Bachelor of Science - Nursing

The four-year collaborative degree program is offered in partnership by Ryerson University, Centennial College and George Brown College. The curriculum, based on a philosophical foundation of phenomenology and critical social theory, has five themes that serve to organize content and are reflected in all years of the program in varying degrees of depth. These themes are primary health care/health promotion, reflective practice/critical thinking, meaningful relationships/caring/communication, political/social justice and personal/professional development. Year I of the program focuses on knowledge of self in the context of health. The student develops a theoretical perspective from which to view practice and an appreciation of the cultural diversity within the social and political context of society. There is an emphasis on the development of effective communication abilities, and foundational nursing practice and health assessment skills. In Year II, the focus of the program shifts to knowledge of others in the context of illness, including chronic and acute illness and end-of-life care. Students further develop their professional role in building therapeutic relationships with families. They also acquire knowledge of research methods and the ability to critically evaluate research findings for their utility in nursing practice. In Year III students further develop the theme of health with an emphasis on knowledge of community, in the context of primary health care. Students acquire knowledge and skills in areas of maternal/child health, pediatrics and mental health. There is an emphasis on leadership, advocacy and social activism. In their final year, students focus on the integration of the professional self into the health care system as students prepare to transition to the role of a new graduate nurse. Students explore in depth issues related to professional practice and demonstrate leadership skills. Nursing practice experiences begin in the first year and continue throughout the program, exposing the student to a broad range of nursing practice settings and the multiplicity of nursing roles.