University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The master's-level nursing programme combines advanced coursework with research and applied learning to prepare nurses for expanded professional roles. Typical study areas include advanced health assessment and clinical decision-making, nursing research methods and statistics, health policy and leadership in health care, advanced practicum or clinical courses, and specialist topics such as mental health, primary care, gerontology, Indigenous and rural health, and chronic disease management.

Programme structure commonly offers flexible pathways to match career goals: a thesis-based research route for those aiming at scholarly careers and a course-based or practice-focused route that emphasises advanced clinical skills, practicum hours and leadership development. Students undertake a mix of core courses, electives, and a major scholarly project or thesis; the balance varies by route and supervisor agreement. Interprofessional learning, simulation-based clinical experiences and community or acute-care placements are typical components.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing from a recognised institution and current licensure or registration to practise as a registered nurse. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate undergraduate performance at the upper second-class level or equivalent, relevant professional experience, and a clear statement of intent outlining research or practice interests.

Application materials usually include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, letters of academic or professional reference, and a personal statement. Where a research route is sought, applicants are expected to identify potential faculty supervisors and outline a preliminary research proposal. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements and provide documentation of credential equivalence and registration as applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master’s nursing programme move into a range of advanced roles across health systems. Common career pathways include clinical nurse specialist roles, nurse practitioner preparation (where applicable and in combination with required certification), leadership and management positions in hospitals and community health, nurse educator roles in post‑secondary and clinical settings, and policy or health system roles with government and NGOs.

Those who follow the research route often continue to doctoral studies or take positions in academic research, health services research, or knowledge translation. Graduates are also well placed for roles in program development, quality improvement, clinical practice guideline development, and roles focused on Indigenous, rural and remote health services.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan’s College of Nursing is embedded in a health-sciences environment with strong ties to regional health authorities, Indigenous health organisations and rural health services, offering practical placement opportunities across diverse settings. The college emphasises research strengths in areas such as primary health care, Indigenous health, rural and remote nursing, and chronic disease management, allowing students to work with faculty on applied projects that address regional and national health priorities.

Graduate students benefit from access to interprofessional learning, simulation labs and research facilities, as well as mentorship from faculty engaged in community-partnered research. The university also provides graduate student supports, opportunities for funding and assistantships, and pathways to further academic qualifications, making it a practical choice for nurses seeking advanced preparation for clinical, academic or policy careers.