Group of nursing students with gloves on their hands and wearing scrubs working in the simulation lab Group of nursing students with gloves on their hands and wearing scrubs working in the simulation lab

School of Health

Ensure Continuity of Care for Your Career

The Practical Nursing program gives students the critical thinking skills needed to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). They will learn how to evaluate patient progress, interact with other professionals and deliver nursing care to clients and their families in various settings. Through clinical placements, students link theory with practice to gain valuable experience in the health care environment. Graduates of the program are eligible to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE).

This program is approved by the Education Standards Advisory Committee with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA).

Get the Green Light for Admission

To be considered for admission, you must meet specific criteria, including course requirements, minimum marks, and language proficiencies.
 

Admission Requirements

Take a Peek at What's in Store

Get a taste for learning by reviewing a few of the required courses.

This course introduces the foundations of professional nursing, nursing practice, nursing roles, and ethical practice within the Canadian healthcare system. Students will explore their identities as learners and future nurses, reflecting on personal values, beliefs, and experiences that shape their approach to nursing. The course also fosters resilience, self-management, and strategies for professional growth.

All Course Information

Students will develop proper anatomical and physiological terminology. Instruction of cellular biology and physiology will progress into an understanding of organization of cell into tissues, organs and body systems. A working knowledge of body systems will include basic components and functions, gross anatomical features, common abnormalities, interactions with other systems, surgical and diagnostic imaging considerations and location and/or palpation in live animals or cadavers. The student will learn the names, location and function of important anatomical structures in common domestic animal species with an emphasis on the application of practical anatomical knowledge required for mastery of subsequent courses in medical and surgical nursing, x-ray technology, etc.

All Course Information

This course covers aspects of Pharmacology, which relate specifically to the hospital unit clerk. Course topics include: pharmacology vocabulary, routes of medication administration and measurement, and the twenty-four hour clock. The course content will focus on major drug groups and how they affect the various body systems, generic and trade names of common medications, and the classifications in which they belong. Along with unit clerk students, this course would also be beneficial to currently employed unit clerks, or those seeking employment in health related areas.

All Course Information

Kickstart a Career in Healthcare

A licensed practical nurse cares for individuals, families, and groups in various healthcare settings. They may practice independently or as part of a healthcare team.

Map out your career path. Our knowledgeable Academic Advising team can help you get started and bring your goals into focus.

Connect Today

Amanda Merrier, Health Care Aid posing in the Health Education Centre
"I was a little apprehensive, but I found funding, had great support from all the NWP staff, and I just jumped in."
Karen Oostra, Nursing instructor posing in the Health Education Centre
"When a student says ‘Karen teaches us to think like a nurse’, that’s a great compliment because it means they’re ready for what the job will throw at them"
Image of Madison Lovsin, NWP instructor
"Orientating new nurses was something I really enjoyed doing. It got me thinking that teaching would be worth pursuing one day."
Teresa Evans, Nursing instructor around a table with students
"By the end of our program, students learn how to think critically, how to ask questions, and communicate effectively in a team environment."
Studying and doing practicums in the same community as you work in has been so helpful.

NWPeople

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