Program Overview

Accelerated Nursing Program

Program Overview

The Accelerated Nursing Program is offered by the Faculty of Science at St. Francis Xavier University. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and is delivered in-person.

About Accelerated Nursing

The Elizabeth and Thomas Rankin School of Nursing at StFX offers an innovative and responsive program that educates competent, safe, caring, evidence-informed, critical-thinking, and baccalaureate-prepared nurses. The Accelerated Option at StFX gives students the opportunity to earn their degree in less time. Nursing graduates apply to the Nova Scotia College of Nurses (NSCN) to write the licensure exam (NCLEX) to become Registered Nurses (RNs) following graduation with the BScN degree.

Why Study Accelerated Nursing at StFX?

The Accelerated Option is ideal for students with prior post-secondary credits who want to complete their degree over six continuous semesters, totaling 24 months. This fast-tracked program rigorously prepares students for the world of healthcare without sacrificing the quality of their education. It is an in-person, on-campus program that offers the same exemplary nursing training as the regular BScN program—simply at a faster, uninterrupted pace that allows students to enter or re-enter the workforce sooner.

First Year at a Glance

Students will already be halfway toward completing the program by the end of their first year of study. Students will take part in three continuous semesters (Winter, Spring/Summer, and Fall) of intensive learning covering the areas required to excel as a healthcare provider. Such areas include Health and Health Systems, Evidence-Informed Practice, and the Fundamentals of Research.

Future Opportunities

In Canada, nurses work in a wide range of settings – from public and community health to hospitals and clinics, long-term care and home care, military service, and humanitarian outreach. Nurses also play a vital role in education, research, and policy development. Opportunities for urban, rural, and remote/outpost nursing abound. Nurses work with people at all life stages, and with populations of diverse cultures.

• Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Educator
• Public Health
• Registered Nurse
• Researcher

Nursing graduates can go on to pursue graduate education and specialty certification in areas such as perinatal, neonatal, and pediatric care, cardiology and oncology, palliative and end-of-life care, and mental health and addictions. A nursing career offers immeasurable opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives and health of others.