Douglas College Canada

Academic Foundations for Potential Nursing Applicants (Certificate)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Certificate
Closing soon December 2026

Course Overview

The Certificate in Academic Foundations for Potential Nursing Applicants at Douglas College is your essential first step towards a rewarding career in nursing. This one-year, full-time undergraduate certificate programme is meticulously designed for aspiring nursing students who need to fulfil prerequisite courses before entering the competitive Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. You will explore foundational subjects across the sciences, including human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and introductory microbiology, alongside essential academic writing and statistics, preparing you for the rigours of advanced nursing studies.

Studied on campus full-time over one year, you will complete 30 credits of university-transferable courses, including electives in social sciences and humanities, to build a comprehensive academic profile. This programme focuses on developing your understanding of key biological concepts and analytical skills, ensuring you are well-prepared for the BSN curriculum. Upon successful completion with a minimum grade of C+, you will be eligible to apply for priority admission consideration to the Douglas College BSN program, setting you on the path to becoming a qualified nursing professional.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This certificate program prepares individuals for nursing school by covering essential science and writing skills. Students will gain foundational knowledge in human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and microbiology, alongside introductory statistics or data analysis. The curriculum also emphasizes academic writing, with opportunities to fulfill social science, humanities, and general electives to broaden academic preparedness.

1 Select one course from the following two options:

Introduction to statistics
Data analysis in psychology

2 Required Courses:

Human Anatomy and Physiology I
Human Anatomy and Physiology II
Pathophysiology
Introductory Microbiology for Health Sciences
Academic Writing

3 Elective Social Sciences/Humanities (UT)**

4 Elective ENGL (UT)***

5 Elective (UT)***

6 Elective (UT)***

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 14,523.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 14,523.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 365.00 - USD 580.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,634.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,235.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on New Westminster Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Fraser Health Authority

Island Health

Provincial Health Services Authority

Why Study Academic Foundations for Potential Nursing Applicants (Certificate) at Douglas College

What makes this program stand out

December 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in December 2026

Life at Douglas College in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Academic Foundations for Potential Nursing Applicants (Certificate) at Douglas College

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks, as well as unlimited hours on-campus. No separate work permit is needed.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide, Healthcare Aide, Patient Care Technician.

What will I actually study in this course?

The certificate includes 10 university-transferable courses in sciences and liberal arts, which prepare you for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Completing this certificate doesn't guarantee BSN admission, but it can enhance your application.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

This program has intakes in September and December. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of these months to meet the requirements.
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