CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOLS OF NURSING (CASN)
“Excellence in nursing education for a healthier Canada.”
About CASN (Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing)
The Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) is the national voice for nursing education in Canada. CASN represents all university and college-based nursing programs across the country, including baccalaureate, practical nursing, and graduate nursing programs. Through national leadership, accreditation, and evidence-informed standards, CASN works to strengthen nursing education and ensure that graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the Canadian healthcare system.
CASN’s work focuses on areas that directly impact nursing students, program quality, and the future of the profession, including:
Educational Standards & Accreditation – Setting and upholding national standards for nursing programs to ensure high-quality education and safe, consistent practice across Canada.
Research & Scholarship – Advancing nursing education research and promoting innovation in curriculum, teaching, and learning.
Policy & Advocacy – Leading national conversations on nursing education policy, workforce needs, and the advancement of high-quality, evidence-based training.
Faculty & Program Support – Offering resources, frameworks, and best practices to strengthen teaching, curriculum development, and student learning environments.
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Reconciliation – Promoting culturally safe education, anti-racism, Indigenous health frameworks, and inclusive practices within nursing programs.
The Student Connection: CASN Representation
Within the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA), the Vice-President holds a seat on the CASN Board of Directors as the official student representative. This ensures that nursing students’ voices are included in national conversations about nursing education, academic standards, curriculum development, and the future of nursing programs across Canada.
This connection strengthens the bridge between students and academic leaders, helping future nurses influence how nursing education evolves while ensuring student perspectives shape CASN’s decision-making.
Why CASN Matters to Nursing Students
The Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) is the national voice for nursing education in Canada, and for students, it plays a key role in shaping the quality, consistency, and future of your nursing program.
1. It Sets the Standards for Your Education
CASN establishes national educational standards and competencies. These frameworks guide what you learn, how programs are structured, and the skills you must develop before entering practice.
2. It Ensures High-Quality Nursing Programs
Through accreditation, CASN evaluates nursing schools across Canada to make sure programs meet national expectations for safety, quality, and evidence-informed teaching.
3. It Influences the Future of Nursing Education
CASN leads national conversations on curriculum, academic policy, simulation, clinical placement models, and innovations that directly impact your learning experience.
4. It Supports Faculty and Student Learning
CASN develops resources, guidelines, and research that strengthen classroom teaching, skills training, and clinical preparation — all of which shape how you learn and practice.
5. It Advances Equity and Reconciliation in Education
CASN promotes culturally safe learning environments, Indigenous health frameworks, anti-racism, and inclusive practices to ensure nursing education reflects the needs of all communities.