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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:

Is Nursing School for Me?

Nursing school is not just an opportunity to build a rewarding career; it’s a chance to make a real difference in people's lives every day.

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Bend Countdown!

Welcome to Bend! We are excited for our first Bend BSN Cohort to start! Feel free to contact us with any questions!

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Studying for the TEAS Exam

As part of the admissions process, the TEAS exam is an important step toward your future in nursing. We've compiled a list of helpful resources,

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What Kind of Nurse Should I Be?

There are many different kinds of nurses, some you may not know had a specialty, including: Case Management, Neuroscience, Telephone Triage, and Forensics. Regardless of

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17 Days until Bend Launches!

With just 17 days until our first class of BSN's start in Bend, be sure to reach out to our admissions representatives to get all

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Helpful Hints!

Nursing students often face a variety of challenges, from long study hours to the financial strain of tuition. The coursework and exams can be intense,

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Bend Info Sessions

Join us in an informational meeting to learn all about our NEW Bend, OR campus! Our first BSN cohort starts February 24th!

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Bend Campus – February 24th!

Exciting news, Bend! The future of nursing is here with Sumner College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. If you're passionate about healthcare and

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SUMNER COLLEGE STUDENT OF THE MONTH | JANUARY 2025

Congratulations Reece for being the January 2025 Student of the Month at Sumner! Congratulations on your accomplishment!

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Virtual Tours at Sumner College

Curious about how we prepare future nurses for real-world challenges? Take a virtual tour of our advanced simulation labs and see firsthand how we equip

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Nursing Over the Years

The nursing profession has evolved significantly from its origins in familial caregiving to the modern, highly specialized field it is today. Key milestones include Florence

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Back to School Made Easy

Going back to school has never been easier with the support of our dedicated admissions team at Sumner College. Whether you're looking to advance your

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Bend Countdown!

🚨49 DAYS UNTIL LAUNCH!🚨 Get ready, Bend! The future of nursing starts right here with Sumner College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program –

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Start Your Nursing Career in 2025!

🎄Enroll Now & Start Your Nursing Career in 2025! 🎄 As the holiday season approaches, there's no better time to give the gift of a

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A Second Career in Nursing

It’s never too late to begin! Regardless of your stage in life, nursing is an excellent option. There is always a demand for dedicated nurses,

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Average Nursing Salary in Oregon

Did you know? Nurses in Oregon make an average salary of about $114,694, or $55 an hour. In the Portland area this is about 264%

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5 Nursing Trends Heading into 2025

In an ever changing career its important to know what may be coming your way. Here's 5 things to look for in theNew Year! The

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SUMNER COLLEGE STUDENT OF THE MONTH | DECEMBER 2024

Congratulations Kymra for being the December 2024 Student of the Month at Sumner! Congratulations on your accomplishment!

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Continuing Your Education with a BSN

Many individuals enter the nursing profession driven by a desire to help others. As they gain experience, many seek to advance their careers to provide

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving from Sumner College! We are grateful to all of our students for entrusting us with taking their nursing dreams to reality.

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Upcoming Info Sessions

Looking for some more information on our programs? Join us for an info session! Our upcoming info sessions are all at 11am, November 26, December

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Why Become a Nurse?

A career in nursing offers one of the most exciting, rewarding, and dynamic paths in the healthcare field. With over 4 million registered nurses in

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Welcome New Class Start November 18!

Happy first day, and welcome, to our newest class starting today, November 18! Thank you for choosing Sumner College to continue your educational career! Dream

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What Are Clinicals?

If you have been researching nursing schools, you may have seen the word "Clinicals" before but not known what they are. Clinicals are a safe

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Sumner College Student of the Month | November 2024

Congratulations Olga for being the November 2024 Student of the Month at Sumner! Olga was inspired to join Sumner College's nursing school after hearing about

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Sumner College Student of the Month | October 2024

Congratulations Benjamin for being the October 2024 Student of the Month at Sumner! Benjamin is a compassionate nursing student who learned about Sumner College through

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Thank you, Veterans

Sumner College thanks and values our veterans on this honorable day. If you or someone you know has an interest in continuing education, please see

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Nursing in the 21st Century

21st Century nursing is the glue that holds a patient’s health care journey together. Across the entire patient experience, and wherever there is someone in

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Paying for Nursing School- Scholarships

Sumner College understands that every student’s financial situation is unique. Our financial aid department can provide you with more information about Oregon financial aid options

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How to Prepare for Nursing School

Nursing school can be intimidating, but here are some helpful tips for you to make the most of your time and studies. As always, feel

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