Continuing Education

Nursing Unit Clerk certificate

This certificate program is designed to prepare students to work as nursing unit clerks or to upgrade their skills if presently employed as nursing unit clerks.

Program goal

The goal of the program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to perform the duties required of a nursing unit clerk.

Graduates will be able to:

• Communicate effectively with patients, visitors, and other members of the health care team
• Demonstrate an understanding of the organization, structure, and function of the various departments of a hospital
• Function effectively in a fast-paced environment, often in emergency situations
• Process doctors' orders and requests
• Perform clerical duties related to hospital nursing unit and patient records
• Identify, pronounce, and spell the names of commonly used hospital drugs
• Perform clerical duties relating to the overall care of patients
• Perform standard receptionist duties
• Have a knowledge of and ability to work within general hospital code of ethics.

Entrance requirements

1. Completion of grade 12 or equivalent.
2. Proficient use of the English language. (See English language proficiency requirement for details on this requirement.) A final grade of C+ or better in English 12 (see Note), or a CPT (Composition Placement Test) score of 48 or better or successful completion of ESL (English as a Second Language) course level 80 English meets the English language proficiency requirement.

Note: English 12 equivalent courses include English 12 First Peoples, English Literature 12, AP English, and IB English A (standard level or higher level).

3. 30 wpm typing speed. (Attach copy of certificate.).
4. Willingness to undergo a criminal records clearance check.
5. Willingness to obtain inoculations to participate in hospital practicum placement.
6. Successful interview with program instructors.
7. Personal suitability - recommended skills and attributes:
   • patience and composure under stress
   • concern for the welfare of others
   • previous hospital experience
   • ability to work under close direction as part of a health care team
   • ability and willingness to do shift work
   • communication and people skills, diplomatic front-line people.

Note 1: It is assumed that applicants will possess basic computer skills.

Note 2: 40 wpm typing speed is required for employment within Fraser Health.

When to apply

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year. Qualified applicants are considered for the next intake in which there is space. See Continuous application process for more information.

How to apply

1. Apply online at ufv.ca/admissions/admissions/apply.
2. Attach all required documentation and return completed registration package to the Office of the Registrar (OReg).

Fees and additional costs

For current program fees, please refer to ufv.ca/nuc.

Financial aid

Financial aid is available from a variety of sources. For more information, contact the Financial Aid and Awards office at either the Abbotsford or Chilliwack campus. A variety of bursary applications are also available from the Financial Aid and Awards offices.

Student evaluation

Students will be evaluated for each course in the program on classroom participation, classroom assignments, study projects and practica, as well as by examination. Students must maintain a grade percentage of 80% and an attendance record of 90% per module. You must successfully complete all theory components prior to practicum placement. Successful completion of both theory and practicum must be achieved to obtain the certificate.

Course schedule

This full-time program runs Monday-Friday during the daytime at UFV's Clearbrook Centre in the Fall and Summer semesters.

For more information

Contact Continuing Education at 604-851-6324, or 604-504-7441 local 6324, or toll-free (within Canada) 1-888-504-7441 local 6324, or continuingeducation@ufv.ca.