RN Bridging/Re-entry Program
Length:
- Blended design (60% study, 40% work): 10 months
Delivery
- Independent, online learning with live classroom sessions
- In-person labs and simulation sessions in Halifax
- Clinical placement
See Course Details for more information.
Dates
- Spring: March 20, 2023–December 29, 2023
- Summer: June 19, 2023–March 29, 2024
- Winter: December 18, 2023–October 4, 2024
See Plan of Study details for more information about program structure.
Registration Deadlines
- Winter: November 17, 2023
New: Employment and Sponsorship
Nova Scotia Health is offering a stream of sponsorship for RN Bridging/Re-Entry that includes employment. If you are interested in learning more, please complete the Nova Scotia International Community of Healthcare Workers Engagement Survey. Learn more about support for Internationally Educated Health Care Professionals at Nova Scotia Health.
Overview
The RN Bridging/Re-Entry Program is an entry-level educational program designed to review current nursing practice. The program is offered to people who have been educated as nurses who want to:
- Re-enter nursing practice by ensuring currency in knowledge and skills
- Begin nursing practice in Canada after nursing in another country
- Meet licensure requirements by completing courses as identified by regulatory body
If you were educated in nursing outside of Canada, this program can help smooth your transition through comprehensive education on Canadian nursing practice and help prepare you for success in taking the NCLEX-RN exam. The program identifies the differences between previous nursing experience and Canadian nursing practice and helps to meet the educational and practical gaps by focusing on the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected in Canada.
If you were educated in Canada, and referred by the provincial regulator, this program can help prepare you for success in re-entering the practice environment.
Requirements
- Confirmation of eligibility and a referral from your provincial RN regulator
- Demonstrated proof of residency in the province where you are seeking to be licensed
Referral and Proof of Residency
Apply for eligibility through your provincial regulator:
After we receive your referral and application, we will need proof of residency. You will need to provide one of the following:
- Photo ID issued by provincial government
- Government-issued health card
- Residential lease/property deed to a residence or property in Nova Scotia
- Utility bill with your name and address
- Letter from provincial government/court (marriage license, divorce, government aid)
- Provincial driver’s license/learner’s permit
Cost
Full program (10 courses):
- Tuition: approximately $3,750
- Textbooks: approximately $550
Individual program costs might vary depending on how many courses you are referred for by the regulator. See Course Details for costs for each course.
Some other costs to consider include:
- Transportation and accommodation (if required) for multi-day on-site learning activities and clinical experiences.
- Parking for on-site learning activities at the Bethune Building on the VG site. Parking in the VG parking lot is $14.50 CAD per day. Most streets around the VG have metered parking, but it can be hard to find a spot.
- Immunizations and health screening for clinical courses may have a cost if you do not have medical coverage.
- Clinical courses are unpaid and require appropriate nursing uniforms and footwear. The instructor-led clinical is full time. It is recommended that you do not work at external jobs during this course. You will need to ensure you have this time off from your employer.
- Meals are not included in any program activities.