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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:

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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Caregivers & Trailblazers: Four Nurse Innovators Redefining Healthcare

Johnson & Johnson has proudly championed the nursing profession for over 125 years because we know that for healthcare to work, it takes nurses. This National

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RN Self-Care RX

Graphic provided by OCN | Oregon Center for Nursing

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Best Gift Ideas for Nurses

Whether it be a friend, family member, or acquaintance, you probably know a nurse or someone who works in healthcare. You could look at gifts

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Best Nursing Shoes for Men and Women

As a nurse, finding the perfect pair of shoes is crucial for long shifts filled with constant movement. But with so many options available, it

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National Nurse Week

National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6-12 ending on Florence Nightingale's birthday. The American Nurses Association (ANA) first recognized the week in 1990, and in

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Psychiatric Nursing

While physical health is undoubtedly important, so is Mental Health. Millions of Americans are affected by mental illness each year. Psychiatric Nurses have the specialized

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New BSN Info Sessions – Register

The on-campus Information Session aims to offer valuable insights to individuals considering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Reserve a Spot

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RNs ready to pursue more?

Are you a Registered Nurse wondering what the next step is in your career? Considered your BSN? Sumner College's RN to BSN program can get

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Nurses Influence the Health and Wellbeing of Patients Every Day

As individuals, nurses directly influence the health and wellbeing of patients every day. Through frequent contact, nurses are best placed to encourage lifestyle changes in

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Changes in Nursing

Changes in nursing involve a major shift in higher education standards, requiring more nurses to hold a 4-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). The

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Trades make a comeback with Gen Z Workers

America’s skilled trades — from nursing and plumbing to welding to construction — need more workers as boomers retire. Gen Z-ers are stepping up to fill

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Congratulations, Sumner College Graduates: Embracing New Beginnings

Congratulations to the new Sumner College nursing graduates. As the tassels are flipped and mortarboards soar into the sky, a chapter closes, and another begins.

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