Are you considering pursuing a nursing undergraduate degree in Canada? Look no further! The search for the best nursing programs in Canada ends here. A nursing degree from a renowned Canadian university can unlock numerous top career opportunities in the healthcare field.
In this article, we will explore the top five universities in Canada that offer the best nursing programs for international students. Whether you aspire to become a compassionate caregiver, a healthcare leader, or a research-driven professional, these universities provide exceptional education and training to shape your nursing career. Read on to discover the best nursing programs in Canada and take the first step towards a rewarding healthcare journey.
Best Nursing Programs in Canada
McGill University, Montreal, Quebec
McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with a duration of three to four years of full-time study. The program at McGill emphasizes student involvement as a cornerstone of the curriculum.

In addition to classroom lectures, students engage in small learning groups of six to eight individuals, working closely with professors to explore the various facets of nursing in today’s society from critical and creative perspectives.
From the very first nursing course, students gain hands-on experience and knowledge in a McGill teaching hospital or affiliated center, where they learn to provide assistance in managing health and illness situations.
- Program Duration: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McGill University typically spans three to four years of full-time study. This duration provides students with a comprehensive education, allowing them to develop a strong foundation in nursing knowledge and skills.
- Emphasis on Student Involvement: At McGill University, student involvement is considered a cornerstone of the nursing program. In addition to traditional classroom lectures, students participate in small learning groups comprising six to eight individuals. This interactive learning approach fosters close collaboration with professors, enabling students to explore the multifaceted aspects of nursing in today’s society from critical and creative perspectives.
- Hands-On Experience: Right from the start, students in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McGill University gain practical experience. The program incorporates hands-on learning opportunities through placements in McGill teaching hospitals or affiliated centers. This exposure allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world healthcare settings, providing valuable insights into managing health and illness situations.
- Admission Information: For detailed information on admission requirements, intake dates, and tuition fees for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McGill University, it is recommended to directly contact the university. They will provide accurate and up-to-date information to guide you through the application process.
Embarking on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McGill University offers a unique educational experience, combining theoretical learning with practical application. By actively engaging in small learning groups and gaining hands-on experience in healthcare settings, students can develop the necessary skills and competencies to become compassionate and competent nurses.
McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
At McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, you have the opportunity to study a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The program duration is four years of full-time study. McMaster’s nursing curriculum adopts a problem-based small group self-directed educational model.
Students have the option to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at either McMaster University or its partner institutions, Mohawk College or Conestoga College. Applicants are considered for admission to each institution they apply to, and the application process is done through the Ontario University Application Center.
Additionally, a supplementary application is required for this program to provide the institution with more information about you. Transferring between colleges and the university site or vice versa is not an option, as students from all three institutions will graduate with the McMaster University Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree upon program completion.

- Program Duration: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McMaster University spans four years of full-time study. This comprehensive duration allows students to acquire in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the field of nursing.
- Innovative Educational Model: McMaster’s nursing curriculum stands out for its problem-based small group self-directed educational model. This approach fosters active learning, critical thinking, and collaboration among students. Through engaging in real-world scenarios, students develop the necessary skills to tackle complex nursing challenges.
- Multiple Degree Completion Options: One remarkable aspect of McMaster’s nursing program is the flexibility it offers in terms of degree completion. Students have the choice to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at McMaster University itself or at one of its partner institutions, namely Mohawk College or Conestoga College. This partnership provides students with diverse learning environments and enriching experiences.
- Admission Process: To apply for the nursing program at McMaster University, prospective students need to submit their applications through the Ontario University Application Center. It is important to note that applicants are considered for admission to each institution they apply to, whether it is McMaster University, Mohawk College, or Conestoga College. This ensures that students have multiple opportunities for acceptance.
- Supplementary Application: In addition to the standard application, students applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at McMaster University are required to complete a supplementary application. This supplementary application serves as an opportunity for students to provide additional information about themselves and their motivation to pursue nursing.
- No Transferring Between Institutions: Once admitted, students are expected to remain at the institution they were initially accepted into for the entire duration of the program. Transferring between McMaster University, Mohawk College, and Conestoga College is not an option. However, it’s important to note that graduates from all three institutions will receive the McMaster University Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree upon successful completion of the program.
Studying nursing at McMaster University offers a comprehensive education and valuable practical experience that will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful nursing career. Consider exploring this outstanding program and embark on a journey towards becoming a skilled and compassionate nurse.
University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
The University of Alberta, located in Edmonton, Alberta, offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with a duration of four years of full-time study. The program provides hands-on training right from the first semester, and students have the opportunity to complete several clinical placements throughout their degree. You can choose to complete your nursing degree on the north campus or at one of the university’s partner institutions, namely Red Deer Polytechnic, Keyano College, or Northwestern Polytechnic.
- Program Duration: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Alberta spans four years of full-time study. This comprehensive duration allows students to delve deep into the field of nursing, gaining a thorough understanding of theory and practice.
- Hands-On Training: Right from the first semester, students at the University of Alberta have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training. The program emphasizes practical experience, providing students with the chance to apply their knowledge in real healthcare settings. Through several clinical placements throughout their degree, students can develop essential skills and gain valuable insights into the nursing profession.
- Choice of Campus: The University of Alberta offers flexibility in terms of completing the nursing degree. Students can choose to pursue their studies on the north campus of the university itself. Alternatively, they also have the option to study at one of the university’s partner institutions, including Red Deer Polytechnic, Keyano College, or Northwestern Polytechnic. This collaboration allows students to experience different learning environments and benefit from diverse resources.
- Admission Information: For detailed information on admission requirements, intake dates, and tuition fees for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Alberta, it is recommended to directly contact the university. They will provide accurate and up-to-date information to assist you with the application process.
Embarking on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Alberta offers a comprehensive educational experience, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. By immersing yourself in this program, you can develop the skills and expertise required to excel in the nursing profession. Consider exploring the opportunities offered by the University of Alberta and take the first step towards a rewarding career in nursing.
University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
The University of Toronto, located in Toronto, Ontario, offers an accelerated two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing. This program provides a fast-track option for those who are looking to start their nursing career as quickly as possible.
The program opens the door to a long and rewarding career in healthcare. All courses within the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program are compulsory, and withdrawal from any course requires special permission, which may lengthen the time to completion beyond the typical two-year timeline.
- Accelerated Program: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Toronto provides an accelerated pathway for individuals eager to start their nursing career quickly. With a duration of two years, this program is designed to expedite the educational journey while ensuring students receive a comprehensive nursing education.
- Fast-Track to a Rewarding Career: By choosing the accelerated program at the University of Toronto, students open the door to a long and rewarding career in healthcare. The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to excel in the nursing profession and make a meaningful impact on patient care.
- Compulsory Courses: All courses within the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing are compulsory. This means that students are required to complete all courses as part of the program’s curriculum. Withdrawal from any course necessitates special permission, which may extend the time required to complete the program beyond the typical two-year timeline.
- Admission Information: For detailed information on admission requirements, intake dates, and tuition fees for the accelerated two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Toronto, it is recommended to directly contact the university’s student services. They will provide accurate and up-to-date information to guide you through the application process.
Embarking on the accelerated two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Toronto offers an expedited pathway to a fulfilling nursing career. By completing the program in a shorter timeframe, students can quickly enter the workforce and contribute to improving healthcare outcomes. Consider exploring the opportunities provided by the University of Toronto’s nursing program and take the first step towards a rewarding career in nursing.
University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia
At the Okanagan campus of the University of British Columbia in Kelowna, British Columbia, you can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The program duration is four years of full-time study. This program prepares you to meet the professional practice requirements outlined by the licensing body.
Admission is open to high school and university transfer students. Moreover, the program also offers access points for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses seeking to advance their education.
- Program Duration: The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the Okanagan campus of the University of British Columbia spans four years of full-time study. This comprehensive duration allows students to delve deep into the nursing curriculum and develop the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their future nursing career.
- Professional Practice Preparation: The program is designed to prepare students to meet the professional practice requirements set by the licensing body. By completing the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of British Columbia, students will acquire the competencies and qualifications needed to embark on a successful nursing career and provide high-quality care to patients.
- Admission Requirements: Admission to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is open to both high school graduates and university transfer students. This provides flexibility for individuals at different stages of their academic journey to pursue a nursing degree. Additionally, the program offers access points for licensed practical nurses and registered nurses who are seeking to advance their education and enhance their nursing practice.
Embarking on the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the Okanagan campus of the University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive educational experience, preparing students to enter the nursing profession with confidence and competence. By completing this program, students will acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and practical experience to make a positive impact on patient care and contribute to the healthcare field.
Canada offers some of the best nursing programs in the world, providing exceptional education and training for aspiring nurses. The top five universities highlighted in this article – McMaster University, the University of Alberta, McGill University, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia – are renowned for their commitment to excellence in nursing education. By choosing one of these institutions, students can access the best nursing programs in Canada, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed for a successful nursing career.