Coast Mountain College on Track to offer Practical Nursing Diploma in January 2025

Most components of the two-year program will be available in a scheduled on-line format so that students can access the program from their home communities. Students can take the in-person lab sections at the CMTN Terrace or Prince Rupert campus. In future years, the program will also be available through the Smithers campus. Graduates will be qualified to write the Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse (REx-PN) and become certified by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives. 

“Northwest BC is in need of more healthcare workers,” says Dr. James Reddy Kakulavaram, Associate Dean of Health Programs. “This Practical Nursing Diploma will lead to rewarding employment in homecare, rehabilitation, education, and clinical settings, as well as the new regional hospital which is almost finished construction.”  

The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills is providing grants to assist students in pursuing the Practical Nursing Program. Students in their first year will receive a grant of $2,000. Indigenous students are eligible for an additional $5,000 grant. Upon completion of first year and registration for second year, an additional equivalent grant will be automatically applied to the continuing students’ accounts. 

“Our government continues to take action on making post-secondary education more affordable while enhancing access and removing barriers so British Columbians can get good-paying jobs and have fulfilling, impactful careers,” says Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Providing grants for practical nursing students will help them begin in-demand careers in communities across our province.”