Athabasca University and Northern Lakes College respond to critical shortage of nurses in rural Alberta
Partnership pathway creates 60 new nursing seats in northwestern Alberta
The partnership creates a new strategic pathway for graduates of NLC’s Practical Nursing program to enter AU’s Post-LPN Bachelor of Nursing program. This allows licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their skills and education and to be eligible to become registered nurses.
The 60 new seats were created through $923,090 in funding from the Government of Alberta, and will also require support from Alberta Health Services.
Online learning advantages
The online delivery models of both institutions make for a natural partnership. The Practical Nurse program at Northern Lakes College is offered primarily online, using the College’s Supported Distance Learning model to students across the College service region, which spans from Fox Creek to Athabasca in the south to the Alberta-Northwest Territories border in the north.
Similarly, Athabasca University’s Post-LPN Bachelor of Nursing program is delivered online, making it a viable option for students in the same region.
Through its Supported Distance Learning model, NLC will support its Practical Nurse graduates enrolled in the Post-LPN Bachelor of Nursing program at AU. This includes providing tutoring and other services to ensure students are well-supported to succeed. AU also provides administrative and learning supports for students, including one-on-one counsel.
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About Athabasca University
Athabasca University (AU) is one of the world’s foremost and fastest-growing online and open education institutions, serving over 38,000 students across 81 countries. AU is the second-largest university in Alberta. AU offers online bachelors, masters, and doctorate programs alongside online courses for both personal learning and professional development. It is uniquely founded on the principles of flexibility and openness, giving students control over their studies so they can learn whenever and wherever it is right for them. For more information, please visit: www.athabascau.ca.
About Northern Lakes College
Northern Lakes College provides flexible educational opportunities through innovative delivery. With accessibility as a cornerstone value, we provide quality educational programs and services. NLC’s innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) and Supported Distance Teaching (SDT) models include unique online delivery options such as NLC LIVE Online™ and NLC Anytime, Anywhere. SDL provides learners with the flexibility to balance work, home, and education, so that they can continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. Committed to its communities in northern Alberta and to its students, wherever they may be, NLC collaborates with business, industry, and other post-secondary institutions to benefit students and communities. Explore at www.northernlakescollege.ca.
For additional information contact:
Rachel Ouellette
Director, External Relations, Marketing & Communication Office of the President Northern Lakes College
Bryan Alary
Manager, Content and Media Relations University Relations Athabasca University
Updated April 12, 2024 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)