Practical Nursing, Good job oppurtunities?

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Hello, I am a student in Canada who is considering if I should choose the practical nursing program over a registered nurse program! I find the practical nursing program better suited to my needs but I have heard from some people that it is more difficult to find job opportunities when licensed as a Practical nurse. Is this true?

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Moved to the Canada forum

Which province are you looking at? This may depend on the answers

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Both RPN and RN are having difficulty in finding jobs in ON particularly in the GTA and golden horseshoe. If nursing is what you really want to do then look to RPN as you have already said it appeals to you. You can always bridge later to RN without increasing the length of time studying too drastically.

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Specializes in NICU.

I did not find that it was difficult to find a job, but it depends on your area. There are cuts everywhere, especially to RNs.

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Specializes in Public Health.
I did not find that it was difficult to find a job, but it depends on your area. There are cuts everywhere, especially to RNs.

I also had no issues securing a job after graduation, neither did anyone I know. I just sent out resumes and the phone calls started coming in.

I guess it depends on how saturated your area is.

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Ontario! :)

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Thank you to everyone who has answered! It really helps with each of your responses.

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I have been looking desperatly everywhere to find a RPN job anywhere in GTA. I am willing to relocate but i still have no luck :(

I reviewed my Resume by many Employment advisors they all said it looks good!!

I feel like i have to know someone in the workplace to use as a reference.

Its all about WHO you know Not WHAT you know !!! :(

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Which area have you applied ?

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Ive had 2 Jobs in ontario as a RPN since i graduated (2013). IMO it all depends on your ability to relocate, and being able to take any job that comes your way even if its not your ideal job. If you are on the fence right now about it all i suggest do your Practial nursing, get a feel for the profession and job market in your area, and if need be bridge to get your degree in the future.

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Ive had 2 Jobs in ontario as a RPN since i graduated (2013). IMO it all depends on your ability to relocate, and being able to take any job that comes your way even if its not your ideal job. If you are on the fence right now about it all i suggest do your Practial nursing, get a feel for the profession and job market in your area, and if need be bridge to get your degree in the future.

I have been applying through indeed and other job websites. I havn't heard anything yet. What job offers have you get? From hospitals or agencies? I dont know what I am doing wrong, any suggestions would help..

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Have you considered going for your BScN? Speaking big picture and long term, more doors may be open for you. As well, not sure where you are (location-wise and in life), but some courses you take for a nursing degree may be used for a different degree if you change your mind. And possibly during holiday breaks, summers, and weekends you can work as a "student" in LTC to help fund yourself. Just tossing that out there... Are you young? If so, it's easier to get your education under your belt before commitments start to accumulate. Good luck to you!

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