Practical Nursing
Combined delivery (includes online, in-class, face-to-face labs & clinical practice)
Start: February, June & October
76 weeks, including 23 weeks of hands-on clinical experience
$32.84-$46.40/hour (BCNU April 2024)
British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
About the Career
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
The British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives provides the following definition of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): "LPNs are health care professionals. Most work as frontline nurses caring for a wide range of clients at all stages of life. LPNs provide nursing services ranging from health promotion, to acute care, to long-term and palliative care.
LPNs work in collaboration with other members of the health care team. Their education and practice — while rooted in the same body of knowledge as other nurses — focuses on foundational competencies within the LPN scope of practice and standards." – bccnm.ca
What is the difference between a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Practical Nurse?
The British Columbia Ministry of Health explains:
"Both RNs and LPNs work autonomously within their professional scope of practice and level of competence, and as part of a collaborative team, to support safe, competent and ethical care for patients, families, and communities. Although both RNs and LPNs take similarly titled foundation courses, there is a difference in both the depth and breadth of knowledge covered, in the competencies developed, and expectations for clinical practice.
LPNs care for individuals at all life stages, with a focus on stable or predictable states of health. In specific settings, LPNs may be able to care for those with more complex care needs if they have additional education and/or training and/or supervision. As RNs have more comprehensive education, they have a more in-depth and broader knowledge base to draw upon in areas such as clinical practice, advanced clinical decision-making, and utilization of health research. RNs can provide care for any type of individual including those with complex, unstable or unpredictable conditions." – pcnbc.ca
Scholarships
We are excited to announce the following scholarships for the upcoming start of our Practical Nursing Diploma program.
Recent Secondary School Grads Scholarship*
Individuals who graduated from high school within 12 months of the upcoming program start may be eligible for a Practical Nursing scholarship.
Health Care Assistant Scholarship*
Registered Health Care Assistants may be eligible for a Practical Nursing scholarship for the upcoming program start.
General Practical Nursing Scholarship*
All applicants are eligible for a Practical Nursing scholarship for the June 2026 program start.
*Conditions apply.
Potential Employers
After graduating from our 76-week Practical Nursing diploma program, you will find employment in:
Public hospitals
Long-term care facilities
Public health facilities like veterans' hospitals
Centres for individuals with developmental disabilities
Mental health facilities
Home care and home support agencies
Assisted living facilities
Hospice care facilities
About the Program
Our Practical Nursing program follows the B.C. provincial curriculum and is approved by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).
Stenberg's Practical Nursing program is delivered in a combined instructor-led synchronous online and lab sessions paralleled by guided, interactive independent online learning sessions. In addition, students receive 23 weeks of hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art nursing labs and clinical placements.
You will be taught by working Nurse Educators who are committed to your success. The curriculum focuses on the competencies that are required to successfully complete the Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse (REx-PN), previously the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE). There are 79 entry-level competencies, organized into five categories: 1) professional practice, 2) legal practice, 3) ethical practice, 4) foundations of practice, and 5) collaborative practice. To learn more about the entry-level competencies of LPNs, click here. To learn more about the requisite skills and abilities of LPNs, click here.
This program includes the following certifications: Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, Red Cross Workplace SFA/CPR-HCP-AED, FOODSAFE Level 1, and Provincial Violence Prevention Certification.
After term two, you will be registered as a Health Care Assistant by the B.C. Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry. This will allow you to work in extended care facilities while completing your studies.
Related Programs
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.
Admission Requirements
- Grade 12 graduation, or equivalent (General Educational Development, Adult Basic Education), or mature student status as defined by the educational institution (19years of age or older)
- Math 11 Foundations with a minimum grade of 60% or equivalent such as:Math 11 Principles, Pre-calculus or Applications with a minimum grade of 60%
- English 12 with a minimum grade of 65% or English First Peoples 12 with a minimum grade of 65% or equivalent such as:Acceptable score in one of the approved BCCNM tests as noted aboveCommunications 12 with a minimum grade of BAccuplacer: Reading 240, Writing 240 and WritePlacer 4CLBPT: No component less than 7Duolingo overall score of 115 and no component less than 95
- Anatomy and Physiology 12 or Biology 12 with a minimum grade of 60%.
- Completion of Stenberg College Entrance Informational Interview
- Successful completion of the Online Computer Skills Entrance Test
- Completion of Criminal Record Consent Form under the Criminal Record Review Act
Stenberg College applicants may write challenge exams or take upgrading courses to meet admission requirements for Math 11, English 12 and A&P/Bio 12. Stenberg College Practical Nursing program applicants may write challenge exams or take upgrading courses to meet academic admission requirements for Math 11, English 12 and A&P/Bio 12 which must be passed with the above-noted minimum grades. Any post-secondary level Math, English or Anatomy & Physiology courses are also acceptable.
*Evidence may be demonstrated by providing a high school transcript, completion of a provincial Adult Graduation program, permanent student record, GED, or by providing international education credentials confirming medium of instruction in English as recognized through WES, ICES, or IQAS. Alternatively, where 3 years of post-secondary education are being determined based on credits, it is expected that the student has taken studies with a minimum of 18 credits per academic year and/or indicates completion of a minimum of 54 credits in total. For those with a BC High School Transcript issued prior to the 2004 graduation program, and only reflecting completion of Grades 11 and 12, an English Language Attestation form can be completed to confirm completion of 3 years of full-time instruction in English.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic version with minimum scores of: Speaking 7, Listening 7, Reading 6.5, Writing 6.5, and Overall Band Score 7
- Canadian English Language Benchmarks Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN) with minimum scores of: Speaking 8, Listening 9, Reading 8, Writing 7.
Additional note
The Practical Nursing program is not eligible for Canada's Post-Graduate Work Permit Program.
Student Diversity
Stenberg supports diversity in our student population, and we hold one seat per program for a self-identified Indigenous applicant who meets admission requirements. If the seat remains unfilled at 12 weeks prior to the program start, the seat will be released and offered to other qualified applicants.
Program Courses
Orientation and Student Success Skills
This course will provide a comprehensive orientation to Stenberg College and your Practical Nursing Program. As with all new things, there will be some challenges and excitement; this course covers student success skills where you'll learn effective study habits (specifically improving reading skills) based on your own personal learning style. Life skills exercises are also integral to the course, teaching accountability, teamwork, self-awareness and building an understanding of the impact you have on others. In addition, you will be taught how to effectively navigate and learn within the program's hybrid model using the online learning platform (Moodle).
Anatomy & Physiology I
This course will cover body systems and sense organs. Teaching about each system will include: an overview of that system's general function; system parts, their specific function and location; relationship with other systems; and common pathologies including lab and diagnostic tests, signs and symptoms and prognosis of those pathologies. This course also explores various health promotion strategies that work towards optimal function of these system.
Clinical Prerequisite Certifications
This course includes all the certification workshops that you will be required to complete related to the essential industry-related training and certifications that are mandatory before you may begin your Practice Education. Among these are the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System, Red Cross Workplace SFA/CPR-HCP-AED, FOODSAFE Level 1, and Provincial Violence Prevention Certification.
Professional Practice I
This theory course provides an introduction to the profession of Practical Nursing. Legislation that informs PN practice within British Columbia will be introduced. The history of nursing and, specifically, the evolution of Practical Nursing within the Canadian Health Care system will be discussed. The philosophy and foundational concepts of the Provincial Practical Nursing Program are explored.
Professional Communication I
This course provides you with the foundational knowledge for caring and professional communication in nursing. It uses an experiential and self-reflective approach to develop self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills in the context of safe, competent, and collaborative nursing practice. Communication theory, the nurse-client relationship, therapeutic communication, cross-cultural communication, and effective teamwork will be covered.
Health Promotion I
Health promotion by definition includes: health enhancement, health protection, disease prevention, health restoration/recovery, care, and support. Health promotion is the process of enabling people, individually and collectively, to increase control over the determinants of health and thereby improve their health, it represents a comprehensive social and political process. (WHO, 2021). This course introduces you to the concepts of health promotion, discusses the determinants of health, health inequities and develops a beginning knowledge of normal growth and development.
Pharmacology I
This introductory course examines the principles of pharmacology required to administer medications in a safe and professional manner. Medication administration requires the application of the nursing process for clinical decision-making. Various routes of medication administration are introduced and complementary, Indigenous, alternative remedies, and polypharmacy across the lifespan are also explored.
Variations in Health I
This introductory course provides you with the foundations of disease and illness across the lifespan. You will gain an understanding of pathophysiological alterations of body systems. Nursing management of disease and illness across the lifespan with an emphasis on interventions and treatment is also discussed. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored, as well as the incorporation of evidence-informed practice.
Integrated Nursing Practice I
This course emphasizes the art and science of nursing, focusing on the development of basic nursing care and assessment. You will apply nursing knowledge through the practice of clinical decision making, nursing assessment skills, and nursing interventions aimed at the promotion of health, independence, and comfort. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will assist you to integrate theory from other Level One courses.
Consolidated Practice Experience I
This first clinical experience provides you with an opportunity to integrate theory from Level One coursework into practice. You will gain experience in various settings with a focus on the healthy client. Learning the role of the Practical Nurse, personal care skills, organization of care, focused assessment, beginning medication administration and professional communication are emphasized in this course. Prior to going out on your first consolidated practice experience, you will participate in a simulated lab where you will sharpen your critical thinking and decision making skills in a controlled environment.
Professional Practice II
This course examines the legislation influencing PN practice with clients experiencing chronic illness and those in residential care settings. Specific professional issues such as responsibility, accountability, ethical practice, and leadership relevant to the PN role in residential care will be explored. Critical thinking and decision making specific to the care of the chronically ill and inter-professional practice will also be addressed.
Professional Communication II
This course provides you with an opportunity to develop professional communication skills with the older adult, and clients requiring end of life care. Interprofessional communication is further developed.
Health Promotion II
This course focuses on health promotion as it relates to the aging process. Health promotion activities are aimed at supporting clients in maintaining their health. The concepts of health promotion, physical and mental wellness, normal aging changes and continued independence are examined.
Pharmacology II
This course builds on Pharmacology 1 to increase your understanding of pharmacotherapeutics prescribed for illness across the lifespan.
Variations in Health II
This course will increase your understanding of pathophysiology as it relates to the aging process and selected chronic illness. The main focus of this course is on the care of the older adult experiencing a health challenge. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidence-informed research and practice.
Integrated Nursing Practice II
This practical course builds on the foundation of Level One and emphasizes the development of clinical decision making, nursing assessments, and interventions to promote the health of older adults. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences will help you to integrate theory from Level One and Level Two courses to provide safe, competent, and ethical nursing care with older adults.
Consolidated Practice Experience II
This clinical experience provides you with the opportunity to integrate theory from Level One and Two courses into practice. You will practice with aging clients and/or those with chronic illness in residential care settings. Medication administration, nursing care, organization, comprehensive health assessment, wound care and introduction to leadership are emphasized in this course.
Career Search Strategies
This course is offered in combined online and classroom delivery format. Students learn to network effectively (online and in person), to search and apply for jobs and to prepare targeted resumes and cover letters. Students are also provided with coaching and individualized instructor feedback on their resume, cover letter and interview skills.
Professional Practice III
This course integrates the concepts from previous professional practice courses and introduces you to practice in the community. The role of the Practical Nurse as leader is emphasized in interactions with clients, families and other health care providers.
Professional Communication III
This course focuses on specific professional communication skills used with clients and care providers across the lifespan requiring care in the community.
Health Promotion III
This course is focused on health promotion as it relates to the continuum of care across the lifespan. Health promotion in the context of mental illness, physical and developmental disabilities and Maternal/Child health is highlighted. Normal growth and development from conception to middle adulthood is addressed.
Variations in Health III
This course focuses on the continuum of care and the development of knowledge related to health challenges managed in the community setting. Pathophysiology and nursing management of clients requiring home health care, rehabilitation, and supportive services such as community living and disabilities will be explored. Cultural diversity in healing approaches will be explored as well as the incorporation of evidence-informed research and practice.
Integrated Nursing Practice III
This practical course builds on the theory and practice from Level One and Level Two. Through classroom, laboratory, simulation, and other practice experiences, you will continue to develop and practice comprehensive nursing assessment, planning, developing knowledge and interventions for clients experiencing multiple health challenges in a variety of settings.
Consolidated Practice Experience III
This clinical experience will introduce you to community practice and an opportunity to apply and adapt knowledge gained in Level One, Two, and Three within a continuum of care for clients across the lifespan. You may gain experience through simulation and in a variety of community and residential care agencies and settings.
Professional Practice IV
This course is intended to prepare you for the role of the Practical Nurse in managing clients with acute presentation of illness. Legislation influencing PN practice, specific professional practice issues and ethical practice pertinent to PN practice in acute care environments will be explored. Practice issues that occur across the lifespan will be considered. Collaborative practice with other health care team members and specifically the working partnership with RN's in the acute care setting will be explored.
Professional Communication IV
The focus of this course will be on the advancement of professional communication within the acute care setting across the lifespan. The practice of collaboration with health care team members and clients will be further developed.
Health Promotion IV
This course focuses on health promotion for the client experiencing an acute exacerbation of chronic illness or an acute episode of illness. Relevant health promoting strategies during hospitalization may improve or help maintain their health status after discharge. You will focus on preparing clients for discharge, through teaching and learning of health promoting strategies.
Variations in Health IV
This course will increase your understanding of pathophysiology as it relates to acute disease and illness for clients across the lifespan. The focus is on the care of the client experiencing acute illness including, nursing interventions and treatment options. Acute disease and illness often occur in individuals with existing chronic illnesses – the implications of these complexities will be addressed. Cultural diversity in healing practices will be explored as well as evidenced informed research and practice.
Integrated Nursing Practice IV
This practical course emphasizes the development of nursing skills aimed at promoting health and healing with individuals experiencing acute health challenges across the lifespan. Classroom, laboratory, simulation, and integrated practice experiences will help you build on theory and practice from Levels One, Two, and Three to integrate new knowledge and skills relevant to the acute care setting.
Consolidated Practice Experience IV
This clinical experience provides you with the opportunity to integrate theory from all levels into the role of the Practical Nurse in the acute care setting and other clinical areas as appropriate. You will focus on clients with exacerbations of chronic illness and/or acute illness across the lifespan and will consolidate knowledge and skills such as post-operative care, surgical wound management, IV therapy, focused assessment, and clinical decision-making in acute care settings.
Transition to Preceptorship & Exam Prep Intro
This course is designed to prepare you for your final Preceptorship (final practice experience) and for taking the Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse . A combination of faculty led simulation experiences and self- directed learning will provide you with increased competence and confidence in your final practice experience. You will be introduced to the Regulatory Exam -Practical Nurse and have the opportunity to take practice exams, test taking strategies and complete two online predictor tests.
Final Practice Experience
This final practice experience provides an opportunity for you to demonstrate integration and consolidation of knowledge, skills and abilities within the realities of the workplace, and become practice ready. This faculty monitored experience may occur through a variety of practice experience models, including the preceptorship model, under the immediate supervision of a single, fully qualified and experienced LPN or RN or RPN and /or within the context of a collaborative learning environments as a participating team member.
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
WHMIS provides information about materials in the workplace that can be hazardous, such as cleaning agents, compressed gases and flammable materials. Becoming WHMIS certified will demonstrate the ability to identify hazardous materials and handle them properly.
Body Mechanics & Back Safety
You will be educated in proper body movement to prevent and correct poor posture, reduce stress on ligaments, joints and tendons and enhance physical capabilities. Proper body mechanics and back safety will enhance the longevity and success in the workplace and will help ensure that transfers and positioning are done in a manner that is safe and appropriate for everyone. Please note: While this training follows best practices, graduates may also be required to learn and follow workplace specific protocols.
Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
You'll receive Standard First Aid Certification for Standard First Aid including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)/ Automated External Defibrillation (AED) Level C. This industry standard certification is valid for three years.
FOODSAFE Level 1
You'll learn how to prepare food in a way that protects people from injury or illness. Some of the topics covered are food-borne diseases, personal hygiene, and safe procedures for storing.
Provincial Violence Prevention Certification
The Provincial Violence Prevention Training Curriculum will teach you to recognize and respond to violent situations and learn about different types of violence and strategies for dealing with the risks in a variety of health care contexts. The Provincial Violence Prevention Curriculum has been developed by a team of experts from Worksafe BC, the Occupational Health & Safety Agency for healthcare in BC, as well as BC health authorities and healthcare unions. This training and certification is offered in collaboration with Fraser Health Authority.
Fit Testing
This theory course will cover the correct use and care of respirators, respirator limitations, donning and doffing procedures, and proper disposal of respirators in accordance with WorkSafeBC OHS Regulation Section 8.7.3.
Student Support
- Academic tutoring
- Assessment and skill development support
- Open study skills tutorials
- Typing practice support
- One-on-one student support coaching sessions
- English language learning support
- Online learning resources
- Online academic journals and databases
- Campus life events
Stories from our Practical Nursing grads
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