First University of Regina-SIAST nursing pinning ceremony

News Release Release Date: August 25, 2014 1:00 p.m.

The first graduating class of the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (SCBScN) program, offered jointly by SIAST and the University of Regina, were presented with their pins in Regina today. Although Convocation ceremonies for the accelerated class will be held in the fall, the pins received today mark entry into the nursing profession.

“These students and their colleagues in Saskatoon who will be honoured tomorrow are part of a long tradition – the noble profession of nursing,” said University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons. “At the same time, however, they are starting a new tradition as the first graduates of the University of Regina and SIAST’s collaborative nursing program. The pins they are receiving are a symbol of both traditions, and I hope they will wear them with pride throughout their careers.”

SIAST and the University of Regina entered into the partnership to deliver the SCBScN program in 2010, with the first class of students on campus in the fall of 2011. This direct-entry program is currently offered in Regina, Saskatoon and Swift Current with applications accepted for all three locations from October to February annually. Students may apply directly from high school or from another post-secondary education program.  A pre-requisite year of post-secondary classes is not required.  Graduates of the nationally accredited program are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, and are eligible to write the national licensure exam and obtain licensure as a registered nurse.

“Together, these trailblazers created a ‘new program for a new generation’ of nurses – one that readily achieved approval by the Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association, and national accreditation by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing,” said SIAST President and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia. “They have created a program that addresses contemporary health care issues, and that employs state-of-the-art learning methodologies.”

The Saskatoon pinning ceremony will take place on August 26 at the Radisson Hotel.

SIAST is Saskatchewan’s primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training. A member of Polytechnics Canada, SIAST offers apprenticeship training and certificate, diploma and degree programs, and has a proud and rich history as one of the primary providers of nursing education in the province.  The School of Nursing’s team of 220 expert faculty and staff deliver 16 innovative programs and courses to almost 3,600 students annually.

The University of Regina's 200 academic programs and 10 faculties provide undergraduate/graduate students opportunities through knowledge and action.