Nursing Specializations

There are many areas of registered nursing practice, and over the span of a career an RN may practice in a variety of areas. These practice areas include medical/surgical, maternal/child, mental health, operating and post-anesthetic recovery room, emergency room, intensive care, gerontology and community health. Registered nurses practice in urban, rural, northern and remote settings and in international locations.

Nursing students who are interested in any of these practice areas can request to have their senior practicum (NURS 485) there in order to build on basic skills from previous clinical courses. Students with an interest in global health can contact the Global Nursing Office regarding course work, volunteer experiences and study abroad experiences.

The Canadian Nurses Association has a specialty certification program for registered nurses working in their specialty area. Further details are available on the Canadian Nurses Association Website.