Nursing: Practical Nursing - Diploma
- This program is currently closed to application
Program Overview
| Location(s): |
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| Length:
65 weeks:
Year 1 - 36 weeks; Year 2 - 29 weeks |
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Overview
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are in demand across Canada. There are more job opportunities now than ever before, and more chances to create a career that suits your interests. SIAST's two-year Practical Nursing diploma program will set you on the road to an exciting future in nursing.
Visit our Continuing Education page, for information about bridging from the previous SIAST Licensed Practical Nurse program to the current SIAST Practical Nursing program.
Note: This program is subject to the high-demand admission process. It is open for application from 8:00 a.m., October 1 to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times) each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).
For detailed information about the admission process and requirements for this program, refer to the Admission Requirements and Selection Criteria sections below, and to our program-specific admission process.
International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.
Why SIAST?
SIAST is one of the most respected providers of nursing education in Canada. Our small class sizes mean more one-on-one interaction with faculty. High-tech simulation learning centres use near-life scenarios to give you hands-on practice. Clinical practice education lets you transfer your skills into the real world.
SIAST's Practical Nursing program will help you develop into a competent, adaptable practitioner. Whether you're working independently or as part of a multidisciplinary health care team, you'll have the skills and knowledge to bring a uniquely holistic and humanistic approach to providing care to individuals across the human lifespan. As a graduate, you're eligible to:
- write the national licensure exam,
- register with the Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN), and
- practice in any province or territory in Canada
Is this program for you?
SIAST offers a unique, streamed learning experience with a different focus in each of the four semesters. In your first semester, you'll be introduced to the concepts of health promotion and illness prevention. Your second semester will concentrate on mental health and rehabilitative and supportive care. Curative and restorative care in acute care settings as well as perinatal, child and adolescent nursing will be the focus of your third semester. Your fourth and final semester will mark your transition from student to graduate practical nurse. Classroom learning will be augmented with hands-on simulation lab experiences. You'll put theory into practice during your clinical practice education and practicums.
For more information about the Practical Nursing program, refer to General Program Information Frequently Asked Questions.
Career Opportunities
Employment opportunities for licensed practical nurses are excellent. Most LPNs work in acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, medical centres and extended care facilities. Choose an area that interests you - gerontology, maternal-child, medical, mental health, palliative, pediatric, rehabilitation or surgical nursing.
You also can pursue a career in a community setting: a nursing clinic, home care agency, private nursing agency, community health centre or physician's office.
SIAST Practical Nursing graduates enjoy national reciprocity, which means you can work in any province in Canada or the Northwest Territories. Our graduates have also found jobs in the United States and overseas.
For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the SIAST campus nearest you.
Program Details
Start Date(s): September:- On Campus Program - September intake each year;
- Online Program - September intake in odd numbered years.
Tuition and Fees
- For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.
Admission Information
Admission Requirements
- Grade 12 with a minimum overall average of 65% in the following five subjects: English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*, one of Biology 30, Chemistry 30 or Physics 30 and one of Social Studies 30, History 30 or Native Studies 30
- English Language Requirement
Note
- Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check upon admission into the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.
- Proof of current Standard First Aid and CPR Health Care Provider 'C' AED or equivalent is required prior to entry into the clinical practicum.
- Proof of current Transferring, Lifting and Repositioning (TLR) certification is required prior to entry into the clinical practicum.
- Please indicate on your application form whether you are applying to the on-campus or online program.
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
- any 30 level math
Admission Method
High DemandHigh-demand programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each SIAST location at which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional selection criteria. The application period for high-demand programs is 8:00 a.m., October 1, to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times), each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).
Selection Criteria
- Phase I for High School Graduates: The admission average is calculated from the final marks in courses required for admission to the program.
- Phase I for Current High School Students: The admission average is calculated from final marks provided by February 28(29). Conditional admission may be granted on this basis. Current high school students must order transcripts to be sent directly to SIAST at the end of Semester 1 and the end of Semester 2 of the grade 12 year. The final grade 12 mark will be used where the course is completed. The final grade 11 mark will be used only in the absence of the grade 12 mark in the same subject.
- Additional points will be awarded for specific relevant SIAST courses.
Important Note
If a specific relevant SIAST course is used to meet an admission requirement, it will
not be re-used under selection criteria for additional points.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Factsheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.
Transfer Credit
Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.
Courses
Year 1 - Semester 1
| Code | Course Name/Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| APHY 162 | Anatomy and Physiology 1 You will study the human body, how it is constructed and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. You will focus on the interaction between the structures of the body cells, tissues, organs and organ systems. The course content includes levels of organization of the human body, cells, tissues, integument and the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. You will apply your theoretical knowledge in practical setting by performing dissections of specimens as part of the mandatory lab component. Credit Units: 4 Lecture Hours: 40 Lab Hours: 22 Equivalent Course(s): ANAT 160, NURS 111 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard  | 4 |
| NURS 163 | Personal and Professional Relationships 1 You will explore the concept of self in relation to others. You will develop basic therapeutic communication skills. Through reflection and understanding your nature, you will experience awareness, personal growth and development of critical thinking skills. You will also explore verbal, nonverbal, written and technological communication. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 15 Lab Hours: 30 Equivalent Course(s): NEPS 112, NURS 112 Learning Method(s): Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 171 | Health and Healing 1 You will be introduced to the concept of health as it applies to yourself and others, within a caring holistic context. You will explore the concept of primary healthcare and discuss health services delivery and determinants. You will examine health promotion activities and explore community resources. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 46 Prerequisites(s): APHY 162, NURS 163, SOCI 160 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 173 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 172 | Health Challenges 1 Your studies will focus on the concepts of holistic nursing care related to specific health challenges of the older adult. You will discuss the concepts related to growth and development of the adult and older adult, and examine the concept of polypharmacy in the older adult. You will also discuss the introductory concepts of microbiology and selected specific microorganisms. You will explore the chain of infection and learn about emerging infections in Canadian communities. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 44 Prerequisites(s): APHY 162, NURS 171 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 174 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 175 | Nursing Arts 1 You will study the development of basic nursing competencies that support health promotion and illness prevention. Your clinical experience will focus on developing your understanding of the concerns of the older adult and the support they require in order to remain independent members of the community. Credit Units: 7 Other Hours: 105 Prerequisites(s): APHY 162, NURS 163, NURS 171, NURS 172, SOCI 160 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard | 7 |
| PRAC 162 | Practicum 1 You will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice in holistic nursing care of individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living in the context of partnership with the client. Credit Units: 5 Other Hours: 70 Prerequisites(s): APHY 162, NURS 161, NURS 163, NURS 170, NURS 171, NURS 172, SOCI 160 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Clinical/Practicum | 5 |
| SOCI 160 | Sociology 1 In this course you will learn about the process of socialization, and discuss how culture affects the totality of our lives. You will examine social deviance and social control and look at the social dynamics of racial, ethnic, and minority groups in our society. The processes and effects of social stratification will be discussed. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 39 Equivalent Course(s): SOCI 184 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
Year 1 - Semester 2
| Code | Course Name/Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| APHY 262 | Anatomy and Physiology 2 You will study the human body, how it is constructed and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. The course builds on the information you learned in APHY 162 (Anatomy and Physiology 1). You will focus on the study of systems involved with integration, control, absorption, excretion and reproduction. You will apply your theoretical knowledge in practical setting by performing dissections of specimens as part of the mandatory lab component. Credit Units: 4 Lecture Hours: 42 Lab Hours: 20 Prerequisites(s): APHY 162 Equivalent Course(s): ANAT 265, NURS 111 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 4 |
| NURS 238 | Nursing Arts 2 You will focus on the development and application of nursing competencies associated with rehabilitative and supportive care of the adult. Your experiential learning will emphasize caring for individuals with chronic health challenges. Credit Units: 10 Lecture Hours: 12 Lab Hours: 47 Other Hours: 90 Prerequisites(s): APHY 262, NURS 240, NURS 291, NURS 293, PHAR 160, PHAR 264, PRAC 162 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 201 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard | 10 |
| NURS 240 | Personal and Professional Relationships 2 You will focus on therapeutic relationships with an emphasis on caring, advocacy and diversity. You will explore trends and issues in nursing. You will discuss the scope of professional practice for the practical nurse. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 27 Prerequisites(s): PRAC 162 Learning Method(s): Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 291 | Health and Healing 2 You will focus on rehabilitative and supportive care within an interdisciplinary team. You will explore palliative and rehabilitative nursing with an emphasis on valuing client self-determination, ecologic approaches, and holistic wellness. You will also examine mental health nursing and explore the mental health services available in Saskatchewan. In addition, you will build upon your basic reporting and recording skills. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 40 Prerequisites(s): APHY 262, NURS 240, PHAR 264, PRAC 162 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 239 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 293 | Health Challenges 2 Your studies will focus on the concepts of holistic nursing care related to specific health challenges of the adult. Using the primary health care approach, you will explore acute and chronic health challenges specific to various body systems. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 41 Prerequisites(s): APHY 262, NURS 291, PRAC 162 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| PHAR 160 | Introductory Pharmacology You will study the basic concepts of pharmacology and related nursing responsibilities in the context of patient safety. Your studies will focus on medication classifications, preparations, as well as medication interactions in the human body. You will receive information about Canadian laws pertaining to medications. You will study and research selected medication classifications in depth. You will examine patient safety principles at the systems level and the practitioner level. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 46 Prerequisites(s): APHY 262 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 213 Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| PHAR 264 | Administration of Medications You will focus on the administration of medications throughout the lifespan in the context of systems and patient safety. Your studies will include aspects of the metric system essential for the calculation of medication dosages for adults and children. You will explore the principles concerning safe administration of medications and learn how to prepare and safely administer medications via the enteral, percutaneous and parenteral (subcutaneous, intramuscular and intradermal) routes. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 43 Prerequisites(s): PHAR 160, PHAR 201, PRAC 162 Learning Method(s): Print Distance Individual, Web CT/Blackboard Individual, Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| PRAC 260 | Practicum 2 You will have the opportunity to integrate theory and practice in holistic nursing care of individuals requiring rehabilitative and/or supportive nursing care with the client as a partner. Credit Units: 7 Other Hours: 110 Prerequisites(s): APHY 262, NURS 238, NURS 240, NURS 291, NURS 293, PHAR 160, PHAR 264 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 233 Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum | 7 |
Year 2 - Semester 3
| Code | Course Name/Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NURS 241 | Nursing Arts 3 You will focus on developing and applying nursing competencies associated with curative and restorative care across the lifespan. You will develop the beginning competencies necessary to assist childbearing families and children achieve health. Your experiential learning will emphasize caring for individuals with acute health challenges. Credit Units: 17 Lecture Hours: 9 Lab Hours: 30 Other Hours: 210 Prerequisites(s): NURS 243, NURS 292, NURS 294, PRAC 260, SOCI 260 Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard | 17 |
| NURS 243 | Personal and Professional Relationships 3 You will reflect upon the professional roles, responsibilities and relationships of the practical nurse, within the context of your own evolving nursing experience and your role as a team member. Credit Units: 1 Lecture Hours: 14 Lab Hours: 6 Prerequisites(s): PRAC 260 Corequisites(s): Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard | 1 |
| NURS 292 | Health and Healing 3 You will focus on fundamental nursing concepts related to the curative and restorative care of children and adolescents. You will discuss family-centered perinatal nursing and the new family. You will also discuss growth and development from infancy to adolescence. You will explore the concepts of teaching and learning, and client education. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 46 Prerequisites(s): NURS 243, PRAC 260 Equivalent Course(s): NURS 242 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| NURS 294 | Health Challenges 3 Your studies will focus on the concepts of holistic nursing care related to specific health challenges of the perioperative client. You will study specific types of surgical treatment and post-operative nursing care, applying concepts of patient safety. Using the primary health care approach, you will explore the concepts of holistic nursing care related to health challenges of the adult. You will discuss specific challenges to learning. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 44 Prerequisites(s): NURS 292, PRAC 260 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
| SOCI 260 | Sociology 2 This course examines changing family patterns in Canada, and analyzes how social factors influence family relationships. You will examine topics such as the functions and roles of families, changing definitions of the family, the development of intimate relationships, parenthood and child raising, how paid and unpaid work affect family life, divorce, and family violence. Credit Units: 3 Lecture Hours: 39 Prerequisites(s): SOCI 160 Equivalent Course(s): FMLY 181 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 3 |
Year 2 - Semester 4
| Code | Course Name/Description | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| NURS 295 | Nursing Transitions 4 You will integrate theory into your practice while providing holistic nursing care to individuals requiring curative and restorative nursing care. You will concentrate on the transition from the role of student to graduate practical nurse. You will be introduced to the leadership role in the health care system and the concept of patient safety from a systems approach. You will explore inter-professional collaboration in a health care team context. Your studies will also focus on intravenous therapy, including the administration of intravenous medications, the use of intermittent access devices and the initiation of intravenous lines. Credit Units: 26 Lecture Hours: 42 Lab Hours: 10 Other Hours: 337 Prerequisites(s): NURS 241, NURS 243, NURS 292, NURS 294, SOCI 260, SOCI 261 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard | 26 |
| SOCI 261 | Sociology 3 You will further explore the concepts of sociology by focusing on respectful interactions when caring for clients of all cultures. Emphasis will be given to providing culturally respectful care to clients of Aboriginal ancestry across the lifespan. Diversity within the Aboriginal culture will be explored. Credit Units: 2 Lecture Hours: 30 Prerequisites(s): SOCI 160 Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard | 2 |
Note: A 12 week summer break follows Semester 2.
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