Are you empathic, adaptable and looking for a career that makes a difference? Get started on your path to a rewarding career as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) with the Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing program at Douglas College.
As an RPN, you’ll work with a team of health care professionals to assess patient needs, develop treatment plans and address the complex relationship between a patient’s mental, emotional and physical health in the context of their social, cultural and religious situation. Psychiatric nurses are currently in demand, and as a Douglas grad your prospects will be particularly good: Douglas College has been the primary school for psychiatric nursing education in B.C. for over 30 years.
Check out the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives website for Requisite Skills and Abilities to Become a Registered Psychiatric Nurse in BC.
Ready to work
You’ll get hands-on practical experience through clinically-focused practicums throughout the program, plus a full-time 11-week preceptorship experience at the end. Practicums take place in a variety of health care settings to give you the best well-rounded training prior to graduation.
Upon completion of your degree, you will be eligible to apply to the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). You will graduate fully prepared to write the Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) to be certified as an RPN.
Excellent job prospects
The B.C. Ministry of Health has identified RPNs as a high demand priority occupation. Surveys show that 99 percent of our Psychiatric Nursing degree graduates are working in the field after graduation. (Source: B.C. Student Outcomes).
RPNs are qualified for employment in many areas of health care, from psychiatric units in hospitals, to community mental health and addiction care settings. RPNs who become members of the B.C. Nurses’ Union can expect a minimum hourly wage of $40.21 (effective April 2023) with a 1.03% raise each year.
Designated Indigenous seats and support
The Psychiatric Nursing program offers a limited number of designated seats to Indigenous applicants who meet academic and admission requirements. Faculty in the Department of Psychiatric Nursing are committed to reconciliation while creating a culturally safe learning environment where inclusivity and equity are valued. The application deadlines for a designated Indigenous seat are February 1 for the Fall intake and June 1 for the Winter intake.
As an Indigenous student, you’ll also have access to resources through Indigenous Student Services, such as one-on-one support with an Indigenous Student Support Navigator, spiritual and cultural guidance from Elders, information about funding options for status and non-status Indigenous students and more. For more information on how to apply, contact our Indigenous Coordinator or Indigenous Student Support Navigator.
