Best Nursing Schools in Oregon
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Oregon
Registerednursing.org has analyzed Oregon nursing programs to create the Best Nursing Schools in Oregon rankings. These rankings help prospective students compare programs based on NCLEX pass rates, the sole criterion for evaluation. By focusing on this key metric, students can identify schools that best prepare graduates for licensure and practice. For a detailed explanation of our methodology, visit https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/.
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Oregon nursing programs have shown overall stability in pass rates, with a notable dip in 2021 and 2022 before recovering to above 90% in recent years. The number of test-takers has steadily increased, indicating growing program capacity.
- 2020: 91.32% pass rate (1,268 students)
- 2021: 85.98% pass rate (1,331 students)
- 2022: 84.92% pass rate (1,409 students)
- 2023: 92.00% pass rate (1,516 students)
- 2024: 91.87% pass rate (1,600 students)
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
Associate degree programs outperform baccalaureate programs in average pass rates, though BSN programs still maintain strong results. MSN programs, while smaller, show the highest pass rates.
- ADN: 93.50% pass rate (677 students)
- BSN: 90.09% pass rate (582 students)
- MSN: 95.00% pass rate (22 students)
Top Performing Schools
These top three schools consistently achieve exceptional pass rates, with Bushnell University achieving a perfect average. Their long-term data indicates reliable preparation for the licensure exam.
- Bushnell University: 100.00% average pass rate (60 students, 3 years)
- Chemeketa Community College: 98.73% average pass rate (172 students, 5 years)
- Linn-Benton Community College: 98.17% average pass rate (211 students, 5 years)
Geographic Trends
Eugene leads major Oregon cities with the highest average pass rate, while Portland, despite having the most students, trails with a lower rate. Smaller cities like Newberg and Gresham also perform well.
- Eugene: 95.09% average pass rate (124 students)
- Newberg: 94.00% average pass rate (124 students)
- Gresham: 92.00% average pass rate (71 students)
- McMinnville: 90.75% average pass rate (56 students)
- Portland: 88.83% average pass rate (429 students)
Consistently High Performing Schools
Five Oregon nursing schools maintain average pass rates above 90% over multiple years, demonstrating sustained excellence. These programs provide dependable pathways to licensure.
- Bushnell University: 100.00% average pass rate (60 students, 3 years)
- Chemeketa Community College: 98.73% average pass rate (172 students, 5 years)
- Linn-Benton Community College: 98.17% average pass rate (211 students, 5 years)
- Clatsop Community College: 96.54% average pass rate (90 students, 5 years)
- Rogue Community College: 95.25% average pass rate (171 students, 5 years)
Bushnell University
Eugene, OR - Private 4-year - bushnell.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bushnell University’s on-campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program equips you to become an ethical nurse leader grounded in evidence-based practice. Through clinical experiences in acute care and community settings, you’ll develop skills in quality improvement, holistic care, and compassion. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview, preparing you to serve diverse populations with respect and social justice. Ranked the best nursing program in Oregon, the BSN features dedicated faculty who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. You’ll graduate ready to pursue RN licensure and careers in healthcare leadership, education, and direct patient care. The program is accredited by CCNE and approved for veteran’s benefits, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive, faith-based education.
- CCNE accredited
- Military benefits accepted
- Prepares ethical nurse leaders and educators
- Clinical experiences in community and acute care
- Integrates a Christian worldview
- Real-world experience from faculty
- Supportive academic environment
- Holistic care of mind, body, spirit
- Promotes acceptance and social justice
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bushnell University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a 12-month, on-campus program designed for students who hold a prior bachelor's degree. The curriculum integrates nursing knowledge, evidence-based practice, and clinical judgment across diverse healthcare settings. Students participate in clinical rotations at acute care hospitals, clinics, schools, and community sites, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate and a 93.85% completion rate, the program emphasizes ethical leadership and compassionate care within a Christian worldview. Small cohort sizes foster close faculty mentorship and peer support. Graduates are equipped for registered nursing careers in hospitals, community health, and specialty care, ready to impact patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
- CCNE accredited
- $1,225 per credit
- 12-Month program
- 44 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Treasure Valley Community College
Ontario, OR - Public 2-Year - tvcc.cc
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Associate Degree Nursing program at Treasure Valley Community College offers a comprehensive pathway to becoming a registered nurse. The 60-credit curriculum, delivered over six quarters, blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences. Students gain foundational knowledge in medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, and mental health, all aligned with the NCLEX-RN exam. The program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate since 2020 and is ranked 2nd in Oregon. Graduates are prepared for diverse healthcare settings, from hospitals to community clinics. With a legacy of over 60 years, TVCC's ADN program offers a supportive learning environment and strong employment outcomes, with most graduates employed within six months.
- ACEN accredited
- Complete in completed over six (6) quarters
- 60 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Optional PN-NCLEX after first year
Clatsop Community College
Astoria, OR - Public 2-Year - clatsopcc.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science – Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clatsop Community College's Nursing program awards an Associate of Applied Science degree, preparing students to become registered nurses. The two-year curriculum blends hands-on clinical training with a focus on clinical judgment, systems thinking, and evidence-based practice. As an OCNE partner, students follow a shared curriculum with OHSU and can seamlessly continue to a bachelor's degree. Graduates sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Small cohorts of 24 students ensure personalized attention. Prerequisite coursework (45 credits) builds foundational knowledge. Clinical placements offer real-world experience in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care. The program emphasizes holistic care and community health. Clatsop also participates in the Nurses Climate Challenge, integrating environmental health into nursing education.
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- Complete in two-year ADN program
- Apply by 2026-02-17
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
Chemeketa Community College
Salem, OR - Public 4-Year - chemeketa.edu
Associate - Nursing - Nursing, AAS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chemeketa Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing, designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and a career as a registered nurse. The 93-credit program covers a range of nursing topics including fundamentals, acute and chronic conditions, complex health problems, care in urgent and community settings, and entry into practice. Students learn patient-centered care, clinical decision-making, and teamwork through a curriculum that emphasizes safety, professionalism, and informatics. The program is approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). With limited enrollment and an early deadline, applicants are encouraged to complete prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and algebra. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 93 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing
- Limited enrollment with early deadline
- Grades of C or better required
- Prerequisite courses in sciences and math
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chemeketa Community College’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers registered nurses a local, flexible path to advance their education. Designed in partnership with six Oregon community colleges, this hybrid program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences at local hospitals, culminating in a capstone project. Nurses gain leadership skills and specialized knowledge to improve patient outcomes and qualify for higher-level roles in healthcare. With strong community partnerships and an affordable, accessible format, the program prepares graduates to meet Oregon’s growing demand for BSN-prepared nurses. The first cohort begins fall 2026.
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Capstone required
- Hybrid online and in-person clinical model
- Partnerships with local hospitals
- Designed for associate degree nurses
- Statewide consortium of six colleges
- Addresses demand for BSN-prepared nurses
- Local option without university transfer
Rogue Community College
Grants Pass, OR - Public 2-Year - roguecc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Rogue Community College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program prepares students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, covering medical-surgical nursing, pharmacology, and patient care. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed RNs. The program is approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing and offered at the Table Rock Campus in White City. Students benefit from dedicated faculty, small cohort sizes, and comprehensive support services. Career paths include hospital, clinic, and community health settings. With a focus on practical skills and compassionate care, RCC's ADN program equips graduates to meet the growing demand for skilled nurses in the Rogue Valley and beyond.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing
- Located on Table Rock Campus
- Information sessions offered
- Advising available for applicants
Oregon Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Nursing careers offer several entry points, depending on your goals. If you’re just beginning, you may choose between an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each option has its benefits, but it's important to understand the distinctions between them to make the best choice for your career path.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Oregon include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Oregon.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
If you’re ready to invest more time in your nursing education, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an excellent option. A traditional BSN program typically takes four years to complete, but if you already have nursing experience and an ADN, you may be eligible for an RN to BSN program, which can be completed in as little as two years. Additionally, for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program can build upon your existing education and allow you to earn your BSN in as little as one year.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Oregon typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
An Oregon RN to BSN is a bridge designed to help you earn your BSN more quickly. While a traditional BSN typically takes at least four years to complete, an RN to BSN program allows you to graduate in as little as two years. However, this timeline depends on whether you already hold an ADN and are licensed as an RN, as both are required for admission to these programs.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
If you’re looking to advance beyond entry-level nursing education and pursue higher-level nursing careers, you'll need to earn a graduate degree, such as a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). These roles, including nurse practitioners, offer competitive salaries and a high degree of autonomy, but they require substantial education. Fortunately, for those with nursing experience, bridge programs are available to help accelerate your path to graduation.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Oregon:
- Oregon Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Oregon MSN Program
- Oregon RN to MSN Programs
- Oregon Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Oregon DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Oregon
Requirements for RN Licensure in Oregon
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Oregon Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Cities With Nursing Programs in Oregon
Getting an Oregon Nursing License
Oregon State Board of Nursing has set-up criteria to meet and submit for licensure by examination or endorsement.
Licensure by examination requires an application, fees and the following information to be submitted:
- Official sealed transcript - sent by School of Nursing to state Board
- Passport photograph - 2" x 2", signed/notarized and dated
- Registration for NCLEX - eventually obtaining a passing score
- Fingerprint-based criminal background check
Endorsement for licensure can be obtained by providing the following documentation:
- Verification of Education - official transcript sent directly to the state Board via the institution
- Verification of NCLEX examination
- Verification of Licensure - either by request using forms in application or NURSYS (if applicable)
- National Criminal Background Check
Learn more about OR RN license information at the Oregon State Board of Nursing.
Accelerated Nursing Programs in Oregon
More nurses are taking the initiative to upgrade their degrees by either taking accelerated BSN/MSN programs or working while taking MSN bridge programs. Taking any of these programs can fast track your career and provide the opportunities you are looking toward. BSN accelerated programs are available at a couple of different colleges in Oregon and can be completed within 12 to 18 months, although this does vary depending on prerequisite courses required. Fees for these programs can be flexible in that they will vary depending on the number of prerequisite courses required and any other housing accommodations that may be required.
List of Nursing Schools in Oregon
Ashland, OR
Southern Oregon University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- OSBN, CCNE accredited
- 3-Year program
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Partnership with OHSU
- Admission once yearly for fall
Astoria, OR
Clatsop Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science – Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 2-Year program
- Complete in two-year ADN program
- Apply by 2026-02-17
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Prerequisite courses required
Eugene, OR
Bushnell University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $1,225 per credit
- 12-Month program
- 44 total credit hours
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- 100% licensure pass rate
- Cohort-based structure
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Military benefits accepted
- Ranked best nursing program in Oregon
- Prepares ethical nurse leaders and educators
- Clinical experiences in community and acute care
- Integrates a Christian worldview
- Real-world experience from faculty
- Supportive academic environment
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
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing
- Located on Table Rock Campus
- Information sessions offered
- Advising available for applicants
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
La Grande, OR
Eastern Oregon University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 3-Year program
- Clinical Simulation Skills Suite
- Dual enrollment with OHSU and EOU
- Part of Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education
- Rural underserved focus
- Access to EOU campus resources
Mcminnville, OR
Linfield University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Semester program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Simulation and virtual reality learning
- Social justice focus in nursing
- Faculty mentors from day one
- State-of-the-art facilities
Newberg, OR
George Fox University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE, OSBN accredited
- 91% licensure pass rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Simulation clinic with patient actors
- Clinical experiences in acute care and community settings
- Acute care, cardiology, emergency careers
- Prepares for graduate education
- Accredited since 2008
Newport, OR
Oregon Coast Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 2-Year program
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing
- Co-admission agreements with 4 universities
- 91 nursing program credits
- 32 prerequisite credits required
Ontario, OR
Treasure Valley Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Complete in completed over six (6) quarters
- 60 total credit hours
- 1 start dates per year
- Starts fall
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Oregon City, OR
Clackamas Community College
- Associate - Nursing (RN), AAS
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- $14,347 total program tuition
- 2-Year program
- 107 total credit hours
- Starts fall
- 97% licensure pass rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
Portland, OR
Oregon Health & Science University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- $442 per credit
- 3-Year program
- Complete in Graduate in just three years
- 180 total credit hours
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
Portland Community College
- Associate - Nursing AAS
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- 2-Year program
- 108 total credit hours
- 95% licensure pass rate
- $106,086 median earnings
- RNs earn from $39.40 to $64.43 per hour
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Sumner College
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- $510 per credit
- 32-Month program
- Rolling admissions
- Starts fall/winter/spring/summer
- Cohort-based structure
University of Portland
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Concept-based BSN curriculum
- Population health focus
- Leadership and social justice
- Simulated Health Center with actors
- Clinical partnerships with DEUs
- Community-based clinical learning
- Holistic generalist nursing care
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Warner Pacific University
- Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (Traditional BSNDP)
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 4-Semester program
- 90% licensure pass rate
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Warner Pacific University Professional and Graduate Studies
- Bachelor's - Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Program (Traditional BSNDP)
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 4-Semester program
- Cohort-based structure
- 2.5 GPA minimum
- 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
- Prerequisite courses required
- Capstone required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Roseburg, OR
Umpqua Community College
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science Degree in Registered Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 6 terms program
- 85% licensure pass rate
- 90% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships available
- OSBN-approved program
- Clinical training at cutting-edge facility
Salem, OR
Chemeketa Community College
- Associate - Nursing - Nursing, AAS
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredited
- 93 total credit hours
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Approved by Oregon State Board of Nursing
- Limited enrollment with early deadline
- Grades of C or better required
- Prerequisite courses in sciences and math
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Starts fall
- Cohort-based structure
- Capstone required
- Hybrid online and in-person clinical model
- Partnerships with local hospitals
- Designed for associate degree nurses
- Statewide consortium of six colleges
- Addresses demand for BSN-prepared nurses
Corban University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 128 total credit hours
- Capstone required
- 900+ clinical hours
- Partnerships with Salem Health
- Annual medical mission trips
- Bible minor integrated
- Guaranteed Acceptance Pathway
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