College of the Rockies is accepting applications for a new program that prepares adult learners to enter its Practical Nursing program.
About $550,000 in provincial funding supports the Practical Nursing Preparatory Pathway. It is the first offering under the college’s Pathways initiative, which aims to create clearer routes into career-focused post-secondary programs.
The first intake begins Jan. 11, 2027.
The pathway combines english and math upgrading with health-related learning activities and preparation for the academic demands of practical nursing. Successful pathway graduates will receive conditional acceptance into the Practical Nursing program.
The program helps adult learners develop the skills and confidence needed for nursing studies and health-care careers.
“Many people in our communities have the ability and motivation to succeed in post-secondary education, but they may not have a clear route to the program they want,” said Shaun Longstreet, Dean, Adult Upgrading, College of the Rockies.
“Our goal in the Upgrading for Academic and Career Entry Program (UACE) is to make that journey more accessible by connecting academic preparation directly to students’ educational and career goals.”
A second intake is planned for April 2027.
Provincial funding will fully cover tuition for students in the inaugural offerings, though additional fees may apply.
The college is also developing a second pathway focused on technology and STEM-related education.
“This initiative is about more than meeting admission requirements,” Longstreet added.
“It helps students build the skills, confidence, and readiness they need to succeed in their chosen programs and future careers.”
The college says the initiative aims to expand educational opportunities across the East Kootenay and respond to changing workforce needs.
Applications are available at cotr.bc.ca/apply. For more information, contact pathways@cotr.bc.ca.
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