There is a huge demand for nurses not only in the United States but also in Canada. Canada has a very high demand for all types of nurses from registered nurses to a registered practical nurse. This huge demand for nurses has made many people look into what is required to become a nurse in Canada.
The educational requirements to become a nurse in Canada do not differ from the requirements to become a nurse in the United States. The process will differ when it comes to the types of exams that are required and who oversees all the nurses in a certain country. Here is a look at the steps to become a nurse in Canada.
College Degree/Certificate. It is required that all nurses obtain some type of college degree or certificate from a nursing school. Nursing programs are available in various colleges and universities all across the United States and Canada. If you are interested in becoming a registered nurse you will need to complete a Bachelor’s in Nursing which will last four years, while a practical nurse only requires a completion of a nursing certificate program which can take three years.
Complete the Nursing Exams Required. The Canadian Nursing Association oversees all the exams that are required to become a nurse in Canada. There are three different types of exams that are available to potential nurses. Each exam is administered to ensure that all nurses that practice in Canada have the knowledge and basic education to be practicing as a nurse.
Eligibility to Work in Canada. After obtaining a degree and finishing up the exams it is a good idea to make sure that you are eligible to work in Canada. You will need to apply for a work Visa if you are not a Canadian citizen. You may wish to look into your eligibility before you take the exams because if you are not eligible to work in Canada the exams are useless.