Nursing practicum information
Practice experiences (practica) are an essential part of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. They’re an opportunity to put theory into practice and work within the Greater Victoria community. You’ll also get a sense of the real-world responsibilities you will face after graduation.
Practica can cover a range of activities, including:
- scheduled shifts with regulatory supervision in practice placement settings
- shifts may include evenings, weekends, nights and 12-hour shifts)
- tutorials (student with course educator)
- seminars (student group with course educator)
- simulations
- alternate learning (activities away from the designated placement setting)
- other time as organized with the instructor
Placement planning in Victoria
During your time at the University of Victoria, you will complete a total of 3 consolidated practice experiences and 1 transition to entry-level registered nurse (RN) practice course-each involving 6 full-time weeks of study. These practice courses occur off-campus in healthcare settings with various practice partners (e.g., Island Health Authority) and usually consist of three-to-four 12-hour shifts per week that may occur on days, evenings, weekends and overnights.
Before you graduate, you will also take a community leadership practice course, where you'll learn with community partners (1 day per week for 12-weeks duration). This course happens alongside other required theory courses.
The practice education team will contact you before each practice course to collect information about areas of interest for practice placements. Contact the practice education team if you have a recommendation for a placement; do not take steps to arrange your own placement.
BSN placement decisions are based on program and regulatory requirements, agency availability, formal accommodations through the Centre for Accessible Learning at UVic and individual learning needs.
You must arrange your own transportation and are responsible for any travel or accommodation costs. You are also responsible for knowing the nursing practice requirements and expectations in advance of your placement.
See the School of Nursing practice requirements for information about:
- current basic life support certification
- personal respirators/masks
- the code of ethics and standards of practice
- criminal record reviews
- health insurance coverage
- immunizations
- the oath of confidentiality
Please also review the Faculty of Health practica regulations.
The BSN program is guided by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) standards. To work as a RN, graduates must meet the required competencies and standards set by the College:
Practicum site development
We are always looking for new placement opportunities for UVic BSN students. If your organization wants to host practicum students, please email us. A member of our practica coordination team will contact you.
Contact us
If you have any questions about practicum placements, please email our practica coordinators or our administrative assistant. You may also reach us at 250-721-8502.