Beginning this fall, some UNB nursing students can select a new mental health focus which will be available in September.
An investment of $1.48 million from the provincial government will allow the University of New Brunswick to add a mental health specialization to the bachelor of nursing program and to boost the number of seats in its nurse practitioner program.
UNB is developing a curriculum of specialized theory and clinical courses that will allow 21 nursing students to specialize in mental health every year.
“UNB continues to show its commitment to the nursing professions, and we are pleased to partner with the university on these latest initiatives,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Trevor Holder. “Our government continues to work closely with our post-secondary institutions to ensure they deliver programming that supports the needs of our province. These initiatives will help further address the need for specialized health-care professionals.”
“Nurse practitioners are valued partners in New Brunswick’s health-care services, and the new seats announced today will help meet that demand,” said Health Minister Dorothy Shephard. “The new mental health specialization will give students the knowledge they need to provide appropriate nursing care to those seeking mental health and addiction services.”
The master of nursing-nurse practitioner program will expand from 10 to 20 seats in September 2023.
“Our nursing students are highly skilled and well placed to acquire additional skills in critical areas such as mental health and addiction,” said UNB president and vice-chancellor Paul J. Mazerolle. “Through these agreements, we are able to expand our offerings and address significant needs in our province.”
