Brittany is working at one of Canada’s largest neonatal intensive care units (NICU).  The 24-year-old graduated in 2014 from the four-year Nursing (BScN) collaborative degree program offered by Mohawk College and McMaster University.

“It’s always been my passion and dream to care for newborns as a neonatal intensive care nurse,” says Brittany. “I knew Mohawk offered a Continuing Education certificate that hospitals look for when hiring RNs to join their NICU teams.”

While working part-time at a hospital as a registered nurse, Brittany enrolled in Mohawk’s Neonatal Nursing Certificate program in the spring of 2015. The Continuing Education program is a mix of online and blended courses with two clinical placements.

“The program is ideal. I’m able to complete my studies at my own pace and around my work schedule. It was important that I could earn my certificate while continuing to work as an RN and gain work experience.”

Brittany’s experience working in adult general medicine combined with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Neonatal Nursing Certificate led to her dream job of working in the NICU. “I’m grateful to Mohawk College for helping me achieve my dream.”

Mohawk offers more than 140 Continuing Education programs and 3,200 courses, delivered online and during evenings and weekends at the college’s three campuses in Hamilton, Ontario.  Programs are offered in Business; Communication, Languages and Preparatory Studies; Community Services and Support; Computers; Creative and Visual Arts; Health and Nursing; Hospitality, Home and Garden; and Technology and Skilled Trades.

“Future Ready – Learning for Life is the vision for our college,” says Alison Horton, Mohawk’s Dean of Continuing Education. “Our Continuing Education programs are ideal for anyone who’s looking to move into a new role at work, make a career change or explore a special skill or creative interest. Our programs are designed so you can juggle all of your work, family and school commitments. And our courses are taught by experienced instructors who’ve practiced what they teach and earn high marks from students.”

Working professionals may also qualify for credits based on skills and knowledge gained from other courses and career experience. “This can allow you to save time and money when earning your certificate or diploma,” says Alison.