Specialization

When you graduate from the University of Calgary with a Bachelors of Nursing, you are considered a nurse generalist, meaning you are qualified to work in a wide variety of nursing roles based on the courses in the program.  There is no way to opt out of certain areas or ways to 'specialize' while still in the degree program.  In the senior clinical practicum in fourth year (Nursing 502) there is some choice as to areas of particular interest to you.  However, be forewarned that there are limited clinical placements for students in some areas.  For example, critical care and pediatrics are very popular choices for final clinical placements, and not everyone who would like to work in those areas receives a placement there. However, once you have completed your degree you may choose to pursue any area of nursing as your career develops.  There are some areas of nursing work that require additional courses, extensive orientations and one to two years nursing experience.  Some of these areas include: Critical Care (ICU, CCU), Operating Room, Emergency, Labor and Delivery, Occupational Health, and Rural.