Become a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN)
Combined delivery (online theory, in-person labs and clinical, and regional practicums in your community)
120 weeks | Starts: Spring & Fall
$41.42-$72.39/hour (BCNU April 2024)
British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
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About the Career
Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) care for those with mental illness, physical and developmental disabilities, and addictions. RPNs also promote optimal mental health across community and health care settings. They possess specialized skills in psychiatric patient assessments, determining patient needs, offering therapeutic support and expert counselling, and implementing treatment plans. They must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to be effective as primary nurses and be capable of extending compassion, empathy and diplomacy.
Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) provide nursing care to patients, clients and those in long-term care. Our Regional Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing is the mental health nursing equivalent to a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (Registered Nurse program).
Where You'll Work
Health Authorities – Hospitals and Community Agencies
Mental Health and Addiction/Recovery Programs
Forensic Service Departments
Prisons and Penitentiaries
Inpatient and Community Services
Group Homes and Clubhouses
Not-for-Profit Organizations
Nursing Education Programs
Schools
The Program
Stenberg College's Regional Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing is the mental health nursing equivalent to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This comprehensive 120-week program combines online theory, in-person labs and clinical practice, with regional practicums completed in your home community.
Our program is approved by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) and prepares you for the Regulatory Exam – Psychiatric Nurse (REx-PN). With an overwhelming demand for RPNs throughout BC, particularly outside large urban centres, you'll have excellent career opportunities upon graduation.
Key Program Info
- 💻 Delivery: Combined delivery (online theory, in-person labs and clinical, and regional practicums in your community)
- ⏱️ Duration: 120 weeks
- 📅 Starts: Spring & Fall
- 💰 Wages: $41.42-$72.39/hour (BCNU April 2024)
- 🏛️ Regulated by: British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
- 🎓 Articulation (Credit Transfer): Stenberg Psychiatric Nursing graduates are granted transfer credits to Athabasca University, and Douglas College
Special Access for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
LPNs are encouraged to apply and may be eligible for advanced standing in the program, resulting in fewer courses and reduced tuition. Seniority earned in your health authority as an LPN will continue when you become an RPN.
Articulation (Credit Transfer)
Athabasca University – Stenberg Psychiatric Nursing graduates are eligible for advanced entry to Athabasca University's Bachelor of Science Post Diploma with a major in Math, Human Science or Computing Information Systems.
Douglas College – Douglas College's Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing (BSPN) grants advanced entry (PLAR) to Stenberg Psychiatric Nursing graduates.
Accreditation and Recognition
Stenberg College is designated by the BC government's Ministry of Advanced Education through the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU). This program is approved by the PTIRU of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. PTIRU is responsible for setting standards of quality and ensuring consumer protection. Stenberg College has also received the BC government's Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, which is BC's brand or "seal" of quality post-secondary education for public and private institutions.
Stories from our grads