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
  • successful completion of a medication calculation test.

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).
  • Includes a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) phase, which evaluates the RPN's existing knowledge and skills to determine credit transfers.
  • After the PLAR phase, students complete the remaining university-level nursing courses required for the 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 three locations

LocationLanguageAdmission periodCohort start dates
University of OttawaFrench or EnglishFall 2025January 2026
Algonquin College (Ottawa campus)EnglishSep. 19 to Oct. 18, 2024.January 2025
Algonquin College (Pembroke campus)EnglishSep. 19 to Oct. 18, 2024January 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