Diplomas

Practical Nursing

2 Intakes
2 Locations

Overview

Practical Nursing is a two-year diploma program brokered from Saskatchewan Polytechnic and offered at the Melfort and Yorkton campuses. 

Melfort program

  • start February 2027
  • application window October 1 2025 - April 30 2026

Yorkton program 

  • start February 2028
  • application window October 1 2026 - April 30 2027

The program is a sequential 6-semester program allowing the concepts from the first semester to be built on in subsequent semesters to become Licensed Practical Nurses. In just two years, we’ll help you develop into a competent, confident nurse capable of making a positive difference in the health and well-being of individuals, their families, and our communities. 
 

You’ll study:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Foundations of health
  • Pharmacology
  • Health Assessment through the lifespan
  • Medical and surgical care
  • Obstetrics and pediatrics
  • Mental health and addictions
  • Community
  • Sociology

Courses are delivered through a variety of instructional methods such as seminars, observational experiences, pre- and post-clinical conferences, small group presentations, lectures, demonstrations, role-playing, storytelling, discussion, reflective thinking, and writing and simulation lab experiences.

The focus of each semester is as follows:

Semester 1Health Promotion/Illness Prevention
Semester 2Rehabilitative and Supportive Care
Semester 3Restorative and Curative Care
Semester 4Acute Medical and Surgical Care
Semester 5Acute Medical Surgical Care/Maternal-Child Health/Community
Semester 6Transition from Student to Graduate

The Government of Saskatchewan provides incentives and bursaries for various health care programs, please see Incentives for Health Care Professionals | Health Human Resources | Government of Saskatchewan for more details.

Admission Requirements

Application Deadline for the Practical Nursing Diploma is April 30 2026.

This is a Competitive Entry program.  Competitive entry or high-demand programs have an application window.  Applicants must provide all necessary documentation - Transcripts and English Language Proficiency - before the application deadline. After the deadline all complete application are assessed and scores calculated.  When competitive scores are calculated, students are ranked and offered seats in order of their ranking. 

If you have admissions questions email [email protected]

Practical Nursing Admission Requirements

  • Grade 12 with a minimum overall score of 65% in the following four subjects:

    • 30-level English Language Arts

    • Foundations of Math 30 OR Pre-Calculus 30 OR Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30*

    • one of Biology 30, Chemistry 30 or Physics 30

    • one of Social Studies 30, History 30 or Native Studies 30

  • English Language Proficiency

Click on the tab below, to learn more on the additional requirements upon acceptance to the program.

Immunization Record

Current immunization information must be submitted prior to the clinical portion of the program starting. You may require further immunization. All costs associated with vaccines are the responsibility of the student.

Professional Assault Response Training (PART®) © Intermediate certification

Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of PART® Intermediate certification upon admission to the program. PART® certification is valid for 3 years from the date of completion. Recertification may be required during your studies.

Transferring Lifting Repositioning (TLR®) 

Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of Transferring, Lifting and Repositioning (TLR®) © certification upon admission to the program. TLR® certification is valid for 3 years from the date of completion. Recertification may be required during your studies.

WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) Certification

Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of WHMIS certification upon admission to the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current.

Standard First Aid

Proof of current Standard First Aid and Heart and Stroke Foundation CPR is required prior to entry into the clinical practicum. The required course for CPR is Basic Life Support – Health Care Provider (BLS-HCP).

Criminal Record Check

Criminal record checks are required and must include a vulnerable sector check. It is at the discretion of the health region whether a student with a criminal record will be allowed to participate in clinical components. All costs associated with the criminal record check are the responsibility of the student. Criminal record checks must be dated July 1 or later of the current program year.

At the discretion of the clinical agency, you may be declined access to a clinical placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search. The cost of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search is your responsibility.

Food Safe Level 1 Certification

Food Safe Level 1 Certification prior to entry into the clinical practicum. Students are responsible for the costs of these certificates.

Mask Fit - 2 sizes

Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of current N95 respirator mask fit testing prior to start of clinical practicum as directed by the program. Mask Testing is recommended to be updated annually, however, it is mandatory to be updated every 2 years. If expiry date occurs within the program delivery date, student must re-submit proof of testing that has a validity covering the duration of the program. 

Requisite Skills and Abilities 

Applicants should have the Requisite Skills and Abilities (pdf) to become a Licensed Practical Nurse in Canada.


2 Intake Options Available

Winter 2027 Full-Time
Melfort
Winter 2028 Full-Time
Yorkton

Melfort

Full-Time
Winter 2027
Application Deadline April 30, 2026
Start Date February 2027
End Date September 2026
Length 76 Weeks
Program Capacity 14
Domestic Tuition $20,000.00

Additional Fees

Tuition and Fees
 

*Tuition (total)
 
$16,000.00
*Fees (per year)
 
$700.00
*Health & Dental Fee
(per year)
$252.00

*Note: Tuition, Books and Supplies, Health and Dental amounts are approximate, based on last year's program and may change at anytime.

Courses



Sem 1
Sem 2
Sem 3
Sem 4
Sem 5
Sem 6
Sem 1
Sem 2
Sem 3
Sem 4
Sem 5
Sem 6

You will demonstrate, at an introductory level, the assessments and skills associated with the care of adult and geriatric patients. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities to practice your skills and abilities for patients in long term care environments. You will apply the nursing process and principles of patient teaching and practice documentation.

Credit Units: 10.00

Course Hours: 150.00

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will explore the concept of self in relation to others. You will illustrate the role of caring in the practice of nursing and begin to develop reflective practice and critical thinking skills. You will demonstrate principles of verbal and non-verbal professional communication and explore the professional image of nursing.
 

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will discuss the metaparadigm of nursing in the context of nursing theories and philosophies. You will describe health determinants, primary health care and health care delivery in Canada. You will discuss law and ethics as they pertain to the nursing profession. You will describe critical thinking and apply key elements of patient safety. You will describe the concepts of culture and ethnicity with a focus on Indigenous and other predominant cultures in Saskatchewan.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will begin to apply critical thinking skills, explaining the physiological and psychological health changes of the ageing adult. With guidance, you will apply the nursing process and describe evidence informed practice related to the ageing adult patient. You will describe specific health variations using a systems approach and recognize health promotion strategies in gerontological care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will identify Canadian medication systems, medication classifications and names. You will identify the principles and nursing responsibilities for competent medication calculation and administration. You will demonstrate evidenced informed care and knowledge of medication actions, differentiating medication actions and effects in the body, and examining strategies for safe administration. Your theoretical learning will focus on vitamins, complementary medications, antihistamines and drugs affecting the gastrointestinal system.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will practice assessments and skills associated with rehabilitative and supportive care. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities for assessment and care of adults with chronic health challenges. You will demonstrate the concepts of patient safety, critical thinking, and evidence informed practice in the delivery of patient care and teaching.

Credit Units: 9.00

Course Hours: 135.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will describe mental health concepts, legal and ethical considerations, and social stigmas related to mental health disorders. You will examine the role of nursing in relation to mental health and describe evidence informed nursing practice for patients and their families. You will promote mental health for patients and their families using the metaparadigm of nursing, demonstrating critical thinking and inquiry in your application of the nursing process. You will examine specific mental health disorders and examine strategies to promote safety in the context of mental health.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine therapeutic relationships with an emphasis on caring, advocacy, diversity, and managing ethical dilemmas. You will examine trends and issues in Canadian nursing practice and identify the scope of professional practice for the practical nurse.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine variations in health and common chronic conditions diagnosed in the adult population. You will apply knowledge of anatomy and pathophysiology to explore health challenges affecting body systems. You will examine the diagnostic findings, nursing interventions and treatments associated with specific health challenges. With guidance, you will apply the nursing process, promote safety, and apply critical thinking and evidence informed practice to deliver holistic nursing care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will demonstrate skills and abilities required for medication administration to pediatric and adult populations. You will prepare and administer medications through enteral, percutaneous and parenteral routes. You will examine medication classifications for the cardiovascular, endocrine, immune, and central nervous and autonomic nervous systems, and demonstrate evidenced informed practice in applying principles of safe medication administration.

Credit Units: 4.00

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will apply your knowledge and skills related to holistic nursing care of patients. Your experiential learning will focus on rehabilitative and supportive care for patients experiencing a variety of health challenges. With faculty guidance, you will demonstrate the principles of health teaching and perform complete and focused health assessments. You will demonstrate professional behaviour and practice collaborative relationships with patients and the interprofessional team to deliver safe, competent, and ethical patient care.

Credit Units: 8.00

Course Hours: 120.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

Using your sociological imagination, you will examine how to practice sociology, and learn about the importance of culture, socialization, and the family. You will discuss social inequality in Canada, as well as explore the concepts of social control and deviance. Your studies will also include issues related to the power of mass media, the dualism of sex and gender, and race and ethnicity. You will have an opportunity to examine collective behavior, social movements, social change, and globalization.
 

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning Print Distance Group Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will apply knowledge and skills associated with curative and restorative care and perform focused health assessments. Your experiential learning will include organizing care for adult patients with acute health challenges in the context of medical and surgical environments. You will plan patient-centred care, prepare patient teaching, and apply concepts of patient safety and critical thinking supported by your use of evidence informed practice.

Credit Units: 13.00

Course Hours: 195.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will examine the professional roles, ethical responsibilities and relationships of the practical nurse. You will explore nursing standards of practice, and concepts of professional development and reflective practice in the context of life-long learning. You will analyse conflict resolution in relation to personal and professional relationships, and examine nursing informatics and skills for professional employment.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine substance abuse and the physiological and psychological risks related to addiction. You will describe the processes of withdrawal and detoxification and examine the principles and application of the harm reduction model. You will examine addictions treatment models and describe the challenges of addictions treatment for patients with concurrent disorders. You will apply critical thinking and inquiry throughout the nursing process in addictions care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine the concepts of holistic nursing care related to acute variations in health for the adult patient. You will interpret laboratory and diagnostic findings in the context of acute health challenges. You will interdependently use the nursing process to deliver competent care; applying concepts of safety, critical thinking, and evidence informed practice. You will compare specific surgical treatments and apply concepts related to preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative nursing care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will explore the cultural diversity of Canadian society. You will discuss immigration trends, cultural values and the implications to the provision of health services. Cultural safety in healthcare and the role of the health care professional will be discussed in context.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will perform assessments and skills with increasing proficiency for adult patients requiring curative and restorative medical and surgical care. You will plan holistic nursing care supported by evidence informed practice and critical thinking. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and skills related to maternal, newborn and pediatric patients. You will examine medical emergencies and plan care with increased interdependence in collaboration with the health care team.

Credit Units: 15.00

Course Hours: 225.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will examine the role of the practical nurse in the context of patient care in the community with a focus on Indigenous health. You will examine the health promotion model and apply the determinants of health through experiential learning with community agencies. You will examine the leadership role of the practical nurse and prepare for the transition from the role of student to that of a graduate practitioner. You will examine interprofessional collaboration and apply critical thinking and inquiry in the context of community health nursing.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine the complex nursing care of patients with multi-system challenges and medical emergencies. You will plan ethical and competent holistic nursing care related to acute variations in health. You will apply concepts of safety critical thinking, and evidence informed practice in the delivery of patient care.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine foundational assessments in the context of maternal, newborn and pediatric patient populations. You will identify growth and development milestones from newborn to adolescence with a focus on family-centred care. You will apply critical thinking and inquiry to examine common medical, surgical, nutritional, and mental health issues common in childhood and adolescents. You will examine health promotion, teaching and safety of these populations in a variety of contexts.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will demonstrate skills and abilities required to safely prepare and administer medications through the intravenous route. You will interpret diagnostic tests and provide evidence informed patient care related to medication administration. You will recognize medications used in emergency patient care and examine traditional and alternative medications. You will identify the purpose and schedule for specific immunizations and plan patient teaching related to medication administration.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will plan safe, competent patient care working in partnership with a licensed practical nurse. You will manage patient care with increased interdependence and confidence, demonstrating enhanced organization, decision-making, and critical thinking abilities. You will examine the leadership role of the practical nurse in the context of the health care team. You will examine the value of reflective practice in relation to lifelong learning. You will establish collaborative relationships, using professional communication, and demonstrate respect for diversity and ethical practice.

Credit Units: 11.00

Course Hours: 165.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

Yorkton

Full-Time
Winter 2028
Start Date February 22, 2027
End Date February 16, 2029
Length 76 Weeks
Program Capacity 14
Domestic Tuition $20,000.00

Additional Fees

Tuition and Fees

*Tuition
$15,000.00
*Student Fee
$100.00
*Health & Dental Fee
$252.00
*Lab/Shop Fee$400.00
*Tech Fee$100.00

*Printing Fee

$400.00

*Note: Tuition, Books and Supplies, Health and Dental, etc amounts are approximate, based on last year's program and may change at anytime.

Courses



Sem 1
Sem 2
Sem 3
Sem 4
Sem 5
Sem 6
Sem 1
Sem 2
Sem 3
Sem 4
Sem 5
Sem 6

You will demonstrate, at an introductory level, the assessments and skills associated with the care of adult and geriatric patients. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities to practice your skills and abilities for patients in long term care environments. You will apply the nursing process and principles of patient teaching and practice documentation.

Credit Units: 10.00

Course Hours: 150.00

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will explore the concept of self in relation to others. You will illustrate the role of caring in the practice of nursing and begin to develop reflective practice and critical thinking skills. You will demonstrate principles of verbal and non-verbal professional communication and explore the professional image of nursing.
 

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will discuss the metaparadigm of nursing in the context of nursing theories and philosophies. You will describe health determinants, primary health care and health care delivery in Canada. You will discuss law and ethics as they pertain to the nursing profession. You will describe critical thinking and apply key elements of patient safety. You will describe the concepts of culture and ethnicity with a focus on Indigenous and other predominant cultures in Saskatchewan.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will begin to apply critical thinking skills, explaining the physiological and psychological health changes of the ageing adult. With guidance, you will apply the nursing process and describe evidence informed practice related to the ageing adult patient. You will describe specific health variations using a systems approach and recognize health promotion strategies in gerontological care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will identify Canadian medication systems, medication classifications and names. You will identify the principles and nursing responsibilities for competent medication calculation and administration. You will demonstrate evidenced informed care and knowledge of medication actions, differentiating medication actions and effects in the body, and examining strategies for safe administration. Your theoretical learning will focus on vitamins, complementary medications, antihistamines and drugs affecting the gastrointestinal system.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will practice assessments and skills associated with rehabilitative and supportive care. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities for assessment and care of adults with chronic health challenges. You will demonstrate the concepts of patient safety, critical thinking, and evidence informed practice in the delivery of patient care and teaching.

Credit Units: 9.00

Course Hours: 135.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will describe mental health concepts, legal and ethical considerations, and social stigmas related to mental health disorders. You will examine the role of nursing in relation to mental health and describe evidence informed nursing practice for patients and their families. You will promote mental health for patients and their families using the metaparadigm of nursing, demonstrating critical thinking and inquiry in your application of the nursing process. You will examine specific mental health disorders and examine strategies to promote safety in the context of mental health.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine therapeutic relationships with an emphasis on caring, advocacy, diversity, and managing ethical dilemmas. You will examine trends and issues in Canadian nursing practice and identify the scope of professional practice for the practical nurse.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine variations in health and common chronic conditions diagnosed in the adult population. You will apply knowledge of anatomy and pathophysiology to explore health challenges affecting body systems. You will examine the diagnostic findings, nursing interventions and treatments associated with specific health challenges. With guidance, you will apply the nursing process, promote safety, and apply critical thinking and evidence informed practice to deliver holistic nursing care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will demonstrate skills and abilities required for medication administration to pediatric and adult populations. You will prepare and administer medications through enteral, percutaneous and parenteral routes. You will examine medication classifications for the cardiovascular, endocrine, immune, and central nervous and autonomic nervous systems, and demonstrate evidenced informed practice in applying principles of safe medication administration.

Credit Units: 4.00

Course Hours: 60.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will apply your knowledge and skills related to holistic nursing care of patients. Your experiential learning will focus on rehabilitative and supportive care for patients experiencing a variety of health challenges. With faculty guidance, you will demonstrate the principles of health teaching and perform complete and focused health assessments. You will demonstrate professional behaviour and practice collaborative relationships with patients and the interprofessional team to deliver safe, competent, and ethical patient care.

Credit Units: 8.00

Course Hours: 120.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

Using your sociological imagination, you will examine how to practice sociology, and learn about the importance of culture, socialization, and the family. You will discuss social inequality in Canada, as well as explore the concepts of social control and deviance. Your studies will also include issues related to the power of mass media, the dualism of sex and gender, and race and ethnicity. You will have an opportunity to examine collective behavior, social movements, social change, and globalization.
 

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory Prior Learning Print Distance Group Web Assisted Delivery Group

You will apply knowledge and skills associated with curative and restorative care and perform focused health assessments. Your experiential learning will include organizing care for adult patients with acute health challenges in the context of medical and surgical environments. You will plan patient-centred care, prepare patient teaching, and apply concepts of patient safety and critical thinking supported by your use of evidence informed practice.

Credit Units: 13.00

Course Hours: 195.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will examine the professional roles, ethical responsibilities and relationships of the practical nurse. You will explore nursing standards of practice, and concepts of professional development and reflective practice in the context of life-long learning. You will analyse conflict resolution in relation to personal and professional relationships, and examine nursing informatics and skills for professional employment.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine substance abuse and the physiological and psychological risks related to addiction. You will describe the processes of withdrawal and detoxification and examine the principles and application of the harm reduction model. You will examine addictions treatment models and describe the challenges of addictions treatment for patients with concurrent disorders. You will apply critical thinking and inquiry throughout the nursing process in addictions care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine the concepts of holistic nursing care related to acute variations in health for the adult patient. You will interpret laboratory and diagnostic findings in the context of acute health challenges. You will interdependently use the nursing process to deliver competent care; applying concepts of safety, critical thinking, and evidence informed practice. You will compare specific surgical treatments and apply concepts related to preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative nursing care.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will explore the cultural diversity of Canadian society. You will discuss immigration trends, cultural values and the implications to the provision of health services. Cultural safety in healthcare and the role of the health care professional will be discussed in context.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will perform assessments and skills with increasing proficiency for adult patients requiring curative and restorative medical and surgical care. You will plan holistic nursing care supported by evidence informed practice and critical thinking. Your experiential learning will provide opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and skills related to maternal, newborn and pediatric patients. You will examine medical emergencies and plan care with increased interdependence in collaboration with the health care team.

Credit Units: 15.00

Course Hours: 225.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

You will examine the role of the practical nurse in the context of patient care in the community with a focus on Indigenous health. You will examine the health promotion model and apply the determinants of health through experiential learning with community agencies. You will examine the leadership role of the practical nurse and prepare for the transition from the role of student to that of a graduate practitioner. You will examine interprofessional collaboration and apply critical thinking and inquiry in the context of community health nursing.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will examine the complex nursing care of patients with multi-system challenges and medical emergencies. You will plan ethical and competent holistic nursing care related to acute variations in health. You will apply concepts of safety critical thinking, and evidence informed practice in the delivery of patient care.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will examine foundational assessments in the context of maternal, newborn and pediatric patient populations. You will identify growth and development milestones from newborn to adolescence with a focus on family-centred care. You will apply critical thinking and inquiry to examine common medical, surgical, nutritional, and mental health issues common in childhood and adolescents. You will examine health promotion, teaching and safety of these populations in a variety of contexts.

Credit Units: 3.00

Course Hours: 45.00

Prerequisite(s)

Equivalent Course(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Theory

You will demonstrate skills and abilities required to safely prepare and administer medications through the intravenous route. You will interpret diagnostic tests and provide evidence informed patient care related to medication administration. You will recognize medications used in emergency patient care and examine traditional and alternative medications. You will identify the purpose and schedule for specific immunizations and plan patient teaching related to medication administration.

Credit Units: 2.00

Course Hours: 30.00

Prerequisite(s)

Corequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Online Lecture/Lab

You will plan safe, competent patient care working in partnership with a licensed practical nurse. You will manage patient care with increased interdependence and confidence, demonstrating enhanced organization, decision-making, and critical thinking abilities. You will examine the leadership role of the practical nurse in the context of the health care team. You will examine the value of reflective practice in relation to lifelong learning. You will establish collaborative relationships, using professional communication, and demonstrate respect for diversity and ethical practice.

Credit Units: 11.00

Course Hours: 165.00

Prerequisite(s)

Potential Learning Methods

Clinical/Practicum

Training for the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

Health & Human Services

Our Health and Human Services area brings a full gamut of health programming to an every growing and demanding sector in our province. The portfolio of training along with expert and engaged instructors provide training that is second to none.

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Saskatchewan Polytechnic

College partners with credit granting institutions like Saskatchewan Polytechnic. These partnerships allow us to offer a greater number of recognized courses closer to where you are.

About

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves students through applied learning opportunities on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis. Learning takes place at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

Multiple locations mean we can deliver closer to where you are

Apply to your closest campus

Competitive

Admission Method

The competitive admissions process is used for programs where the number of qualified applicants regularly exceeds the number of spaces available. In competitive programs, higher admission requirements and/or additional selection criteria may be required. The application period for this program is October 1 to June 1, each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by June 1. See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

The competitive score is calculated from the final marks in high school courses required for admission to the program. The high school competitive score will be compared to any grade point score(s) (UGPA) presented for a minimum of 15 passed post-secondary credit units to a maximum of 30 of the most recent credit units from recognized post-secondary institutions – and the highest score will be considered for the applicant’s competitive score. Such applicants must be in good academic standing with the institution. Applicants are then ranked in the order of the highest score.


The competitive score is calculated from the final marks provided by March 1. Conditional admission may be granted on this basis. Current high school students must order transcripts to be sent directly to Saskatchewan Polytechnic at the end of Semester 1 and the end of Semester 2 of the grade 12 year. The final grade 12 mark will be used when the course is completed. The final grade 11 mark will be used only in the absence of the grade 12 mark in the same subject.


Suncrest College

Why Study Here?

Students who attend Suncrest College can expect smaller class sizes and an easier transition. At Suncrest College students typically receive more one-on-one time with instructors. Our staff will know your name not just your student number.

10

Percent

Higher Averages When Compared to Larger Class Sizes

#

More

You are more than just a number, we know you by name

$

Spend Less

Learn where you live, spend less on the extras

Career Options

Employment opportunities for licensed practical nurses are excellent. Most LPNs work in acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, medical centres and long-term care facilities.

Choose an area that interests you – gerontology, maternal-child, medical, mental health, palliative, pediatric, rehabilitation or surgical nursing.

You also can pursue a career in a community setting: a nursing clinic, home care agency, private nursing agency, community health centre or physician’s office. Note: Saskatchewan Polytechnic Practical Nursing graduates enjoy national reciprocity, which means you can work in any province in Canada or the Northwest Territories. Our graduates have also found jobs in the United States and overseas.

NOC ClassificationEarning Potential
Licensed Practical Nurses (3233)$68,700 - $77,800

The best thing about College is the location and small class sizes. The instructors are awesome and if you need extra resources they are available.

I would recommend the College because it opens door to a better career and life.

Deidra Missens

Continuing Care Assistant

I chose College because of the convenience and availability for the program I needed. The best things about the College are the scholarship opportunities and ability to work one-on-one.

I would recommend the College because of the knowledgeable, helpful instructors and staff.

Angela Koroluk

Practical Nursing

Get credit for what you know

Do you have prior education, work experience and/or job training that relates to your program area? If so, you could be eligible for credit that reduces your study time and cost. Credit can also be applied from your Sask Polytech program to another institution.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.


Frequently Asked

As a student in the Practical Nursing program, you will gain skills in providing nursing care to individuals of all ages under the expert guidance of our faculty.

The curriculum is based on principles of primary health care.

This program also stands out because it is nationally recognized and provides relevant content that prepares graduates to work in a variety of practice environments.


The focus of each semester is as follows:

Semester 1
An introduction to the concepts of health promotion and illness prevention with a clinical focus on the older adult.

Semester 2
Rehabilitative/supportive care and the concepts of mental health with a clinical focus on individuals with chronic health challenges.

Semester 3
Theoretical and clinical experiences associated with curative/restorative care in the acute care setting and the concepts of perinatal nursing, child and adolescent nursing.

Semester 4
The transition from student to graduate practical nurse with an additional focus on the nursing of Aboriginal people.

Each semester contains a clinical experience that will help you put theory into practice.


The program is based on a sequential four semester approach to course offerings. The courses are organized into streams that flow across each semester. They are designed to meet diverse learning styles.

Instructional methods include seminars, observational experiences, pre and post-clinical conferences, small group presentations, lectures, demonstrations, role-playing, storytelling, discussion, reflective thinking and writing, and simulation lab experiences.

Opportunities for critical reflection about a caring based practice, development of employability skills and understanding the role and scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse (LPN) are blended into the program’s learning activities.

The clinical practice courses are integrative in nature and, as such, the evaluation of your performance in the clinical setting involves evaluating the application of the theoretical concepts learned in all the other courses in the care of clients. This is what ultimately determines your progress toward achieving the competencies of the beginning practical nurse.


Courses are typically scheduled on-campus Monday through Friday 0830-1530. However, there may be occasional classes/labs that start earlier or end later than these times.

Clinical experiences commence at a variety of times depending on the specific clinical experience, (e.g. some shifts may begin as early as 6:30 a.m.). Clinical and practicum shifts may vary and could include days, evening, nights or weekend experiences. The length of clinical and practicum shifts may vary as well including eight, ten and twelve hour shifts.


The Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN) is responsible for the approval of the Practical Nursing program. The approval criterion ensures that graduates meet the standards and competencies for practice as set forth by SALPN.


A licensed practical nurse provides professional nursing care for individuals across the lifespan within the context of family and community. A registered nurse, who also provides nursing care for individuals, focuses on broader health promotion and illness prevention aspects of care for individuals, families, groups and communities.


Employment opportunities are excellent and reflect current and projected critical shortages of licensed practical nurses.

There is national reciprocity of Sask Polytech graduates so you will be able to work in any province in Canada or in the Northwest Territories. Graduates have also accepted positions in the United States and overseas.


While it depends on the place of employment, historically, licensed practical nurses work a combination of days, evenings and/or night shifts that are eight or twelve hours long.


Yes, your clinical practice experience will occur in settings in which you will provide direct client care. For the protection of clients, the program requires that each student provide the results of a Criminal Record Check, including vulnerable sector query and fingerprinting if required as part of the program registration process.

Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check upon admission into the program. Additional Criminal Record Checks may be required by specific clinical agencies. At the discretion of a health region or clinical agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. Any cost associated with the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.


Prior to commencement of the Practical Nursing program, you are required to have certification for CPR Health Care Provider “C” – AED and Standard First Aid. On the first day, please provide proof of certification to the program. Failure to do so will result in exclusion from clinical experiences and discontinuation from the program. According to program policy the CPR Health Care Provider “C” – AED certificate is valid for two years from date of issue and a Standard First Aid Certificate is valid for three years from date of issue.


Students in the Practical Nursing program are required to be certified in TLR in order to participate in clinical experiences. Proof of TLR certification must be provided at the beginning of the program. Failure to do so will result in exclusion from clinical experiences and discontinuation from the program.

Students coming into the program who have previously been certified in TLR need to ensure it has been recertified within one year prior to commencing the program.


Accepted applicants are required to provide current immunization records and meet Saskatchewan Polytechnic immunization requirements prior to entry into clinical/practicum experiences. More detailed information regarding immunization requirements will be provided in your welcome package and during program orientation.


You may take APHY 162 & APHY 262 as a part time evening student at College. Selected courses from this program are available through continuing education with Sask Polytechnic, prior to being enrolled as a student in the full-time program. These courses are: APHY 162, APHY 262, SOCI 160, SOCI 260 and SOCI 261. For more information on these course offerings, please refer to the Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s website for more details.


No, we do not have an accelerated option to complete the program.


Yes, selected courses from this program are available through continuing education distance learning (home study and online) as an unclassified student prior to enrolling in the full-time program. You will need to meet the program entrance requirements, submit an application, and be selected from the qualified candidates.



Yes. Applicants must provide evidence of completing a minimum of two (2) years of full-time study in English in Canada or submit English Language Proficiency results from IELTS or the CELBAN (CELBAN only an option if an internationally educated nurse).

IELTS: must meet the minimum in each component in addition to meeting an overall of 7.

Writing7
Speaking7
Listening7.5
Reading6.5

CELBAN (only an option if an internationally educated nurse)

Writing7
Speaking

8

Listening10
Reading8

Letters of acceptance are sent out after the application period has ended. This typically would occur by the middle of April.


Information on purchasing textbooks and course manuals will be provided when you register. Material is available for purchase online, by phone, or in person.


Six Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN) bursaries are presented annually to students eligible for graduation and who have overall achievement in the Practical Nursing program including academic and clinical performance, interaction with clients and family in the clinical setting, leadership skills and community or school involvement.

College counsellors can provide information regarding additional funding opportunities for Practical Nursing students.


Yes, in order to become licensed, following completion of the program, graduates write a Canadian Practical Nursing Registration Exam (CPNRE).


The Practical Nursing program is not a step towards becoming a registered nurse; however, if program graduates want to pursue further education in the discipline of nursing, credit options may be available. Sask Polytech and the University of Regina are offering the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (SCBScN). Transfer credit is available for Practical Nursing graduates wishing to pursue the SCBScN program.


Upon graduation, you will receive a diploma in Practical Nursing.


Need more Information?

Contact the Health & Human Services Department