December 9, 2023 Karah Schmidtler Bachelor of Science in Nursing, what does it mean? The University of Calgary Nursing program is undergoing some significant changes which includes a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN). Here is everything you need to know about the switch.%20(1).png) An Evolving Program The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is more than just an update; this change represents a shift in nursing education. By equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the fast-paced and dynamic world of nursing, this program becomes a leader of nursing education. The program integrates hands-on clinical and simulation instruction in various settings with theoretical learning in the classroom, offering a comprehensive and immersive educational experience. Dr. Andrew Estefan, Associate Dean of Curriculum Development and Program Evaluation, emphasizes the significance of this transition, stating, "It's basically a revamp," with "complete program revision." According to him, "some of the significant changes that we're seeing with the change to the BScN really revolve around curricular content, so looking at how we want to be able to prepare and educate nurses for the next 10-20 years ahead." What makes the BScN program unique is its holistic approach. Beyond traditional nursing education, this new curriculum incorporates the changing issues in science, technology, and healthcare into student’s education. With an increased focus on entrepreneurial thinking, this program recognizes the critical role nurses play in driving innovation within the healthcare system. UCalgary Nursing wants to create a new generation of nurses who are not just practitioners but also leaders shaping the future of healthcare in Alberta and beyond. The new curriculum emphasizes the importance of students starting their nursing education as early as possible, this is why students will see a major shift in their first year of classes. Dr. Estefan describes the significant first year changes, explaining, "previously in the BN (Bachelor of Nursing), students did their first year outside of the Faculty of Nursing" and "we now have nursing courses that the students will take in that first year, they'll take indigenous health studies in the first year, they'll take an introduction to nursing in the first year, and anatomy and physiology courses will be done in the Nursing Faculty". This change works to create a stronger connection between first year students and the Faculty of Nursing. Transitioning into the Future The Fall 2024 intake will serve as a transition year, during this period, seats will be available in both the previous Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program and the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program. This approach ensures a smooth transition for students, regardless of their educational backgrounds and goals. Dr. Estefan outlines the changes in the BScN, stating, "the students will actually start their clinical practicums in acute settings a little earlier," and "what will happen in the BScN that is a little different than what we do in the BN is that we will also be including simulation in some of the theory courses as well." Additionally, "the BScN will also have placements for students that are defined in areas like mental health, in prenatal care, and also in pediatrics." The BScN has a "very clear focus on leadership and leadership development." Furthermore, Dr. Estefan points out that "previously in the BN, students did their first year outside of the Faculty of Nursing," but now, "we now have Nursing courses that the students will take in that first year." Students will take a 6-week spring term alongside their fall and their winter courses, creating increased availability for acute nursing care opportunities and better access for students to "ladder in, ladder out."
Your application will be considered for admission to the appropriate program based on your previous academic history and the courses you present at the time of admission. "The way that we've redesigned this program is really meant to emphasize a lot of those intersections and relationships between the sciences," says Dr. Estefan. The launch of the BScN program marks a significant leap forward in nursing education at the University of Calgary. Join the class of 2028 and contribute to the future of healthcare as an entrepreneurial, forward-thinking nurse practitioner. The future of nursing starts at UCalgary and apply now. Make sure to listen to the full Choose UCalgary podcast with Dr. Andrew Estefan here. If you have any questions, please reach out to your region-specific Recruiter. Want to learn more? Listen to our full episode with Dr. Estefan below.
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