The Government of Yukon and the University of New Brunswick (UNB) are pleased to announce applications are open for the third cohort of the Learn Where You Live program. This innovative program allows licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) degree virtually while continuing to live and work in the Yukon.
Eligible applicants apply through their employer, such as Yukon Hospital Corporation, the Department of Health and Social Services or Kwanlin Dün First Nation. Since launching in fall 2024, the program has supported 13 nurses in its first cohort and 14 nurses in its second cohort, which began in fall 2025. Following the successful launch of the first two intakes, the Yukon government has expanded its original two-cohort commitment to include a third intake for fall 2026. The program's success has also generated interest beyond the Yukon, with UNB exploring similar approaches in other jurisdictions.
The Learn Where You Live program supports the retention and development of nurses in the Yukon. By using a combination of online coursework, immersive virtual reality simulations and local clinical placements, the program meets students where they are and minimizes disruption to their personal and professional lives.
To ensure the program remains accessible, the Yukon government covers one-third of the tuition costs for Yukon participants. Employers are encouraged to contribute an additional third, with students responsible for the remaining portion. Upon completion, graduates qualify to write the national registered nurses licensing examination, which helps meet the growing demand for high-quality, person-centred care across the territory.
"We are pleased to confirm our commitment to working with the University of New Brunswick to offer a flexible pathway for Yukon nurses. Supporting our local licensed practical nurses helps them advance their careers and broaden their clinical expertise while living and working here in the territory. This strengthens our health care system by helping Yukon nurses become registered nurses."
Minister of Health and Social Services Brad Cathers
"This partnership is an example of how nursing education has taken the university to the people in a way that connects east to west and north to south, across Canada. This program demonstrates how innovative ideas can directly impact the health of a community."
Dean of the Faculty of Nursing & Health Sciences Dr. Lorna Butler
Quick facts
- The Learn Where You Live program is a virtual LPN-to-Bachelor of Nursing pathway offered by UNB in partnership with the Government of Yukon.
- The third cohort's application process opened on February 25, 2026, with successful learners graduating in fall 2029.
- Eligible applicants must apply through their employer.
- The program uses a national award-winning simulation model, with immersive virtual reality to provide equitable, consistent and safe experiential learning. Graduates are expected to work as registered nurses in the Yukon's public sector, including the Government of Yukon, Yukon Hospital Corporation or Kwanlin Dün First Nation.
- Financial tuition support is shared between the government (one-third), employers (one-third) and students (one-third).
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