News Archives: Northwestern Polytechnic Adds Even More Health Care Pathways
Friday, April 14th, 2023
April 14, 2023, Grande Prairie Alberta - Northwestern Polytechnic is adding to its growing health care presence with two new programs. In addition to developing a Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) certificate that will launch in 2024, Alberta’s newest polytechnic is now accepting applications for a Fairview based, Practical Nurse (PN) diploma.
“This expanded programming in Fairview and brand-new Primary Care Paramedic offering come at a time when we are seeing unprecedented need for health care professionals,” says Vice-President, Academic and Research, Dr. Vanessa Sheane. “This is great news for our polytechnic and the region as a whole.”
The additional PN seats and new PCP program have been made possible by $1,354,364 in targeted enrolment expansion funding from the Government of Alberta. The investment means that collaborative planning can continue to move forward for development of a PCP certificate.
“Paramedical and nursing professionals are in high demand in Alberta and NWP is an ideal training ground,” said Department of Nursing Education and Health Studies, Chairperson, Joan Jacobson. “Along with a new health care education wing in Grande Prairie’s state-of-the-art hospital, we are proud to welcome the next generation of carers into our classrooms and labs in Fairview.”
In 2022 the polytechnic broadened its Health Care Aide certificate program with 16 new seats in Fairview. Just over a year ago, NWP’s first ever cohort of Practical Nurses launched in Grande Prairie and now an identical two-year diploma will be offered at the Fairview campus, beginning Fall 2023.
PN graduates are integral in providing nursing care in a variety of health care settings, such as hospitals, the community and other health care agencies. NWP grads are eligible to seek licensure through the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta toward obtaining their status as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
The PCP program is underpinned by work-integrated-learning principles. In addition to an ambulance placement, students also learn skills in the clinical environment over the course of the certificate.
“Every investment made towards enhanced health-care training opportunities, is an investment in the health and well-being of our community,” says Justin Kohlman, NWP President and CEO. “Health care professionals are the foundation of our medical system and I am proud that NWP can act as a springboard into these meaningful and infinitely important careers.”
For more information on NWP’s Practical Nurse Diploma program applications or updates on the Primary Care Paramedic program development, please visit NWP.me/health.
