Programs

Flexibility

We offer you a variety of program delivery methods including classroom instruction, self-paced programming, computer-managed learning and on-line delivery. Continuous enrollment is available in some programs giving you the flexibility to start your studies when you want and finish in your own time.

You Set the Pace
Many of our part-time programs offer a self-paced delivery method. This allows you to progress through course material at your own pace (within a specified time period), with instructional support as required.

Get Credit for Prior Learning
Bow Valley College has a formal system to recognize prior training and life experience. This means you do not have to repeat course materials you already know. It's a smart, cost-effective way to bring you closer to your learning goals.

If you have recently completed similar courses you may apply for an exemption and receive credit for the appropriate Bow Valley College courses. You may be required to complete a Prior Learning Assessment Request and write a challenge test for each course in order to receive advanced credit. You are encouraged to complete the challenge test before the start date of the class in which you wish to enroll. Call (403) 410-1400.

Homestudy and On-line as an Option
Our Homestudy delivery option gives you individualized materials and the flexibility to progress at your own rate. Some programs provide learning enhancement including instructor aid, computer technology, seminars or tutorials. Some of our courses are offered in an online format. Now you can take courses without leaving your home, job or arranging daycare! Call (403) 410-1400.

Assessments
Academic assessments are done on a weekly basis; please call (403) 355-1910 for the next assessment date. For students taking the assessment for Airdrie programs, there is no cost, however, you must be registered for a program in order to have your assessments evaluated for placement.

If you are interested in testing your keyboarding speed, the cost is $30.00. Should you wish to challenge any computer or accounting course to receive credit, you can schedule an assessment test by phoning 403-355-1910, the fee is $100.00

Career Transitions Program

The Airdrie Career Transitions program is a fully-funded program designed to help learners get the skills they need to gain meaningful employment. The program; funded by Alberta Employment Immigration and Industry (AEII), is open to unemployed or underemployed (working 19hrs/week or less) residents of Airdrie, Beiseker, Carstairs, Crossfield and area. The program is four to six months in length, depending on individual needs.

This full-time program offers courses such as life management skills, career and employment preparation, WHMIS, First Aid/CPR, GED preparation and computer skills.

This program runs with continuous intakes (NEXT INTAKE APRIL 2012!). Classes are scheduled between 9:00am and 3:00pm; Monday to Friday. Call 403-355-1910 for your qualification assessment today!

LIFE MANAGEMENT SKILLS

Personal management

Goals, values, self-esteem

Stress management

Working with others

Communication skills

Conflict resolution

Managing Change

EMPLOYMENT PREPARATION

Career planning and exploration

Resume writing and cover letters

Interview skills

WHMIS, First Aid, CPR

Job Shadowing

Work experience (2-4 weeks)

Job search strategies

COMPUTER SKILLS

Required:

Keyboarding

Introduction to Computers

Microsoft Word

Optional:

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Access

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Outlook

Internet

Hospital Unit Clerk Certificate

This accelerated full-time program (24 weeks) is scheduled over two semesters and prepares you to manage information in a hospital nursing unit. Learn about basic human needs, hospital organization, medical terminology, processing medical orders, communication skills, telephone and reception activities, and basic computer skills. Our graduates have excellent job prospects and our employment rates are consistently high.

Due to high demand, applications to the Hospital Unit Clerk program are not being accepted. This program is over-subscribed and many applicants may not be offered a seat.

Applications for our Winter 2012 Program at North Campus have been closed. Applications for our Fall 2012 program at the North Campus and Airdrie Campus will open on March 5, 2012.

Need more info?

We also offer the Hospital Unit Clerk Certificate Online, Part-Time.

Questions about this career? Visit Frequently Asked Questions

Courses in Program

Semester 1

Keyboarding and Document Processing for Health Care Administration
Business Communication For Health Care Administration
Role Concepts in Health Care Administration
Medical Terminology I
Introductory Unit Coordinating Skills
Processing Medical Orders
Introduction To The Hospital Organization
Medical Terminology II

Semester 2

Employment Preparation
Hospital Information System
Work Experience For Hospital Unit Clerks

All program requirements must be met within two years of program start date. Medical Terminology II and Hospital Information System have time limits for currency.

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

Credit in English 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent
Credit in Grade 10 Math (excluding 10-4 and 16 levels) or equivalent.

OR:

Successful completion of the General Equivalency Development test (GED) with a standard score of 520 in Language Arts: Reading and Writing and 450 in Math

OR:

Satisfactory results on the BVC Admissions test

Pre-Program Requirements

The criteria listed below must be completed prior to the first day of classes:

Submission of a current Police Information Check (PIC)

Note: Students who have not submitted their documents by the start of the program will have their Letter of Admission withdrawn.

This program requires students to have certain immunizations completed prior to the programs first clinical or work experience. Upon acceptance, applicants will receive immunization information as part of their acceptance package. Applicants must follow the directons provided in this information.

English Language Proficiency Requirement
This page has information on English Language Proficiency Requirements

Transferability
None

Practical Nurse Diploma (Full-Time)

The four-semester (17-month) Full-Time Practical Nurse Diploma program is offered in the winter semester (January) only in Airdrie. This program prepares graduates to provide high-quality nursing care in the areas of medical, surgical, pediatric, maternity, mental health, and geriatric care. The Airdrie intake is part of the rural offering of this program and may require on-line and well as some travel to Calgary. Please contact our recruitment officer: Carmen Olsen at 403-476-1243 for more details.

Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta use critical thinking to interpret assessments, implement a variety of treatments, and provide professional, comprehensive care.

Upon successful completion of the Practical Nurse Diploma Program and the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE), graduates will be eligible for licensure with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA).

Program delivery combines traditional classroom learning, labs, and clinical experiences. Some courses may be offered online but are subject to availability. Classes are generally scheduled between 8am and 4pm from Monday to Friday, but clinical shifts may include evenings, nights, and/or weekends.

This is a highly-respected and popular career program that fills up quickly. We advise applying at least 6 months before the first day of classes. All program courses must be completed within four years.

Clinical Experience

Students will be required to travel to various locations in order to complete their clinical and practicum placements. Every effort is made to accommodate students in clinical placements within the time frame of the program, however in rare instances there may be a delay in program completion until a clinical placement can be arranged. Clinical shifts may include evenings, nights, and/or weekends.

International Students

If you would like to apply to Bow Valley College as an International Student, please contact the International Education department at 403-410-3476 for assistance arranging your study permit.

Tuition

Please refer to the Program Tuition Fee Chart for an estimate of the cost of completing a Practical Nurse Diploma. When creating a budget, students should consider tuition, additional fees, lab kits, textbooks, and police information check fees. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for advice on financing a Bow Valley College education.

Courses in Program

Semester 1 (16 weeks)

Anatomy and Physiology (ANPH 150)*
Health Education: Personal Health and Wellness (HEDU 150)*
Interpersonal Relationships and Communication Skills (COMM 180)*
Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan (PSYC 151)*
Introduction to Sociology (SOCI 150)*
English Composition (ENGL 150)*

Semester 2 (16 weeks)

Clinical Experience Continuing Care: Basic (HHC0137)
Nursing Theory I: Basics (PRNR 160)*
Nursing Science Lab I: Basics (PRNR 190)
Applied Pharmacology (PRNR 154)
Pathophysiology (PRNR 163)
Nursing Science Lab II: Intermediate (PRNR 198)
Adult Health Assessment (PRNR 158)

Semester 3 (16 weeks)

Clinical Experience Continuing Care: Intermediate (HHC0138)
Community Nursing (PRNR 155)*
Mental Health Nursing (PSYC 152)*
Nursing Theory II: Intermediate (PRNR 164)*
Nursing Theory III: Advanced (PRNR 162)*
Nursing Science Lab III: Advanced (PRNR 189)

Semester 4 (20 weeks)

Clinical Experience: Acute Care (PRNR 194)
Maternity Nursing (PRNR 156)*
Pediatric Nursing (PRNR 157)
Transition to Graduate Nursing (PRNR 181)*
Pre-Grad Practicum I: Community and Focus (PRNR 199 - 4 weeks)
Pre-Grad Practicum II: Comprehensive (PRNR 197 - 5 weeks)

* These courses may sometimes be offered online through Blackboard or eCampus but are subject to availability.

Admission requirements

Academic Requirements

Minimum final mark of 60% in English 30-1 or 70% in English 30-2 or equivalent
Credit in Math 20 Pure or a minimum final mark of 60% in Math 20 Applied or equivalent
Minimum final mark of 60% in Biology 30 or a minimum final mark of 60% in Anatomy and Physiology (ANPH 150)** at Bow Valley College or equivalent

**Applicants who complete Anatomy and Physiology (ANPH 150) before the program starts must submit a Request for Transfer Credit form (available from the Registrar's Office) at least one month before the first day of classes in order to be eligible for credit in Semester 1. Please be aware that ANPH 150 might not meet the admission requirements of Post-LPN Bachelor of Nursing Programs.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

Please see the English Language Proficiency Requirements page for details.

Pre-Clinical Requirements

The following 3 requirements must be met before the first day of clinical and kept current throughout the program. Students who do not meet these requirements will not be allowed to participate in clinical placements under any circumstances.

Current Police Information Check with a vulnerable sector search (updated every 6 months). The existence of a criminal record may postpone or prevent clinical placement or professional licensure.
Current CPR Healthcare Provider Level Certificate (updated every 12 months).
Immunization Requirements (good for duration of the program).

Transferability

Graduates of this program may be accepted into:

Athabasca University - Post LPN Bachelor of Nursing Program
Thompson Rivers University Open Learning Division - Bachelor of Health Science (57 credits) and Bachelor of General Studies (60 credits)
University of Calgary - Graduates of two-year BVC diploma programs will be awarded up to 5 full course junior open options

Accounting And Financial Management Certificate

Learn the techniques of financial management, financial planning, and financial controls. This program provides you with knowledge of manual accounting and computerized accounting. Learn how to operate a complete set of books and prepare financial statements. Graduates of this program are qualified for entry-level positions in accounting and bookkeeping firms, financial institutions, governments, industry, and the not-for-profit sector. You will find employment as an accounting assistant, payroll clerk, accounts receivable/payable clerk, and accountant for small- and medium-sized firms.

Now offered in Airdrie starting Fall 2012!

Courses in Program

Semester 1

Financial Accounting Principles Level I
Introduction To Management
Computer Applications
Business Communication
Business Mathematics
Marketing

Semester 2

Financial Accounting Principles Level II
Computerized Accounting For Management
Interpersonal Communication
Microsoft Excel For Business
Career Advancement
Business Law
Practicum

Admission requirements

Academic Requirements

English 30-1 or English 30-2 or equivalent

Credit in Applied or Pure Math 30 or equivalent

OR:

Successful completion of the General Equivalency Development test (GED) with a standard score of 520 in Language Arts: Reading and Writing and 520 in Math

OR:

Satisfactory results on the BVC Admissions Test

Additional Admission Requirements

All applicants must be bondable.
Applicants should also be aware that many employers require completion of a high school diploma for consideration for employment.

English Language Proficiency Requirement

This page has information on English Language Proficiency Requirements

Transferability

Graduates of this program may be accepted into:

Bow Valley College - Business Administration Diploma and receive transfer credits

High School Upgrading

If you did not complete high school, do not have the grades required to take the post-secondary program you want, or have been out of school for a long time, our high school courses may be for you. Our programs provide a variety of learning options to match your needs. We offer traditional classroom instruction or more flexibly scheduled learning. You can study at our campus or at home through one of our online options. On campus, you can take courses during the day or in the evening. Mature students who did not complete high school are able to gain credits to obtain a High School Equivalency Diploma issued by Alberta Education.

Start Dates: Traditional - Jan. 5, 2012; Aug. 27, 2012
Anytime Online - Ongoing admission
Real Tme Online - Jan. 5, 2012; Apr. 30, 2012; Aug. 27, 2012
Fees: Complete list of full-time and part-time fees
Program length: Varies by program

Courses in Program

High school credit courses include:
(Note: Courses marked with * are not for Alberta Education High School Credit.)

English Language Arts 10-1, 10-2, 20-1, 20-2, 30-1, 30-2
Prep Math 10**
Math 10-C, 10-3
Math 20-1, 20-2, 20-3
Applied Math 30
Pure Math 30
Math 31
Science 10, 14, 24
Biology 20, 30
Chemistry 20, 30
Physics 20, 30
Social Studies 10-2, 20-1, 20-2, 30-1, 30-2
Microsoft Office Fundamentals* (2007)
Microsoft Office 10, 20, 30* (2007)

** Math Preparation 10 (MAT1041) was discontinued by Alberta Education. Bow Valley College decided to continue with the course, renaming it to Prep Math 10 (ACF0038), because the concepts and skills covered by the course remain necessary for students to succeed in successive math courses, such as Mathematics 10 C, Math 20-1, and Math 20-2.
Prep Math 10 is a new designation but the course has remained the same, with the same text and activities. Students who complete the course will receive 5 adult education credits with Bow Valley College, instead of credits with Alberta Education. The impact of this loss of Alberta Education credits will not impede students in their academic plans. With mature student status, Academic Foundation students do not require a high school diploma to enter post-secondary studies. Should students require a high school diploma, the 5 adult education credits can be used toward the high school equivalency diploma available for mature students.

*Tutor Support

Students currently enrolled in Academic Upgrading courses at Bow Valley College can receive additional help from tutors at no charge. Drop-in appointments are avilable Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the Main Calgary Campus Tutors can also be contacted by e-mail or phone. Students enrolled in science courses can complete assigned labs Monday through Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Main Calgary Campus.

Admission Requirements

Transcripts for high school courses successfully completed in Canada within the last five years; OR:
Obtain a high school level on the BVC Admissions Placement Test.

High School Equivalency - GED Preparation - Evenings

Many employers accept the General Educational Development (GED) diploma as equivalent to a high school diploma. We provide you with the skills to challenge GED exams. This TWO evening a week course gives you a solid foundation in Mathematics, Reading and Writing skills. While you are enrolled, register to take the GED exam, which consists of tests in each of the five subjects. Passing all five exams gives you a GED diploma. This program requires a minimum of 12 students enrolled in order to proceed. Call now to have your name placed on the waiting list for January 2012!

High School Equivalency - GED Preparation - Anytime Online

Take your GED preparation course anytime online through eCampus Alberta. This course prepares students to write the battery of GED exams. Students have access to interactive learning activities, practice tests, and instructor support.

Start date: Ongoing admission
Fees: Complete list of full-time and part-time fees
(Government funding available for eligible students.)
Register online at www.ecampusalberta.ca
Students have a maximum of six months from the date of registration to complete the course.
Additional information: www.onlineupgrading.com