This new graduate certificate RN Prescribing program allows registered nurses (RNs) to expand their role to include the prescribing of medications. The Ontario government recently announced that, beginning in January 2024, they will allow registered nurses to prescribe medications, after meeting specific requirements, for certain conditions such as contraception, immunizations, smoking cessation, and topical wound care in a variety of settings including long-term care residences and retirement homes.
In consultation with stakeholders and using evidence from other jurisdictions to align with legislation, the Registered Nurse – Prescribing program was developed to meet the needs of Ontarians in a safe, efficient way.
Cambrian College is part of a consortium of seven Ontario colleges delivering this program across Southeastern and Northwestern Ontario. Indigenous and bilingual ways of knowing and learning were considered in the development of the program to ensure that the needs of all communities served can be met. The online program delivery model ensures access for nurses across all of Ontario and learners are encouraged to register for their program with the college that is in closest proximity to their preferred clinical placement location.
This program currently does not require students to pay tuition fees. Subject to change depending on capacity and eligibility.
Program highlights
- Courses will be delivered online over a 14-week semester. You will have one year to complete the two theory courses and one clinical placement (150 hours).
- CNO approved.
Admission requirements
To be eligible for this program, you must:
- Be a registered nurse with current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).
- Have two years of full-time work experience in nursing (3,900 hours or equivalent).
- Have Canadian citizenship or Canadian permanent resident status or appropriate authorization under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) that permits an individual to engage in the practice of nursing in Ontario.
- Students will have one calendar year to complete the two theory courses and one clinical practicum course (150 hours).
Career opportunities
Registered nurses working in a variety of settings including long-term care homes and retirement homes.
Please note: Cambrian College strives to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. Please note that the academic curriculum is continually reviewed and revised to ensure that Cambrian's programs and courses remain relevant. The College reserves the right to cancel or make changes to any course or program, fee, procedure, or campus location at any time.
