Opportunities for practical application of theoretical principles are offered throughout the program. Each level of the program has a specific focus for theory and practice around wellness, illness, community, specialized and complex care issues. Clinical placements are selected to allow students exposure to a variety of care delivery environments as they learn the complexities of caring for individuals, families, groups and communities. Students have the opportunity to request, subject to availability and agency requirements, specialized placements and/or to develop a specific focus with the elderly, aboriginal communities, rural communities and women's health as examples, and are involved in care across the lifespan. Theoretical and practicum opportunities demand a holistic approach to care delivery, recognizing that the nurse must assess the needs of the client, plan, provide and evaluate care, and advocate for quality health care for each client group. Various teaching methods are used, including lectures, labs, seminars, case studies, simulations, virtual clinical excursions and online learning.