Alberta announces $11 million fund in spaces for internationally educated nurses
By Jannah Jumamil on October 17, 2023
There is a current high demand for healthcare professionals in Alberta, and the government is investing $11 million in nurse bridging programs. Internationally educated nurses will have access to spaces at post-secondary institutions across the province.
“Investing in more seats in bridging programs helps internationally educated nurses get to work in our communities and meet Alberta’s need for highly skilled and dedicated health care workers. Our post-secondary institutions are valued partners in meeting that need, both in their home communities and across the province,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education.
The funding will create 848 new registered nurse pathway seats and 373 new licensed practical nurse seats over the next three years. This will help internationally educated nurses receive the certification they need and be licensed to practice nursing in Alberta.
“Adding additional seats for nurse bridging programs is a vital step towards addressing the growing demand for health care professionals in our province. Internationally educated nurses play a crucial role in meeting the health care needs of Albertans and this initiative will help them integrate more easily into communities across our province,” said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health.
Ten post-secondary institutions in Alberta will make use of the funding to create additional seats for nurse bridging programs. Among these include NorQuest College and MacEwan University in Edmonton.
“The College of Registered Nurses of Alberta supports the announcement of the investment to create additional seats in bridging programs for internationally educated nurses. The college looks forward to seeing the impact this has on strengthening the health care ecosystem in Alberta,” said Joy Peacock, College of Registered Nurses of Alberta’s CEO and registrar.
The Alberta government is also funding $7.8 million for non-repayable financial assistance for internationally educated nurses. Those who are eligible can access $30,000 to help them with the costs of nurse bridging programs.