A new College of the Rockies (COTR) Pathway Program is helping adult learners take the first step toward careers in health care by connecting academic upgrading with targeted preparation for entry into the Practical Nursing program.

Supported by approximately $550,000 in provincial funding, the new Practical Nursing Preparatory Pathway is the first offering in the college’s Pathways initiative, designed to create clearer routes into career-focused post-secondary programs.

Applications are now being accepted for the inaugural offering, which begins January 11, 2027. The pathway combines English and mathematics upgrading with health-related learning activities and focused preparation for the academic demands of the Practical Nursing (PN) program. Successful graduates of the PN Pathway will have conditional acceptance into the PN program.

Designed with adult learners in mind, the pathway provides a structured approach to developing the skills, confidence, and readiness needed to pursue nursing education and careers in the health-care sector.

 “Many people in our communities have the ability and motivation to succeed in post-secondary education, but they may not have a clear route to the program they want,” said Shaun Longstreet, Dean, Adult Upgrading. “Our goal in the Upgrading for Academic and Career Entry Program (UACE) is to make that journey more accessible by connecting academic preparation directly to students’ educational and career goals.”

A second intake of the Practical Nursing Preparatory Pathway is planned for April 2027.

Through funding provided by the Province of British Columbia, tuition for students enrolled in the inaugural offerings will be fully covered. Additional fees may apply.

The Practical Nursing Preparatory Pathway is the first offering within the college’s new Pathways initiative. Work is underway on a second offering focused on technology and STEM-related education.

 “This initiative is about more than meeting admission requirements,” Longstreet added. “It helps students build the skills, confidence, and readiness they need to succeed in their chosen programs and future careers.”

The initiative reflects College of the Rockies’ commitment to expanding educational opportunities across the East Kootenay region while responding to changing workforce needs.

Applications for the Practical Nursing Preparatory Pathway are now being accepted at cotr.bc.ca/apply.  For more information, contact [email protected].

Lead image: College of the Rockies’ Practical Nursing Preparatory Program is designed to help adult learners to gain the prerequisites and skills needed to enter the Practical Nursing program. Photo submitted

College of the Rockies

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