Nursing (BScN) — York University

York University's 4-Year Direct Entry Nursing program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) through the Faculty of Health. The program is offered full-time at York's Keele Campus and is designed for students entering nursing without previous nursing education.

Students develop knowledge and practical skills in areas including health assessment, pathophysiology, health promotion, common and complex health challenges, leadership and the Canadian healthcare system.

The program combines classroom learning, simulation and clinical practice to prepare students for professional nursing practice.

Admission to York University Nursing

Admission to York University's Direct Entry Nursing program is highly competitive.

Ontario secondary school applicants require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and six Grade 12 U or M courses.

Required prerequisites include Grade 12 U English, one Grade 12 U mathematics course, Grade 12 U Biology and either Grade 12 U Chemistry or Physics. Applicants must achieve at least 70% in each prerequisite.

Competitive applicants generally present an overall average in the high 80s or higher. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission because the strength of the applicant pool and available program capacity can vary each year.

For Fall 2027 admission, required prerequisite courses must be completed by June 30. The application deadline for Direct Entry Nursing is February 1, 2027.

Clinical Placements and Nursing Simulation

Clinical education is an important part of York's BScN program.

Students can complete clinical placements in settings such as hospitals, community health centres, long-term-care facilities and other healthcare organizations across Toronto and surrounding communities.

Clinical experiences can expose students to areas including medical-surgical nursing, paediatrics, maternity and obstetrics, mental health, community health, critical care, emergency nursing and long-term care.

Students also develop practical skills through York's Nursing Simulation Centre, which includes nursing skills facilities and simulation technology designed to support hands-on learning.

Nursing Specialization Opportunities

York provides opportunities for students to explore specialized areas of nursing practice.

Optional areas of focus can include high-acuity and critical care, mental health and addictions, and nursing leadership and care of older adults.

Students should confirm current stream availability and requirements with York University's School of Nursing.

Becoming a Registered Nurse

York University's BScN programs are approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario.

Completing the degree is an important educational step toward becoming a Registered Nurse in Ontario, but graduation alone does not automatically grant RN registration.

Graduates must satisfy the College of Nurses of Ontario's registration requirements, including the applicable registration examination and other eligibility requirements.

Career Opportunities

York Nursing graduates can pursue opportunities across hospitals, community health organizations, public health, primary care, mental health services, long-term care and other healthcare environments.

Potential career areas include medical-surgical nursing, critical care, emergency nursing, paediatrics, mental health, community health and public health.

Nurses interested in advanced practice, education, leadership or research may pursue graduate education and additional professional qualifications.

Students interested in the university more broadly can explore our York University profile for information about York's campuses, programs, admissions, tuition and student opportunities.