Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing
Brandon University offers a four-year program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing (B.Sc.P.N.) which is housed within the Faculty of Health Studies. The BScPN program is offered at the Main Campus in Brandon, as well as the Satellite Campus in Winnipeg. Graduates of the BScPN program will be eligible to write the Registered Psychiatric Nurses or Canada Examination (RPNCE) for licensure as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (R.P.N.) with the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba (CRPNM).
Mission Statement
The Mission developed for the Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing (BScPN) Degree Program at the Faculty of Health Studies commits faculty members to:
- prepare graduates at the baccalaureate level to practice psychiatric nursing safely and effectively during interactions with individuals, families, groups and whole communities;
- meet the Entry level Competencies for Registered Psychiatric Nurses in Manitoba (College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba) and write the Registered Psychiatric Nurses national licensing examination;
- generate new knowledge through research that is relevant to professional practice; and,
- make a contribution to the vitality of the university and other communities.
To help accomplish its mission, members teaching in the Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing Degree Program at the Faculty of Health Studies aspire to uphold the following principles:
- to provide students with an environment in which they may develop intellectually, emotionally and socially;
- to promote the pursuit, advancement, and dissemination of truth and knowledge;
- to maintain a high level of subject matter knowledge and ensure that course content is current, accurate and representative;
- to use instructional methods and strategies that, according to best evidence, are effective in helping students to achieve course objectives and expected learning outcomes;
- to ensure that assessment of students is valid, open, fair and congruent with course objectives and expected learning outcomes;
- to work respectfully and co-operatively with colleagues and students in the interest of fostering student development;
- to be aware of, respectful of, and attentive to the goals, policies and standards of practice expected of educators by Brandon University and related professional nursing associations; and,
- to encourage a climate of freedom, responsibility, and mutual respect in pursuit of these principles.
Faculty Philosophy & BScPN Program Structure
Psychiatric Nursing is a theory based profession based on scientific principles, humanistic and ethical premises, and the art of caring. The profession requires skilled use of interpersonal processes and collaboration for the purposes of health promotion, maintenance, and restoration. Cultural diversity is respected and valued. The profession of psychiatric nursing relies on critical thinking and problem solving skills in clinical, administrative, research and educational practice.
Education in psychiatric nursing reflects the standards of the profession. The goal of this education is to promote acquisition, development, synthesis, and critical analysis of knowledge, attitudes, and abilities essential to the provision of theory-based health care.
Psychiatric nursing is concerned with the health and mental health of individuals, families, groups and communities. Psychiatric nurses engage in therapeutic interactions with people to promote, maintain and restore health and mental health. They are concerned with those affected by mental illness and developmental challenges, and with the influence of society on the mental health of people
Interested Individuals should refer to the CRPNM document listed below in regards to requisite skills and abilities to be a Psychiatric Nurse.
Becoming a Registered Psychiatric Nurse in MB (2023)
Program Advising
All students are required to consult with the BScPN Student Advisor prior to course registration and on an annual basis thereafter.
Pre-Psychiatric Nursing students will be required to attend an orientation/registration session after successful admission to Brandon University.
Brandon Campus: please contact Carrie McCallum, Psychiatric Nursing Student Advisor, Phone: (204) 727-7403 or E-mail: mccallumc@brandonu.ca for an appointment.
Winnipeg Campus: please contact Laura (Lu) Irwin, Psychiatric Nursing Student Advisor, Phone: (204) 772-0377 (extension 884) or E-Mail: irwinl@brandonu.ca for an appointment.
Student Advisors are available for support with registration, courses, and program requirements. Inquiries for your application and admission to Brandon University should be directed to the Admissions Department.
Admission to the B.Sc.P.N. Program
Sessional Instructor Orientation Handbook
Career/Graduate School Opportunities