How to Finance Your Nursing Education in Alberta: Why Columbia College Is Worth the Investment

Investing in your nursing education is one of the best decisions you’ll make for your future. Whether you’re just finishing high school or looking for a meaningful career change, the cost of tuition can feel like a big factor in your decision. 

In Alberta, students have many paths to become a nurse including public colleges and private institutions like Columbia College. While tuition at a privately funded college is typically higher, the value of a Columbia education extends far beyond cost. 

 

Understanding the Costs 

At Columbia College, tuition for the Practical Nurse  (PN) Diploma program includes: 

• Tuition 

• 500 hours of Mastery Learning tutorials 

• Lab supplies 

• Learning materials and textbooks 

• Student services fees 

• Practicum and clinical placement coordination 

• (Add in Scrubs/Uniforms?) 

While the price tag may appear higher than that of public colleges, Columbia’s tuition is comprehensive and all-inclusive, ensuring there are no hidden or unexpected fees along the way. 

 

What You Get for the Investment 

1. Proven Student Success

Columbia College measures its success by student and employer outcomesoutcomes, and the numbers speak for themselves: 

• 92% Graduation Rate (2024–2025) 

• 84% Employment Rate (2024–2025) 

• $51k – 62k average starting salary range for graduates 

These results consistently exceed industry averages, demonstrating that a Columbia education delivers real-world results. 

2. Mastery Learning: The Columbia Advantage

Our program includes 500 extra tutorial hours through our Mastery of Learning approach. This ensures students have additional time and support to fully grasp critical nursing concepts, leading to greater confidence and competence in clinical practice. 

It’s a difference that translates directly into higher exam success, stronger performance in the field, and greater employability. 

3. Personalized Support and Smaller Class Sizes

Columbia’s small class sizes allow instructors to get to know each student personally. Our staff are dedicated to your success, offering one-on-one tutoring, academic coaching, and career support throughout your journey. 

You’re not just a student here, you’re part of a community that invests in your future. 

 

Nursing Salaries in Alberta: Understanding the Return on Investment 

One of the best ways to evaluate your education cost is to look at long-term earning potential. According to the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS): 

• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn an average of $31.91/hour, or approximately $51,000 to $62,000 per year, depending on experience and region. 

• The wage range varies across the province: entry-level LPNs may earn around $26/hour, while experienced nurses can earn up to $36/hour in higher-demand areas. 

• In Calgary, wages tend to be slightly higher than in other zones due to regional demand. 

For comparison, Registered Nurses (RNs) in Alberta earn an average of $47.38/hour, or approximately $73,000 per year, which highlights the strong long-term career potential of those who may later bridge from lPN to RN programs. 

Together, these numbers show that graduates from Practical Nurse programs in Alberta can quickly earn a strong income, often recouping their tuition costs within a few years of working full-time. 

 

Financing Options for Practical Nurse Students 

Even with higher tuition, there are many ways to make your education affordable: 

• Government Student Aid 

Alberta Student Aid offers loans and grants, including non-repayable funding for eligible students. You can also apply for Canada Student Loans and Grants for additional support. 

• Columbia Learning Society Scholarships and Bursaries 

Columbia College offers internal bursaries and awards to help reduce financial barriers. Many students qualify for partial funding based on merit or need. 

• Employer and Healthcare Sponsorship 

Some healthcare employers and long-term care facilities offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs for employees completing nursing education, especially in high-demand areas. 

Budgeting Tips 

• Apply early for all available bursaries and grants. 

• Plan ahead for clinical placement expenses such as parking, meals, or transit. 

• Take advantage of student discounts for technology, transit, and software. 

• Track monthly spending, small changes can make a big impact. 

 

Why a Columbia Education Is Worth It 

A Columbia education isn’t just about earning a diploma, it’s about preparing you for a successful, meaningful career in healthcare. 

When you choose Columbia, you’re choosing: 

• A proven path to employment (84% employment rate) 

• A personalized, mastery-based learning experience 

• A higher quality of education and support than many larger public institutions 

• A faster timeline to graduation, just 20 months to launch your career 

The result? You enter the workforce ready, confident, and in demand. That’s the best return on investment there is. 

 

Take the Next Step 

If you’re ready to pursue your nursing goals, Columbia College Calgary is here to help you make it happen academically, personally, and financially. 

 

Your future in healthcare starts here.
Explore the Practical Nurse Diploma Program 

 

Sources 

• Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) – Licensed Practical Nurse Profile 

• Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) – Registered Nurse Profile 

• Government of Canada Job Bank – Licensed Practical Nurse (NOC 32101) Wages in Alberta 

• Government of Canada Job Bank – Registered Nurse (NOC 31301) Wages in Alberta 

• Indeed Canada – Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries in Alberta 

• Columbia College – Practical Nurse Diploma Program 

• Columbia College Internal Program Quality Review (2024–2025): Graduation Rate 92%, Employment Rate 84%, Average Starting Salary $62,000. 

 

Data last accessed October 2025. Columbia College statistics are based on verified internal performance reports and employer satisfaction surveys.