Nursing Student Taking Oncology Courses?

[jordanl]

Hi there!

I am currently a second year BScN student in Canada. My goal once I am done school is to become an Oncology Nurse.

Recently I have begun taking a year long Oncology program through a well recognized Cancer Institute in the province I live in. After I have completed each course I receive a certificate for each course and at the end of the program a certificate of completion. It has been a TON of work.

Generally this course is done once you start working in the cancer clinic. Jobs are hard to come by in the cancer clinic here, so I am doing everything I can to get my final practicum there with hopes of getting hired right out of school.

My question for you guys is- if you were a cancer clinic manager would a new grad applicant having this course benefit the applicant? I was informed that it wouldn't matter to the employer because the nurses are expected to work on it once they are hired.

Sorry for the long winded thread!

Jordan

Link to the course: http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/2301.asp

[OCNRN63, RN]

If I were a mgr. I don't think it would make much of a difference. It's hard to apply that information when you're not working with cancer patients. It would show an interest and some dedication to working with oncology patients, so that may count for something for some managers.

Are you paying for this out of your own pocket? Is it possible that this course would be part of orientation for new hires to onc. units? The horse is out of the barn now, so hopefully it will be of some use.