To practice in Ontario as a Registered Practical Nurse, you must successfully obtain and maintain your registration certificate through the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination.
Delivery
HybridDuration
5 Semesters (2 Years)Study Option
Full-time & Part-timeCredential
Ontario College DiplomaAbout the Program
Seneca’s Practical Nursing diploma program is designed to set you up for success in today’s healthcare environment. Through a dynamic blend of classroom learning, hands-on skills training and real-world clinical placements, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience needed to thrive as a healthcare professional.
You’ll explore essential subjects like nursing theory, anatomy and physiology and more—while building practical skills in our state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs and diverse clinical settings, including hospitals and community care facilities.
By the end of the program, you’ll be fully prepared to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) and take the next step toward becoming a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN).
Seneca’s Practical Nursing program is approved by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), and our graduates are eligible to apply for registration as RPNs upon completion.
Program Duration
Full-time Study Option: Students studying full-time complete this program in two years (five semesters).
Part-time Study Option: Students studying part-time can complete this program in approximately three years and eight months depending on course load. See courses for more information.
Program Availability
| Start in | Study Option | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2025 | Full-time | King | Waitlist |
| Sept. 2025 | Full-time | Newnham | Closed |
| Jan. 2026 | Full-time | King | Open |
| Jan. 2026 | Full-time | Newnham | Waitlist |
| Jan. 2026 | Part-time | Newnham | Open |
| May 2026 | Full-time | King | Open |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
| Start in | Study Option | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 2025 | Full-time | King | Open |
| Sept. 2025 | Full-time | Newnham | Closed |
| Jan. 2026 | Full-time | King | Open |
| Jan. 2026 | Full-time | Newnham | Closed |
| Jan. 2026 | Part-time | Newnham | Not available |
| May 2026 | Full-time | King | Open |
Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.
This program meets Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility requirements. (CIP code: 51.3901)
International students: Studying in a part-time is not an available option as this will impact your study permit and PGWP eligibility. Review the requirements before choosing your program and study option.
Program and Course Delivery
This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.
In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.
Learn more: Seneca’s program delivery options and how courses in this program will be delivered each term.
International students applying for a PGWP: If you are in a flexible delivery course, you must attend in person as the option to attend online does not apply to you based on IRCC policy. Studying online will impact your PGWP eligibility. Please review the in-person requirements related to PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.
Your Career
As a result of regulations arising out of the Nursing Act 1991, applicants for registration in Ontario must not have:
- Convicted of a criminal offence or an offence under the Narcotic Control Act (Canada) or the Food and Drugs Act (Canada)
- Any physical or mental condition/illness that may affect ability to practice
Applicants who do not meet the requirements will be reviewed by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) to determine if registration will be granted.
Successful Ontario registrants are eligible for registration throughout Canada (French required in Quebec).
Affiliations/Associations
You will also qualify to become a member of the following affiliations and associations:
- College of Nurses of Ontario
- Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario
The Seneca Polytechnic Difference
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Degree Pathways
Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.
Student Life
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Career Support
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Simulation Lab
You will gain hands-on, practical experience in our state-of-the-art patient care simulation lab, preparing you for your in-demand career.
Student Experiences
Seneca Nanji Foundation School of Nursing
Explore Seneca Nanji Foundation School of Nursing hands-on labs and classrooms where students gain practical skills for in-demand careers.
Graduate Career-Ready
Take the next step in your academic journey at Seneca. Join thousands of graduates who are making a difference here and around the world.
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What Our Graduates Say
Ervin Sevilla
Registered Practical Nurse, University Health Network
Practical Nursing
"I chose Seneca because of its strong reputation for hands-on learning, industry connections and flexibility."