2024 Applications to University of British Columbia (UBC) Nurse Practitioner Masters Program

[NursingNomad]

Hey there! Starting a forum for aspiring Nurse Practitioners applying to the 2024 Master's programs in BC and Canada. Share your work backgrounds, certifications, stay in the loop on acceptances, pose questions, and join the celebration of success stories from those who get in!

[NursingNomad]

I've submitted applications to the University of Victoria, University of Regina, and the University of British Columbia.  Specialized RN in adult and pediatric oncology with research certifications. 5+ years of diverse nursing experience, including a travel assignment up north. 

This is my second application to UVIC. In my initial attempt, I applied with minimal experience, banking on my grades to pave the way. My GPA is 4.01 in the last (3) years of my BSN, curious about how they evaluate the grading scale, especially as I haven't pursued further education beyond my BSN. Do they need to consider grades from my (2) year of university to fulfill the requirement of all 30 credits? Any insights from fellow applicants?

[Lusha312]

Hey guys! My name is Alex and I applied to UVIC, UNBC AND UBC. Have 5+ years of experience. To be honest, I'm very anxious to find out

[HappyERNurse1]

Hey guys,

I applied to UBC last year and didn't get accepted. This year I applied to UBC, UNBC, and UVIC. I have 4 years of experience in ER. I know I am applying a bit early but I have some future plans. After getting rejected from UBC Last year I am a little discouraged. But we shall see what happens.

[NursingNomad]

When did you receive a response from UBC last year? I was notified by UVIC in March, though that was a couple of years back. Have there been any modifications to your personal submission? My references are stronger, I obtained chemotherapy/research certificates, and refined the personal statement to reflect a more individual-centric perspective, steering away from an emphasis on professional experiences. Fingers crossed!

[IslanderEllie]

Hello everyone! Thanks for starting this thread, NursingNomad.

I live on the island and I have a toddler, so I'm going all-in on UVic this year. This is my first attempt at getting in, so I may apply at other BC schools next year if I'm not successful this year.

I have 14 years of nursing experience, primarily remote nursing in northern Canada (primary care/first call), but I also have experience in public health, diabetes education, and supervisory roles.

Best of luck to everyone. 

[IslanderEllie]

NursingNomad said:

curious about how they evaluate the grading scale, especially as I haven't pursued further education beyond my BSN. Do they need to consider grades from my (2) year of university to fulfill the requirement of all 30 credits? Any insights from fellow applicants?

You could double-check with admissions, but UVic states they require a minimum 77% average in the final two years of your nursing degree, so I'd imagine they look primarily at the last two years to make a decision.

[Rimlak, BSN, RN]

I applied to 4 schools and got accepted into all 4. Chose TRU. 
 

my GPA was 3.89, ER/ICU background, 9 years experience. ACLS, and multiple certificates were expired on my CV. 
 

what I noticed from many who got in:

 

1. yes, have an acceptable GPA, but having 4.1 GPA doesn't mean you will get in. Get your STATS course or be in the process of.  Be aware of which course. TRU STAT1201 is not accepted by many schools. 
 

2. have STRONG references. I used one of my BCIT program instructors (from roughly 6 years prior), a recent manager, and a past manager (who both managed in a critical care and urgent care setting). 

3. Have a strong personal statement. Answer the questions for the statement, use examples, and be human. Anyone can give "I am a compassionate and caring nurse" speech. I explained how my background was an asset and that also my personal experience caring for a critically care spouse has made me an ideal candidate. 

 

apply to all schools. Most are online. There are limited seats and LOTS of applicants. 
If you get on the wait list, don't panic. Many people get multiple offers, and I noticed many of the waitlisted students got in. 
 

lastly. It is super shitty to get rejected. It's a defeating feeling. But if this is what you really want, KEEP APPLYING. Find out how to better yourself for the next application window, and do it. 

[IslanderEllie]

Thank @Rimlak for your helpful insights. And congrats on getting into all 4 schools, wow! Do you mind if I send you a PM with a question about TRU specifically?

[Rimlak, BSN, RN]

IslanderEllie said:

Thank @Rimlak for your helpful insights. And congrats on getting into all 4 schools, wow! Do you mind if I send you a PM with a question about TRU specifically?

Sure can 

[IslandnurseG]

Hi All - I have also applied for 2024- just to TRU.

My background is in ER and remote/outpost nursing ( I am remote certified )and have primarily worked in rural and remote areas. I have done lots of education since graduating with my BSN in 2014...feels like I am always in school!

I have applied to TRU only. Very curious to see how it goes! @Rimlak I would also love to ask you some questions about TRU's application before I finalize everything ? Let me know! 

[Rimlak, BSN, RN]

gennrichard said:

Hi All - I have also applied for 2024- just to TRU.

My background is in ER and remote/outpost nursing ( I am remote certified )and have primarily worked in rural and remote areas. I have done lots of education since graduating with my BSN in 2014...feels like I am always in school!

I have applied to TRU only. Very curious to see how it goes! @Rimlak I would also love to ask you some questions about TRU's application before I finalize everything ? Let me know! 

Absolutely. Send me a message.