Conestoga’s School of Health & Life Sciences is launching a new Primary Care Nursing Upskilling program designed to support registered nurses (RNs) in strengthening their competencies for primary care practice across Ontario.
The initiative is one of four selected by the province to expand Ontario’s health-care workforce and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centred care. Conestoga will receive funding over three years from the Government of Ontario’s Ministry of Health as part of its Primary Care Action Plan.
“Conestoga College is pleased to support the strengthening of Ontario’s nursing workforce through the province’s new primary care upskilling program,” said Norma McDonald Ewing, Conestoga Interim President. “This investment aligns with Conestoga’s long-standing commitment to delivering career‑ready, health‑focused education that is responsive to the evolving needs of our communities. We remain dedicated to preparing registered nurses with the advanced skills and competencies required to contribute to high-quality, accessible primary care across the province.”
The 12-week Primary Care Nursing Upskilling program will be available to RNs at no cost, and will be delivered through four courses online, allowing RNs to enhance their skills in primary care. The first cohort is scheduled to begin in March 2026 and intended for RNs in good standing who are currently working in or interested in transitioning to primary care.
“Primary care in Ontario is evolving, and nurses are taking an increasingly central role in how patients access and experience care,” said Michelle Heyer, chair, Nursing & Health Sciences at Conestoga. “This program was intentionally designed to meet learners where they are, providing flexible, high-quality education that fits into the realities of their busy lives, and equips them with practical skills to make immediate contributions as part of a collaborative health team.”
For more information regarding enrolment and registration, visit the Primary Care Nursing Upskilling program page.
Conestoga’s School of Health & Life Sciences offers a range of credentials to assist individuals achieve their goal of becoming a health-care professional. From pre-health programs, through to certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates and degrees, the School of Health & Life Sciences delivers the most up-to-date training provided by expert faculty and staff.