New BCIT course supports internationally educated nurses in BC

With more than one million job openings expected in British Columbia over the next decade (2024-2034), nursing has been identified as a high-demand occupation critical to the province’s healthcare system. In helping reduce barriers for internationally educated nurses to practice in BC, BCIT has launched Nursing in Canada: Legal, ethical, and equity perspectives (NSIN 7110). This new microcredential course supports internationally educated nurses in understanding and navigating the nursing profession within the province.

Learn at your own pace – within 12 weeks

As a fully online course, NSIN 7110 allows learners to study at their own pace and complete all requirements within 12 weeks of starting. The course provides a comprehensive overview of nursing practice regulations in Canada, with a focus on the role and mandate of the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). Key topics include professional and practice standards, along with the scope of practice for registered nurses in BC.

Emphasis on ethics and equity-oriented care

The curriculum also delves into ethics and equity-oriented care, addressing topics such as gender diversity and inclusion, trauma- and violence-informed care, and the unique perspectives and factors impacting the health of Indigenous and other equity-deserving populations. Virtual clinical experiences are integrated to help learners refine the knowledge and skills necessary for delivering patient-centered care that upholds dignity, promotes health, and minimizes harm. The course also guides learners in creating a professional development plan aligned with BCCNM’s annual requirements, helping ensure a smoother transition into practice.

​”This microcredential empowers Internationally Educated Nurses to confidently transition into practice in beautiful British Columbia, Canada” says Lara Parker, Specialty Nursing faculty. “Transitioning to nursing practice in a new country can be challenging. The content provides the essential tools for success, paving the way for a smooth and rewarding transition to Registered Nursing practice.”​

Microcredential badge recognition

Upon successful completion, this microcredential course awards three (3) credits and a digital badge certificate.

For nurses working toward licensure in BC through the BCCNM, this course may be recommended as part of the required coursework for professional entry. However, it is important to note that NSIN 7110 is not a bridging course to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Completion of this single course does not confer eligibility to practice as a nurse in Canada. For comprehensive information regarding the steps to become a licensed nurse in British Columbia, please contact the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), the provincial regulatory body.

The Nursing in Canada: Legal, Ethical, and Equity Perspectives course is open to internationally educated nurses and any nurse seeking to understand the nursing profession in British Columbia, Canada.