> Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing > Prospective Students > Post-Master Nurse Practitioner Diploma > FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about the Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Diploma ProgramWhat are the admission requirements for the program?
Applicants must have:
(1) Master's degree in Nursing or an equivalent degree with clinical nursing experience;
(2) Minimum of 2 years of clinical nursing experience; and
(3) Signed preceptor agreement prior to seeking admission to the program
In addition, preference will be given to:
(1) Candidates who have one or more years in an advanced nursing practice role (in addition to clinical experience); and
(2) Support within their employment setting.
The most successful graduates from previous programs were those who had significant experience in, and a good understanding of advanced practice nursing roles and a highly supportive administrative and physician environment. Candidates who do not meet the preferred requirements will be assessed on an individual basis subject to availability of openings in the program.
English Facility Requirements - Please refer to the Post-Master's Nurse Practitioner Diploma application for more information on English facility requirements.
Will my application be considered if I will not have completed my Master's degree by the application deadline, but will have completed by September?
Priority will be given to those who have completed their Master's degree by the application deadline. Applicants may be granted conditional acceptance if they have significant nursing experience and will complete their Master's degree by a set date after the application deadline.
Can I apply if I am in the progress of completing my 3,900 hours of clinical experience?
Applicants must have a minimum of 3,900 hours of clinical experience in order to be accepted into the program. Applicants with between 3,000 and 3,900 hours of clinical experience by the application deadline may be given conditional acceptance, on the understanding that 3,900 hours will be achieved by the beginning of classes in September.
Preference is given to applicants who have advanced practice nursing experience.
I am a medical doctor in my home country with years of experience. As a physician, what advanced standing can I be given if I apply for the Post-Master's Program?
All students are required to have completed a Master in nursing or equivalent degree from an accredited university, be a Registered Nurse in Canada, and have 3,900 hours of clinical nursing experience before applying to the program. These requirements must be met, regardless of prior work or educational experience.
What is considered clinical experience?
Clinical experience is considered nursing within a health care agency, such as a hospital, out-patient clinic, community health centre, etc. Please note that hours completed through a student placement are not considered eligible experience.
What is a realistic workload while completing the program?
Each course requires 10 to 15 hours per week per course of time to review the theoretical course material and complete assignments. You need to consider how you will balance work, family, social, and academic responsibilities, and how much of your time you can realistically devote to studying.
You are required to complete 700 clinical hours within the 3 clinical courses.
Generally, students report that they are most successful if time is negotiated with their employer, such as:
a) taking the time off when classes and assignments are scheduled, and/or
b) having at least two to four days off each week for academic study in addition to class time.