Support for University of Saskatchewan New Nursing Program Announced

Posted October 14, 2010


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 14, 2010
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The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will begin offering a new four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in September 2011, part of the provincial two-provider model, and increased support for nursing education announced by the Saskatchewan government today.

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The U of S will welcome the first students into the new BSN program next year, and in the meantime will continue to teach students through the existing Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan (NEPS) in Saskatoon, Regina and Prince Albert. Students accepted into the new U of S nursing program will first complete a pre-professional year of study in specific health science disciplines that will prepare them for the final three years of nursing education in the College of Nursing.

“We are offering a degree that makes a difference in the lives of our students and the people of Saskatchewan,” said Lorna Butler, dean, College of Nursing at today’s announcement. “The U of S College of Nursing is confident in attracting students who are committed to innovation and change to make Saskatchewan and nursing professionals world leaders.”

To support students who would benefit from receiving their education closer to home, the U of S currently offers its nursing programs at three sites across the province – Prince Albert, Saskatoon and Regina. The U of S will be working to expand its program to other sites so students in smaller communities can take advantage of the college’s “learn where you live” opportunities.

Addressing the needs of health care in the 21st century, the program builds on the strengths of the U of S as the province’s only medical-doctoral university, the main strength being the unique opportunity the university affords nursing students to learn and interact with students in other health disciplines such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and nutrition, physiotherapy and kinesiology. Hospitals and community agencies both in Saskatoon and in other locations around the province offer U of S students the broad hands-on clinical experiences they need to succeed as a member of a health-care team.

For more information about program locations, high school requirements, university-level requirements and registration details, please visit www.usask.ca/nursing.

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For more information, contact:

Tracy Laschilier
Advancement Officer
College of Nursing
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: 306-966-1323
Email: tracy.laschilier@usask.ca