Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions for the Practical Nursing Pathway for Personal Support Workers.

Algonquin College is proud to be a partner in the Nursing Transformation: PSW to PN Pathway Initiative. This initiative is designed to remove barriers, recognize prior learning and experience, and encourage Personal Support Worker (PSW) graduates to continue their studies in the field of Practical Nursing. The pathway initiative consists of six individual courses that, once completed, can be used to transition into the second term of the Practical Nursing program.

How do I know if I am the right fit for this program?

To be eligible for PSW to PN pathway courses you must meet the following requirements:

  • 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.
  • Graduated with a 65 percent cumulative average from a PSW program in Ontario that meets the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities program standards (includes PSW programs offered by the public colleges, private career colleges, and district school boards in Ontario).
  • Have worked as a PSW in Ontario on a regular basis within the past five years.

If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements and would like to start taking these pathway courses contact Alana Chaput, Admissions Officer at chaputa@algonquincollege.com.

An official transcript of your marks from the college that you attended must be submitted to be considered for the PSW-PN pathway

What are the courses to be completed before entering level 2 of the Practical Nursing program?

There are six courses total, and you can register for one, or more of the courses at a time. The courses are designed with flexibility in mind and are delivered asynchronously online, so you can complete them when and where you want. The six courses you must complete are:

Anatomy & Physiology
Nursing Theory Pathway
Nursing Professionalism
Math for Practical Nurses
Health Assessment
Transition to Practical Nursing