Frequently Asked Questions

General

1. Why Nursing?

If you become a Registered Nurse - you will join the ranks of nearly 40,000 professional men and women in British Columbia and more than 275,000 professional nurses across Canada.

“There has never been a better time to become a nurse. There is a global shortage of nurses. In B.C. we could lose half of the nurses who are currently practicing to retirement within ten years. Nurses in leadership positions will be the ones most likely to retire, as 45% of them will be over age 60 by 2011. This means there will be many leadership opportunities and likely rapid advancements for nurses, especially those with advanced education.”

To learn more about nursing careers click on the following two links:

Canadian Nurses Association

College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia

British Columbia Nurses Union

Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions

2. Why Study at VIU?

Classes are small (i.e. generally between 36 - 72)
Excellent teachers with current practice skills
A multitude of practice agencies in acute care and community provide health care practice experiences
The cost of living in Nanaimo is considerably lower than in Victoria or the lower BC mainland.
Our Nanaimo campus on Vancouver Island is spectacular. The University is set on a hill overlooking the Strait of Georgia and the mainland mountains. Beautiful scenery, Japanese gardens, student housing and the Nanaimo Art Gallery are noteworthy features.
Our mild winters and sunny summers make Vancouver Island a highly desirable place to live.
Beautiful waterfront and green parklands offer endless opportunities for kayaking, sailing, hiking, beachcombing, sightseeing, island exploration and recreation

3. What are the costs of tuition, books and supplies?

Tuition is based on the number of semester credit hours that you are taking. To calculate the fees, view the number of credits here and then calculate the fees by going to fee Category V.

Textbooks: $800 – $1,200 in Year 1 and 2
$500 – $700 in Year 3 and 4

Supplies: Uniforms and shoes approximately $300 initial outlay
Stethoscope approximately $125
Miscellaneous $200/year (e.g., nametags & year in BSN program)

4. What other expenses will I incur while I am taking this program?

Practice experiences may require travel to Duncan, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Parksville, and Ladysmith. You will need to provide your own transportation to these practice sites. At times, there are opportunities for travel internationally - in this case, travel, accommodation and other related costs are the student’s responsibility. As well, printing costs for assigned readings,reading packages for courses, and costs for incidentals such as coffee/snacks. Many of the learners find having their own desktop or laptop computer beneficial.

5. Does this program qualify for a student loan?

Yes. Each semester of full time study is 15 or more credits. For information on student loans, click here: Financial Aid and Awards

6. Does this program prepare me for a certificate with any other agencies?

When you graduate from the program, you are eligible to write licensure exams and apply for licensure with the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC). This license enables you to call yourself a Registered Nurse in the Province of British Columbia. You will also be eligible for licensure in other provinces and territories in Canada, however, you will need to contact each provincial College of Nursing for details.

7. Does this program ladder into any other university or college?

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Vancouver Island University is part of a consortium of 9 post-secondary institutions in British Columbia and the Northwest Territories that offer the same nursing curriculum. This consortium is known as the Collaboration for Academic Education in Nursing (CAEN). It is possible to transfer between institutions. However, students should be aware of institutional residency requirements; as well, seat availability at other institutions varies. For more information about the CAEN partnership, click on the link:

CAEN

It is possible to transfer between institutions. However, students should be aware of institutional residency requirements as well as seat availability at other institutions varies.

8. What can I expect during nursing practice courses and consolidated practice experiences?

During the four year program there are opportunities to practice your nursing skills in a variety of settings. There will be times during your practice experiences and consolidated practice experiences when you will be expected to work varying hours or shift work. For example, some practice courses start as early as 7:00 in the morning. Nurses typically work 12 hour shifts (days and nights) and there will be times when you will be expected to work these shifts.

Employment Outcomes

1. What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program are qualified to work as Registered Nurses (after successful completion of licensure examinations - see the next question) in a wide variety of settings including: hospitals, multi-level care facilities, community agencies (home care, public health), psychiatric/mental health settings, as well as government.

2. Are there any other exams or courses I need to take before I can work as a Registered Nurse, upon graduation from this program?

Completing the BSN program qualifies you to write the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE)licensure exam needed for the title of Registered Nurse. Successful completion of the CRNE is required to legally use the title of Registered Nurse. This examination is a common exam across the country, except in the Province of Quebec.

3. Is further education necessary in order for me to enter the job market?

No. However, some graduates choose to continue with their education by entering certificate programs for nursing specialties (e.g. critical care, peri-natal, operating room) or a Masters degree in Nursing.

4. What are the starting wages a graduate can expect?

Approximately $27/hr. To learn more click here for the British Columbia Nurses Union homepage.

5. Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field?

Currently, there is shortage of nurses across Canada and throughout the world. There are some job opportunities on Vancouver Island and in the Nanaimo/Duncan/Port Alberni area, however recently these positions have become more competitive. There are job opportunities in most areas of the provinces and across Canada, if you wish to travel.

6. Do men find the same employment opportunities as women in the field of nursing?

Yes

7. On average, what percentage of the class successfully completes the program?

85-90%, although not all complete in four years. Some students leave the program for various reasons. Most students return later to successfully complete the program. Bachelor of Science in Nursing students must complete their degree requirements within seven years.

8. On average, what percentages of graduates get employment in the field?

Currently all graduates who seek employment, find work. Students may be able to apply for the "New Graduate Transition Program" with a British Columbia Health Authority. This program offers temporary full-time work upon graduation.

9. Where can I find work when I finish the program?

Canadian nurses are valued and able to work in many countries. We regularly receive correspondence from our graduates, letting us know of their employment all over the world. Writing the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE) after program completion provides a license to work within Canada , except Quebec.

Program Format

1. What is the average class size?

Class size is generally 36 students, although there will the occasional class when the enrolment will be 72.

2. What is a typical weekly schedule?

There are from 15 to 27 hours of class and practice per week. Each week includes 3 - 4 classes and 1 - 2 days per week of practice. During practice experiences students work hours similar to those of Registered Nurses; shift work beginning at 0700 hrs is the norm. However, students should also be prepared to work evenings and night shifts as well as weekends. Practice hours vary depending upon the year of the program. Nursing practice courses will be finalized during the first week of classes.

At the end of each academic year, students must complete a 4- to 8-week consolidated practice placement. Generally, this entails 4-5 days/week of nursing practice, some of which will be days, nights and weekends.

3. How many days of the week would I be going to school?

Students are in classes or nursing practice 5 days per week. The program runs for 10 months of the year, with 2 months vacation. There are 2 four-month semesters, and 1 two-month semester each year. This 10-month period of school also impacts the amount of employment that students are able to manage during the year.

4. Would I be going to school in Nanaimo or in other locations?

Classes are on the Nanaimo campus. Practice locations range from Duncan to Port Alberni, to Qualicum and Parksville.

There are times when our students are able to travel to international locations for their courses. These opportunities are determined by our BSN Curriculum Committee. Information on various international opportunies may be viewed by clicking on: Study Abroad | Vancouver Island University (VIU)

5. How much homework should I expect as a full-time student?

Students tell us they study between 4-6 hours per day. This may increase slightly when assignments are due. Students should expect about 6-9 hours per week of study or class preparation for every 3 credit course.

6. I have a learning disability. Will I be able to take this program?

Students with learning disabilities should contact Student Services. Students with disabilities have successfully completed this program.

Certain skills and abilities are required to succeed in the nursing field. These skills and abilities are described on the CRNBC website. Please read the CRNBC Requisite Skills and Abilities to determine if nursing is the right choice for you. Click on: Requisite Skills and Abilities

7. Can I work while taking the BSN program?

Many students do maintain employment while going to post secondary schools. Students tell us that the workload within the program is heavy and it is hard to keep a job, particularly around evaluation/end of term. As well, working limits the amount of time you can give to your studies; that in turn may affect your marks, and your ability to progress in the program. Obviously, individual needs determine your ability to work and go to school.

8. Can I access this program on a part-time basis?

The program is currently not available part-time.

9. Are courses available in the evening or on weekends?

In some semesters, courses are scheduled during the evening. BSN courses are not scheduled on the weekends at this time. Practice courses at the end of the academic year, however, are scheduled over the weekend.

10. Does this program offer Prior Learning Assessment?

Yes, for selected courses. VIU’s Policy 91.02 addresses Prior Learning Assessment. Click here to view the policy.

11. Is co-op available in this program?

Co-op is not available.

12. What happens if I have to leave the program before it is completed - can I come back and continue my education?

Students admitted to the program are guaranteed a full time seat for each of the 4 years. When a student leaves, another person may take that seat - and so the original student no longer has a guaranteed seat. Students that leave the program must apply to the Chair of the BSN program to re-enter.

13. Although I want to take the program in Nanaimo, I may have to move to another location in a year or two. What are my options to continue my education?

Most post secondary educational institutions have requirements around transferring and the completion of degrees. This information determines the type and the number of credits needed for degree completion. The student is responsible for contacting the BSN program at the institution they wish to transfer to. The receiving institution will determine transfer credits and options.

Admissions

1. How many students are admitted into the program each intake?

There are 72 students admitted to the program in September.

2. What are my chances of getting into the BSN program?

Currently, students apply for admission after having met the admission requirements. Admission to the program depends on a combination of factors: how complete your application is; when you applied, the grades in the prerequisite courses and your Personal Profile. On occasion there are spaces available at the last minute. If you qualify for admission, you may be contacted. Please remember to keep your contact information current on your student record (phone/e-mail/postal address).

3. What are the prerequisites to get into the BSN program?

There are different prerequisites for each separate entry option (Option A, or Option B; option B is not offered at the present time). Please click here for more information.

4. Should I apply for the program if I do not have all the pre-requisites?

You can apply according to the dates of application listed within the calendar, but your application will not be considered until you provide proof of completion of the pre-requisites to the Admissions Department.

5. If I don’t get accepted into the program this year may I apply again?

Yes. If you are qualified to enter but did not get in, you may re-apply for the following year.

6. I have worked in the health care field before. Do I still have to take the whole program?

There are special access mechanisms for people with previous education and experience. For more information about this process, contact the Advising Center and review the the information about recognition of prior learning.

7. If I am not admitted into the program this year, may I take any classes that will give me credit in the program?

Yes. You will need to make application to VIU and submit a separate application for a BA or BSC program. You then register to take the two required English courses, two electives (any university transferable course) and BIOL 156/157 or equivlalent. (Seats in Biol 156/157 may become once the reserves for nursing students are removed at the beginning of the semester.) Some of the courses are also available in an online format.

8. What is the average age of students entering the programs?

There are students entering the program who range in age from 18 to 45 years.

9. What can I do to increase my chances of getting into this program?

For Option A: One area in which you can influence your chances is with your GPA (Grade Point Average). GPA is calculated on the admissions pre-requisite courses (Minimum "C+" in each of Chemistry 11, Biology 12, English 12, and a minimum "C+" in one of Principles of Math 11, Foundations of Math 12, Pre–Calculus 11; or equivalents). As well, experience in helping, caring and leadership roles demonstrates personal suitability for the nursing profession and will enrich your Personal Profile.

For Option B (not currently offered): Must be a Registered Nurse in the Province of British Columbia.

10. When will I hear if I have been accepted?

Applicants are usually informed of admission decisions in late Spring (April/May). Some seats may be offered conditionally based on successful completion of your pre-requisites. You will receive a letter from Admissions/Registration letting you know the decision. If you have been accepted/conditionally accepted, you will be instructed to pay a tuition deposit (commitment fee) by a certain date to hold your seat.

Faculty of Health and Human Services

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Employment Outcomes

Program Format

Admissions

General

Employment Outcomes

Program Format

Admissions