Listen Live
HomeNewsSt. Lawrence College welcomes news of stand-alone nursing degree

St. Lawrence College welcomes news of stand-alone nursing degree

The provincial government is moving forward with changes to permit colleges and universities to offer Bachelor nursing degree programs on a stand-alone basis. MPP Steve Clark made the announcement at St. Lawrence College in Brockville on Saturday.  

Clark says the new education policy will give local students the opportunity to access high-quality education to pursue a rewarding career in registered nursing closer to home. He noted the change is an important component to ensuring sustainability of the Brockville campus.

Glenn Vollebregt, President and CEO of St. Lawrence College, says the announcement recognizes that colleges are providing education at a degree level. He noted it’s a testament to the quality and sustainability of the work being done across the province by college educators, staff and community partners to prepare students to become highly-skilled and compassionate nurses. Vollebregt explained the changes will help ensure that local talent stays local. 

A policy requiring that Ontario colleges and universities partner to offer Bachelor degree programs for registered nursing was introduced in 2000. Colleges and universities can now apply to offer education for future registered nurses as a stand-alone degree, subject to the necessary approvals, including the College of Nurses of Ontario and quality assurance processes.

- Advertisement -

Clark says the new policy will give institutions greater autonomy and flexibility over their programming, while maintaining excellence in nursing education. He noted for colleges like St. Lawrence, this will be the first time they can offer the Bachelor nursing degree independently of a university partner. 

Maintaining excellence in nursing education continues to be a priority for Ontario, Clark explained. He noted the government will require that all institutions that desire to have a stand-alone nursing program for future registered nurses submit both a joint dissolution plan to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities and a separate business case in support of the new program.

- Advertisment -
- Advertisment -
- Advertisement -

Continue Reading