No additional certifications are required prior to the program, but immunizations, a criminal record check, and CPR certification may be required before clinical placements.
The Practical Nurse Diploma Program at Keyano College is a two-year, full-time program designed to prepare students for direct entry into Alberta's healthcare workforce. Through a combination of face-to-face instruction, clinical placements, and simulation-based training, students gain the critical skills and confidence needed to provide compassionate and competent care in both acute and long-term care settings.
Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) and pursue professional registration as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Which Program Is Right for You?
Diploma vs. Certificate
Start with the Certificate if you're new to the field - gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience.
Advance to the Diploma if you’ve completed Year 1 or already work in early learning and want to move into supervisory or administrative roles.
What You’ll Learn
Throughout this program, you’ll develop the clinical judgment, communication, and hands-on nursing skills needed to succeed in a variety of healthcare environments. Topics include:
- Human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology
- Health assessment and basic pharmacotherapeutics
- Foundations in medical-surgical, maternity, pediatric, and mental health nursing
- Community and continuing care practices
- Evidence-based nursing practice and client-focused care
- Communication, leadership, and health promotion strategies
- Preparation for transition to professional nursing roles
You will also gain practical skills using updated hospital beds, IV pumps, and vital signs monitors in our on-campus labs and simulated hospital settings, preparing you for real-world clinical environments.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Practical Nurse Diploma are in high demand across Alberta and beyond. As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you may find employment in:
- Hospitals and acute care facilities
- Long-term care and continuing care centers
- Public health and community health organizations
- Mental health and addiction services
- Home care and assisted living settings
- Private clinics and physicians’ offices
With experience, LPNs may also pursue roles in:
- Team leadership and supervision
- Specialized nursing fields (e.g., geriatrics, pediatrics, palliative care)
- Further education in Registered Nursing or advanced practice
Admission Requirements
High School Students:
To be eligible for admission, applicants must present:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 65% in English 30-1 or 75% in English 30-2
- Minimum 65% in Biology 30
- Minimum 50% in Math 20-1 or 60% in Math 20-2
High School Students:
To be eligible for admission, applicants must present:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 65% in English 30-1 or 75% in English 30-2
- Minimum 65% in Biology 30
- Minimum 50% in Math 20-1 or 60% in Math 20-2
Mature Students (21+):
- Must meet the same academic requirements listed above
- A High School Diploma is recommended
Indigenous Applicant Admission:
(due first day of term)
- Three reserved seats per year
- Based on Section 35(2) of the Constitution Act, 1982
English Language Proficiency:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- TOEFL iBT: 84 (min. 21 in each section)
- IELTS Academic: 6.0 (no section below 6.0)
- Duolingo: 115
- Additional accepted tests: CAEL, MELAB, PTE Academic, CLBA
Spoken English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT Speaking: 26
- IELTS Speaking: 7.5
- Duolingo Conversation Band: 125
Application Period:
- Opens: October 1
- Closes: First day of classes (based on seat availability)
- Admission based on GPA ranking and seat availability
Tuition and Fees
Please visit the Tuition & Fees page for the most up-to-date information.
Sample Program Structure
Category Requirements
Year 1
Term I (Fall)
- NURS 106 – Foundation of Anatomy & Physiology (6 credits)
- COMM 103 – Communications for Nursing (3 credits)
- ENGL – First Year University English (3 credits)
- PN 155 – Nursing Foundations I: Introduction to Nursing (4 credits)
- PN 158 – Health Assessment (4 credits)
- PSYCH 103 – Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)
Total: 23 credits
Year 1
Term II (Winter)
- HE ED 102 – Health Education (3 credits)
- PAPHY 105 – Pathophysiology (3 credits)
- PHARM 130 – Basic Pharmacotherapeutics (3 credits)
- PN 156 – Nursing Foundations II: Basic Nursing (7 credits)
- SOCY 100 – Introductory Sociology (3 credits)
Total: 24 credits
Year 1
Term III
-
PN 160 – Nursing Practice I: Continuing Care (5 credits)
Year 2
Term I
- PN 200 – Medical-Surgical Nursing (9 credits)
- PN 202 – Maternity Nursing (3 credits)
- PN 203 – Pediatric Nursing (3 credits)
- PN 205 – Mental Health Nursing (3 credits)
- PN 210 or PN 211 – Acute Care Practice (3 credits)
Total: 22 credits
Year 2
Term II (Winter)
- PN 204 – Community Nursing (4 credits)
- PN 206 – Transition to Graduate Nursing (3 credits)
- PN 209 – Comprehensive Practice (3 credits)
- PN 210 or PN 211 – Acute Care Practice (7 credits)
Total: 17 credits
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to complete any certifications before starting?
Can I transfer credits from another college or university?
Some transfer credits may be accepted. Please contact admissions for an assessment.
Admission is based on academic performance in the required courses. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee acceptance.
Yes, students may qualify for loans, grants, or scholarships. Visit our Financial Aid office for details.
What are my job prospects after graduation?
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) are in demand across Alberta in hospitals, long-term care, and community health settings.
The departments are eager to welcome you to the College, read the Welcome Letter for your program below:
Ready to Become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
Start your application or contact us at nursing@keyano.ca for personalized guidance.