Over the past year, 23 internationally trained nurses have successfully graduated from Sterling College and are now registered nurses in Canada. In 2020, after Sterling partnered with Red Deer College to offer students a dual credential from both institutions, 30 nurses transferred over to the new program and are now completing their dual credential qualification.
Internationally trained nurses often face challenges getting their credentials recognized in Canada in order to access quality jobs in health care. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of nurses and their role at the forefront of Canada’s COVID-19 pandemic response.
“Nurses around the world are the true heroes of the covid crisis,” says Feroz Ali, “That’s why we want to celebrate our recent graduates from Sterling and their important contribution to Canada’s health care system.”
Last week, during National Nursing Week, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, announced Canada’s commitment to welcoming internationally trained nurses.
“Helping skilled nurses find and keep good, well-paying jobs is part of our plan to support Canada’s recovery from the pandemic,” says Qualtrough. “Their experience and expertise will help keep Canadians safe and communities healthy.”
In its 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada announced that it will invest $15 million in 2021–22 in the Foreign Credential Recognition Program to scale up and expand existing supports with a focus on in-demand sectors, such as health, information technology and the skilled trades.
More than 25,000 nurses immigrated to Canada in the last 10 years. Internationally trained nurses from around the world who graduate from the Sterling College can go on to complete their Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) and National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
“At Sterling College, we don’t just talk about opportunities for our students,” says Ali. “We work closely with various partners and industry to support our graduates in realizing their greatest potential.”
International students who receive a dual credential diploma from Red Deer College, a public college, may qualify for the Post Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWPP).
Learn more about Sterling College Dual Credential with Red Deer College Health Care Practice and Management Program or contact Hooman Ghahremani, Associate Director of Admissions at [email protected].
