Overview
Make a difference in the lives of others with a rewarding career in health care. Your background in math and science, and your ability to problem solve and think critically, prepares you for a career in this high-demand industry.
Be a part of the interdisciplinary team that encompasses the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs of individuals, families and communities. Demonstrated flexibility is also essential to this profession. You will use critical thinking and best practices throughout this two-year program.
Practice your hands-on practical skills taught in modern lab settings and also applied in acute and extended-care health facilities, personal care homes, community agencies and private homes during your clinical placement.
You can make a difference in the health care profession as a licensed practical nurse. You will be a valued member of the interdisciplinary team as you use your full scope of practice to experience opportunities in various health care settings.
Be a lifelong learner as you grow in your chosen profession. Continue to learn within your competency as a licensed practical nurse. With a background in practical nursing, opportunities exist to develop special areas of practice, certification and credentials. Ask about options and potential credit transfers with our many partner institutions.
Important:
Assiniboine has several permanent, on-campus training sites, as well as in-community or “rural rotating sites”. For a list of all locations and the details of each, please click the Locations tab above.
Click this page’s Admissions tab for more information on applying to the Practical Nursing program, including all admission and competitive entry requirements. A handy Program Application Checklist is also provided to assist with the application process. The Admissions tab includes very important information related to all aspects of applying to Practical Nursing – it is imperative you read through all information provided.
The FAQ section below provides many answers to the most common questions the college is asked. Interested applicants should review the FAQs found below and are encouraged to attend an online program information session.
Admissions
- A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent
- English 40G/40S or equivalent, with a minimum mark of 60%*
- Pre-calculus, Applied or Consumer/Essential Mathematics 40S or equivalent with a minimum mark of 60%
- Biology 40S or equivalent with a minimum mark of 60%
- 15-hour Math for Nurses course (MATH-0014) with a minimum mark of 95%. (Go to our Find a Course page and scroll to "Math courses" for availability and pricing. To learn how to register for this course, please consult the Program Application Checklist.
- Proof of current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, Health Care Provider level (CPR-HCP)
- Current criminal record vulnerable sector check
- Current child abuse registry check
- Current adult abuse registry check
All items listed above are required at the time of application; CASPer® assessment (refer to the competitive entry requirements section below) is due by the application deadline (refer to the application deadlines section below). Early preparation is strongly recommended due to how long collating all admission requirement documents can take (e.g. obtaining criminal/child abuse/adult abuse registry checks). Do not apply until you have all admission requirements listed above.
Applicants are selected after the application deadline, so the order in which applications are received has no bearing on acceptance.
* The Practical Nursing program does not permit English language waivers.
All applicants are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirements as noted in assiniboine.net/pnelp.
Program Application Checklist
All applicants must meet admission requirements. If you don’t meet these admission requirements, your application will not be considered. Use the Program Application Checklist to help you collect your documents to ensure your application is complete prior to applying online.
Program Considerations
Applicants who are accepted into the program will also be required to:
- Provide proof of up-to-date immunization prior to practicum placement
- Apply for Student Practical Nurse (SPN) registration directly with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba (CLPNM)
Competitive Entry Requirements
This is a competitive entry program, so there may be additional pieces you need to complete in addition to the Admission requirements listed above. View the competitive entry requirements for this program.
Criminal Record Check/Abuse Registry Checks
Many agencies where students are placed for practicum experience require students to disclose convictions for any offences. In some instances, applicants with a criminal record or listed on the Child Abuse and/or Adult Abuse Registry may not be admitted to the program. If you fall into one of these categories, please contact the School of Nursing prior to applying. Contact information for the School of Nursing can be found under Fast Facts on this webpage.
Application Deadlines
For the 2022-23 academic year
The application window for Brandon, Winnipeg, and Portage la Prairie closed on April 18, 2022. The application dates for 2023-24 will be posted at a later date.
Dauphin has an intake every other year; there is no intake for 2022-23. The application dates for 2023-24 will be posted at a later date.
The application deadline for Arborg, Morden, Otterburne and Virden is May 23, 2022.
For rural rotating sites, admission priority will be given to applicants living in a rural community within 100 km of the site.
For all location information, including all permanent and rural rotating total number of seats available per intake, please visit the Locations tab on this webpage.
IMPORTANT: Once you have applied, ensure you read and act upon any correspondence from Admissions.
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba (CLPNM)
Prospective and enrolled students are required to review regulatory requirements of the practical nursing profession in Manitoba, including the requirements for application to the CLPNM registers. CLPNM has requirements for SPN progression and graduation. Please see CLPNM.ca/registration for more information. Once graduates have passed the licensure exam, they are eligible for membership with the CLPNM.
Careers & Connections
Career Opportunities
Many employment opportunities exist for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Graduate LPNs will obtain employment in hospitals, personal care homes, medical clinics, private agencies and the community. As well, with some advanced preparation, entrepreneurial LPNs are establishing their own businesses.
Once Practical Nursing graduates have passed the licensure exam, they are eligible for membership with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba (CLPNM).
Licensed Practical Nurses have postgraduate educational opportunities in the following: Dialysis, Operating Room, Oncology, Palliative Care, Foot Care, and Management and leadership.
Connections
This program is approved by the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba (CLPNM). Students entering and/ or enrolled in the Practical Nursing program are eligible for registration for CLPNM as a student practical nurse (SPN).
Licensed Practical Nurses have postgraduate educational opportunities in the following: dialysis, operating room, oncology, palliative care, foot care, management, ICU and northern nursing.
Our connections with post-secondary institutions include the 2 + 2 program. Start at Assiniboine and get a two-year college diploma. Then, further your education at a partnering institution and receive credit towards related degrees/diplomas. Assiniboine currently has a partnership with:
- Brandon University
Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible for students to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For up-to-date information on agreements, visit the Articulation Agreements page.
Note: The Manitoba credential is recognized across Canada.
Tools & Supplies
Our classrooms and labs are equipped with the necessary equipment that you need to make the most of your experience. However, there are some tools and supplies that you will need to purchase for personal use to help you with your studies. Much of what you purchase you’ll be able to use after you graduate and begin your career. Nursing students will require a stethoscope and a watch with a second hand, as well as uniforms and appropriate shoes for practicum.
Textbooks and supplies for all of our programs and courses may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East campus. Book and supplies lists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program. Visit the Bookstore website to learn more.
2021-22 Lists:
Program Checklists:
Booklist:
Supply List:
Technology Requirements
Programs at Assiniboine have certain technology requirements. Students require access to computer devices at home and may be required to bring these on campus when instructed. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for more detailed information about the requirements for this program.
Courses & Costs
To graduate with a Practical Nursing diploma, students must successfully complete 84 academic credits and 22 practical credits. The minimum passing grade for each course is indicated on the course outline. Course offerings are subject to change and may vary by intake.
Intakes with a September start date complete terms 1, 2 and 3 in their first year; and terms 4 and 5 in their second year. Intakes with a January start date complete terms 1 and 2 in their first year; and terms 3, 4 and 5 in their second year.
Taking Courses in Advance
If you want to get a jump start on our Practical Nursing program, Assiniboine’s School of Nursing offers certain courses that you can take in advance of your program start.
IMPORTANT: Please note, taking courses in advance can impact (i.e. reduce) your funding options for the full Practical Nursing program. It is strongly suggested that you discuss your plan and options with the Financial Aid & Awards Office before making this decision.
All courses are offered through the School of Nursing, but are listed in the Centre of Continuing Studies’ eGuide; this course and program guide is issued three times per year, so read each edition to see the offerings for the fall, winter and spring/summer.
If you decide that taking courses in advance is right for you, follow these steps to see what courses are currently offered:
- Go to the Continuing Studies eGuide.
- Once on this page, open the guide and go to the “Working with People in Health” courses section and find the course you’d like to take. Make note of the course name and course number.
- Click on the checkmark icon beside the course name to enroll online through the college’s Instant Enrollment platform.
- Once on the Instant Enrollment site, you will need to enter the course name and/or course number in the “Course Code Number or Keyword in Title” search box. Note: if no search results appear after you have done this, it means all registration deadlines have passed and the course is no longer available for registration.
- If you have questions regarding registering for a course in advance of your program start, contact the School of Nursing at 204.694.7111 or nursing@assiniboine.net.
Estimated Program Costs
Credits | Tuition | Course fees | Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) | Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Practical Nursing (YR 1 - January Intake) | 41 | $2,110 | $800 | $380 | $3,590 |
Practical Nursing (YR 1 - September Intake) | 59 | $3,030 | $1,140 | $440 | $4,530 |
Practical Nursing (YR 2 - January Intake) | 65 | $3,340 | $950 | $460 | $2,440 |
Practical Nursing (YR 2 - September Intake) | 47 | $2,420 | $620 | $400 | $1,500 |
All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.
This program has certain ‘bring your own device’ requirements that means you may need to purchase certain technology if you do not already own. Please visit assiniboine.net/byod for more information.
Year 1 - January
Title | Credits/CEUs | Elective | Distance | PLAR |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anatomy & Physiology 1 (SCIE-0005)Learners need to comprehend normal body structure and function in order to provide safe and competent care to the client. The structure of the human body and the physiology of the various systems are examined and discussed. Pathologies are explored. |
6 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Anatomy & Physiology 2 (SCIE-0006)Prerequisite: SCIE-0005 Anatomy & Physiology 1 |
6 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Canadian Nursing Principles (HLTH-0183)The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the discipline of practical nursing. Course concepts include foundations of nursing within the wellness model. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
College Foundations (PEDV-0345)This course will improve students' ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students will reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation. |
0 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Gerontological Nursing (HLTH-0012)This course introduces the learner to health, well-being and aging. It examines the age-related changes in all body systems in order to assist the learner in assessing and understanding the status of the gerontological client. Gerontological nursing in diverse settings is explored along with the legal and ethical considerations for nursing practice. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Human Growth and Development (HLTH-0007)Learners study the normal growth and development across the human lifespan and take into account the physical, cognitive, social, spiritual and emotional factors. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Interpersonal Communications (COMM-0038)In this course, learners explore effective interpersonal communication through self-examination, communication processes and the opportunity to practice by a variety of exercises. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 1 (HLTH-0010)Prerequisite: PRAC-0218 Practicum 1 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nutrition (HLTH-0236)This course explores the relationship between food and its use by the human body for energy, structure and optimal health. Students study the body's normal nutritional needs and recommended daily dietary allowances for calories, protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Learners engage in course theory to consider important concepts related to medical conditions and to evaluate nutrition throughout the lifespan and in the prevention of diseases. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 1 - NURSD (PRAC-0218)Prerequisites: SCIE-0005 Anatomy & Physiology 1, HLTH-0183 Canadian Nursing Principles, COMM-0038 Interpersonal Communications, PSSY-0026 Psychology, PSSY-0079 Sociology |
1 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 2 - NURSD (PRAC-0219)Prerequisites: SCIE-0006 Anatomy & Physiology 2, HLTH-0012 Gerontological Nursing, HLTH-0007 Human Growth and Development, HLTH-0010 Nursing Arts and Assessment 1, HLTH-0236 Nutrition, PRAC-0218 Practicum 1 - NURSD |
1 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Psychology (PSSY-0026)In this course, learners begin to examine basic concepts and principles of individual behaviour. Nursing requires effective interpersonal skills and an ability to relate to people in a broad range of circumstances. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Sociology (PSSY-0079)This course explores the process of socialization and discusses how culture affects the totality of our lives. Learners examine social deviance and social control and look at the social dynamics of racial, ethnic and minority groups in our society. The processes and effects of social stratification are discussed. |
3 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Year 1 - September
Title | Credits/CEUs | Elective | Distance | PLAR |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anatomy & Physiology 1 (SCIE-0005)Learners need to comprehend normal body structure and function in order to provide safe and competent care to the client. The structure of the human body and the physiology of the various systems are examined and discussed. Pathologies are explored. |
6 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Anatomy & Physiology 2 (SCIE-0006)Prerequisite: SCIE-0005 Anatomy & Physiology 1 |
6 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Canadian Nursing Principles (HLTH-0183)The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the discipline of practical nursing. Course concepts include foundations of nursing within the wellness model. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
College Foundations (PEDV-0356)This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation. |
0 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Gerontological Nursing (HLTH-0012)This course introduces the learner to health, well-being and aging. It examines the age-related changes in all body systems in order to assist the learner in assessing and understanding the status of the gerontological client. Gerontological nursing in diverse settings is explored along with the legal and ethical considerations for nursing practice. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Human Growth and Development (HLTH-0007)Learners study the normal growth and development across the human lifespan and take into account the physical, cognitive, social, spiritual and emotional factors. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Interpersonal Communications (COMM-0038)In this course, learners explore effective interpersonal communication through self-examination, communication processes and the opportunity to practice by a variety of exercises. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Medical Microbiology (SCIE-0073)This course focuses on the types of microbes and their interactions with humans. Emphasis is given to the physiology of microorganisms, body responses to disease and the effects of microbes on organ systems. Labs consist of hands on experience with microscopes, animations and videos of microbiology lab techniques and results, sample collections and virtual lab experiences. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 1 (HLTH-0010)Prerequisite: PRAC-0218 Practicum 1 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 2 (HLTH-0015)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nutrition (HLTH-0236)This course explores the relationship between food and its use by the human body for energy, structure and optimal health. Students study the body's normal nutritional needs and recommended daily dietary allowances for calories, protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Learners engage in course theory to consider important concepts related to medical conditions and to evaluate nutrition throughout the lifespan and in the prevention of diseases. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Pharmacology 1 (HLTH-0184)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Physical Health Assessment (HLTH-0011)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Practicum 1 - NURSD (PRAC-0218)Prerequisites: SCIE-0005 Anatomy & Physiology 1, HLTH-0183 Canadian Nursing Principles, COMM-0038 Interpersonal Communications, PSSY-0026 Psychology, PSSY-0079 Sociology |
1 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 2 - NURSD (PRAC-0219)Prerequisites: SCIE-0006 Anatomy & Physiology 2, HLTH-0012 Gerontological Nursing, HLTH-0007 Human Growth and Development, HLTH-0010 Nursing Arts and Assessment 1, HLTH-0236 Nutrition, PRAC-0218 Practicum 1 - NURSD |
1 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 3 - NURSD (PRAC-0220)Prerequisites: SCIE-0073 Medical Microbiology, HLTH-0015 Nursing Arts and Assessment 2, HLTH-0184 Pharmacology 1, HLTH-0011 Physical Health Assessment |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Psychology (PSSY-0026)In this course, learners begin to examine basic concepts and principles of individual behaviour. Nursing requires effective interpersonal skills and an ability to relate to people in a broad range of circumstances. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Sociology (PSSY-0079)This course explores the process of socialization and discusses how culture affects the totality of our lives. Learners examine social deviance and social control and look at the social dynamics of racial, ethnic and minority groups in our society. The processes and effects of social stratification are discussed. |
3 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Year 2 - January
Title | Credits/CEUs | Elective | Distance | PLAR |
---|---|---|---|---|
Community Nursing (HLTH-0019)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Health Restoration & Reorg 1 (HLTH-0133)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Health Restoration & Reorg 2 (HLTH-0134)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Medical Microbiology (SCIE-0073)This course focuses on the types of microbes and their interactions with humans. Emphasis is given to the physiology of microorganisms, body responses to disease and the effects of microbes on organ systems. Labs consist of hands on experience with microscopes, animations and videos of microbiology lab techniques and results, sample collections and virtual lab experiences. |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Mental Health (HLTH-0182)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 2 (HLTH-0015)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 3 (HLTH-0186)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
9 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Pharmacology 1 (HLTH-0184)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Pharmacology 2 (HLTH-0185)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Physical Health Assessment (HLTH-0011)Prerequisite: PRAC-0219 Practicum 2 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | Yes | No |
Practicum 3 - NURSD (PRAC-0220)Prerequisites: SCIE-0073 Medical Microbiology, HLTH-0015 Nursing Arts and Assessment 2, HLTH-0184 Pharmacology 1, HLTH-0011 Physical Health Assessment |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 4 - NURSD (PRAC-0221)Prerequisites: HLTH-0133 Health Restoration & Reorg 1, HLTH-0134 Health Restoration & Reorg 2, HLTH-0185 Pharmacology 2, HLTH-0186 Nursing Arts and Assessment 3 |
8 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Professional Leadership (PEDV-0011)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Senior Practicum Acute Care (PRAC-0222)Prerequisites: HLTH-0019 Community Nursing, HLTH-0182 Mental Health, PEDV-0011 Professional Leadership |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Senior Practicum Long Term (PRAC-0049)Prerequisites: PEDV-0011 Professional Leadership, HLTH-0019 Community Nursing, HLTH-0182 Mental Health |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Year 2 - September
Title | Credits/CEUs | Elective | Distance | PLAR |
---|---|---|---|---|
Community Nursing (HLTH-0019)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Health Restoration & Reorg 1 (HLTH-0133)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Health Restoration & Reorg 2 (HLTH-0134)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Mental Health (HLTH-0182)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Nursing Arts and Assessment 3 (HLTH-0186)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
9 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Pharmacology 2 (HLTH-0185)Prerequisite: PRAC-0220 Practicum 3 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Practicum 4 - NURSD (PRAC-0221)Prerequisites: HLTH-0133 Health Restoration & Reorg 1, HLTH-0134 Health Restoration & Reorg 2, HLTH-0185 Pharmacology 2, HLTH-0186 Nursing Arts and Assessment 3 |
8 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Professional Leadership (PEDV-0011)Prerequisite: PRAC-0221 Practicum 4 - NURSD |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Senior Practicum Acute Care (PRAC-0222)Prerequisites: HLTH-0019 Community Nursing, HLTH-0182 Mental Health, PEDV-0011 Professional Leadership |
6 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Senior Practicum Long Term (PRAC-0049)Prerequisites: PEDV-0011 Professional Leadership, HLTH-0019 Community Nursing, HLTH-0182 Mental Health |
3 credit(s) | No | No | No |
Locations
Permanent Locations
Assiniboine has four permanent sites in the province that offer the Practical Nursing diploma:
Victoria Avenue East campus | Brandon
- Intakes are offered twice a year in January and September
- 35 seats are available each intake
Parkland campus | Dauphin
- Intakes are offered every other year in September; the next intake is September 2023
- 25 seats are available each intake
Portage campus | Southport
- Intakes are offered every year in September
- 35 seats are available each intake
Winnipeg campus | Winnipeg
- Intakes are offered every year in January and September
- 35 seats are available each intake
Rural Rotating Sites
In addition to our permanent program sites, Assiniboine offers in-community training known as rural rotating sites. These programs rotate throughout province every two years. There is one rural rotating site per regional health authority (RHA) plus one site that is not fixed by RHA. For rural rotating sites, admission priority will be given to those who live in a rural community within 100 km of the site.
There are 25 seats per training site.
Currently, Assiniboine has the following rural rotating training sites running/planned:
Arborg – September start
- This is the Interlake-Eastern RHA site for 2022-23
- Classes begin September 2022
- Application deadline is May 23, 2022
Otterburne (Providence University College) – September start
- This is the Southern-Health/Sante-Sud RHA site for 2022-23
- Classes begin September 2022
- Application deadline is May 23, 2022
Virden - September start
- This is the Prairie Mountain Health RHA site for 2022-23
- Classes begin September 2022
- Application deadline is May 23, 2022
Morden - January start
- This is the non-fixed RHA site for 2022-23
- Classes begin January 2023
- Application deadline is May 23, 2022
IMPORTANT:
Click this page’s Admissions tab for more information on applying to the Practical Nursing program, including all admission and competitive entry requirements. A handy Program Application Checklist is also provided to assist with the application process. The Admissions tab includes very important information related to all aspects of applying to Practical Nursing – it is imperative you read through all information provided.
The FAQ section below provides many answers to the most common questions the college is asked. Interested applicants should review the FAQs found below and are encouraged to attend an online program information session.