Overview
This program is open to domestic applicants only.
The deadline to apply and submit required documents for the September intake is 4:30 pm on September 4, 2024. Classes begin September 12, 2024.
This program is currently scheduled to have new intakes in May, September and January (subject to change).
This graduate certificate program enables registered nurses (RNs) to expand their role in prescribing medications. In 2023, the Ontario government authorized registered nurses to prescribe medications, subject to specific requirements. This includes addressing certain conditions like contraception, immunizations, smoking cessation, and topical wound care, applicable in long-term care homes and retirement homes. In consultation with stakeholders and using evidence from other jurisdictions to align with legislation, the Registered Nurse – Prescribing program was developed to meet the needs of Ontarians in a safe, efficient way.
Applicants must be a registered nurse with current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) without restrictions, with two years of full-time experience (or equivalent). This program is open to domestic applicants only and not available for international students.
The Registered Nurse - Prescribing program is comprised of two 42-hour online, self-paced, courses and one 150-hour clinical practicum placement. Students will have one year to complete all three courses. RNP102 – Advanced Health Assessment (NURS1017) is a pre-requisite for RNP103 – Advanced Pharmacology for Registered Nurse Prescribers (NURS1018), and RNP104 – RNP Clinical Placement (NURS1019). Students will move through each course at their own pace and will have one calendar year to complete the two theory courses and one clinical practicum course.
Registered Nurses will complete their placements under the supervision of a Nurse Practitioner or a Physician in a setting where RN Prescribing is permitted. Students should have a placement location in mind before enrolling in the program. Learners are encouraged to register for their program with the college that is in closest proximity to their preferred clinical placement location.
²ÝÝ®ÎÛÊÓƵµ¼º½e is part of a consortium of six Ontario Colleges delivering this program together to Registered Nurses across the province. Consortium colleges are St. Lawrence (lead), Cambrian, Confederation, La Cité, Northern, and Sault.
Due to the provision of a government bursary, there are currently no tuition fees associated with this program. This is subject to change due to eligibility and capacity at any time. Should funding no longer be available, a $1,000 tuition fee will be applied.
Requirements & Program Information
- Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent, in Nursing.
- Registered Nurse - current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario, without restrictions.
- Evidence of direct post-graduation clinical practice hours - 3900 hours within the previous 5 years.
- Applicants will submit along with their application, a letter of intent; letters of reference from their current employer as well as a character reference; and a curriculum vitae articulating evidence of practice.
Clinical/Lab and Field Placement Requirements
- CPR Level C-HCP certification is required for all applicants.
- Up-to-date immunizations in accordance with healthcare standards.
- A clear Criminal Police Information Check (CPIC) with a vulnerable sector check is mandatory.