Bow Valley College welcomes Government of Alberta seat expansion for internationally trained nurses

Update: Details about who qualifies and how to apply.

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Bow Valley College is proud to partner with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Ministry of Health to offer an additional 120 seats in its Practical Nurse Diploma program to internationally educated nurses (IENs).The expansion of the program and bursary will help realize the dreams of talented healthcare professionals who choose to make Alberta their home.

“Boosting the number of seats for nurses with foreign credentials is recognition that they have the knowledge and skills. They need a pathway to bridge those attributes to practice in Alberta,” says Michael Crowe, Vice President, Academic, Bow Valley College. “This support will help remove barriers for students who want to embark on that journey and get to the frontlines of a rewarding career.”

Increasing 120 seats will create opportunities for waitlisted IEN students at Bow Valley College.

“This is a program that is in-demand, with job prospects in an in-demand field,” says Janet Yorke, Dean of Health and Wellness, Bow Valley College. “Providing them quality training to practice the professional standards of Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta will help support nursing shortages.”

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According to the Ministry of Advanced Education, any IEN students living in Alberta who are enroled in Bow Valley College’s approved bridging program can apply for the bursary. Available in the 2023 – 2024 academic year, the support provided to students will be determined based on their program, tuition costs, and licensing and program fees.

“Empowering students to concentrate on their studies with fewer financial pressures such as tuition and other living expenses will be life-changing,” says Crowe. “We look forward to working with the Ministry to get these capable nurses into the labour market and begin their career in Alberta.”

The Ministry of Advanced Education says its IEN funding will see eligible students access up to $30,000 over five years. The minimum amount for eligible IENs is approximately $8,000. The bursary requires recipients to complete a year of nursing in Alberta for every $6,000 disbursed.

Learn more about Bow Valley College’s Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses.

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