Top Nursing Schools & Programs in Oregon

Top Nursing Schools in Oregon
Maria Delgado, RN

Maria Delgado, RN

June 26, 2025

Oregon’s nursing education offerings span a full spectrum of career levels, from foundational certification to advanced clinical practice. Whether you’re beginning your journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), advancing from a Registered Nurse (RN) to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), pursuing licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or preparing for advanced practice as a Nurse Practitioner (NP), the state’s community colleges, universities, and healthcare systems blend rigorous academics with immersive clinical experiences. With options for hands‑on practicums at accredited healthcare facilities and flexible online coursework tailored to busy schedules, Oregon’s nursing programs equip graduates with the skills, professional credentials, and competitive salary potential needed to excel across diverse care settings.

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2026 Top Nursing Programs in Oregon

Oregon boasts an impressive array of nursing programs that prepare students for successful healthcare careers. At TopNursing.org, we've carefully evaluated and ranked the state's top nursing schools based on academic excellence, clinical training opportunities, faculty expertise, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis considers factors like NCLEX pass rates, research capabilities, campus resources, and graduate success. Whether you're pursuing an associate's, bachelor's, or advanced nursing degree, Oregon offers remarkable educational pathways for aspiring healthcare professionals. These programs not only provide world-class education but also equip students with the critical skills needed in today's dynamic medical environments. To understand how we developed our rankings, visit our detailed rankings methodology page.
#1

Linfield University

McMinnville, OR - Private 4-year - linfield.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Linfield University's BSN program provides a comprehensive nursing education that distinguishes itself through a unique commitment to social justice and holistic healthcare preparation. Students benefit from an innovative curriculum spanning four semesters with flexible fall and spring admissions. The program strategically integrates advanced technology with rigorous nursing theory, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for complex healthcare environments. Emphasizing care for underrepresented populations, students develop professional skills tailored to national licensure requirements. With state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge and practical experience, Linfield prepares nurses who are not just clinically competent, but socially conscious healthcare professionals ready to make meaningful contributions to patient care.

  • Four semesters program length.
  • Fall and spring admissions.
  • State-of-the-art facilities.
  • Holistic nursing approach.
  • Focus on social justice.
  • Prepares for national licensure exam.
  • Blend of theory and practice.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Emphasis on underrepresented populations.
  • Professional nursing preparation.
#2

Sumner College

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - sumnercollege.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Sumner College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program delivers a comprehensive pathway to registered nursing through an innovative hybrid model. Students benefit from a flexible 32-month curriculum that eliminates traditional prerequisites and offers rolling enrollment. The program uniquely combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for Oregon's growing healthcare landscape. With a remarkable 98% retention rate and CCNE accreditation, students can anticipate strong job prospects in a field projected to grow 15.2% regionally. The admission process includes TEAS exam evaluation, panel interviews, and essay assessments, providing a holistic approach to student selection. Affordable tuition at $510 per credit and the ability to transfer up to 25% of credits enhance the program's accessibility.

  • No prerequisites required
  • Hybrid delivery format
  • 32 months to complete
  • $510 per credit tuition
  • 98% retention rate
  • CCNE and OSBN approved
  • Rolling enrollment
  • Transfer up to 25% credits
  • Hands-on learning
  • High RN salaries in Oregon
#3

Bushnell University

Eugene, OR - Private 4-year - bushnell.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bushnell University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a comprehensive educational pathway for aspiring nurses, grounded in a Christian worldview. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice, leadership development, and quality improvement. The campus-based program provides extensive hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings, enabling students to develop critical professional skills. With a focus on ethical leadership and compassionate care, graduates are prepared to excel in dynamic healthcare environments. The program requires applicants to demonstrate academic potential and a genuine commitment to nursing as a calling. Small class sizes ensure personalized learning and mentorship opportunities.

  • Campus-based program
  • Focus on ethical leadership
  • Christian worldview integration
  • Hands-on clinical experiences
  • Quality improvement emphasis
  • Supportive academic environment
  • Evidence-based practice focus
  • Leadership development
  • Compassionate care training
  • Diverse clinical settings

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Bushnell University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) represents a fast-track nursing education designed for career changers and motivated learners. This intensive 12-month program boasts an impressive 100% NCLEX pass rate and 93.85% completion rate. Students engage in comprehensive clinical rotations across acute care hospitals, community clinics, and specialty healthcare facilities. The curriculum combines rigorous academic preparation with practical skill development, emphasizing ethical leadership and evidence-based practice. With competitive tuition at $1,225 per credit and multiple financial aid options, the program provides an accessible pathway to nursing licensure. Two annual start dates offer flexibility for prospective students seeking an accelerated nursing career.

  • 12-month completion
  • Campus-based program
  • $1225 per credit
  • 44 credits total
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate
  • 93.85% completion rate
  • Diverse clinical rotations
  • Ethical leadership focus
  • Compassionate care training
  • Expert faculty guidance
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#4

Klamath Community College

Klamath Falls, OR - Public 2-Year - klamathcc.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online Learning - Visit Website

Klamath Community College's online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) represents a strategic solution for registered nurses seeking degree advancement with minimal disruption. Targeting working professionals, the program requires only 60 additional credits, enabling nurses to progress academically while maintaining employment. Specifically designed to address nursing shortages in rural regions, this innovative curriculum supports RNs with associate degrees to complete their bachelor's efficiently. The program's six-college consortium approach and flexible online format make higher education accessible, with a total 180-credit requirement and transfer-friendly policies that ensure no credit loss for incoming students.

  • Online nursing degree program
  • Targets working RNs
  • Minimal additional credits needed
  • Six-college consortium program
  • Addresses nursing shortage
  • First cohort likely fall 2026
  • 180 total credit requirement
  • No credit loss for transfers
#5

Warner Pacific University

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - warnerpacific.edu

Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (Traditional BSNDP)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Warner Pacific University's Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers an immersive educational journey for aspiring healthcare professionals in Portland. Accredited by CCNE, the program emphasizes comprehensive nursing education with a strong focus on holistic patient care. Students engage in a curriculum rich with advanced clinical training, covering critical areas like anatomy, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice. The program requires a 2.5 GPA for admission and includes a mandatory nursing application essay. Graduates are strategically prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and excel in diverse healthcare environments, with an emphasis on leadership, ethical practice, and compassionate patient interaction. ACT or SAT entrance exams are typically required for admission consideration.

  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
  • Requires 2.5 GPA for admission.
  • Includes anatomy and physiology.
  • Focuses on compassionate care.
  • Offers practical experience.
  • Covers pharmacology.
  • Emphasizes evidence-based practice.
  • Requires nursing application essay.
  • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings.
*Official IPEDS 2023 data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

Oregon LPN Program Overview

Oregon’s LPN programs combine coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals with supervised clinical rotations in hospitals, long‑term care facilities, and community clinics. Students develop practical skills administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and supporting patient recovery under professional supervision. After passing the NCLEX‑PN exam and earning Oregon licensure, graduates bolster the practical nursing workforce, improving access to quality care from Portland’s urban centers to the state’s coastal and mountain communities.

Oregon CNA Program Overview

Oregon’s CNA programs deliver six to twelve weeks of focused training in patient hygiene, infection control, and vital‑sign checks, accompanied by supervised clinical practicums. Participants refine their ability to assist with daily‑living activities, maintain accurate records, and communicate effectively with nursing staff. Once certified, CNAs reinforce care teams in hospitals, long‑term care homes, and clinics. Their efforts ensure that patients receive consistent, compassionate support.

Oregon RN to BSN Program Overview

Oregon’s RN to BSN offerings equip licensed nurses to advance their practice through a mix of interactive online coursework, covering clinical leadership, population health, informatics and health policy, and hands-on practicums in both coastal hospitals and high-desert clinics. Designed for working professionals, these bridge programs come in flexible part-time and accelerated formats, so you can continue your job while earning a bachelor’s degree. Completing a BSN sharpens skills in evidence-driven care coordination and systems thinking, aligns with employer and accreditation requirements, and unlocks roles in specialty certification, management and community health across Oregon.

Oregon Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program Overview

Oregon’s Nurse Practitioner programs take nurses with a BSN into advanced-practice roles by combining in-depth graduate coursework with robust clinical immersions, generally completed over two to four years, in specialties like family health, pediatric care, and psychiatric-mental health. Delivered through on-campus cohorts, hybrid models, and fully online tracks at universities and health systems statewide, these MSN and DNP pathways equip graduates for APRN certification and Oregon licensure. Once credentialed, NPs step into vital roles as primary care providers, chronic illness coordinators, and telehealth practitioners in Portland-area hospitals, community clinics in the Willamette Valley, and rural coastal and mountain communities. By broadening the pool of highly trained clinicians and extending advanced nursing services into underserved regions, NP programs are key to strengthening Oregon’s healthcare network.

Traditional RN Degree Types

DegreeTypical LengthPrerequisitesOutcome / Notes
Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)~2 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDAvailable, many linked to BSN via OCNE partnerships, BSN strongly preferred
RN Diploma2-3 yearsHigh school diploma or GEDNo longer offered in Oregon
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)4 years (12-18 months accelerated)High school diploma or ADN transferBSN-in-10 state, BSN-prepared nurses preferred, strong RN-to-BSN support
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)2 years (post-BSN)BSN + RN licensePrepares for advanced roles, NPs practice independently statewide
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)3-6 years (post-BSN or post-MSN)BSN or MSN + RN licenseHighest degree, DNP-prepared NPs practice independently statewide

List of RN Programs in Oregon

Oregon offers diverse and comprehensive nursing education programs across multiple cities and institutions. Whether you're seeking an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), these programs prepare students for successful careers in healthcare. Each school provides unique strengths, clinical experiences, and pathways to becoming a registered nurse in Oregon's dynamic healthcare landscape.
Jump to City:

Ashland, OR

Southern Oregon University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Prepares for licensure exam
    • 45 quarter credits prerequisites
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Supports working RNs
    • Local clinical placements
    • Liberal arts foundation
    • Competitive admission

Astoria, OR

Clatsop Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science – Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year program duration.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Hands-on clinical experience.
    • Competitive admission process.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Holistic health curriculum.
    • Wellness promotion focus.
    • Health maintenance training.

Coos Bay, OR

Southwestern Oregon Community College

  • Associate - Nursing, Associate of Applied Science

    Campus Based - Website

    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • 52 prerequisite credits required.
    • BI231 must be completed.
    • Co-admission to OHSU available.
    • Emphasizes core nursing values.
    • Leadership skills development.
    • Evidence-based practice focus.
    • 91 credit hours for graduation.

Eugene, OR

Bushnell University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-month completion
    • Campus-based program
    • $1225 per credit
    • 44 credits total
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate
    • 93.85% completion rate
    • Diverse clinical rotations
    • Ethical leadership focus
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Focus on ethical leadership
    • Christian worldview integration
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Quality improvement emphasis
    • Supportive academic environment
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Leadership development

Lane Community College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Two-year bachelor's degree completion
    • Capstone practicum and project
    • Requires current RN license
    • Minimum 2.0 GPA required
    • 40 core BSN credits
    • Leadership and community health focus
    • Prerequisites include writing, math, science courses

Grants Pass, OR

Rogue Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Approved by Oregon State Board.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Located in White City, OR.
    • Requires SSN for licensure.
    • Information sessions available.
    • Blend of theory and practice.

Gresham, OR

Mt Hood Community College

  • Associate - Nursing (RN) - Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • Approved by Oregon State Board
    • Prepares for RN-NCLEX exam
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Optional BSN pathway
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Focus on health promotion
    • Collaborative healthcare team training
    • Disease prevention emphasis

Klamath Falls, OR

Klamath Community College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online nursing degree program
    • Targets working RNs
    • Minimal additional credits needed
    • Six-college consortium program
    • Addresses nursing shortage
    • First cohort likely fall 2026
    • 180 total credit requirement
    • No credit loss for transfers

Oregon Institute of Technology

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Partnership with OHSU.
    • Small class sizes.
    • Diverse clinical experiences.
    • Full campus life access.
    • High-quality nursing education.
    • Located in Klamath Falls, OR.
    • BSN degree awarded by OHSU.
    • Personalized faculty support.

La Grande, OR

Eastern Oregon University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year program.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • OHSU degree granted.
    • Clinical Simulation Skills Suite.
    • February 15 deadline.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • Focus on rural healthcare.
    • Dual enrollment possible.

McMinnville, OR

Linfield University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four semesters program length.
    • Fall and spring admissions.
    • State-of-the-art facilities.
    • Holistic nursing approach.
    • Focus on social justice.
    • Prepares for national licensure exam.
    • Blend of theory and practice.
    • Campus-based program.

Newberg, OR

George Fox University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE accredited program.
    • 96% NCLEX first-time pass rate.
    • Prepares for RN licensure in all states.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Simulation clinic for real-world practice.
    • Focus on holistic health care.
    • Emphasizes leadership and lifelong learning.
    • Diverse healthcare settings exposure.

Newport, OR

Oregon Coast Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Combines classroom and clinical hours.
    • Requires 'C' or better in all courses.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Pathways to further education.
    • 91 credit hours required.
    • Includes anatomy and physiology courses.

Ontario, OR

Treasure Valley Community College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit program.
    • Six quarters completion.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate.
    • Ranked 8th in Oregon.
    • LPN to RN Bridge available.
    • Eligible for PN-NCLEX after first year.
    • Fall term start.

Oregon City, OR

Clackamas Community College

  • Associate - Nursing (RN), AAS

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-year degree
    • 107 total credits
    • Campus-based program
    • Financial aid available
    • Limited entry program
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Experienced instructors
    • Above-average NCLEX pass rates

Portland, OR

Oregon Health & Science University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year program duration.
    • Campuses across Oregon.
    • High-quality nursing education.
    • Diverse clinical experiences.
    • Advanced simulation labs.
    • 180 credits required.
    • Prerequisites needed before enrollment.
    • Scholarships available.

Portland Community College

  • Associate - Nursing AAS

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-year program length
    • Campus-based learning
    • Financial aid eligible
    • Limited entry program
    • 108 total credits
    • Pre-program courses required
    • Grade C or better needed
    • Focus on chronic care

Sumner College

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • No prerequisites required
    • Hybrid delivery format
    • 32 months to complete
    • $510 per credit tuition
    • 98% retention rate
    • CCNE and OSBN approved
    • Rolling enrollment
    • Transfer up to 25% credits

University of Portland

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Focus on social justice.
    • Concept-based curriculum.
    • Simulated Health Center training.
    • Diverse clinical partnerships.
    • Emphasis on population health.

Warner Pacific University

  • Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (Traditional BSNDP)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN.
    • Requires 2.5 GPA for admission.
    • Includes anatomy and physiology.
    • Focuses on compassionate care.
    • Offers practical experience.
    • Covers pharmacology.
    • Emphasizes evidence-based practice.

Warner Pacific University Professional and Graduate Studies

  • Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (Traditional BSNDP)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Focus on diversity and ethical practice.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • High licensure pass rates.
    • Strong employment outcomes.
    • Requires 2.5 GPA for admission.
    • Includes hands-on clinical experience.
    • Emphasizes compassionate care.

Roseburg, OR

Umpqua Community College

  • Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Registered Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • OSBN-approved program
    • Clinical training facility
    • 85% NCLEX pass rate
    • Seamless OHSU transfer
    • 90% job placement rate
    • LPN option after 1st year
    • Competency-based curriculum
    • Affordable education options

Salem, OR

Chemeketa Community College

  • Associate - Nursing - Nursing, AAS

    Campus Based - Website

    • 93 credit hours required.
    • Grades of 'C' or better needed.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Includes anatomy and physiology.
    • Blends theory with practice.
    • Patient-centered care focus.
    • Quality and safety emphasized.
    • Clinical decision-making skills.
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning model
    • Affordable BSN pathway
    • Strong hospital partnerships
    • Flexible for working RNs
    • Local clinical experiences
    • Seamless degree advancement
    • Meets Oregon workforce needs
    • Online and in-person options

Corban University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Bible-centered nursing education.
    • Hands-on clinical training.
    • Expert faculty mentorship.
    • Liberal arts core included.
    • Opportunities for medical research.
    • International mission trips available.
    • Prepares for RN licensure exam.
    • Strong ethical and biblical foundation.
*Data reference: NCES IPEDS 2023 Final Release.