Language Foundations for Healthcare
Course Overview
Language Foundations for Healthcare is for internationally educated health professionals, as well as individuals currently working in healthcare, who want to build their foundational English language and communication skills while learning about the Canadian healthcare system.
The course focuses on developing essential language skills, including grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, communication strategies, and language competencies across speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Participants will also gain a basic understanding of the Canadian healthcare system and explore healthcare career options through RRC Polytech health programs.
Language Foundations for Healthcare includes instructor-led classes and independent learning activities that provide opportunities to build confidence using English in healthcare-related contexts.
You will leave Language Foundations for Healthcare with stronger foundational English language skills, a better understanding of the Canadian healthcare system, and the preparation to continue into other CNI Health programs that require higher Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels.
Duration
15 weeks, online
Schedule
4 hours synchronous and
2 hours asynchronous per week
Class Size
25-30 students per class
Eligibility
Participation in this course is subject to funding eligibility and seat availability.
Priority is given to internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs and healthcare workers) who are:
- Canadian citizens identifying as newcomers, including:
- Naturalized citizens
- Canadian born citizens who were raised outside Canada
- Foreign born children of a Canadian citizen
- Temporary residents with valid work permits or study permits
- Refugee claimants
- Spouses or common law partners and dependent children of individuals listed above
Conditional eligibility (subject to seat availability):
- Permanent residents
- Refugees
Course Requirements
Equipment
A computer with a webcam, internet access, printer, plus a good-quality headset and microphone.
English Level
CLB 5+ (minimum CLB 5 across all skills)
Referral
Applicants without a WELARC referral are encouraged to apply. Options and details will be discussed during the interview with the Student Integration Coordinator.
Health Professional
You must be an internationally-educated health professional (e.g., physician, nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, dentist, etc.) or currently working in healthcare.
Tuition
There is no cost for eligible clients for the course. Check the eligibility list to see if you qualify.
Course Dates
Variety of courses offered in Fall, Winter and Spring terms (based on demand).
Contact hesp@rrc.ca for an up-to-date schedule.
Note: Programs and classes only run if a minimum number of students register.
RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.
We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.