At a glance
36 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- Concept-based learningModern Curriculum
- Nova Scotia Health & private partnersExtensive Clinical Placements
- High demand for RNsStrong Career Prospects
- Direct Entry, Advanced Standing, LPN PathwayMultiple Entry Points
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Acadia University, offered in collaboration with Cape Breton University (CBU), prepares students for a rewarding career in various healthcare settings. This program is designed to equip future nurses with strong clinical reasoning and judgment skills through a modern, concept-based curriculum. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of health promotion, illness prevention, and patient care, integrating biological, social sciences, humanities, and professional nursing theory with practical experience. This initiative allows the CBU nursing curriculum to be delivered on-site at Acadia University, contributing to the increase of qualified nursing graduates entering the healthcare workforce. The program emphasizes active, student-centered learning, encouraging independent information access and critical thinking to navigate the complexities of contemporary healthcare. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to meet the high demand for Registered Nurses in Nova Scotia, benefiting from modern learning environments and diverse clinical placements across hospitals, community health, and long-term care facilities.
Curriculum
The BScN program offers three main pathways for entry: Direct Entry, Advanced Standing, and LPN to BScN. The curriculum blends academic theory with practical nursing experience, ensuring you develop strong clinical reasoning and judgment skills. For students starting in Fall 2026, the first year includes nursing courses, on-campus clinical practice, and a 3-week off-campus clinical placement in May. Years 2 and 3 will be three-semester academic years, concluding at the end of July.
- Year 1 (Direct Entry)
- Nursing courses
- On-campus clinical practice
- Off-campus clinical placement (3 weeks in May)
- Year 2 & 3 (Direct Entry)
- Three-semester academic years
Careers
Graduates of the BScN program are well-prepared for a career as a Registered Nurse, especially in Nova Scotia where there is high demand. The program's focus on clinical reasoning and diverse practice placements ensures you are ready for a variety of roles in healthcare.
- Registered Nurse
- Hospital Nurse
- Community Health Nurse
- Long-Term Care Nurse
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Acadia University?
- Specific program admission guidelines for Nursing were not provided. However, general admission requires high school completion. For US-educated applicants, a Grade 12 English and four additional Grade 12 college preparatory courses with a B average are needed. There are also pathways for Advanced Standing and LPNs with specific requirements. The IB Diploma is also accepted.
- How is tuition and fees structured for the BScN program?
- Acadia University uses a flexible tuition model. Students taking 1-3 courses pay per-course fees, while those taking 4-6 courses pay a fixed full-load tuition fee. Mandatory supplementary fees cover technology, health services, and other campus services, with an opt-out option for health and dental insurance if you have alternate coverage.
- What is the duration and structure of the BScN program?
- The program is designed as a BScN. For direct entry students starting Fall 2026, Year 1 includes nursing courses, on-campus clinical practice, and a 3-week off-campus placement. Years 2 and 3 will be three-semester academic years, concluding at the end of July.
- In what language is the BScN program taught?
- The program is delivered in English, as is standard for programs at Acadia University and Cape Breton University.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from the BScN program?
- Graduates are well-prepared to become Registered Nurses, particularly in Nova Scotia where there is high demand. Potential roles include Hospital Nurse, Community Health Nurse, and Long-Term Care Nurse.
- Are there any scholarship or financial aid options available?
- Acadia University offers an Interim Loan Program, which is a short-term repayable loan for full-time students facing financial need while awaiting provincial loan funding. This requires a written request and proof of student loan assessment.
Entry requirements
Direct Entry (High School)Completion of high school. Specific course requirements are not detailed for Nursing, but generally, students are advised to have senior year standing in subjects they wish to continue at university. An overall average of B or better for US education systems.
Advanced Standing (Previous University Experience)Applicants with previous university experience may be eligible for a 2-year pathway. Specific academic criteria are not detailed.
LPN to BScN PathwayCurrently licensed as an LPN in Nova Scotia with 1800 hours of work experience as a licensed practical nurse within the last two years.
International Baccalaureate (IB) DiplomaIB Diploma including IB English with an overall score of 24 or better. Students with a score of 30 or higher may receive 30 hours of university credit. Individual credit for IB certificate courses completed at the higher level with grades of 5, 6, or 7.
Specific program admission guidelines for Nursing were not provided in the source text. General admission requirements for Acadia University apply, including high school completion. Students with an American education system background require Grade 12 English and four additional Grade 12 (college preparatory) courses with an overall average of B or better.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified in source. See 'notes' for structure.
Tuition (home)Not specified in source. See 'notes' for structure.
LivingNot specified in source.
Acadia University offers a flexible tuition model with per-course costs for students taking 1-3 courses (up to 11.1 credit hours) per term, and a fixed (full load) tuition fee for students taking 4-6 courses (11.1 to 18 credit hours) per term. For more than 6 courses, an additional per-credit-hour fee applies. Most courses are 3 credit hours. Mandatory supplementary fees include Technology Fee, Athletic/Health Services Fee, Campus Card System Access Fee, Campus Renewal Fee, Acadia Student Union Fee, and Health and Dental Insurance (which can be opted out of with proof of alternate coverage). Some courses may have supplemental course fees.
Scholarships
Acadia Interim Loan ProgramShort-term repayable loan
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program at Acadia University?
+
Specific program admission guidelines for Nursing were not provided. However, general admission requires high school completion. For US-educated applicants, a Grade 12 English and four additional Grade 12 college preparatory courses with a B average are needed. There are also pathways for Advanced Standing and LPNs with specific requirements. The IB Diploma is also accepted.
How is tuition and fees structured for the BScN program?
+
Acadia University uses a flexible tuition model. Students taking 1-3 courses pay per-course fees, while those taking 4-6 courses pay a fixed full-load tuition fee. Mandatory supplementary fees cover technology, health services, and other campus services, with an opt-out option for health and dental insurance if you have alternate coverage.
What is the duration and structure of the BScN program?
+
The program is designed as a BScN. For direct entry students starting Fall 2026, Year 1 includes nursing courses, on-campus clinical practice, and a 3-week off-campus placement. Years 2 and 3 will be three-semester academic years, concluding at the end of July.
In what language is the BScN program taught?
+
The program is delivered in English, as is standard for programs at Acadia University and Cape Breton University.
What are the career prospects after graduating from the BScN program?
+
Graduates are well-prepared to become Registered Nurses, particularly in Nova Scotia where there is high demand. Potential roles include Hospital Nurse, Community Health Nurse, and Long-Term Care Nurse.
Are there any scholarship or financial aid options available?
+
Acadia University offers an Interim Loan Program, which is a short-term repayable loan for full-time students facing financial need while awaiting provincial loan funding. This requires a written request and proof of student loan assessment.