The College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA) is excited to announce the launch of the Internationally Educated Psychiatric Nurses’ (IEPN) Expedited Credential Assessment Pathway, made possible through funding from the Government of Alberta. This new initiative simplifies the credential assessment process, offering a cost-effective and efficient route for IEPNs to obtain licensure in Alberta.

Since late fall 2024, the CRPNA has worked closely with a dedicated committee to develop this pathway. The committee includes subject matter experts from psychiatric nursing regulatory bodies across Western Canada and a research consultant. The committee conducted an in-depth analysis of curriculum data from the United Kingdom, Nigeria and the Republic of Ireland, which together represent over 96 per cent of international applications received by CRPNA. This rigorous process ensures the pathway’s credibility, validity and reliability and is tailored to meet the needs of most applicants, while still maintaining high registration standards. The CRPNA formally acknowledges and expresses its gratitude to the committee for their expertise and significant contributions to this initiative.

The new centralized platform allows IEPNs to complete self-assessments and submit required documents enhances efficiency, clarifies bridging program needs and accelerates integration into Alberta’s healthcare workforce.

The Expedited Credential Assessment Pathway is now available for eligible applicants who graduated from specified programs in the United Kingdom, Nigeria or the Republic of Ireland within designated graduation years. Eligible IEPNs are encouraged to apply for the IEPN Expedited Credential Assessment Pathway directly through the CRPNA website. For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit the CRPNA website.

For more information, please contact:
Barbara Lowe, Chief Executive Officer
Elizabeth Taylor, Director of Regulatory Services
College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta