UOIT-DC-GC Collaborative Nursing bridge program earns seven-year accreditation

The post-diploma Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program, collaboratively offered by the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT), Durham College (DC) and Georgian College (GC), has reached a significant milestone, achieving a seven-year accreditation from the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN).

“We are thrilled to receive a seven-year accreditation for another one of our nursing programs, this time with Georgian College, with whom we have partnered since 2009,” said Dr. Sue Coffey, Director, BScN program. “This is a measure of the quality and excellent outcome this type of educational program provides our students. We have much to celebrate and it rests entirely with the incredible passion, commitment and strength our team shows every day.”

The accreditation is consistent with the seven-year accreditation status previously granted for UOIT and DC’s collaborative BScN and RPN-to-BScN programs, which are offered at the university and college’s joint campus in Oshawa.

“Congratulations to Dr. Sue Coffey and the entire nursing team on this outstanding achievement,” said Dr. Ellen Vogel, Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, UOIT. “This accreditation is a testament to the high-calibre program we provide our students and the dedication of our team.”

“Durham College is proud to see our collaborative RPN to BScN program recognized in such a meaningful way by the CASN, “ added Susan Sproul, Dean, DC School of Health and Community Services. “This accreditation is a reflection of our important partnership with both UOIT and Georgian, the strong curriculum and learning experiences we have in place for our students and the ongoing hard work and dedication of our faculty.”

The collaborative UOIT-DC-GC program is an educational pathway available for individuals who have successfully completed their RPN diploma from an approved program and are interested in pursuing their BScN degree. Students enrich their knowledge in the sciences, nursing and additional disciplines while being introduced to the latest in learning technologies to enhance their success as a working professional.

Full- and part-time study options are offered at the joint UOIT/DC campus with full-time studies also available at GC’s campus in Barrie, Ontario.

The CASN is the national voice for nursing education, research and scholarship in Canada. Only nursing programs successful in achieving accreditation status from the CASN Accreditation Bureau, within the term limit of the accreditation status granted, are eligible to claim CASN-Accredited Program status.