Practical Nursing

St. Lawrence College’s Practical Nursing program prepares students to become competent and confident Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) in Ontario and across Canada. The program is fully approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario and aligns with the Entry-to-Practice Competencies and Standards of Practice. Students gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, mental health, and nursing principles, while developing essential skills in communication, professionalism, and patient-centered care.

Hands-on learning is a key component, with extensive simulated lab experiences and clinical placements across a variety of healthcare settings, culminating in a 400-hour pregraduate clinical placement. Graduates leave the program ready to write the College of Nurses of Ontario Registration Exam and enter the workforce as skilled, ethical, and adaptable RPNs, prepared to provide safe and effective care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community settings.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent.

What You’ll Learn

• Core nursing skills, including assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient care.
• Safe medication administration, pharmacology, and physical assessment techniques.
• Professionalism, leadership, communication, and ethical nursing practices.
• Holistic and evidence-informed care across diverse healthcare settings, including mental health and community care.