Rankin School of Nursing

The Rankin School of Nursing at StFX offers an innovative program that educates competent, safe, caring, evidence-informed, and critical thinking nurses.

Rankin School of Nursing

Established in 1926, the School of Nursing at StFX has evolved from a small but dedicated department to a large school – one of the oldest university schools of nursing in Canada. We are proud of the knowledgeable and compassionate nurses who have graduated from StFX for almost a century.    

The School of Nursing is one of the major legacies of the Sisters of Saint Martha, who founded hospitals and nursing education in eastern Nova Scotia and elsewhere in the early 20th Century. The work of the Sisters continues at StFX today through their involvement in Wellspring, and through a generous annual scholarship for an Indigenous nursing student. 

In 2016 the StFX School of Nursing was renamed the StFX Elizabeth and Thomas Rankin School of Nursing (RSoN), in honour of the Rankins’ long legacy of giving back. Our state-of-the-art simulation lab was established at this time, thanks to their generosity. 

The RSoN strives to provide a quality nursing educational experience in an environment where the student comes first. Our faculty and community partners are here to support your success – from the day you arrive at StFX to the launch of your professional career.

Nursing Programs
 

Nursing students with a simulated patient


Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4 years)

Complete your degree over 4 years with no summer semesters.

StFX nursing students


Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Accelerated Option (2 years)

Complete your degree in six semesters over two calendar years.

Nursing students working with a simulated patient


Bachelor of Science in Nursing for LPNs (4 years)

A part-time distance program for Licensed Practical Nurses.