COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum at StFX is structured across eight semesters for students in the regular and accelerated streams, progressing from foundational sciences to advanced clinical practice. In the early semesters, students complete non-nursing courses such as English, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, psychology, statistics, nutrition, ethics, and humanities or social science electives to build a strong academic base. From semester three onward, the focus shifts to core nursing courses that introduce the discipline and profession of nursing, human functioning, health assessment, health systems, and research foundations. As students advance, the curriculum emphasizes alterations in health, nursing therapeutics, family and lifespan care, population and public health, leadership, management, and evidence-informed practice. Clinical learning is integrated throughout the program through laboratories and multiple practicums that progressively develop professional nursing roles and competencies in diverse settings. Senior semesters include advanced therapeutics, complex care across the lifespan, role transition, and an extensive preceptored clinical practicum that prepares students for entry-level practice. An Honours option is available for eligible students, incorporating thesis seminars and a research-based project. Graduates are prepared to write the NCLEX licensing exam and enter nursing practice across a wide range of health care environments, with further opportunities for specialization and graduate study.