
In this sense, there really is no "best" nursing program because what’s right for you might not work for someone else. We’re lucky to have some of the world’s best nursing programs in Canada, but with so many options, it can be hard to choose.
Does province matter to you?
Do you want to be in a city or explore the territories in?
Do you require financial aid?
Do you want to work in an emergency room or a psych ward?
How do you learn best?
If you put in the legwork and commit to doing your research, the right choice should become clear in no time!
GrantMe is here to help! Take our program assessment quiz and see if you’re eligible to get assistance from our top education consultants in choosing and securing funding for your top choice of nursing programs.
5 Best Nursing Programs in Canada
With so many great programs in Canada, pinning down the top ones is no easy task.
Luckily Maclean's 2024 Nursing Program University Rankings gives us a starting-off point.
They rank the programs based on a fairly even mix of:
- Student success rates
- Faculty
- Resources
- Student support
- Overall reputation
Overall, it gives a pretty good indication of overall quality. But remember, they’re only taking objective data into consideration. There are definitely other subjective factors you’ll want to consider when weighing your options.
Let’s break down our top picks for Canada’s best overall nursing programs.
#1 University of Alberta
Our top pick is the University of Alberta. It jumped up to the #1 spot in the Maclean’s rankings this year, and for good reason.
Top quality research facilities, community initiatives, cutting-edge nursing practices. It’s got it all.
You can read all about it in our UofA Nursing breakdown, but here are a few reasons why we’re fans of the program:
- Offers bilingual teaching
- Collaborates with health science programs
- Focuses on real-life experience
- Gives you access to state-of-the-art simulation labs
- Offers unique clinical placement options
#2 University of British Columbia
The accelerated nursing program at the University of British Columbia is number two on the list.
With an NCLEX pass rate in the high nineties, this nursing program consistently produces nurses who make a difference in Canada’s health care system.
You’lll get to work with and learn from faculty members who are recognized for their groundbreaking and dedicated work in the nursing space. The program emphasizes hands-on clinical training and leadership development, both of which give you a job market boost.
UBC has international respect for its cutting-edge contributions in the nursing space—and you get to be a part of that.
#3 University of Toronto
The Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing program at the University of Toronto is one of the top ten nursing programs in the world, and it’s popular for a reason. Nursing is constantly evolving, but UofT has faculty members and facilities that train nurses to be at the forefront of the exciting changes.
Nursing is so much more than “book learning,” and the 11-week continuous integrative clinical practicum gives you all the hands-on learning you need to succeed.
In fact, the UofT nursing program has produced some of the country’s best nurses, and boasts a 96% graduation rate and a 93% employment rate.
#4 McGill University
McGill University offers five programs, using the McGill teaching hospitals and local community health centers. The Ingram School of Nursing uses Strengths-Based Nursing. This holistic, empowering approach uses the patient's strengths to help with innate healing.
The program addresses the complex issues in contemporary nursing by using a nontraditional curriculum that focuses on teaching students how to interact with patients and families.
McGill offers first-year students the unique opportunity to experience clinical studies and the option of a five-week international clinical placement.
#5 McMaster University
The McMaster University nursing program is one of the best, with a 95.5 percent employment rate and a unique learning model. Using problem-based learning, students have the unique opportunity to experience scenarios they solve with hands-on experience.
Professional Clinical Practice starts in year two through local healthcare and community agencies. In their final year, students can also apply for a 12-week Canadian or international clinical placement. The preceptorship programs then help students transition from student to nurse.
McMaster University not only offers a top-notch nursing program but also has a vibrant student life, so you get the best of both worlds.
How to Make a Holistic Decision
[Add image of student drawing a Venn diagram on chalkboard]
Ignore the rankings for a second and zoom out. Where do you envision yourself studying?
Ask yourself questions like:
- Will this set me up for success in the field I'm excited about? The best program for you should offer hands-on experience and courses that match your vision for your career.
- Can they help me connect with the movers and shakers in my field? Great programs have strong networks and connections that can open doors for you.
- Do I picture myself happy living in the city for a few years? Location matters big time for your happiness levels. Don’t purely choose out of convenience.
- Will I feel supported? Nursing is a holistic practice.. Make sure the program supports your overall development as a person.
It can be a smart idea to go for an in-person tour to see the campus environment firsthand. You’ll get a feel for the classrooms, laboratories, simulation centers and libraries.
But if you’re unable to visit, many universities will offer virtual tours.
You can also keep an eye out for consultations and open days, which also allow you to get a feel for the school and ask questions.
Nursing Programs Admissions Requirements
Each university nursing program has their own unique admission requirements, so make sure you start prepping well in advance.
Academic Requirements
You must complete high school with a C average and subjects including Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
The Canadian Nurses Association recommends completing an undergraduate Baccalaureate degree.
CASper Test
Some nursing programs require prospective students to take the CASper Test, an online test that assesses non-academic competencies and interpersonal characteristics such as professionalism, communication, collaboration, ethics, and empathy.
In the McGill nursing program, for instance, your CASper score counts for 20 percent of your pre-interview score.
Check University Requirements
Each university has unique admission cycles and requirements, so be sure to stay on top of things.
For example, the University of Toronto doesn’t require references or a CASper test score. Your application is reviewed holistically and not by weighted components.
You will, however, need to complete two years of university with 75 percent or a 3.0/4.0 GPA to get into the UofT nursing program.
Do your research to ensure you submit everything required on time. GrantMe can help!
Write a Statement of Purpose
Many nursing programs have done away with admission interviews, so your application becomes even more important.
A statement of purpose is like a written interview. It should:
- Be clear and compelling
- Explain your background and why you’ve chosen to pursue nursing
- Detail why you’re applying to the specific program
- Lay out the qualities that make you a good candidate
- Be 100% tailored to the school's guidelines (no spraying and praying!)
- List your volunteer experience
We recommend you take GrantMe’s program assessment quiz to see if you’re eligible to have our team of experts help you craft a winning statement of purpose.
Hands-On Volunteer Experience
Volunteering can show your commitment to serving others and give you hands-on experience in diverse community health settings.
You can volunteer as a nursing assistant, work at a hospice, help with disaster relief, or engage in a community service project.
Volunteering isn’t just about padding your program application – it will help you see first hand if nursing really is the career you want.
Financing Your Nursing Dream
Nursing programs are not cheap, but luckily there are numerous scholarship opportunities available in Canada.
For instance:
- The Nurse Practitioner Bursary sponsored by the Northern Alberta Development Council ($10,500 per year for up to three years)
- Opterus Helen Rose STEM Award ($10,000).
- The Butler-Hashagen Health Education Fund ($2000), Elain Whitford Scholarship Fund ($1000), and Jonas Konge Memorial Fund ($2500) all support students from the Northwest Territories
You can find more scholarship information by visiting:
Find Support and Take Action
Choosing a nursing program is more than just picking a school – it's the first step on an incredible journey. A journey where you'll make lifelong friendships, learn from brilliant mentors, and most importantly, touch the lives of countless patients.
The right program unlocks your full potential, not just as a nurse, but as a force for good in the world. So dive in, visit some campuses, and find your perfect program to launch your successful nursing career.
GrantMe’s here to support you in your search and decision-making. Take our eligibility quiz to learn how we can help!
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