The University of Ottawa School of Nursing offers undergraduate and graduate level programs: generic BScN, post-RN BScN for nurses with RN diplomas, nurse practitioner training and master of science in nursing, all in English and French, and a bilingual PhD in nursing. The generic BScN program is offered jointly with Algonquin College and La Cité collégiale. The program in English is delivered at the University of Ottawa or Algonquin College (Woodroffe or Pembroke) sites. Students complete their degree at the chosen site. For the program in French, registration is at the University of Ottawa.

The post-RN (or professional) program is separate from the generic bachelor's program and is designed to build on the experience of the RN diploma graduates. At the University of Ottawa, the program is offered in English and French. All compulsory courses and many nursing and biomedical science electives are available by teleconference in English to sites in Eastern Ontario and Montreal. The program in French has sites in Hawkesbury and Cornwall.

The nurse practitioner program is offered by a consortium of 10 universities in Ontario, with the University of Ottawa providing the program in both English and French.

Goals of the undergraduate curriculum

The goal of the undergraduate curriculum is the preparation of a professional nurse who can function effectively and competently in a variety of health settings, respond to a large range of health care needs, and serve as a change agent. Graduates will be critical thinkers, self-directed learners, and practitioners who can function independently and interdependently in providing nursing care. They will have the appropriate academic preparation to enter graduate studies.

Mission

The School of Nursing educates professional nurses at the entry and advanced practice levels. Research and other scholarly activities are carried out by members of the School to increase knowledge and improve the practice of the discipline. The School also fosters collaboration across disciplines to develop further the knowledge base for health care.

The School exercises its leadership role by supporting the dissemination of knowledge, promoting advanced nursing practice, and participating in nursing and interdisciplinary decisional bodies. The School promotes the collaboration of faculty and students with health, social and educational agencies to foster evidence-based practice and promote innovative and effective delivery of nursing care.

By virtue of its bilingual mandate and multicultural milieu, the School recognizes its responsibility to provide nursing education and contribute to nursing scholarship in French and English. The School also actively promotes the development of nursing and health care nationally and internationally through partnerships in education, research, and practice.

Vision

The School of Nursing is committed to making a significant contribution to health care in Canada and internationally through excellence and innovation in the preparation of nurses, the development of nursing knowledge, and leadership in nursing practice.

Nurse registration examination of the College of Nurses of Ontario

During the winter session of the fourth year, generic program students must register for the nurse registration examination with the College of Nurses of Ontario. The CNO sends all pertinent information directly to eligible students.

Employment during enrolment

Students enrolled in the generic program may seek employment but the School will not assume responsibility for their nursing actions during this time. Should they choose to work in a health care agency, they may be hired as health care aides. It is the prerogative of the employing agency to determine the limits of their responsibility.