COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing program at Douglas College includes an extensive set of specialized courses designed to prepare students for professional practice in mental health care. The curriculum integrates theory, clinical skills, and practical experience across five academic levels. Core subjects include Psychiatric Nursing Concepts I through IV (PNUR 2101, 2201, 3301, 3401), focusing on the development of critical knowledge related to mental health and illness. Students gain foundational skills through Clinical Procedures I–IV (PNUR 2130, 2230, 3330, 3430) and build therapeutic communication abilities through Therapeutic Relations I–V (PNUR 2121, 2221, 3321, 3421, 4521). Clinical Practice courses (PNUR 2261, 3361, 3462, 4562, 4661) provide hands-on experience in diverse settings, culminating in a 9-credit preceptorship. The curriculum also includes specialized courses such as Trauma-Informed Practices I and II (PNUR 2170, 4670), Psychiatric Nursing in Addictions and Mental Health (PNUR 2285), Psychiatric Nursing of Children and Adolescents (PNUR 4573), and Psychiatric Nursing and the Older Adult (PNUR 3403), offering students insight into specific populations. Leadership and management skills are developed in PNUR 4501, while research and ethical considerations are covered through Psychiatric Nursing Research (PNUR 2175) and Ethics for Psychiatric Nursing (PHIL 3125). Other key courses include Family Health Promotion (PNUR 2171), Group Theory (PNUR 3441), Community Concepts (PNUR 4572), and Pharmacology (PNUR 3350). The curriculum is designed to be sequential and comprehensive, ensuring that students develop the competencies required for safe, ethical, and culturally responsive psychiatric nursing practice. With strong emphasis on therapeutic relationships, trauma-informed care, and clinical expertise, graduates are well-prepared to meet the complex demands of mental health care environments and are eligible to apply for licensure with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) and write the RPNCE.