How Long Does it Take to Become a Nurse?

How Long Does It Take to Become a Nurse?

If you’re considering a career in nursing, one of the first questions you may ask is: how long does it take to become a nurse? The answer depends on the type of nursing role you want, the degree you pursue, and the path you choose to get there. The good news? Nursing offers multiple entry points, allowing you to start your career sooner and continue advancing over time.

At Sumner College, students can pursue practical nursing and registered nursing pathways designed to help them enter the healthcare workforce efficiently while building toward long-term career goals.

Nursing Pathways and Timelines

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Becoming an LPN is often the fastest way to begin working in nursing.

Typical timeline: About 12 months

LPN programs focus on hands-on patient care, foundational nursing skills, and real-world clinical experience. Graduates are prepared to work in settings such as clinics, long-term care facilities, and healthcare offices.

At Sumner College, the LPN program is designed for students who want to start their nursing career without spending years in school.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered Nurses have broader responsibilities and more career flexibility, including higher earning potential.

Common RN education paths include:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Typically 2 years
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Typically 3–4 years

Sumner College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that allows students to pursue RN licensure and gain a comprehensive education in patient care, leadership, and evidence-based practice.

Can You Start Without Prerequisites?

Many traditional nursing programs require lengthy prerequisite coursework before students can even apply. One advantage of Sumner College is that students can begin nursing education without completing separate prerequisites, helping them save time and stay focused on their career goals.

This streamlined approach allows students to:

Start nursing coursework sooner
Stay on a clear, structured path
Enter the workforce faster

Advancing Your Nursing Career Over Time

Nursing doesn’t have to be a one-and-done decision. Many nurses choose to:

Start as an LPN and later advance their education
Earn a BSN to qualify for leadership roles
Continue into specialized or advanced practice areas

With demand for highly educated nurses continuing to grow, a BSN can open doors to roles in hospital leadership, public health, education, and beyond.

Why Timing Matters in Nursing

Healthcare employers are actively seeking qualified nurses, and the sooner you begin your education, the sooner you can make an impact. Choosing a program that prioritizes efficient learning and hands-on experience can make a significant difference in how quickly you reach your goals.

Start Your Nursing Journey at Sumner College

Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly or build a long-term nursing career, Sumner College offers pathways designed to meet you where you are. With no prerequisite requirements and focused nursing programs, students can take the first step toward a rewarding healthcare career sooner.

Ready to get started? Explore Sumner College’s nursing programs and discover how you can begin your journey toward becoming a nurse today.

Why Should I Pursue a BSN Degree?

Why Should I Pursue a BSN Degree? | Benefits of Earning Your Bachelor of Science in Nursing

If you’re exploring a career in nursing or looking to advance in your current role, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree can be a game-changing decision. More employers than ever are seeking BSN-prepared nurses, and hospitals nationwide are prioritizing nurses with advanced education and leadership potential.

At Sumner College, our BSN program provides the skills, confidence, and clinical training you need to succeed in today’s evolving healthcare landscape. Here’s why pursuing your BSN degree could be the best next step in your nursing career.

1. BSN Nurses Have More Career Opportunities

A BSN degree opens doors to roles that may not be available to nurses with only an associate degree. Many hospitals now prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses due to their strong clinical judgment and leadership training.

With a BSN from Sumner College, you can qualify for positions in:

Acute care and hospital settings
Critical care and emergency departments
Pediatrics and maternal health
Public health and community nursing
Leadership-track and management roles

The BSN is the gateway to long-term career growth and job security.

2. Higher Salary Potential With a BSN Degree

One of the biggest advantages of earning your BSN is the potential for higher pay. Nurses with a bachelor’s degree are often offered a larger starting salary and can advance more easily into specialty or leadership roles, increasing their earning potential over time.

3. A BSN Sets You Up for Leadership and Advanced Nursing Roles

If you’re dreaming of becoming a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nursing leader, the BSN is your essential first step. This degree provides the academic foundation needed for graduate-level programs such as:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) roles

Your BSN becomes the launchpad for future career advancement.

4. BSN-Prepared Nurses Improve Patient Outcomes

Research consistently shows that facilities with more BSN-prepared nurses achieve better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer complications.

Because BSN programs emphasize evidence-based practice, critical thinking, research, and leadership, graduates deliver stronger, safer patient care.

5. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing Offers a More Comprehensive Education

BSN programs go beyond clinical skills—they prepare you to think like a leader. At Sumner College, courses include:

Community and population health
Nursing research
Pharmacology
Leadership and management
Evidence-based practice

This broader academic approach helps nurses navigate complex healthcare situations with confidence.

Why Choose Sumner College for Your BSN Degree?

Sumner College is committed to expanding access to nursing education. Our BSN program offers:

No prerequisite courses required
Experienced faculty who bring real clinical expertise
Hands-on training in trusted healthcare environments
A supportive, student-first culture designed to help you succeed

If you’re ready to grow in your nursing career, Sumner College provides the pathway—and the support—to get you there.

Start Your BSN Journey Today

Earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your future. Whether you’re starting fresh or advancing your career, a BSN degree offers opportunity, stability, and long-term growth.

Ready to pursue your BSN? Sumner College is here to help you take the next step. Dream it. Do it.

Become a LPN Today!

Do I Need an Undergraduate Degree to Be a Nurse?

If you’ve ever thought about becoming a nurse, you might assume it requires a four-year bachelor’s degree — but that’s not always the case! The truth is, there are multiple pathways into nursing, and one of the fastest ways to begin your career is by becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).

You Don’t Need a Bachelor’s Degree to Start Nursing

While some nursing roles — like Registered Nurses (RNs) or Nurse Practitioners — require a college degree, you can begin working as a nurse without an undergraduate degree by earning your Practical Nursing diploma.

An LPN provides essential patient care, often working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. They take vital signs, assist with medication administration, and support patients and families — all while gaining valuable experience in the healthcare field.

The Fast Track to a Nursing Career

At Sumner College, our Practical Nursing (LPN) program can be completed in as little as 13 months, preparing you with the hands-on skills and knowledge to pass the NCLEX-PN exam and begin working as a licensed nurse.

This means you can:

Start your career faster — no need to wait four years for a degree.
Gain experience right away in patient care settings.
Decide later if you’d like to continue your education and bridge to an RN or BSN program.

Build a Career That Grows With You

Many LPNs go on to further their education while working. Starting as an LPN gives you the flexibility to grow your career at your own pace — and at Sumner College, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Whether nursing is a new passion or a long-held dream, your journey can start today. With smaller class sizes, supportive instructors, and a focus on student success, Sumner College’s LPN program is designed to help you achieve your goals and make a real difference in patients’ lives.

Ready to take the first step toward becoming a nurse?
Learn more about Sumner College’s Practical Nursing Program and see how quickly you can start your nursing career!

Honoring Service – How Military Experience Translates to a Career in Healthcare

At Sumner College, we proudly honor our veterans and active-duty service members this Veterans Day Weekend.

Service in the military is built on dedication, teamwork, and compassion—values that also define the nursing and healthcare professions. Many veterans find that transitioning from military service to healthcare work is a natural next step. The leadership, adaptability, and crisis-management skills gained through military experience often make veterans uniquely prepared to excel in patient care roles.

From protecting lives to saving them—healthcare provides another meaningful way to serve.
Whether you worked in a medical unit or served in a completely different capacity, your experience has already shaped you into someone who thrives under pressure and cares deeply for others. Nursing offers the chance to continue that mission—this time, serving individuals and families in your local community.

At Sumner College, we’re proud to support veterans and active-duty members as they pursue degrees that build on their service. Our nursing programs, including our Practical Nursing (LPN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)options, are designed to prepare students for rewarding careers that make a difference every day.

This Veterans Day Weekend, we salute all who have served—and invite those ready for their next chapter to explore how Sumner College can help you turn your commitment to service into a lifelong career in healthcare.

Future nurses—don’t forget!

Your TEAS exam is one of the most important steps in your Sumner College application process!

The TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) helps measure your readiness for nursing school and gives you the chance to show off your knowledge in reading, math, science, and English. As trong score can set you up for success right from the start!

✅Schedule your TEAS exam early

✅Give yourself plenty of time to study

✅Use prep guides and practice tests to boost your confidence

You’ve got this—and we can’t wait to see you take that next big step toward your nursingcareer!#SumnerCollege #FutureNurse #NursingSchool #TEASExam #NursingStudents #StudyTips#NurseGoals #SumnerStrong #NursingJourney

Sumner College Partners with K103 for the 2024 Holiday Toy Drive – Donations Now Open!

The holiday season is officially underway, and Sumner College is excited to announce our partnership with K103’s Annual Holiday Toy Drive, launching today! This joyful initiative brings together our campus community, local families, and area businesses to help brighten the season for children in need across the Portland metro and SW Washington areas.

From now through the end of the toy drive, we invite students, faculty, alumni, and neighbors to stop by the Sumner College campus and drop off new, unwrapped toys. Every donation—whether big or small—helps create a meaningful holiday experience for children who might otherwise go without.

“Our mission has always centered around service and supporting our community,” said the Sumner College leadership team. “Partnering with K103 allows us to extend that mission even further during a time when kindness matters most.”

🎁 How to Participate

Bring new, unwrapped toys to the Sumner College campus
Visit during campus hours: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm
Look for the K103 Holiday Toy Drive donation bin in the lobby
Share your experience on social media and help spread the word!

✅ What to Donate

The greatest need is for:

Educational toys
Arts & crafts kits
Stuffed animals
Books
Games and puzzles
Items for teens (often the most overlooked age group)

❤️ Join Us in Making Spirits Bright

At Sumner College, we believe in lifting others through compassion and action. Let’s come together and make this holiday season brighter for families throughout our community. Your generosity truly makes a difference.

Stop by today—and thank you for helping us support K103’s amazing mission this holiday season!

Why Should I Pursue a BSN Degree?

Thinking about advancing your nursing education? Earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is one of the best investments you can make in your nursing career—and in yourself. At Sumner College, our BSN program is designed to help students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in today’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Expanded Career Opportunities

Hospitals and healthcare systems increasingly prefer or require nurses to hold a BSN. This degree can open the door to roles in management, education, research, and leadership, as well as specialized clinical areas like pediatrics, critical care, and community health.

Higher Earning Potential

With advanced education comes the potential for higher pay. BSN-prepared nurses often earn more than those with an associate degree, making it a smart financial step toward long-term career growth.

Stronger Clinical and Leadership Skills

A BSN program goes beyond the basics—offering courses in public health, evidence-based practice, and leadership. At Sumner College, our curriculum emphasizes both hands-on learning and critical thinking, preparing you to deliver the highest level of patient care.

Pathway to Advanced Practice

If you’re considering becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP), Nurse Educator, or Clinical Nurse Leader, earning your BSN is the essential first step toward those advanced degrees.

Make a Bigger Impact

Nursing is more than a profession—it’s a calling. With a BSN, you’ll be equipped to take on greater responsibility, advocate for your patients, and play a meaningful role in improving healthcare outcomes in your community.

At Sumner College, our BSN program offers small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and flexible scheduling options to help you reach your goals faster. Whether you’re starting your nursing journey or looking to advance your current career, now’s the perfect time to take the next step.

What Is a BS in Nursing?

If you’re a registered nurse looking to take your career to the next level, you’ve probably heard about earning your BS in Nursing (BSN). But what exactly does that mean—and how can it impact your future?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a four-year degree that builds upon the foundational knowledge of nursing. It provides a deeper understanding of clinical care, leadership, research, and community health—skills that are essential in today’s evolving healthcare environment.

Many hospitals and healthcare organizations now prefer or require nurses to hold a BSN. That’s because BSN-prepared nurses are equipped with critical thinking, management, and communication skills that improve patient outcomes and open doors to advanced roles in healthcare.

If you’re already a registered nurse (RN), the great news is that you can earn your BSN faster through Sumner College’s RN to BSN program. Our program is designed specifically for working nurses who want to advance without pausing their careers. With flexible scheduling, experienced faculty, and 100% online courses, you can continue providing excellent care while preparing for your next professional step.

Benefits of earning your BSN through Sumner College:

100% online and designed for working nurses
Affordable tuition and financial aid options available
CCNE-accredited program you can trust
Complete your degree in as little as 12 months

Your future in nursing is waiting. Take the next step with Sumner College and turn your RN into a BSN today.

What Prerequisites Do I Need For a Nursing Degree?

Dreaming of becoming a nurse but worried about all the prerequisites? At Sumner College, we’ve removed the biggest roadblock to your nursing education — no prerequisites required! You can start your journey toward a rewarding healthcare career without waiting years to complete extra classes before you even begin.

Launch Your Career with the Practical Nursing (LPN) Program
If you’re ready to enter the workforce quickly, our Practical Nursing program can prepare you to become a licensed LPN in as little as 13 months. You’ll gain hands-on experience, classroom knowledge, and the confidence to provide compassionate care right from day one — no prior college credits needed.

Earn Your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree
Ready to take the direct route to becoming a Registered Nurse? Our BSN program provides the education and clinical experience you need to step into nursing with confidence. With no prerequisites required, you can enroll and begin your nursing courses right away. From day one, you’ll focus on patient care, critical thinking, and leadership skills that prepare you for success in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.

Advance Your Future with the RN to BSN Program
Already a registered nurse? Take your career to the next level with our RN to BSN program, designed for working nurses who want to expand their opportunities in leadership, management, and advanced clinical practice. It’s flexible, career-focused, and built to fit your schedule.

At Sumner College, we believe your passion for helping others should be what drives your future — not a long list of prerequisites. Ready to get started? Your path to becoming a nurse begins here.

Sumner College Ranked #3 in Best Value Colleges in Oregon

At Sumner College, our mission has always been to provide high-quality nursing education that’s both accessible and affordable. We’re proud to share that Sumner College has been ranked #3 in Best Value Colleges in Oregon by Niche!

This recognition reflects our commitment to helping students achieve their career goals without overwhelming financial burden. By offering focused nursing programs, small class sizes, and strong student support, we empower future nurses to thrive both academically and professionally.

Choosing a nursing program is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and we’re honored to be recognized as one of Oregon’s top options for value. We believe every student deserves the chance to succeed in their nursing journey—and at Sumner College, we’re here to help make it happen.

If you’re ready to start your career in nursing with a program that truly invests in you, we’d love to connect.

Niche rating

FAFSA Season

The vast majority of college students—more than 85%—rely on financial aid to make higher education possible. At the center of that process is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This single application determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study, and is also used by many states and colleges to award scholarships and institutional aid. In short, completing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps in making college affordable.

The FAFSA for the 2026–27 academic year officially opens on October 1, 2025. Submitting the application early is strongly encouraged, since many aid programs distribute funds on a first-come, first-served basis.

What’s New with FAFSA This Year?

Over the past few years, FAFSA has undergone changes—some smooth, others more challenging. This year, the U.S. Department of Education is beta testing the system before the October 1 release to help ensure a more reliable rollout. Some students may even be invited to complete the form early as part of this test, though most will simply need to file once the form goes live in October.

Key updates include:

Pell Grants remain fully funded with a maximum award of $7,395. These grants, which do not need to be repaid, help thousands of low-income students pay for tuition, fees, and other college costs.
New Workforce Pell Grants will become available in July 2026 for short-term, career-focused programs in high-demand industries like healthcare and technology.
Federal student loans remain unchanged, with subsidized and unsubsidized options available depending on student need and enrollment status.

How to Prepare Now

Students do not need to wait until October to get started. You can:

Create an FSA ID at StudentAid.gov.
Gather required documents, such as Social Security numbers, tax returns, and bank statements.
Mark your calendar to complete the FAFSA as soon as it opens.

Support at Sumner College

At Sumner College, we know that navigating financial aid can feel overwhelming. Our Financial Aid Office is here to walk students through the FAFSA process, answer questions, and help maximize the financial resources available. By completing the FAFSA early, students position themselves for the best possible aid packages and can focus on what matters most—preparing for a successful career in healthcare.

If you’re considering nursing or allied health programs at Sumner College, don’t wait. Start preparing your FAFSA today so you can take advantage of every opportunity available.

Source: Schoolinks

How Many Years Does It Take To Get A Nursing Degree?

How Many Years Does It Take to Get a Nursing Degree?

If you’re thinking about a career in nursing, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How many years does it take to get a nursing degree?” At Sumner College, we provide two direct pathways into the nursing profession — Practical Nursing (PN) and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here’s a breakdown.

Q: How many years does it take to become a nurse at Sumner College?

At Sumner College, the timeline depends on the program you choose:

Practical Nursing Diploma (PN): You can complete this program in as little as 13 months. After graduation, you’ll be prepared to take the NCLEX-PN exam and begin your career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This program can be completed in just 3 years. Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become Registered Nurses (RNs), opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

Q: What’s the difference between becoming an LPN and earning a BSN?

The Practical Nursing diploma is a shorter, faster path to entering the nursing profession. LPNs provide essential patient care and often work in long-term care facilities, clinics, and hospitals.

The BSN program is a more advanced degree that offers a broader scope of practice and greater career flexibility. RNs with a BSN are qualified to work in hospitals, leadership roles, community health, and specialized areas of nursing.

Q: Why should I choose Sumner College for my nursing education?

Sumner College is dedicated to helping you succeed from day one. Here’s what makes our programs stand out:

No waitlist for nursing programs – Start your education without unnecessary delays.
Hands-on clinical training – Practice in real healthcare settings alongside experienced professionals.
Supportive faculty and staff – You’ll receive personalized guidance throughout your program.
Career-focused education – Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for success in today’s healthcare environment.

👉 Ready to take the next step toward your nursing career? Learn more about the Nursing Programs at Sumner College and find the right path for you.