Nursing Unit Assistant Certificate

Nursing Unit Assistant Certificate Courses

This program will provide students with the necessary knowledge and confidence to successfully work as a nursing unit assistant (NUA) in a vast array of nursing units and clinical settings. NUA's strongly contribute to overall patient care in many settings and must possess a keen eye for detail and excellent communication skills to help facilitate the successful functioning of a nursing unit. This fast-paced, pivotal role is rewarding and challenging. Through both lecture and a supported practicum placement, students will learn different types of physician's orders, policies, ethical standards and duties that encompass the NUA role. Nursing unit assistants work in many areas in healthcare such as outpatient settings, inpatient units and clinics. With focused learning outcomes in technology, customer service, and employment skills, the graduating students will be prepared to meet and exceed expectations.

Locations & Dates

CNC programs have varying lengths and start dates to meet your needs, and are offered across multiple campuses where possible. Don’t see the campus you’re looking for? Check back with us soon as this page is updated throughout the school year.

Entry Requirements

1. Successful completion of Grade 12 or equivalent,
2. Completion of English 12 or English 12: First Peoples or equivalent with a minimum "C" grade,
3. Minimum typing speed of 50 NWPM. The typing test must be invigilated by an approved testing centre. It is free of charge if taken at CNC's Testing and Tutoring after you have submitted your application. (You must book in advance: 250 561-5837, or tts@cnc.bc.ca, or book in person.)

Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our Academic Upgrading options.

Program requirements

Once accepted into the Nursing Unit Assistant Certificate program, students are required to:

1. Complete official college forms certifying current immunizations as per the Practice Education Guidelines for B.C. and as required by provincial health authorities. Failure to comply with immunization guidelines may prevent students from completing all components of the program and therefore make them not eligible to graduate.
2. Complete a Criminal Record Check (CRC) from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. A search which identifies relevant criminal convictions may prevent students from completing all components of the program and therefore make them not eligible to graduate.

Note

The cost of immunizations and a Criminal Record Check are the responsibility of the student.

Program recommendations

While it is not a requirement, it is highly recommended applicants:

• Have a good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Attend a Nursing Unit Assistant Certificate information session prior to the start of the program.

Graduation requirements

Students must achieve a minimum of: "C" in MEDT 100; satisfactory "S" in NRUA 162, NRUA 164, and NRUA 179; and "B" in all remaining courses in order to graduate from the Nursing Unit Assistant
Certificate program.

Note 5: In the case that a student does not achieve a "B" in a NRUA course but has at minimum achieved a "C+", they may request a make-up assessment to allow them to attempt to achieve a "B" or greater.

Students are not eligible to request a make-up assessment for MEDT 100, NRUA 162, NRUA 164, or NRUA 179. A student will only be permitted to request one make-up assessment throughout the
duration of the program. The fee for a make-up assessment will be the full tuition fee for the course it is being requested for.

Invest in your future  

Estimated over 12 months $6,657. Additional student fees and textbook costs will also apply. Prices are subject to change. 

A $720 seat deposit will be required upon acceptance to the program.

Books for this program can be purchased from the bookstore.

To find more information on applying, refunds, or the registration timetable please see the Office of the Registrar's website.