Nipissing University has shut down its Bachelor of Science (BScN) in Nursing Collaborative Program and the two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing Scholar Practitioner Program based out of Toronto. Meghan Venasse, senior manager, marketing & communications at Nipissing University, confirmed the news to BayToday.
"The BScN Collaborative Program with Canadore is no longer accepting new applicants," stated Venasse.
"In 2020, the Ontario government announced the ability for both colleges and universities to offer stand-alone nursing degree programs. After many years of delivering a successful collaborative nursing program between Nipissing University and Canadore College, it was mutually decided to wind down the collaborative program and explore the potential of offering independent programs starting in Fall 2022.
The last cohort of students entered the collaborative program in 2021-22.
However, Venasse notes Nipissing now offers a standalone full-time, four-year BScN program on campus in North Bay.
"Additionally, we offer a part-time RPN to BScN Blended Delivery program via distance learning, allowing RPNs to continue working while pursuing their BScN degree. Nipissing has been participating in the Program Expansion initiative for two years and has since increased enrolment in the RPN to BScN program by approximately 120 students."
A student enrolled in the program reached out to BayToday last week claiming there was no reason given as to why the BScN Scholar Practitioner Program was shut down.
Venasse outlined the reasoning behind shutting down the Nursing Scholar Practitioner Program.
"After careful consideration and analysis, Nipissing University has made the decision to suspend admission to its BScN Scholar Practitioner Program based in Toronto. Students currently enrolled in the program will be able to complete their studies as planned, however, no new students will be admitted to the program," she stated in an email to BayToday.
"As an institution, we are always evaluating the viability of our programs and their fit with our overall strategies. After extensive review of application data, program finances, and required investments, and with consideration to changes in program delivery and
Venasse says Nipissing University remains extremely proud of this innovative, collaborative program and the achievements of our students, faculty, graduat
According to the Nipissing University School of Nursing site, three of the five programs are still available with the BScN Scholar Practitioner Program out of Toronto and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Collaborative both indicating there are "no further intakes."
"Nipissing prides itself on being a leader in nursing education and encourages students interested in a career in nursing to consider an application to its four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in North Bay," Venasse said.
"Students accepted into the four-year BScN program in North Bay are eligible to apply for the new Ontario Learn and Stay Grant. Funded by the Government of Ontario, this grant will cover the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other direct educational costs for students who commit to work in North Bay for a certain term after graduation."