Looking for a rewarding career? Health care is a great choice!
Working in the field of health care is a challenging and very rewarding career path. There are
many professional choices available depending upon your interests – the more familiar
professions such as a nurse or doctor but also laboratory, diagnostic imaging (x-ray),
physiotherapy and occupational therapy and many others. The Nova Scotia Health Authority
(NSHA), along with its Cumberland County foundation partners, wants to encourage local
students to consider health care as their field of study and we are eager to offer young
people the opportunity to come back to their home area to live and work following their postsecondary education.
In order to make the decision to enter the field of health care a little easier, and to help
students with the cost of their education, the NSHA has teamed up with the county’s health
care foundations to establish the Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary Program. The
program provides up to $5,000 for each year of study within the related health-care field, the
option of summer employment while in the course of study and guaranteed a full-time
position upon successful completion of studies. In return, students must sign a contract with
the health authority for a “return for service” upon graduation equal to the number of years for
which they receive a bursary. This means that a student who receives a bursary for four
years will be expected to work for the health authority for four years following graduation.
Students will be placed, at the discretion of the NSHA, where there is the greatest need for
staff with their type of training and could be at any of the NSHA’s Cumberland County
facilities which are located in Advocate Harbour, Amherst, Parrsboro, Pugwash and
Springhill.
One of the main criteria for awarding bursaries in any particular year is the anticipated job
vacancies at the time the student will graduate. Accordingly, this handbook highlights the
health care professions that the NSHA sees as potential human resource needs in the
coming years. This booklet gives an overview of the nature of the work and the earning
potential upon graduation. It also provides information on education requirements and where
the programs of study are offered. The data on universities/colleges is not a complete list of
education options and we are not endorsing any particular program but simply wish to help
you in your decision-making process. The information is, of course, subject to change and
we suggest that you contact the education institutions directly or speak with your high school
guidance counselor for more details.
We’ve also included a bursary application form. If you chose to pursue a career in health
care, we encourage you to apply for a Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary.
If one of the careers in this handbook sounds interesting and you would like the opportunity
to learn more or perhaps job shadow a professional for a day, please contact our
Communications/Public Relations Department at 902-661-7129 or the Human Resources
Department at 667-5400 extension 6237. They would be pleased to hear from you.
Best of luck with all your future endeavours!
Nova Scotia Health Authority
Cardiology Technologists (ECG Tech)
NATURE OF THE WORK
Cardiology Technologists (ECG Tech) have the skills to operate electronic diagnostic equipment to
record cardiac activity that aids in the treatment and diagnosis of heart disease.
ECG Techs are involved in the performance of vital cardiac testing utilizing a wide range of
sophisticated medical equipment essential for providing the cardiologist with valuable diagnostic
information.
Cardiology is a fast-paced discipline. Manual dexterity and good coordination are necessary. You
must be able to deal with people in a mature, tactful and professional way. You should also be
comfortable working with instruments, apparatus and technology.
REQUIREMENTS
Cardiology Technologists require the completion of a two-year college diploma in cardiology
technology and a period of supervised practical training. To be certified, technologists must
successfully complete the Canadian Society of Cardiology Technologists national exams. For
additional information please visit www.csct.ca
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
BC Institute of Technology
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby BC V5G 3H2
1-800-663-6542, ext. 8956
www.health.bcit.ca
Mohawk College of Applied Art & Technology
PO Box 2034
Hamilton, ON L8N 3T2
Telephone: 1-905-575-1212
www.mohawkcollege.ca
CDI College
2 Bloor Street West – Cumberland Terrace
Toronto, ON M4W 3E2
Telephone: 1-866-789-1903
www.cdicollege.com
EARNING POTENTIAL
ECG Salary Scales - 2015
ECG Tech II $48,963 - $52,586
ECH Tech I $40,003 - $44,702
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Laboratory Services
NATURE OF THE WORK
Medical laboratory technologists may collect blood and other samples from patients. They conduct
laboratory tests, experiments and analyses to assist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of
illness and disease. Activities may include conducting chemical analysis of blood, urine, and other
body fluids; performing blood group, type and compatibility tests for transfusion purposes.
Medical laboratory assistants may collect blood and other samples from patients, log patient
samples and prepare them for testing. They also conduct routine medical laboratory tests and set
up, clean and maintain medical laboratory equipment under the supervision of a technologist.
This work demands close attention to detail. You must have good manual dexterity and be
comfortable working with instruments and technology. Good communication skills and the ability to
cooperate with others are important. You should be responsible, dependable and willing to keep
pace with rapid developments in the field.
REQUIREMENTS
Medical laboratory technologists need a two to three year program in Medical Laboratory
Technology and a period of supervised, relevant work experience or a Medical Laboratory Science
Degree.
To be certified, technologists must successfully complete the Canadian Society for Medical
Laboratory Science national exams and be licensed by the Nova Scotia College of Medical
Laboratory Technologists. More information at www.csmls.org or www.nscmlt.org
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Medical Laboratory Technologists
The Nova Scotia Community College has an agreement with the New Brunswick Community
College to guarantee seats for Nova Scotia residents in the 89-week Medical Laboratory Technology
Diploma program at its Saint John Campus. You must apply through the NSCC Institute of
Technology.
Nova Scotia Community College
Dartmouth Waterfront Campus
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
Telephone: 902-491-1100
www.nscc.ca
New Brunswick Community College
PO Box 2270
Saint John NB E2L 3V1
Telephone: 506-658-6675
www.saintjohn.nbcc.nb.ca
Dalhousie University in partnership with the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a
four year Bachelor of Health Science degree. The program has a two year specialty stream in
Medical Laboratory Technology (post diploma only) and a four year Bachelor in Diagnostic Cytology,
with a diploma option after three years of study.
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QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences
Bethune Building, Office 640
1278 Tower Road Halifax NS B3H 2Y9
Telephone: 902-473-5510
www.dal.ca
Medical Laboratory Assistants
The Nova Scotia Community College offers a Medical Laboratory Assistant program however it is
not part of their regular program/course curriculum. Please contact the NSCC to confirm when and
where this program is being offered. Courses are also offered at some business colleges although
confirmation should be sought on the course’s recognition in Nova Scotia.
NSCC Waterfront Campus
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
Telephone: 1-866-679-6722 (toll-free)
www.nscc.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Medical Laboratory Technologist Salary Scale – 2015
$52,591 - $64,032
Medical Laboratory Assistant Salary Scale - 2015
$39,548 - $44,801
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Licensed Practical Nurses
NATURE OF THE WORK
Licensed Practical Nurses provide physical and supportive care to patients of all ages within a
stabilized nursing situation. They may work independently or under the direction of a registered
nurse depending on the level of care and observation required. The LPN is able to recognize
deviations from normal and is able to determine when to report changes in patient conditions and
environment. The practical nurse performs duties involving basic knowledge, skills and judgment
required to participate in the nursing process.
Individuals entering this profession should enjoy caring for people of all ages. Good communication
skills and interpersonal skills are also very important. Physical demands include moving and lifting
others as well as spending long periods of time on one’s feet. LPN’s must be able to cope with
stress and occasional emergency situations.
REQUIREMENTS
Licensed practical nurses must complete an approved practical nursing program.
Licensed practical nurses must also successfully complete the national examinations and be
licensed with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia before they can practice. For
more information visit www.clpnns.ca
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
The Nova Scotia Community Colleges offers a 24-month practical nursing diploma program at
various campuses in Nova Scotia.
The New Brunswick Community College offers a 24-month practical nursing diploma program at its
Moncton Campus.
NSCC Waterfront Campus
80 Mawiomi Place
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0A5
Telephone: 1-866-679-6722 (toll-free)
www.nscc.ca
NSCC Cumberland Campus Community Learning Center
147 Albion Street South
Amherst, Nova Scotia B4H 2X2
Phone: (902) 661-3180
www.nscc.ca
New Brunswick Community College
Moncton Campus
1234 Mountain Road
Moncton NB E1C 8H9
Telephone: 1-888-664-1477
www.nbcc.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Licensed Practical Nurse Salary Scale - 2015
$ 46,004 - $49,408
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Occupational Therapy
NATURE OF THE WORK
Occupational Therapists assist people with physical and mental disabilities in maintaining or
regaining their maximum level of independence in day-to-day activities. Work may include
assessing a client’s current and potential level of functioning; developing and implementing a
treatment plan in the client’s various environments; maintaining clinical and statistical records;
designing programs for the community; and,
conducting research. Occupational therapists work
collaboratively with clients, including individuals,
groups, agencies or organizations, to enable them
to choose, organize and perform those occupations
they find useful and meaningful in their
environments.
To work in occupational therapy, you must have a
genuine and sensitive interest in people and their
ability to achieve.
You must be able to
communicate
effectively
with
people
and
demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility, good
judgment,
patience
and
self-discipline.
Occupational therapists must be creative and
unique in their approach to each client. There is an
ongoing need to continually update knowledge and
skills.
REQUIREMENTS
Occupational Therapists need a university degree in occupational therapy and a period of
supervised practical training. To be a qualified occupational therapist, you must successfully
complete the national examination for occupational therapists and be licensed to practice in Nova
Scotia by the College of Occupational Therapists of Nova Scotia. There is also mandatory
membership in the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the Nova Scotia Society of
Occupational Therapists. For additional information please visit www.nssot.com & www.cato.ca
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Dalhousie University
5869 University Avenue
Forrest Building, Room 215
Halifax NS B3H 3J5
Telephone: 902-494-8804
www.occtherapy.dal.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Occupational Therapist Salary Scale - 2015
$57,938 - $73,162
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Pharmacy Services
NATURE OF THE WORK
Pharmacists supervise the compounding and dispensing of prescribed medicines; check
prescriptions for the proper dosages; maintain registries of poisons and narcotics; maintain
medication profiles of clients and have responsibility for ensuring that prescriptions are appropriate
for each client. They also advise healthcare professionals on the proper selection and use of
medicines.
Pharmacy Technicians provides technical assistance to the pharmacist. That technical assistance is
comprised of such duties as packaging prescriptions, maintaining ward stock drug supplies,
manufacturing (pre-packaging and compounding) and preparation of both sterile and non-sterile
pharmaceuticals as well as computerized input to the patient profiles.
To work in this field, you should have an interest in chemistry and an aptitude for detail, precision
and accuracy. Communication and interpersonal skills are essential. You must be patient and able
to deal with people in a mature, tactful and responsible way. Computer skills are also important.
REQUIREMENTS
Pharmacists need a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy and a period of supervised, practical
training or apprenticeship. Supervisory, management and problem-solving skills are necessary.
Pharmacists must also successfully complete the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada
examinations and be licensed with the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists before they can practice.
For additional information please visit www.napra.org
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Pharmacist - Dalhousie University offers a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy.
Dalhousie University
Henry Hicks Academic Administration
Building, Room 133
Halifax NS B3H 4H6
Telephone: 902-494-3824
www.dal.ca
Pharmacy Technician – Programs are available at a number of colleges throughout the Maritimes.
Nova Scotia Community College offers a thirty-seven (37) week certificate program in Pharmacy
Technology at their Institute of Technology Campus (Halifax).
Nova Scotia Community College, Institute of Technology
5685 Leeds Street, PO Box 2210
Halifax, NS B3J 3C4
Telephone: 902-491-6722
www.nscc.ca
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Success College
Admissions Office
800 Sackville Drive
Halifax, Nova Scotia B4E 1R8
Telephone: 1-800-662-3991
www.thinksuccess.ca
Compu College (Eastern College)
Halifax Campus
1526 Dresden Row, 3rd floor
Halifax, NS B3J 3K3
Telephone: 1-877-297-0777
www.compucollege.ca
Moncton Campus
1070 St. George Blvd.
Moncton, NB E1E 4K7
Telephone: 1-800-663-3761
www.compucollege.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Pharmacist Salary Scale – 2015
$74,496 - $90,808
Pharmacy Technician Salary Scale – 2015
$39,548 - $44,801
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Physiotherapy
NATURE OF THE WORK
Physiotherapists understand how the body moves, what keeps it from moving well and how to
restore mobility. Working as part of a health-care team or independently, physiotherapists strive to
improve the health and mobility of their patients. They can also advise on ways to prevent health
problems from occurring before they arise. Physiotherapists assess patients to determine a physical
diagnosis then plan and implement treatment programs to
maintain, improve or restore physical functioning and
alleviate pain. They assess patients’ physical abilities, plan
programs of physiotherapy including therapeutic exercise,
manipulations, electrotherapy, acupuncture, massage and
hydrotherapy, maintain clinical and statistical records and
develop health promotion programs.
To work in this field you should have an interest in health
and in caring for the special needs of people. Ingenuity,
initiative and imagination are needed to adapt activities to
individual needs. You should be patient, self-disciplined and
resourceful. The ability to inspire confidence and to motivate clients is important. A strong sense of
responsibility, good judgment and communication skills are also necessary. Physical stamina may
be necessary. There is an ongoing need to continually update knowledge and skills.
REQUIREMENTS
Physiotherapists require a university degree in physiotherapy and a minimum of six months
supervised clinical placements. Physiotherapists must be licensed by the Nova Scotia College of
Physiotherapists and must have passed the Physiotherapy National Exam (both written & practical)
to practice in Nova Scotia. For additional information please visit www.physiotherapy.ca or
www.nsphysio.com
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Dalhousie University offers the only accredited physiotherapy educational program in the Atlantic
Region. The Dalhousie School of Physiotherapy offers a 27 month Master’s Entry-Level Program
(effective 2006). This is a post-graduate program and enrollment is limited.
Dalhousie University
5869 University Avenue
Forrest Building, Fourth Floor
Halifax NS B3H 3J5
Telephone: 902-494-2524
Fax: 902-494-1941
www.dal.ca/~ptschool
EARNING POTENTIAL
Physiotherapist Salary Scale - 2015
$57,938 - $73,162
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Radiology Technology
NATURE OF THE WORK
Radiology Technologists are health care professionals who utilize radiation to produce images (xrays) of patient’s anatomical structures. The quality of the image is critical as it will assist the
physician in the diagnosis or treatment of the disease or injury.
The Radiology Technologist is knowledgeable and skilled in a wide variety of procedures as all body
systems are imaged. Responsibilities include positioning the patient for radiological procedures,
choice and use of appropriate equipment, image manipulation, selection of radiation exposure
factors, implementation of radiation protection techniques and critique of the radiograph.
This work demands skill with your hands, accuracy and close attention to detail. A strong sense of
responsibility is important as your results can affect a diagnosis. You must also be comfortable
working with technology and be able to keep up with new advances in the field.
REQUIREMENTS
Radiology Technologists need to complete a four year degree program in Radiology Technology and
a period of supervised relevant work experience. For additional information please visit
www.camrt.ca
To be a certified technologist you must successfully complete the Canadian Society of Medical
Radiation Technologist national exam. To practice in Nova Scotia, radiology technologists must also
be registered with the Nova Scotia Association of Medical Radiation Technologists.
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Dalhousie University in partnership with Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a fouryear Bachelor’s degree program in Health Science in Radiological Technology.
QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences
Office 640, Bethune Building
1278 Tower Road
Halifax, NS B3H 2Y9
Telephone: 902-473-3769
www.dal.ca
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Once you have achieved the credential for a registered radiology technologist, with additional
training and education you can enrich your career to become a CAT or MRI technician.
CAT Scan Technician: The CT Tech uses a computerized avail tomography scan which is an x-ray
procedure which combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate crosssectional views and if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the
body. A CAT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in
procedures for helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist: MRI Techs use magnetism radio waves and
computers to acquire medical images. MRIs are used for studying the cardiovascular system,
studying body chemistry and imagining soft tissues. The CHA does not have an MRI and therefore
does not offer bursaries to support this specific type of advanced education.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Radiology Tech Salary Scale – 2015
$52,591 - $64,032
CT Scan Technologist Salary Scale - 2015
$58,407 - $68,161
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Registered Nurses
NATURE OF THE WORK
Registered Nurses provide professional services to patients to promote, maintain, and restore health
and assist in the management of illness, injury or infirmity. The provision of nursing services
involves a variety of roles for nurses, include direct care provider,
health teacher, consultant, and administrator. Registered nurses may
specialize in nursing practice areas such as the operating room,
obstetrics, mental health, palliative care, emergency or critical care,
pediatrics, geriatrics, community and occupational health, rehabilitation
or oncology.
Registered nurses in management positions coordinate the activities of
other registered nurses and nursing support personnel to facilitate the
provision of safe, effective, competent patient care. They ensure that
administrative procedures are followed, develop policies, develop and
administer budgets and assist in the hiring and performance review of
nursing personnel.
REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurses must complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and receive a pass mark
on the licensing exam.
Registered nurses must also be licensed with the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia
before they can practice.
For information visit www.crnns.ca
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
The following universities offer a four-year Bachelor of Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
program:
 Dalhousie University
 St. Francis Xavier University
 University College of Cape Breton
 University of New Brunswick
Dalhousie University
School of Nursing
Henry Hicks Academic Administration
Building, Room 133
Halifax NS B3H 4H6
Telephone: (902) 494-2603
www.dal.ca
University of New Brunswick
P. O. Box 4400
Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3
Telephone: 1-506-453-4666
www.unb.ca
St Francis Xavier University
Applications Admissions Officer
PO Box 5000, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5
Telephone: (902) 867-2219
www.stfx.ca
University of Cape Breton
Admission Student Service Center
PO Box 5300, Sydney, NS B1P 6L2
www.cbu.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Registered Nurse Scale 2015
$64,046 - $75,458
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Respiratory Therapy
NATURE OF THE WORK
Respiratory Therapists are health professionals who assist in the diagnosis, treatment and health
promotion of patients with cardio-respiratory disorders through therapeutic means. They also
perform respiratory assessments of patients, tests and monitors cardio-pulmonary function.
You need to have good judgment, a strong sense of reliability and excellent interpersonal skills to
work in a health care environment. You need the ability to maintain composure in critical medical
situations.
REQUIREMENTS
Respiratory therapists require a three year program in respiratory therapy and a period of
supervised, relevant work experience or a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree in respiratory
therapy.
To be certified, therapists must successfully complete the National Registry Examination governed
by the Canadian Board of Respiratory Care and be licensed with the Canadian and Nova Scotia
Society of Respiratory Therapists. For more information visit www.csrt.com
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences
6th Bethune Building
1278 Tower Road Halifax NS B3H 6A3
Telephone: 902-473-3769
www.dal.ca
New Brunswick Community College
PO Box 2270
Saint John NB E2L 3V1
Telephone: 506-658-6673
www.nbcc.ca
EARNING POTENTIAL
Respiratory Therapist Salary Scale - 2015
$50,587 - $69,346
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Ultrasound Technology
NATURE OF THE WORK
Ultrasound Technologists (Diagnostic Sonographer) utilize high frequency sound waves, specialized
equipment and other diagnostic techniques to collect detailed information on anatomical,
physiological and pathological state of the patient. This health care professional is able to produce
and evaluate ultrasound images and related data that are used by specialized physicians to render a
medical diagnosis. Sonographers typically provide technical expertise in abdomen, superficial
structures, obstetrics / gynecology, vascular and cardiac applications.
This work demands skill with your hands, accuracy and close attention
to details. You should be efficient yet sensitive to patients’ needs.
Integrity and a strong sense of responsibility are important, as your
results may affect a diagnosis. You must also be comfortable working
with technology and be able to keep up with new advances in the field.
REQUIREMENTS
Ultrasound Technologists need to complete a four year degree program
in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Technology and a period of
supervised, relevant work experience.
To be a certified technologist you must successfully complete the American Registry of Diagnostic
Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) ultrasound certification examinations. For more information, visit
www.csdms.com and/or www.adrms.org
EDUCATION CONTACT INFORMATION
Dalhousie University in partnership with Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Education offers a fouryear Bachelor’s degree program in Health Science in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound Technology.
QEII/Dalhousie School of Health Sciences
Bethune Building
1278 Tower Road
Halifax NS B3H 2Y9
Telephone: 902-473-4148
www.dal.ca
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Once you have achieved the credential for a registered radiology technologist, with additional
training and education you can enrich your career to become:
Echo-cardiology Technician: The echo technologist uses ultrasound waves to create an image of
the heart muscle. Ultrasound waves that rebound or echo off the heart can show the size, shape
and movement of the heart’s valves and chambers as well as the flow of blood through the heart.
Echocardiography may show such abnormalities as poorly functioning heart valves or damage the
heart tissue from a past heart attack.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Ultrasound Technologists / Echo-cardiology Technician
Salary Scales- 2015
$58,407 - $68,161
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Cumberland Health Care Careers Bursary Program
c/o Nova Scotia Health Authority
34 Prince Arthur Street
Amherst, NS B4H 1V6
www.nshealth.ca
APPLICATION FORM 2015
Application Deadline: Friday, May 29th, 2015
Name:
Home Address:
E-Mail Address:
Home Phone Number:
Program Type:
Year of Study You Are Entering:
Institution:
If applicable and known,
School Year Mailing Address:
Total Length of Program:
School Year Phone Number:
Upon graduation, those who are successful in receiving a bursary will be placed
at the facility where there is an identified need for staff with their specific training.
This includes sites in Advocate Harbour, Amherst, Parrsboro, Pugwash and
Springhill. You MUST signify your understanding and commitment to work at any
of the Nova Scotia Health Authority’s Cumberland County area facilities?
Yes 
No 
If you are successful in receiving a bursary, are you willing to participate in
promotional activities to aid in recruiting future candidates?
Yes 
No 
This application MUST include the following information:

Resume

Official transcript from high school or post-secondary institution

Proof of acceptance into the program of study if a new student

Three letters of reference, not from family members, in support of your
participation in the program

A 750 word essay explaining why you chose this career path and how you believe
your selection to receive a bursary would benefit the Nova Scotia Health Authority
as well as the community following your graduation. You should also clearly state
an understanding that your placement upon graduation is at the discretion of the
Nova Scotia Health Authority and could be at any of its facilities located across
the district.
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