When considering a career in nursing, you need to select the right educational institution for your success.
Oregon offers various nursing programs designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge for the healthcare field.
Evaluating the best nursing schools in Oregon can help you find options that align with your career goals and support your journey towards becoming a registered nurse.
Nursing schools in Oregon offer associate degrees (ADN), bachelor’s degrees (BSN), and master’s degrees (MSN).
Each program has unique features, including specialized training, faculty expertise, and clinical opportunities.
Knowing where to start your search will help you make an informed decision that meets your educational needs.
Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) offers one of the premier nursing programs in Oregon.
As the only academic health center in the state, OHSU provides a unique learning environment where students can engage with various health disciplines.
The School of Nursing is notable for its commitment to excellence and innovation in nursing education.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program spans three years and includes comprehensive training in both clinical and theoretical aspects of nursing.
OHSU’s nursing programs consistently rank among the best nationally.
For example, the accelerated B.S.N. program boasts a high pass rate on licensing exams, ensuring you receive a quality education that prepares you for a successful career in nursing.
At OHSU, you will have access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and advanced learning tools.
This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the skills needed to excel in your nursing practice.
To learn more about the programs offered, visit the OHSU School of Nursing website for detailed information about admissions, curricula, and campus life.
2) University of Portland
The University of Portland features a highly regarded nursing program.
As a private institution, it emphasizes compassionate leadership in healthcare.
Their nursing curriculum combines rigorous academic standards with hands-on clinical experience.
This approach prepares you for various roles in nursing and public health.
The university’s nursing programs are accredited by organizations such as ACEN, CCNE, and COA.
This accreditation ensures that you receive a quality education that meets industry standards.
According to recent rankings, the University of Portland holds the 5th position among nursing schools in Oregon.
Its NCLEX-RN passing rate averages 83.79% over three years, reflecting the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for licensure exams.
For more information about their nursing programs, visit the University of Portland School of Nursing website.
This resource will provide detailed insights into admissions requirements, course offerings, and faculty expertise.
3) Linfield University School of Nursing
Linfield University offers a reputable nursing program located in McMinnville, Oregon.
It is a private, not-for-profit institution with a strong emphasis on quality education.
The nursing programs at Linfield are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Council on Accreditation (COA).
This ensures that you will receive a quality education that meets rigorous academic standards.
As of recent rankings, Linfield University stands out among the nursing schools in Oregon.
It ranks #4 in the state and #292 nationally among over 1,700 nursing programs.
You can find more details here.
The three-year average NCLEX-RN passing rate is 86.53%, which reflects the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the nursing licensure exam.
For more program specifics, visit Linfield University’s nursing page.
Linfield’s approach to nursing education emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a commitment to patient care.
This holistic perspective is essential for aspiring nurses ready to enter the healthcare field.
4) George Fox University School of Nursing
George Fox University offers a CCNE-accredited nursing program that prepares you to become a competent and compassionate nurse.
Located in Newberg, Oregon, the program emphasizes holistic care, integrating mind, body, and spirit in clinical practice.
You can earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through a rigorous curriculum.
This program is known for its high standards and excellent outcomes.
In fact, it achieved a remarkable 97.67% NCLEX first-time pass rate in 2020, the highest among BSN programs in Oregon.
The College of Nursing focuses on developing leaders and innovators in healthcare.
Your education will include hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring you gain practical skills essential for your future career.
With a strong commitment to Christian values, the program also emphasizes service and integrity.
George Fox’s holistic approach aims to positively impact the communities you will serve.
Consider visiting the College of Nursing website for more information on admissions and program specifics.
5) University of Oregon Nursing Program
The University of Oregon offers a strong nursing program that prepares you for various careers in healthcare.
It provides both undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing on evidence-based practice and clinical preparation.
You will benefit from comprehensive coursework and hands-on experiences in clinical settings.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and ethical decision-making in nursing.
The faculty consists of experienced professionals dedicated to supporting your learning journey.
Furthermore, the University of Oregon collaborates with multiple healthcare facilities for clinical placements.
In addition to traditional BSN options, the program may also offer accelerated tracks.
These paths can be ideal if you’re looking to enter the nursing field more quickly.
For more details on admission requirements, curriculum, and opportunities, visit their official site here.
6) Portland State University Nursing School
Portland State University (PSU) offers a robust nursing program designed to meet the needs of aspiring nurses.
The School of Nursing provides a variety of programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and graduate-level options.
The BSN program at PSU prepares you for initial licensure and focuses on community and public health.
The curriculum integrates theory with hands-on training to enhance your skills in clinical settings.
Notably, PSU emphasizes diversity and cultural competence in its nursing programs.
You can expect to engage with diverse populations through clinical placements.
PSU is known for its accessible faculty and supportive learning environment.
This atmosphere fosters collaboration and encourages student success.
Graduates from PSU’s nursing programs are well-prepared for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), ensuring you are ready for a career in nursing.
For more details on PSU’s offerings, you can visit the PSU School of Nursing website.
7) Bushnell University School of Nursing
Bushnell University School of Nursing stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and student success.
It offers programs designed for aspiring nurses at various levels.
The university has achieved a ranking among the top 10 best online nursing BSN programs in the country, with an impressive salary score metric.
This indicates that graduates often earn significantly above the median salary for nursing professionals.
Bushnell’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is particularly noteworthy.
It prides itself on a 100% first-time pass rate for the NCLEX exam, enhancing your employability upon graduation.
Additionally, the university is part of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).
This membership facilitates online learning for students outside Oregon.
If you are looking for a program that emphasizes compassion and service, consider Bushnell University School of Nursing, which reflects a mission grounded in wisdom and respect.
8) Warner Pacific University School of Nursing
Warner Pacific University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare you for a successful career in healthcare.
The program focuses on creating professional nurses who advocate for recipients of care.
You will attend a four-semester BSN program with specific, measurable goals.
Aim for a Grade Point Average (GPA) of over 2.5, and take satisfaction surveys where the target is an 80% positive response rate.
Licensure is a key objective.
The RN Licensure pass rate is over 90% for all test takers.
Within 12 months post-graduation, more than 70% of graduates are employed in the nursing field.
Warner Pacific emphasizes a diverse learning community.
As a student, you will benefit from a Christ-centered and urban liberal arts educational environment.
The university encourages students from various backgrounds to flourish in their nursing careers.
For more details on admissions and financial aid, you can explore their Nursing Program.
The nursing school achieved an acceptance rate of 76%, making it a competitive choice for aspiring nurses.
9) Concordia University-Portland School of Nursing
Concordia University-Portland offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to prepare you for a nursing career.
The program focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective nursing practice.
As a student, you can expect a curriculum that includes courses in health assessment, nursing care, and critical thinking.
Classroom learning is complemented by hands-on clinical experiences in various healthcare settings.
CSP Global reported that its accelerated nursing programs have shown strong NCLEX pass rates.
For instance, students from the St. Paul campus achieved a 90.32% first-time pass rate in 2023.
This performance indicates the program’s effectiveness in preparing you for licensure.
The school’s commitment to student success is evident in its supportive faculty and comprehensive resources.
You will benefit from a collaborative learning environment, enabling you to connect with peers and faculty.
If you’re considering nursing schools in Oregon, Concordia University-Portland is a viable option.
Explore more about their offerings and application process on their official website.
10) Clackamas Community College Nursing Program
Clackamas Community College (CCC) offers a comprehensive nursing program that prepares you for a career as a registered nurse.
Located in Oregon City, Oregon, CCC provides an Associate Degree Nursing Program with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience.
The program is known for its excellent NCLEX-RN passing rates, which currently stand at approximately 94.59%.
This high success rate reflects the quality of education and preparation provided to students.
CCC is part of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education, ensuring a competency-based curriculum that focuses on student-centered learning.
The nursing program’s accreditation status is under candidacy with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, which demonstrates its commitment to meeting educational standards.
You can access the application process and relevant deadlines through the official Clackamas Community College Nursing page.
Be aware that the nursing program has limited entry, with the next application cycle opening on December 1, 2024.
Curriculum and Clinical Practice
The nursing education you receive is essential for your success in the field.
Courses are designed to provide a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice, while clinical experiences enable you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.
Core Curriculum Structure
The core curriculum for nursing programs generally includes foundational courses such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Nursing Fundamentals.
These courses help you build essential knowledge needed for patient care.
In addition to foundational courses, you will engage in specialized topics like Pharmacology, Psychiatric Nursing, and Community Health Nursing.
Many programs also emphasize the development of critical thinking and clinical judgment skills, which are crucial for effective nursing practice.
You may also encounter elective courses that allow you to pursue interests.
This diversified curriculum prepares you for varied career paths within the nursing profession.
Opportunities for Clinical Experiences
Clinical experiences are a critical component of your nursing education.
These experiences allow you to work directly with patients, providing valuable hands-on training.
Most nursing schools in Oregon have partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare facilities.
This collaboration enables you to gain exposure to various healthcare settings.
Typically, you’ll participate in clinical rotations that cover areas such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and geriatrics.
Here are some key points regarding clinical experiences:
- Supervised by Qualified Faculty: Experienced nursing faculty will oversee your clinical rotations to provide guidance.
- Interprofessional Collaboration: You will collaborate with other healthcare professionals, enhancing your teamwork skills.
Engaging actively in these experiences is crucial for developing your confidence and competence as a nurse.
Accreditation and Licensure
Understanding accreditation and licensure is crucial for aspiring nursing professionals in Oregon.
Accreditation ensures that your education meets specific quality standards, while licensure demonstrates your capability to practice safely and effectively in the field.
Accrediting Bodies
In Oregon, nursing programs can receive accreditation from several recognized bodies.
The two primary accrediting organizations are:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accreditation from these bodies means that the program adheres to rigorous standards of quality education.
For example, in 2024, there are 22 nursing schools in Oregon, with 7 accredited by CCNE and 5 by ACEN.
Attending an accredited program can significantly enhance your employment prospects and eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pathways to Licensure
To practice as a nurse in Oregon, you must first obtain licensure.
The primary pathway involves completing an accredited nursing program, followed by passing the NCLEX examination.
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Registered Nurse (RN): You must complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
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Licensure Examination: After graduation, you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN. The NCLEX passing rate for BSN students in Oregon ranges from 83.79% to 92.47%, while ADN students range from 85.52% to 99.05%.
You may also need to provide proof of clinical hours and submit a background check to obtain your nursing license in Oregon.
For more information about licensure requirements, visit the Oregon State Board of Nursing.