What education level do I need to be a legal nurse in both the US and Canada?

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Hi, I'm new to this website and to the idea of being part of the nursing field. I am an American citizen who is currently living in Canada as a permanent resident (I moved here when I married my husband, who is Canadian). I already have a Bachelor's degree from a university in the States, although my degree is not in the medical field. I'm considering pursuing a career in the nursing field which, of course, would start with more education... but I'm not sure which route to take. It seems there are so many different titles for different levels of nurses, and I want to understand it all before I lock into a program. I would be studying in Canada (probably Ontario), but it is really important that I pursue a path that will give me the option and flexibility to work in Canada or the US in the future, as we will probably spend different parts of our lives in both countries. I am legally eligible to work in either country, so that's not the issue... it's just that I want my degree/diploma as a nurse to be accepted in both as well. What level of nursing education/training should I start pursing so that I will not only be able to gain employment in Ontario (or elsewhere in Canada), but also in the States when we move there? I would really appreciate feedback from those who have experience with situations similar to mine. Thanks!!

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

From Canadian Nurses Association: Nursing in Canada

Becoming a Registered Nurse

Degree or diploma?

If you're thinking about a career in nursing, you should seriously consider studying for a degree (BN or BNSc). More career opportunities and the possibility of graduate study will be open to nurses with university degrees. Most provinces already require a baccalaureate in nursing (BN or BScN) to enter the profession

Both educational routes will permit licensure as RN in US. With tightening job market and higher patient acuity in hospital setting, many employers hiring those with BSN degree over other candidates. For one additional year of education, BN or BNSc will make you most marketable and flexability of positions in both countries.

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Hi , I am not an American citizen and I was brought by my parents from Europe I was wondering is there any way that I can finish for a nurse considering my unresolved status, I finished high school and I do not have a visa or anything like that. Are there any pathways that could help me ? I love medicine and I just want to practice it with the best here at the USA. Please leave any usefull tips at my account thank you

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PCVICU and peds oncology.
Hi , I am not an American citizen and I was brought by my parents from Europe I was wondering is there any way that I can finish for a nurse considering my unresolved status, I finished high school and I do not have a visa or anything like that. Are there any pathways that could help me ? I love medicine and I just want to practice it with the best here at the USA. Please leave any usefull tips at my account thank you

You do realize that you posted this question in the Canadian forum, don't you?

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