Top Nursing Schools in Quebec (QC): Your Guide to a Rewarding Healthcare Career
Nursing is one of the most fulfilling and high-demand professions in healthcare. In Quebec, students have access to some of Canada’s top nursing programs—offering pathways to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Registered Nurse (RN), or even pursue graduate-level nursing education.
Whether you’re entering the field for the first time or looking to upgrade your credentials, this guide to the top nursing schools in Quebec can help you choose the right program to meet your goals.
Top Nursing Schools in Quebec
McGill University – Ingram School of Nursing (Montreal)
McGill’s Ingram School of Nursing is internationally recognized for academic excellence and research leadership in nursing education.
Program Highlights:
- Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD programs in Nursing
- Strengths-Based Nursing (SBN) philosophy for holistic patient care
- Clinical placements at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC)
- Accelerated 3-year BScN option for eligible applicants
Why Choose McGill:
- English-language instruction
- Highly ranked internationally
- Access to world-class healthcare facilities and research opportunities
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Financial Aid Info
Université de Montréal – Faculté des sciences infirmières (Montreal)
Université de Montréal offers one of the most comprehensive French-language nursing programs in Canada.
Program Highlights:
- Direct-entry BScN, DEC-BAC options, and graduate studies
- Strong focus on primary care, community health, and geriatrics
- Partnerships with major institutions like CHUM
Why Choose UdeM:
- Highly ranked research university
- Excellent simulation labs and real-world clinical experiences
- Francophone environment supporting cultural and linguistic diversity
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Scholarships & Bursaries
Université Laval – École des sciences infirmières (Quebec City)
Université Laval is known for its forward-thinking nursing education and strong integration of theory, practice, and research.
Program Highlights:
- BScN, MScN, and DNP-level offerings
- Clinical placements in diverse urban and rural communities
- Focus on evidence-based practice and interprofessional teamwork
Why Choose Université Laval:
- French-language instruction with global partnerships
- Strong ties to healthcare centers across Quebec
- Cutting-edge simulation and skills development centers
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Bursaries & Financial Aid
Université de Sherbrooke – École des sciences infirmières (Sherbrooke)
Université de Sherbrooke offers an innovative, person-centered nursing curriculum in French.
Program Highlights:
- DEC-BAC, BScN, Master’s, and PhD programs
- Emphasis on clinical decision-making and empathy
- Integrated simulation and community-based education
Why Choose Sherbrooke:
- Experiential and bilingual learning opportunities
- Partnerships with regional hospitals and community centers
- Supportive academic and clinical environment
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Financial Aid Info
Dawson College – Nursing Program (DEC) (Montreal)
Dawson College offers a well-respected English-language DEC in Nursing, designed to prepare students for clinical practice or continued university studies.
Program Highlights:
- 3-year full-time professional nursing diploma
- Strong emphasis on clinical learning in real healthcare settings
- Bridge pathways to McGill and other BScN programs
Why Choose Dawson:
- One of Quebec’s largest and most diverse CEGEPs
- English-language instruction
- High graduate employability and student support services
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Financial Aid Info
John Abbott College – Nursing Program (DEC) (Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue)
John Abbott College delivers a comprehensive English-language DEC in Nursing, blending theory and practice in a vibrant campus setting.
Program Highlights:
- Clinical exposure in acute care, pediatrics, mental health, and geriatrics
- Hands-on learning in high-fidelity simulation labs
- BScN bridge available through McGill and other universities
Why Choose John Abbott:
- Beautiful lakeside campus environment
- Small class sizes and individualized attention
- Strong reputation and support for graduates
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Financial Aid Info
Cégep Marie-Victorin – Nursing (Techniques de soins infirmiers) (Montreal)
This French-language nursing program prepares students to become professional nurses with a solid foundation in patient care.
Program Highlights:
- 3-year program combining academic instruction and practical training
- Emphasis on ethics, communication, and professional responsibility
- Internship opportunities in major hospitals and care facilities
Why Choose Cégep Marie-Victorin:
- Affordable education with strong student support
- Located in east-end Montreal with access to local clinical settings
- Pathway to university BScN programs
Cégep de Sherbrooke – Soins infirmiers (DEC)
Cégep de Sherbrooke provides a dynamic French-language program focused on developing practical nursing skills.
Program Highlights:
- Combination of classroom learning and hospital internships
- Emphasis on team-based care and critical thinking
- Option to transition to Université de Sherbrooke
Why Choose Cégep de Sherbrooke:
- Accessible location and active campus life
- Strong clinical training across multiple specialties
- Well-established faculty with industry experience
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Financial Aid Info
Cégep de l’Outaouais – Nursing Program (Gatineau)
Located in Gatineau, this college offers a robust French-language DEC in nursing with opportunities to study and work in bilingual settings.
Program Highlights:
- Training in hospital, long-term care, and community settings
- Access to simulation technologies for safe skill development
- Direct academic pathway to Université du Québec en Outaouais (UQO)
Why Choose Cégep de l’Outaouais:
- Close to Ottawa-Gatineau healthcare job markets
- Practical, competency-based learning
- Strong links with local healthcare networks
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Financial Aid Info
Why Study Nursing in Quebec?
Quebec provides a flexible and accessible nursing education system that supports various career paths in healthcare. With options available in both English and French, and programs ranging from technical diplomas to doctoral degrees, the province offers something for every aspiring nurse.
Advantages include:
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options for residents
- Diverse program offerings (DEC, BScN, MScN, PhD)
- High employment demand in hospitals, public health, and community care
- Clinical partnerships with top-tier healthcare institutions
Pursuing a nursing education in Quebec is more than just earning a credential—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey in making a meaningful difference. With world-class facilities, bilingual options, and robust clinical training, these nursing schools are ready to help you thrive in a compassionate and in-demand profession.
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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 a local recruiter to explore current job opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of Canadian headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies.
Connect with the top Quebec recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.