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Consider the Options

If job security is a priority for you, you’ll be happy to know that nursing is a career with a bright future. The U.S. Department of Labor projects that more than one million new and replacement registered nurses will be needed by 2018. By choosing a career-focused college major like nursing, you’ll be preparing for a future of endless learning and growth potential.

Students interested in becoming nurses can choose from several training programs.

Choosing the Right Program for You

As a high school student considering a nursing career, you have three main options once you graduate. You can earn a practical nursing diploma and become a licensed practical nurse (L.P.N.), also known as a licensed vocational nurse (L.V.N.). Or you can earn either an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree and become a registered nurse (R.N.). Generally, the more education you complete, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Practical Nursing Training

You can earn a diploma in licensed practical nursing in approximately one year. During that time, you’ll balance practical experience in hospitals and other settings with course work in everything from anatomy to nutrition. Once you graduate and pass an exam, you’ll be qualified to provide some care directly to patients. You’ll also assist R.N.s and doctors.

The A.D.N.

If you’re willing to attend college for two to three years, you can earn an associate degree in nursing (A.D.N.). During their added schooling, A.D.N. students pick up related courses, such as microbiology; take more specialized nursing courses, such as geriatric nursing; and spend longer hours in each class.

With an A.D.N. from a two-year college, you’ll be able to provide direct patient care in many settings. Some hospital nursing schools, colleges and universities also offer A.D.N. programs.

The B.S.N.

If you want the most options, including graduate school later on in your career, consider the bachelor of science degree in nursing (B.S./B.S.N.). This four-year program prepares nurses to practice in all healthcare settings.

As a B.S.N. student, you’ll have more time to develop skills in communication, critical thinking and leadership. Of course, you’ll also take more advanced nursing courses, studying such subjects as complex illnesses and perhaps conducting your own scientific research.

Getting There

Prepare now for a future in nursing. Start by reading these major profiles:

You can also learn about the working life of nurses in these career profiles:

Learn more:

The Heart of Healthcare

Nursing can be described as both an art and science; a heart and a mind. At its heart, lies a fundamental respect for human dignity

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Labor Day Weekend

Happy Labor Day! We will be closed Monday to enjoy a long weekend!

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Upcoming Class Start Dates

Join us on one of our upcoming start dates for RN's looking to achieve a BSN completion!

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What is an RN-BSN Program?

RN to BSN Degree- What is it? The RN-BSN degree is designed for nurses that earned their Registered Nurse licensure and would like to continue

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There’s Still Time!

There's still time to enroll for the September 3 class start date! All three programs are starting fresh this fall; BSN, RN to BSN, and

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Tips for Great Admission Essays

Writing an admission essay may feel like a daunting task to accomplish, much less three, as we require here at Sumner. While they are short

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Is Nursing for Me?

Have you ever wondered whether nursing is the right profession for you? Take our personality exam to see if you have the characteristics of a

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Join the Nursing Workforce

When deciding what career to go into, one often will research the career to find out information like: average income, durability in the economy, and

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Celebrating 50 years!! Everyday NW’s Ally Osborne visits with Joanna Russell

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Sumner College in Northeast Portland is celebrating 50 years of helping people level up and reach for their career goals in

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Why choose to complete a BSN?

Sumner College is proud to offer multiple different nursing programs, suitable for all stages of life. However, completing the Bachelors of Science in Nursing is

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Our Application Process

As you find yourself getting ready to make the jump for the new term here at Sumner College, you may have questions about our application

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BSN Info Sessions – August

This month's BSN group information meetings are scheduled for August 1, 6, 8, 15 at 12p.m on campus, 8338 NE Alderwood Road, Portland, OR 97220

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BSN Info Sessions – July

In preparation for the September classes, please plan to attend either of these informative hour long presentations to learn more about the program, the requirements

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Meet The RN Advocating For Disabled Candidates

Applying for a new job can be overwhelming and stressful. For candidates with disabilities, the hiring process can be a disheartening experience. According to the CDC,

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NCLEX Study Strategies

Expert Test-Taking Strategies One of the first things you should do when you begin preparing for the NCLEX is to determine your learning style to

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Sumner College: an excellent choice for those wishing to pursue a career in the health care field

In a message from our College President, Joanna S. Russell, she touches on how one of the strengths Sumner has is student engagement; focussing on

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Nursing Specialty Quiz

Unsure of what nursing specialty suits you best? Take this quiz to see what options align with you best! Content shared from J&J Nursing 

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Happy 4th of July! Office is closed

Sumner college is celebrating our nation's independence! Our offices will be closed Thursday 7/4 and Friday 7/5.

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BSN Info Sessions – Register for July

We've opened up a few more seats to the BSN Info Sessions in July. In preparation for the September classes, please plan to attend this

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Nursing School Study Tips

Our Career Services Department has a number of great resources for students, including study tips for nursing school. Visit Career Services Study Tips   

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The Pulse | Summer 2024

Sumner College Newsletter | Summer 2024

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Dream It! Do It! @SumnerCollege

Are you dreaming of becoming a Registered Nurse, but worried about the hurdles of prerequisite courses? Look no further! Sumner College offers a unique and

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Is nursing your passion?

If you've always dreamed of making a difference in people's lives through compassionate care, then it's time to take the next step! Enrollment is now

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Welcome New Students – June Classes Start Today!

Today is the day that our new BSN, LPN and RN to BSN June 10th students embark on their nursing career. They've dreamed about it

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Bachelor of Science Nursing | Start June 10th

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Program at Sumner College is the only program in Oregon and Washington State that does not require students

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Practical Nursing | June 10th Classes Start

The Practical Nursing Program at Sumner College can fast-track you to a new career as an LPN in just 13 months. If you are compassionate

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Remember & Honor

On Memorial Day, we take a moment to remember and honor all who have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

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RNs Advance your Nursing Career

If advancing your nursing education is part of your plans, you cannot miss this opportunity to meet Lois Hine, Sumner College RN to BSN Program

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June BSN Info Sessions Now Open

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How Much Do Oregon’s Registered Nurses Earn? 2023 Oregon Wage Study

According to the survey results, RNs in Oregon earn an average hourly wage of $55.14, equating to an annual salary of $114,694. The Oregon Center

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