Top Nursing Schools in New Brunswick (NB)
Your Guide to Starting a Rewarding Career in Healthcare
Nursing is more than just a profession — it’s a calling. As demand for skilled nurses continues to rise across Canada and around the world, choosing the right school is an essential step toward a fulfilling and impactful healthcare career. Whether you’re interested in becoming a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or advancing through graduate nursing studies, New Brunswick offers excellent options for nursing education.
This guide highlights some of the top nursing schools in New Brunswick, providing details on programs, career paths, and financial support to help you make an informed choice for your future.
Top Nursing Schools in New Brunswick
University of New Brunswick (UNB)
Website: www.unb.ca
Scholarships: UNB Scholarships and Financial Aid
UNB is one of Canada’s most established nursing educators, offering a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program on its Fredericton and Saint John campuses. Key features include:
- Four-year BN and Advanced Standing programs
- Clinical placements starting in the first year
- Opportunities for community, acute care, and mental health nursing
- Graduate programs including Master of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner (NP) studies
UNB’s nursing graduates are highly sought after in both hospital and community settings, thanks to their strong clinical preparation and leadership skills.
Université de Moncton – École de science infirmière
Website: www.umoncton.ca
Scholarships: UdeM Bursaries and Scholarships
The Université de Moncton offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScInf) through its Moncton, Edmundston, and Shippagan campuses. This French-language program is ideal for Francophone students and includes:
- Direct-entry and bridging options for students with prior healthcare experience
- Practical internships and simulation labs
- Pathways to Master of Nursing and Advanced Practice Nursing
Students receive bilingual preparation for work in both French and English healthcare environments, expanding job opportunities across the province and country.
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)
Website: www.nbcc.ca
Scholarships: NBCC Financial Aid and Bursaries
NBCC offers a Practical Nurse (PN) diploma program across several campuses, including Saint John, Fredericton, Miramichi, and Moncton. Program highlights include:
- Two-year diploma focusing on holistic patient care
- Clinical placements in hospitals, long-term care, and community settings
- Preparation for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE) and are workforce-ready upon graduation.
Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB)
Website: www.ccnb.ca
Scholarships: CCNB Financial Assistance
CCNB provides French-language Practical Nursing training across its campuses, including Dieppe, Campbellton, and Bathurst. Program features:
- Accredited PN program meeting national standards
- Intensive clinical and lab experience
- Strong job placement support, especially in Francophone communities
CCNB’s Practical Nurse graduates serve a vital role in hospitals, home care, and clinics across New Brunswick.
Crandall University – Future Opportunities
Website: www.crandallu.ca
While Crandall University does not currently offer a nursing program, it provides pre-health and pre-nursing pathways, including:
- Bachelor of Science in Biology with a health sciences concentration
- Pre-medical and allied health preparation
- Partnerships and advising for students pursuing nursing after graduation
This is a great option for students who want a faith-based environment before entering a BN or BScN program elsewhere.
Saint Thomas University – Health & Aging Focus
Website: www.stu.ca
St. Thomas University doesn’t offer direct-entry nursing but provides an excellent interdisciplinary foundation for future nursing students through its programs in:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Health Studies
These degrees offer a unique understanding of patient care, aging, and mental health—valuable knowledge for anyone entering nursing or healthcare professions.
Maritime College of Forest Technology (MCFT) – Wilderness First Responder Training
Website: www.mcft.ca
While not a nursing school, MCFT offers first aid, wilderness medical training, and environmental health education, which can complement nursing roles in:
- Remote or rural healthcare
- Public health and environmental nursing
- Emergency preparedness roles
Students seeking nursing with an outdoor or environmental health focus might consider this training alongside formal nursing education.
Yorkville University – Health-Related Programs
Website: www.yorkvilleu.ca
Though it doesn’t offer a BN, Yorkville University (based in Fredericton) provides related programs in health, psychology, and leadership, such as:
- Bachelor of Business Administration – Healthcare Management
- Graduate diplomas in psychology and mental health
This can be an excellent complement to nursing practice for those aiming for future leadership or specialization roles.
Why Study Nursing in New Brunswick?
- Multiple Entry Points: From LPN diplomas to BN and NP programs, NB supports various paths into nursing.
- Clinical Experience: Early and frequent clinical placements build confidence and real-world skills.
- High Employability: Nurses are in demand across NB’s hospitals, clinics, public health units, and long-term care facilities.
- Bilingual Opportunities: Many programs offer bilingual instruction and placements to serve both Anglophone and Francophone communities.
- Financial Support: Generous scholarships, bursaries, and government grants are available for future nurses.
Final Thoughts: Caring Starts Here
Nursing is more than a career—it’s a way to change lives, advocate for others, and contribute meaningfully to your community. Whether you’re taking your first step toward becoming an LPN, pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing, or planning to become a Nurse Practitioner, New Brunswick offers exceptional training grounded in compassion, competence, and care.
Take the time to explore these programs, speak to admissions advisors, and plan your financial aid options. Your future in nursing starts now — and the impact you’ll make will be lifelong.
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Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities.
Connect with local recruiters and headhunters to explore current job opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in Canada.