Academic Calendar Winter/Summer 2017

Health Sciences

ufv.ca/health

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The UFV Nursing program is designed to meet the needs of two groups: students who wish to pursue a career in nursing and LPNs who wish to complete a nursing degree. The degree prepares graduates for employment in a variety of health care settings.

The Nursing program has two intakes per year, in September and January; LPN Access applicants are admitted in only in January. The program provides two possible streams as follows:

The Nursing program offers instruction in nursing, health sciences, social sciences, and research, and an opportunity for advanced focus in a variety of areas.

This program is approved by the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia. Graduates will be eligible to write the registration examinations.

Course delivery options are flexible wherever possible and include independent study, lectures, seminars, multimedia approaches, and simulation in labs and tutorials. The clinical experiences include hospitals and community agencies with supervised practica, preceptorships, and observational experiences.

Note: clinical experience may include extended work days, evening shifts, and weekends.

It is possible to complete some of the Health Science and elective courses prior to entering the Nursing program, through UFV or other institutions. A number of seats may be available in selected Health Science courses at UFV for Nursing Track students. A minimum C grade must be obtained in these courses in order to receive credit regardless of where the courses are taken. Completion of the Health Sciences courses does not automatically guarantee a seat in the Nursing program.

In order to register in the Health Science courses, you must complete the following steps:

1. Application to Nursing program must be on file.

2. Academic prerequisites must be completed.

3. Consultation with program faculty is required.

4. Faculty will enter "permission to register" or provide you with a permission to register form before you register for each Health Science course.

Location

Most Nursing and Health Science classes are taught at the Health Sciences Centre on the Chilliwack campus. Clinical experiences occur at a variety of agencies throughout the Fraser Valley.

BSN degree applicants

Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete ENGL 105 or equivalent prior to program entry. You may register in ENGL 105 as a Nursing Track student. Refer to the Qualifying Studies application details, or see an Advisor for assistance.

The Nursing program is very demanding. Students who are taking a full course load will not have time to work either full-time or part-time. Competency with basic computer skills is essential.

Entrance requirements (degree applicants)

Academic entrance requirements

1. B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent with:
a. Completion of each of the following courses with a minimum of C+ grade within five years prior to enrolment:

  • Biology 12 (UFV BIO 093) or UFV BIO 111
  • Chemistry 11 (UFV CHEM 083) or UFV CHEM 105, or 110, or 113

b. One of the following with a minimum C+ grade: Principles of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or MATH 085.
c. English 12 (UFV ENGL 091 or ENGL 099; see Note) with a minimum of a B grade, or ENGL 105 with a minimum grade of C.

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

2. Successful completion of ESL Advanced Speaking/ Listening, and Writing course sequence may be required for applicants for whom English is not a first language.

Other entrance requirements

1. Volunteer experience in a health care setting or employment in a health care field. Volunteer experience will consist of a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer work with adults or children in an acute care, long-term care or community health care agency. You will be asked to submit a written reference that reflects the length and nature of the volunteer experience or employment in a health care field.

2. Current Standard First Aid certificate (minimum 16 hours)

3. Basic Rescuer - Level C certificate (included in the Standard First Aid certificate). Currency must be maintained throughout the program.

4. Valid driver's licence. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation to class, labs, hospitals, and other community agencies throughout the Fraser Valley. (Learner's licence is not acceptable.)

5. Successful completion of a security clearance check. Criminal records check forms will be included with letter of notification of acceptance to the program.

6. A health assessment indicating physical fitness and emotional stability. The assessment must be completed within 12 months prior to enrolment. Health questionnaire forms will be included with the letter of notification regarding an information session. Completed forms must be brought to the information session or interview.

7. Completion of an immunization program prior to the program start date. Immunization forms will be included with the letter of acceptance. Proof of immunization must be received by the date specified.

8. Attendance at an information session. Application essay questions will be written at this time.

9. Interview with a faculty member to assess the following:

  • Basic knowledge of the field
  • Time-management skills
  • Communication skills: ability to listen and articulate ideas
  • Ability to think critically
  • Financial resources and support systems
  • Personal and work commitments in relation to assuming the demands of an applied academic program of studies.

Students who do not meet these requirements might consider Qualifying Studies.

When to apply

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year. Applications completed by January 31 are considered for the Fall intake (BSN only); applications completed by August 15 are considered for the Winter intake (BSN & LPN Access). Qualified applicants are considered for the next intake in which there is space. See Continuous application process for more information.

How to apply (degree applicants)

1. Apply online at ufv.ca/admissions/admissions/apply and submit the following documents to the Office of the Registrar:

  • Proof of B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent (current high school students, may apply starting October 1 of their grade 12 year)
  • Official transcript(s) from all post-secondary institutions attended
  • Prerequisite course(s) — submit an official transcript showing final grades in all prerequisite courses (current Grade 12 students will be required to submit an official transcript showing final grades in all required courses by August 15 for the Winter intake)
  • Completion of ESL Advanced Speaking, Listening and Writing course sequence as necessary

Note: To be considered official, transcripts must be sent directly to UFV from the originating institution; see the Transfer Credit section for details.

Once these documents have been received by the Office of the Registrar, your application will be forwarded to the Nursing program.

2. The following documents must be submitted directly to the School of Health Studies, Chilliwack campus:

  • Nursing program application (available at ufv.ca/admissions/forms)
  • Evidence of volunteer/work experience in a health care setting (volunteer experience will consist of a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer work with adults or children in an acute care, long-term care or community health care agency)
  • Valid Standard First Aid certificate (minimum 16 hours)
  • Basic Rescuer — Level C certificate (included in the Standard First Aid certificate)
  • Proof of valid driver’s licence (learner's licence not acceptable)

Documents required in order to achieve "complete applicant" status for degree applicants:

  • Nursing program application form
  • Proof of B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent
  • Official transcript(s) from all post-secondary institutions attended
  • Volunteer health care experience reference(s)
  • Valid Standard First Aid certificate (minimum 16 hours)
  • Basic Rescuer - Level C certificate (included in the Standard First Aid certificate)
  • Completion of ESL Advanced Speaking, Listening and Writing course sequence as necessary
  • Proof of valid driver's licence (learner's licence not acceptable)

The above documents must be received by January 31 for the September intake, and by August 15 for the January intake. Applications which become "complete" after those deadlines will be kept on file and considered for the next intake.

3. Attendance at a program information session with the program faculty is mandatory for applicants being considered for admission to the program. At the information session you will be asked to complete application essay questions. Applicants will be contacted when dates and times have been established; a health questionnaire will be provided and must be returned to the School of Health Studies prior to interview. Applicants to be interviewed will be notified.

4. Applicants will be accepted based on points achieved on the applicant rating form.

5. Applicants will be notified in writing regarding acceptance. Upon acceptance to the program you will be provided with registration information. A deposit is required by a specified date in order to reserve a seat in the program. This money will be applied toward tuition fees. If you do not register for courses and pay the deposits, a place will no longer be held for you.

6. If you meet the minimum requirements but are not selected to the class, your application will be held for consideration for the next intake. If you are not selected for a second intake, you will be required to reapply and resubmit all documents.

Basis for admission decision (degree applicants)

Students will be rated based on the points achieved on the applicant rating form. Points will be given for academic performance on prerequisite courses, work/volunteer experience, application essay, reference(s), and personal interview.

The highest score that can be achieved by an applicant is 39.

1. Academic history: up to 16 points. The higher the applicant GPA on required academic prerequisites, the more points awarded. GPA will be calculated using the UFV grading scale.

2. Work/volunteer experience and letter of reference: up to 6 points. Points will be allocated according to the duration of the experience and the character of the reference given. Recognition will be given to any applicant who has demonstrated a leadership role in a workplace.

3. Application essay: up to 4 points. All applicants will be given points on the basis of meeting the criteria and the writing skill demonstrated.

4. Interview: up to 13 points. Applicants will be given points related to their knowledge of nursing, organizational skills, planning for program workload and financial aspects, identified supports, management of commitments, communication skills, knowledge of own learning, and problem-solving skills.

Applicants with the highest number of points will be given priority for program seats.

Note: Up to 10% of program seats may be allocated to aborginal students on a competitive basis.

LPN Access applicants

Entrance requirements (LPN applicants)

Academic entrance requirements

1. English 105 or equivalent with a minimum of C grade.

2. HSC 111 and HSC 113 or equivalent with a minimum of C grade or completion of a challenge exam with a minimum of C grade.

3. Successful completion of ESL Advanced Speaking, Listening, and Writing course sequence may be required for applicants for whom English is not a first language.

Other entrance requirements

1. Current full scope practicing registration as a Licensed Practical Nurse in B.C.

2. One written reference (from manager/supervisor) indicating your work as an LPN within two years prior to application for admission.

3. Basic Rescuer - Level C certificate. Currency must be maintained throughout the program.

4. Valid driver’s licence. You are responsible for arranging your own transportation to class, labs, hospitals, and other community agencies throughout the Fraser Valley. (Learner's licence is not acceptable.)

5. Successful completion of a security clearance check. Criminal records check forms will be included with the letter of notification of acceptance to the program.

6. A health assessment indicating physical fitness and emotional stability. The assessment must be completed within 12 months prior to enrolment. Health questionnaire forms will be included with the letter of notification regarding an information session. Completed forms must be brought to the information session.

7. Completion of an immunization program prior to the program start date. Immunization forms will be included with the letter of acceptance. Proof of immunization must be received by the specified date.

8. Attendance at an information session in preparation for entry into the program. Application essay questions will be written at this time.

9. Interview with a faculty member to assess the following:

  • Basic knowledge of the field
  • Time-management skills
  • Communication skills: ability to listen and articulate ideas
  • Ability to think critically
  • Financial resources and support systems
  • Personal and work commitments in relation to assuming the demands of an applied academic program of studies.

Students who do not meet these requirements might consider Qualifying Studies.

When to apply

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year. Applications completed by August 15 are considered for the Winter intake. Qualified applicants are considered for the next intake in which there is space. See Continuous application process for more information.

How to apply (LPN applicants)

1. You may apply to the program prior to the completion of all entrance requirements. The following documents must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar, along with the application fee, in order to process your application:

  • UFV application form (available at ufv.ca/admissions/admissions/apply)
  • Proof of completion of English 105 or equivalent requirement
  • Proof of completion of HSC 111 and HSC 113 or equivalent or challenge exam requirement
  • Proof of full scope practicing registration as an LPN in B.C.
  • Completion of ESL Advanced Speaking, Listening, and Writing course sequence as necessary

Once these documents have been received by the Office of the Registrar, your application will be forwarded to the Nursing program.

2. The following documents must be submitted directly to the School of Health Studies, Chilliwack campus:

  • Nursing program application (available at ufv.ca/admissions/forms)
  • Basic Rescuer — Level C certificate
  • Proof of valid driver's licence (learner's licence not acceptable)

Documents required in order to achieve "complete applicant" status for LPN applicants:

  • Nursing program application form
  • Proof of completion of English 105 or equivalent requirement
  • Proof of completion of HSC 111 and HSC 113 or equivalent or challenge exam requirement
  • Proof of full scope practicing registration as an LPN in B.C.
  • Completed reference form
  • Basic Rescuer - Level C certificate
  • Proof of valid driver's licence (learner's licence not acceptable)
  • Completion of ESL Advanced Speaking, Listening, and Writing course sequence as necessary.

3. Attendance at a program information session with the program faculty is mandatory for applicants being considered for admission to the program. At the information session you will be asked to complete the application essay questions. Applicants will be contacted when dates and times have been established; a health questionnaire will be provided and must be returned to the School of Health Studies prior to interview.Applicants to be interviewed will be notified.

4. Applicants will be accepted based on points achieved on the applicant rating form.

5. You will be notified in writing regarding your acceptance. Upon acceptance to the program you will be provided with registration information. A deposit is required by a specified date in order to reserve a seat in the program. This money will be applied toward your tuition fees. If you do not register for courses and pay the deposit, your place will no longer be held for you.

6. If you meet the minimum requirements but are not selected to the class, your application will be held for consideration for the next intake. If you are not selected for a second intake, you will be required to reapply and resubmit all documents.

Basis for admission decision (LPN applicants)

Students will be rated based on the points achieved on the applicant rating form. Points will be given for academic performance on prerequisite courses, work experience, personal essay, reference(s), and personal interview.

The highest score that can be achieved by an applicant is 39.

1. Academic history: up to 16 points. The higher the applicant GPA on required academic prerequisites, the more points awarded. GPA will be calculated using the UFV grading scale.

2. Health care experience and letter of reference: up to 6 points. Points will be allocated according to the duration of the experience and the character of the reference given. Recognition will be given to any applicant who has demonstrated a leadership role in a workplace.

3. Application essay: up to 4 points. All applicants will be given points on the basis of meeting the criteria and the writing skill demonstrated.

4. Interview: up to 13 points. Applicants will be given points related to their knowledge of nursing, organizational skills, planning for program workload and financial aspects, identified supports, management of commitments, communication skills, knowledge of own learning, and problem-solving skills.

Applicants with the highest number of points will be given priority for program seats.

Fees and additional costs

See the Fees and Other Costs section. Fees are calculated based on a fee-per-credit basis. Course credits for the Nursing program are approximately 15–17 credits per semester. Please note that the majority of books and supplies are purchased in the first semester. Textbooks and supplies for the first semester total approximately $1,200. Additional textbooks will be required throughout the program. Parking fees are required at some clinical placement agencies.

Financial assistance

UFV has a comprehensive financial assistance program including scholarships, loans, and bursaries. Details are available from Financial Aid and Awards.

Continuance policies

The nursing and support courses for each semester are prerequisites for the coursework in the next semester. Due to the integrated nature of the program, progression from one semester to the next requires concurrent successful completion of the nursing and health science courses.

To maintain status as a program student, students must achieve a minimum C grade in each course and a cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students who fail or withdraw from the nursing program may reapply to the program according to the Nursing Program Re-admission policy.

Courses taken for elective credit must be approved by the Nursing department.

Each program student will receive a UFV Nursing Program Student Guidelines and Policies manual, which further explains the program's continuance requirements and policies.

Undergraduate continuance

Students enrolled in undergraduate courses (courses numbered 100 or above) must maintain an undergraduate Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least 2.00 to remain enrolled in Good Academic Standing at UFV. Students in Good Academic Standing will have no registration limits placed on them. Failure to meet the minimum CGPA requirement will result in restrictions on registration and may eventually lead to academic suspension from undergraduate studies at UFV. Students on Academic Warning or Academic Probation are limited to registering in 10 credits. For further details, see the Academic standing and undergraduate continuance section of the academic calendar. Academic standing is governed by UFV’s Undergraduate Continuance policy (92).

Graduation

It is the student's responsibility to ensure all program requirements are met. Students must achieve a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher to graduate.

Program outline

Semester I

Course Title Credits
NURS 101 Foundations of Health and Wellness 4
NURS 102 Professional Nursing: Communication I 4
NURS 103 Nursing Practice 2
HSC 111 Human Anatomy and Physiology I 4
ENGL 105 Academic Writing 3

Semester II

Course Title Credits
NURS 104 Health and Wellness: Aging 4
NURS 105 Professional Nursing: Communication II 3
NURS 106 Nursing Practice 5
HSC 113 Human Anatomy and Physiology II 4
HSC 116 Pharmacotherapeutics 2

Semester III

Course Title Credits
NURS 201 Health and Wellness: Acute and Chronic Care I 4
NURS 202 Professional Nursing: Introduction to Leadership 3
NURS 203 Nursing Practice 6
HSC 211 Pathophysiology 4

Semester IV

Course Title Credits
NURS 204 Health and Wellness: Acute and Chronic Care II 4
NURS 205 Professional Nursing: Ethical Aspects 3
NURS 206 Nursing Practice 6
Elective University-level sociology/psychology/anthropology course (completed in B3 or B4) 3

Semester V

Course Title Credits
NURS 300 Professional Nursing: Research 3
NURS 301 Health and Wellness: Maternal/Child 4
NURS 303 Nursing Practice 6
Elective University-level course 3
STAT 104 Introductory Statistics (see Note) 4
or STAT 106 Statistics I (see Note)

Note: MATH 108 (formerly offered) may also be used to meet this requirement.

Semester VI

Course Title Credits
NURS 304 Health and Wellness: Complex Care 4
NURS 305 Professional Nursing: Leadership 3
NURS 306 Nursing Practice 6

Semester VII

Course Title Credits
NURS 401 Community Health 5
NURS 403 Nursing Practice 4
HSC 410 Health Law 3
Elective NURS 490 or NURS 491 3-4

Semester VIII

Course Title Credits
NURS 406 Preceptorship 15

Course listings

For complete details on courses see the Nursing (NURS) and Health Sciences (HSC) course descriptions.


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