Two female nurses smiling

Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Bridging Pathway

Why choose the Bridging Pathway?

Designed to recognize and build on your existing skills and experience, this program provides a streamlined path to higher qualifications and greater professional opportunities. With flexible study options and a supportive learning environment, you'll be well-prepared to thrive in today's dynamic healthcare field.

This compressed timeframe program allows for direct entry into Year 3 of the Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Ottawa after successful completion of 6 predetermined university courses. Students can upgrade their education from diploma-prepared practical nurse to degree-prepared Registered Nurse in 6 terms (2.5 years).

Eligibility

This program is designed for Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) who hold:

  • a two-year Ontario College Diploma (or the equivalent) in practical nursing
  • registration in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario
  • experience practicing as an RPN in Ontario within the past 5 years at full scope of practice for a minimum of six (6) consecutive months, full or part time, OR who have received their RPN license within the past calendar year

We will require a signed letter from your clinical manager on agency letterhead that specifies the term of employment (start and end dates), whether you were full or part-time, and confirmation that you have practiced at full scope.

If you have graduated in another province but practiced in Ontario, we will require proof of CNO registration and a letter from your clinical manager with the information provided above.

Structure

  • Designed for Registered Practical Nurses (RPN's) who wish to upgrade their qualifications to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN).

  • The program is tailored to acknowledge and build upon the RPN's prior education and clinical experience.

Learn more about the courses you will be taking.

View course sequences.

Choose from two locations

LocationLanguageAdmission period
Algonquin College (Ottawa campus)EnglishSep. 19 to Oct. 18, 2025
Algonquin College (Pembroke campus)EnglishSep. 19 to Oct. 18, 2025

No matter where you choose to study, you graduate with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Ottawa.

a nurse in a hospital setting

Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Offered jointly with Algonquin College, this program seeks to prepare the next generation of nurses to offer high-quality nursing care and assume leadership roles within the health care system.
Learn more about our nursing program

Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) accreditation

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This Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) accredited program confirms the quality of our curriculum, enabling graduates to meet national competencies and access opportunities in healthcare across Canada.

Having fulfilled the necessary requirements for the CASN Accreditation Program, which sets the national standard for nursing education, and successfully completed a site examination, the University of Ottawa and Algonquin College (Ottawa campus) Nursing program has been granted accreditation status.

Having partially fulfilled the necessary requirements for the CASN Accreditation Program and successfully completed a site examination, the Algonquin College Pembroke Nursing program has been granted a probationary accreditation status.

The College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) accreditation

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The University of Ottawa Baccalaureate Nursing Programs are approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario. Current graduates from these programs are eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse in Ontario.

With CNO’s accreditation, our program equips students with the qualifications needed to confidently enter the nursing profession.