Entrance requirements

Acceptance requires RN Provincial registration and 6 months relevant experience or approval of program head.

• English language proficiency

CRNBC Registration

As well as providing this information at the time of admission, BCIT requires students to provide proof of CRNBC membership for each clinical course they enroll in. Without CRNBC registration, you will not be permitted to continue in the course.

Face Respirator Fit Testing

A face piece respiratory fit test is required before students are permitted to enter the clinical practicum. Upon successful completion of the fit test, the original certificate must be presented to the program and annual re-fitting is required. Students are expected to carry their certificate with them at all times during their practicum.

For the Respirator Fit Testing, fit testing with a N95 respirator (1860, 1860s or 1870) is required and must be performed, in accordance with CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02. Fit Testing must also include, inspection, cleaning, maintenance and storage of protective equipment. Students will be given specific instructions in preparation for their fit testing by the provider they choose.

• View the list of approved Fit Test Service Providers [PDF]

Tuition fees

Please check the current availability of courses in the program matrix for individual course fees. You may find three different fees for the same course: one for Canadian citizens, one for international students, and one for re-registration.

Books and supplies

Core course books for Advanced Specialty Certificate program: $454
(general estimated cost and subject to change).

Program matrix

Check current availability of courses for this program.

Program length

The length of the program varies, as it is offered in a variety of formats:

• BCIT offers theory and some clinical courses by part-time, independent study. We deliver theory courses over a 12-week term using guided-learning modules and telephone tutor support. Courses may include teleconferences, which provide opportunities for students and tutors to discuss issues relevant to the course. If you work full-time, you would generally register for one theory course per term, although this can vary depending on your additional commitments.

• Through independent study, learn in your own community and structure your learning schedule in a manner that is most convenient for you. Complete full-time clinical courses at clinical sites throughout BC, over 3 to 4 weeks. If you live outside BC, clinical placements may be negotiated.

• Most Specialty Nursing programs arrange special offerings of courses as "Compressed time frame programs". Offered in full-time study formats, they enable you to take several courses over a specified period of time. If you are interested in this option of study, contact the program assistant for more information and program start dates.

• Nurses with relevant experience and/or previous courses can request assessment for appropriate placement within the program.

Maximum program length for either the Advanced Specialty Certificate or the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is seven years.

Credential

When all requirements have been completed, students may apply to Student Records to receive an "Advanced Specialty Certificate".

Professional associations

CNA certification program
Graduates of the BCIT program, with one year experience, are eligible to write the Specialty Nursing Exam for Perioperative Nurses through the CNA Certificate program. For further information, contact CNA at: www.cna-nurses.ca.