10 Best Universities in Canada for Nursing Students

Are you an African looking for the best universities in Canada where you can study nursing? Search no more.

When it comes to careers and flexibility, nursing tops the list of professions that allow you to serve humanity while enjoying the dividends of a fulfilling career. So, if you’re currently considering a degree in nursing science, you’re on the right path.

Additionally, as a nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from a Canadian University, you can secure lucrative nursing jobs in the medical field and contribute to global healthcare initiatives. 

Fortunately, Canada has numerous top-notch universities where you can pursue your nursing education. Because Canada is a technologically advanced country, you can expect to gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills in nursing practice and research when you study in the country. 

If you’re looking to find schools that offer the best nursing programs for both Canadian and international students, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ve simplified the search for you. Below is a list of the 10 best universities for nursing students in Canada. 

The Best Universities for Nursing Students in Canada

When it comes to comes to getting a professional certificate education like nursing, the focus is usually to get into a good school. 

And why not? A good school can make your process easier by giving you the best curriculum, classroom lessons, and critical hands-on experience. 

While there are so many universities in Canada that offer nursing science, we have come up with this list as these schools have a strong foundation in nursing science. 

Each of the schools has a unique ranking based on their strongest offerings. Read through below and make your pick according to your peculiar preference. 

1. University of Alberta

You know how they say a school is an Ivy League school? Well, Alberta University is one when it comes to nursing. First off, the University of Alberta offers the best nursing education in the country. That’s not all, it has also been ranked fifth globally. If your vision is to get a high-quality nursing education in a high-ranking institution, apply to Alberta University. 

Thankfully, this university focuses on quality nursing research, leadership, and practice which is how they provide a comprehensive education for nursing students. 

If you graduate from Alberta University successfully, you will receive a BScN or BScN honors degree that sets you apart in the medical line. You will also be eligible to write the NCLEX examination to become a practicing/registered nurse in Canada on graduation.

Also Read: 10 Best Universities in the UK for Medicine & Surgery

2. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is one of the most prestigious and popular universities in Canada. You can’t really miss it studying at this university. For aspiring nurses, this university runs its nursing programs through the Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing. 

One of the biggest advantages of taking a nursing education at the University of Toronto is that it offers an accelerated two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program. This is a great attraction for you if you want to spend less than the usual 4 years that a nursing degree requires. 

However, to qualify for admission into this nursing program, you must have completed about two years in another higher education institution. If you’re academically sound and can withstand the stiff competition, you can apply to this university. 

3. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa is another popular university in Canada. Like most universities, the University of Ottawa offers an Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

Here you can expect to go through a four-year program that is designed to produce generalist nurses. This program emphasizes quality nursing care and leadership within the healthcare system. 

The university provides programs in both official languages, catering to a diverse student population. So, if you speak the English language, you can receive lectures in it. 

4. McGill University

Let’s not even brag about this. However, McGill University has one of the best nursing schools in Canada. The university’s Ingram School of Nursing offers a comprehensive three to four-year program preparing students for a successful nursing career. The nursing program in the school is accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools in Nursing. 

So you get where all their excellence is coming from. To make sure you get all the attention you need to become a professional nurse, the University put a lot in place. For instance, McGill ensures small classroom groups, and they also allow for hands-on experiences. 

So you get to do your clinical placements in McGill teaching hospitals, where you learn a lot of things firsthand. When it comes to raising skilled nurse practitioners and research nurses, McGill University stands out. 

5. McMaster University

Unlike some other universities that have only one pathway to becoming a professional nurse, McMaster University took it a step further. In this university, there are three bachelor’s degree pathways that cater to different students with different needs and preferences. 

The McMaster University Bachelor’s degree pathways for nursing students: include the Basic Program which lasts for four years. The second one accelerated Program which runs for 20 months. 

The last is the Post Diploma RPN. Ultimately, this flexibility allows you to choose the path that aligns with your academic and career goals. 

6. University of British Columbia

If you’ve always been interested in research, the University of British Columbia should be one of your topmost choices. From the time it was established, this university is renowned for its international reputation in research. Because of its research focus, the University of British Columbia has a good number of faculty members involved in groundbreaking research. 

To emphasize their commitment to research and an excellent nursing education, they offer an accelerated 20-month nursing program. If you want to study nursing but do not have so much time, studying at this university can help. 

The downside is that because of the rigorous nature of the program and because it is accelerated, the University discourages part-time work during the program. 

7. University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan‘s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is designed for students with a strong academic foundation. Due to the competitive nature of the course, you will need to be academically sound to get a place in the University. 

One of the unique things this university offers is the option of part-time study. If you are opting for this, keep in mind that the program must be completed within six years. It includes interprofessional learning experiences, connecting nursing students with peers from other medical courses in Saskatchewan and around the world.

8. Ontario Tech University

Ontario Tech University provides a four-year BSN program like many other Canadian universities. Aspiring nurses applying to this university should be aware that the school offers its nursing program in collaboration with Durham College. 

One of the perks of studying at this university is that the school is known for its focus on technology and innovation-driven learning. As expected, they extend this to their nursing program as well. So get ready to learn with cutting-edge technology. 

9. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is known for its innovative approach to education and this touches all its programs including its prestigious nursing program. Generally, they offer BSN nursing programs that integrate technology and simulation into the curriculum. 

The university’s commitment to preparing nurses for the digital age ensures graduates are good at using advanced healthcare technologies. You can go to their website to get more info on their application process. 

10. University of Windsor

The University of Windsor prepares nursing professionals through its collaboration with St. Clair College and Lambton College. The University offers a comprehensive four-year nursing program that trains students in clinical practice, research, and critical thinking. 

The university provides scholarship opportunities for first-year students, encouraging and supporting individuals in pursuing their nursing careers. 

Also Read: 7 Best Scholarship Opportunities for Nursing Students in Canada

Get the Right Nursing Program in Canada

Nursing is a competitive course but you can be sure that there are great universities around that can train you to be a skilled nurse practitioner.

As you can see, these universities stand out for their quality education, experienced faculty, and comprehensive programs. And each university has a unique offering that appeals to aspiring nurses with different needs and goals.

To receive a top-notch education that prepares you for a successful nursing career, choose the university with the right nursing program. Apply today and begin an exciting journey towards making a positive impact on healthcare.