Preparation for Health Careers

Healthcare Horizons is a dynamic microcredential course designed for BC high school students in grades 10, 11, or 12 who want to explore the world of healthcare, the many career pathways it offers, and which of those might align best with their unique strengths and interests. Learners will gain an understanding of Canada’s healthcare system as a whole and the wide range of professionals who make it function effectively. Whether you’re drawn to direct patient care, prefer more behind-the-scenes action, or you’re not sure yet, this course highlights several realistic, achievable, and rewarding healthcare career options while helping you build knowledge and skills needed for future success in healthcare-based education. 

Key Highlights

• Fully online and accessible from anywhere in BC
• Interactive virtual activities based on real-world scenarios
• Leave the course with a personalized roadmap for your chosen healthcare career path, including high school course planning, post-secondary program entrance requirements, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to strengthen your application profile.
• Optional 1-day immersive experience at BCIT’s Health Sciences Centre on the Burnaby Campus

The BCIT Preparation for Nursing Education Course is designed for individuals who have successfully completed Grade 11, or are an adult interested in pursuing a nursing career or other health-related programs. This course introduces the essential knowledge and academic skills required for success in future nursing studies.

Emphasizing the nursing profession, communication and professionalism, the health care system, and academic readiness, the course serves as an important stepping stone for learners preparing to meet the demands of nursing education. Participants will also gain valuable exposure to laboratory and simulation environments, providing a first-hand understanding of the learning settings common in health sciences.

Course Content Highlights

• Introduction to the Nursing Profession – Explore the roles, responsibilities, and pathways into nursing
• Exploration of Other Health Care Professions – Gain awareness of the broader health care team and career options
• Communication and Professionalism – Develop effective, respectful, and collaborative skills for health care settings
• Health Care System Overview – Understand how care is organized and delivered across different environments in B.C. and Canada
• Understanding Nursing Program Prerequisites – Learn about the academic requirements and how to plan for them
• Academic Readiness for Nursing – Strengthen study habits, critical thinking, and strategies for success in health sciences
• Laboratory and Simulation Experience – Participate in hands-on learning within lab and simulation environments