WHY EARNING A BSN IS WORTH IT

Why Earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Is Worth It—Especially at Sumner College

Nursing has always been a calling, but today it’s also a strategic career move. Whether you’re just exploring healthcare or you’ve already completed some college coursework, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) can put you on the fast track to meaningful work, strong salaries, and long‑term stability. Below are the top reasons students choose the BSN pathway—followed by what makes Sumner College’s program in Oregon stand out.

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1. Expanded Career Opportunities

A BSN unlocks far more than bedside roles. Hospitals and health‑systems increasingly require or strongly prefer bachelor‑prepared nurses for leadership, quality‑improvement, public‑health, and specialty areas such as ICU, pediatrics, and peri‑operative care. In Oregon, most Magnet‑designated facilities list a BSN as the minimum requirement for advancement beyond entry‑level practice.

2. Higher Earning Potential

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earn a median salary well above the national average for all occupations. BSN‑prepared nurses, however, often begin at a higher pay grade, see quicker raises, and qualify for differential pay when stepping into charge or clinical‑educator roles.

3. Leadership & Graduate‑School Readiness

If you’re thinking beyond bedside care—nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse manager, or even hospital executive—a BSN is the essential first step. The curriculum includes research, community health, and leadership coursework that ADN programs rarely cover, preparing you for master’s or doctoral study.

4. Improved Patient Outcomes

Multiple studies in Health Affairs and The Journal of Nursing Administration associate higher proportions of BSN‑educated nurses with lower mortality and complication rates. With coursework in evidence‑based practice and population health, BSN graduates bring broader clinical reasoning to the bedside.

5. Future‑Proofing Your License

Many states are exploring “BSN in 10” legislation, which would require new RNs to earn a bachelor’s within ten years of initial licensure. Completing a direct‑entry BSN eliminates the need to return to school later while balancing a full‑time nursing schedule.

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Why Choose Sumner College for Your BSN?

What You Gain	How Sumner College Delivers
Accelerated Path	Complete your BSN in as little as three years with year‑round terms—no waiting list.
Two Campus Options	Study in Portland or Bend, both featuring modern simulation labs and dedicated skills centers.
Direct Admission—No Prerequisites Required	Enter straight into nursing coursework even if your previous credits are in an unrelated field.
Small Cohorts & Faculty Mentoring	Enjoy personalized instruction, clinical prep workshops, and one‑on‑one tutoring at no additional cost.
High NCLEX‑RN Pass Rates	Rigorous test‑prep modules and weekly review sessions position graduates for first‑time success.
Strong Clinical Partnerships	Rotations span major hospital systems, community health clinics, and specialty centers across Oregon.
Dedicated Career Services	Résumé labs, mock interviews, and employer networking events start in your first term—continuing after graduation.
Accreditation You Can Trust	The BSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the college is licensed by the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission.

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What You’ll Study

• Foundations of Professional Nursing
• Pathophysiology & Pharmacology
• Adult, Pediatric, and Maternal–Newborn Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Evidence‑Based Practice & Research
• Leadership, Policy, and Community Health

Clinical hours begin in your first year and progress from skills lab to high‑fidelity simulation to direct patient care, giving you confidence long before graduation day.

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How to Get Started

1. Attend an Information Session
   • Portland Campus: Tuesdays & Thursdays
   • Bend Campus: Thursdays
2. Apply Online
3. Schedule the TEAS Exam (offered weekly on campus).
4. Submit Transcripts & Background Check.
5. Meet Your Admission Advisor to map out financial‑aid options, scholarships, and a personalized academic plan.

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Ready to Begin Your Nursing Journey?

A BSN from Sumner College equips you with the clinical expertise, critical‑thinking skills, and leadership foundation today’s healthcare system demands. Request more information or reserve your seat at our next information session, and take the first step toward a rewarding nursing career.

Sumner College—Educating nurses who set higher standards of care across Oregon and beyond.

A BSN From Sumner College

 

Begin Your Nursing Career with a BSN from Sumner College in Oregon

If you’re looking to start a meaningful and rewarding career in nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)is one of the most direct paths to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). In Oregon, one of the most accessible and career-focused programs is offered at Sumner College, with campuses located in Portland and Bend.

Sumner College’s BSN program stands out for its accelerated timeline, dedicated support, and practical approach to nursing education—helping you enter the workforce sooner and with confidence.

Why a BSN Matters in Oregon

Oregon is committed to advancing healthcare through high-quality nursing education. A BSN degree not only prepares you for licensure but also equips you with the critical thinking, leadership, and clinical skills needed in today’s complex healthcare environments. BSN-prepared nurses in Oregon have strong job prospects, higher average salaries, and more opportunities for advancement.

Why Choose Sumner College for Your BSN?

Sumner College offers a CCNE-accredited BSN program designed for students who want to move forward—without the long waitlists or prerequisite course requirements that delay many traditional nursing paths.

Key Benefits of the Program:

• No prerequisites required
• No waitlist
• Program completion in just 134 weeks (approximately 3 years)
• Year-round schedule with consistent progress
• Clinical experiences integrated throughout the curriculum
• Campuses in both Portland and Bend, Oregon
• Dedicated TEAS exam preparation and admissions support

This student-centered approach allows learners to stay focused, supported, and on track to graduate and take the NCLEX-RN exam without unnecessary delays.

What You’ll Learn

The BSN program at Sumner College prepares students to deliver safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care in a variety of healthcare settings. The curriculum includes:

• Nursing Fundamentals and Health Assessment
• Adult and Geriatric Health Nursing
• Maternal-Newborn and Pediatric Nursing
• Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
• Nursing Ethics and Leadership
• Community and Public Health Nursing
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research

In addition to classroom learning, students participate in simulation lab experiences and supervised clinical rotations at healthcare facilities throughout Oregon.

Admissions Requirements

Sumner College has designed a straightforward admissions process. To apply for the BSN program, prospective students must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Hold a high school diploma or GED
• Complete the TEAS entrance exam
• Participate in an admissions interview
• Complete a background check and provide proof of required immunizations

The program is open to students from all academic backgrounds, and prior college coursework is not required.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The total cost of the BSN program includes tuition, required fees, books, uniforms, and lab kits. Sumner College provides a transparent pricing structure with no hidden fees.

Students may be eligible for financial aid, including federal grants, loans, and scholarships. The college’s financial aid advisors are available to help applicants explore funding options and create a payment plan that fits their needs.

Preparing for RN Licensure in Oregon

Graduates of Sumner College’s BSN program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN, the national licensing exam required to practice as a Registered Nurse. The college’s curriculum is aligned with the standards of the Oregon State Board of Nursing to ensure students are prepared both academically and clinically.

Attend a BSN Information Session

To learn more about the program, application process, and next steps, prospective students are encouraged to attend a BSN Information Session. These live, on-campus sessions are held weekly:

• Tuesdays and Thursdays in Portland
• Thursdays in Bend

These sessions provide insight into what it’s like to be a student at Sumner, how to prepare for the TEAS exam, and what to expect from the nursing curriculum.

Start Your Nursing Journey Today

If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of others—and take a step toward a fulfilling healthcare career—Sumner College’s BSN program offers the structure, support, and speed you need to succeed.

Visit www.sumnercollege.edu to register for an information session or request more details from an admissions advisor.

Meet Teresa: Sumner College Graduate

Associate Degree in Nursing

Teresa, congratulations on your graduation! As you’ve embarked on your nursing journey, remember: ‘Nursing is not just a profession, it’s a calling to serve, heal, and make a difference in the lives of others.’ Your dedication and compassion will light the way for countless patients, making the world a healthier and happier place, one act of kindness at a time.

We are proud to call you a Sumner College Graduate!

Here’s what Teresa had to say about Sumner College, “Sumner College’s LPN Program gave me a comprehensive and practical education that prepared me for the challenges of nursing. The coursework was rigorous but rewarding, covering anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and essential communication skills. The instructors were supportive and knowledgeable, and clinical experiences helped me apply what I learned in real-world settings, building both skill and confidence. Overall, Sumner provided a life-changing experience. I passed the NCLEX on my first try and became licensed within a month of graduating!”

Meet Ana: Sumner College Graduate

Congratulations, Ana! Your hard work, heart, and perseverance have brought you to this incredible milestone. As you begin your journey in nursing, remember: “Nursing is where compassion meets action, and every patient is a chance to make a difference.”

We are beyond proud to welcome you to the Sumner College alumni family. The world is brighter with nurses like you in it!

Ana said, “My experience at Sumner has been wonderful. I never would have thought I’d start nursing school after finalizing a divorce, raising three kids, and working full time- but I did it. I’m beyond proud of myself for commenting to it and never looking back. It was hard, but I conquered it- and now I’ve landed my dream job at Sapphire Health Services, working as a Resident Care Coordinator in a management role for my very first job!  This is the platform that will help me reach my goal of becoming a Nursing Director at a Lon-term care facility within the next ten years. I’m so incredibly proud, and I did this all for my children. I sacrificed a lot- and I made it!”

Meet Misty: Sumner College Graduate

Associate Degree in Nursing

Misty, congratulations on your graduation! As you’ve embarked on your nursing journey, remember: ‘Nursing is not just a profession, it’s a calling to serve, heal, and make a difference in the lives of others.’ Your dedication and compassion will light the way for countless patients, making the world a healthier and happier place, one act of kindness at a time.

We are proud to call you a Sumner College Graduate!

Here’s what Misty shared with us: “Before enrolling at Sumner College, I was working as a medical assistant. I chose to pursue nursing to gain more experience in healthcare and achieve greater financial freedom. I chose Sumner because it offered an accessible, streamlined program- and through it, I earned my associate degree in nursing. The training gave me the foundation to succeed, and my next goal is to earn my bachelor’s degree and continue advancing my career.”

AI in Nursing: A Trial

AI Note-Taking Tool Gives Nurses More Time for Patients at East Lancashire Hospitals

In a forward-thinking move to streamline healthcare and reduce administrative burdens, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has piloted an AI-powered tool called CLEARnotes that automatically documents pre-operative consultations. The six-month pilot, which began in September 2024, has shown promising results — not only in efficiency but in restoring the “human touch” to nursing care.

What Is CLEARnotes?
CLEARnotes uses ambient voice AI technology to listen to nurse-patient conversations and convert them into structured electronic patient notes. After each consultation, nurses review the AI-generated notes for accuracy, maintaining clinical oversight.

Positive Outcomes for Patients and Staff
Led by Toni Bell, the trust’s pre-operative assessment manager, the AI system has enabled her team to see more patients each day — an increase from 55 to 63 — contributing to the trust’s efforts in addressing the elective care backlog. Moreover, because the AI handles much of the note-taking, consultation times have decreased, and nurses report being able to engage more fully with patients.

“It’s definitely put that human factor back into our assessments,” said Bell. “Nurses feel like they’ve got the patient engagement back, rather than sitting with their back to them or side on.”

Standardized Documentation and Collaborative Success
Beyond efficiency, the tool ensures a consistent format in patient records, improving documentation quality. Bell emphasized the importance of collaboration between clinical staff and the AI developers at 33n, crediting this partnership as crucial to the pilot’s success.

Recognized and Ready for the Future
The initiative has earned national recognition with a nomination for the 2025 HSJ Digital Awards in the “Supporting Elective Recovery Through Digital” category. Dr. Domnic Sebastian, the trust’s divisional medical director for surgery and anaesthetics, praised CLEARnotes for freeing up clinical time, reducing stress, and improving both staff and patient satisfaction.

As healthcare continues to grapple with resource constraints and growing patient needs, tools like CLEARnotes highlight how AI can support — rather than replace — the essential human aspects of care.

 

Source: Nursingtimes.net

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Bend Health Fair

Thank you to all who stopped by to say hi at the Bend Health Fair! What a great weekend! Have additional questions? Send us a connect form, or use our live chat!

New Start, May 12!

Congratulations to our newest BSN cohort starting class on Monday in both Portland and Bend! Your new adventure awaits at Sumner College, Dream it Do it! As always don’t hesitate to reach out to any of our amazing staff.

How Learning Style Impacts You

Welcome to “Understanding Your Learning Style”
Unlock Your Academic Potential by Discovering How You Learn Best

Have you ever wondered why some study methods work better for others than for you? That’s because we all process information differently—and understanding your learning style can be a game changer for how effectively you study and retain knowledge.

Let’s break it down: learning styles refer to the way we take in, understand, express, and remember information. While everyone has a bit of each learning style within them, most people have a dominant one that shapes their study preferences. There are four main types: Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinaesthetic. Here’s a quick guide to each:

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1. Visual Learners: Seeing is Believing

If you grasp information best when it’s presented visually, you’re a visual learner. Charts, diagrams, and symbols are your best friends. Try:

• Replacing words with symbols in your notes.
• Drawing mind maps to show relationships between ideas.
• Color-coding and spatially arranging your notes.

University lectures often lack visuals, so supplement with visual aids whenever possible.

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2. Auditory Learners: Learn by Listening

Do you remember what your professor said more than what was written? You’re likely an auditory learner. To make the most of your style:

• Read your notes aloud or explain them to someone else.
• Join or create study groups for discussion-based learning.
• Record lectures or yourself explaining key ideas.

Hearing the material reinforces your understanding and memory.

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3. Read/Write Learners: The Classic Scholars

If you love lists, note-taking, and textbooks, you probably thrive in traditional academic settings. You’ll benefit from:

• Rewriting and condensing notes in your own words.
• Creating glossaries of course terms.
• Using headings, bullet points, and definitions to organize your material.

This style aligns closely with how most courses are designed—take advantage of it!

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4. Kinaesthetic Learners: Hands-On, Minds-On

You learn by doing. Labs, simulations, and practice exams are where you shine. To make studying more effective:

• Use real-life examples and personal connections to explain concepts.
• Engage multiple senses—walk while reviewing, use flashcards, build models.
• Practice problems and apply theory to practical situations.

Learning through action helps your brain lock in the material.

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Your Style Might Change—and That’s OK!

Learning styles can evolve as you grow academically. It’s helpful to revisit the VARK annually to make sure your study techniques still fit your needs. You may even discover that you’re a multimodal learner, someone who benefits from two or more styles equally.

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Don’t Limit Yourself

Even if you identify with one dominant style, you can borrow techniques from the others. In fact, combining strategies often leads to deeper understanding and better retention.

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It Takes Time to Build New Habits

Adjusting your study methods doesn’t happen overnight. It can feel awkward or time-consuming at first, but with consistency, it becomes second nature. The key is to keep practicing—and don’t give up!

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Understanding how you learn is one of the most empowering steps you can take as a student. So take the time, explore your preferences, and study smarter—not harder.

 

Source: Wilfred Laurier University

RN Wages

A recent survey conducted by Incredible Health found that registered nurses (RNs) in Oregon earn an average annual salary of $98,630, or approximately $47.42 per hour. This statewide wage survey aimed to investigate differences in RN compensation across various work settings and geographic regions. By analyzing wage disparities, the study seeks to reveal the underlying pay structures influencing nurse retention and to challenge prevailing assumptions about salary differences among nurses. Gathering responses from a diverse range of nurses across the state, the survey provides a comprehensive look at the financial pressures these critical healthcare professionals face. The goal was not only to present the current state of RN wages but also to support policymakers, healthcare leaders, and employers in addressing key workforce stability and wage equity challenges. This report serves as a foundational tool for promoting informed decisions that enhance the well-being of nurses and strengthen Oregon’s healthcare system.

 

Source: Incredible Health

TEAS Exam Time!

The TEAS exam is a vital part of the admissions process and an important step toward your future in nursing. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered a selection of valuable resources, including study guides and practice tests. These tools cover the core areas of the exam—Science, Math, Reading, and English—giving you the confidence you need to succeed. We’re cheering you on as you take this exciting next step! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly admissions team.

 

Here are some study resources!

This week’s Information Sessions

Head over to one of our campuses for a great info session this week! In these sessions, you’ll learn about the application process, including how to schedule the TEAS exam, the required documents for submission, the program curriculum, financial aid opportunities, and the support available to help graduates find employment in the nursing field. After the session, attendees can join a campus tour and have the chance to meet one-on-one with representatives from various departments. See you then!