Trent Launches First Mental Health and Addiction Nursing Graduate Diploma
First program of its kind in Ontario will prepare registered nurses for ever-evolving field of mental health and addiction
Responding to an increasing need for mental health and addiction services and professionals across the country, Trent University is launching an innovative new program – Ontario’s first Mental Health and Addiction Nursing graduate diploma.
This unique new diploma program will allow registered nurses to develop their skills in the area of mental health and addiction. This part-time program, suitable for working professionals, is now accepting applications for its September 2018 start.
“As our health care system continues to evolve, we require highly-skilled mental health professionals who can work to improve access to existing programs, and create new and innovative strategies,” says Dr. Kirsten Woodend, dean of the Trent/Fleming School of Nursing. “Graduates of this new program will be prepared to take on these roles, and to advance nursing practice in their communities.”
Theory and practice lead to real-world experience and career success
As part of the program, students will focus on in-depth knowledge, evidence-informed practice, and critical inquiry. In addition, students will benefit from the flexibility of a five-course program of study, which will be delivered over five semesters through online coursework, on-site workshops, and a peer-mentored clinical practicum.
Theory courses will involve dynamic discussion and assignments, as well as workshops with role playing and simulated practice. The final course will offer students a hands-on learning experience in the form of a 75-hour peer-mentored clinical practicum, which can be completed in a student’s current mental health or addiction setting, or at a new placement.
“Real-life experiences, like the ones this program will offer, close the gap between theory and practice in professional education. It’s essential that students have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to various situations,” explains professor Woodend.
Students interested in the new Mental Health and Addiction Nursing graduate diploma program can learn more at trentu.ca/graduatestudies/nursingdip. Applications are due by March 1, 2018.
About Trent University
One of Canada's top universities, Trent University was founded on the ideal of interactive learning that's personal, purposeful and transformative. Consistently recognized nationally for leadership in teaching, research and student satisfaction, Trent attracts excellent students from across the country and around the world. Here, undergraduate and graduate students connect and collaborate with faculty, staff and their peers through diverse communities that span residential colleges, classrooms, disciplines, hands-on research, co-curricular and community-based activities. Across all disciplines, Trent brings critical, integrative thinking to life every day. Today, Trent's unique approach to personal development through supportive, collaborative community engagement is in more demand than ever. Students lead the way by co-creating experiences rooted in dialogue, diverse perspectives and collaboration. In a learning environment that builds life-long passion for inclusion, leadership and social change, Trent's students, alumni, faculty and staff are engaged global citizens who are catalysts in developing sustainable solutions to complex issues. Trent's Peterborough campus boasts award-winning architecture in a breathtaking natural setting on the banks of the Otonabee River, just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, while Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area, delivers a distinct mix of programming in the east GTA.
Kate Weersink, communications and media relations officer, Trent University, (705) 748-1011 x6180 or kateweersink@trentu.ca