Best Nursing Schools in Oregon
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Oregon
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Oregon's nursing education landscape demonstrates fluctuating yet resilient NCLEX pass rates over recent years. The statewide performance reveals interesting trends in nursing education outcomes.
- Pass rates ranged from 84.92% to 92% between 2020-2024
- Total nursing students increased from 1,268 in 2020 to 1,600 in 2024
- Highest pass rate occurred in 2023 at 92%
Top Performing Schools
Several Oregon nursing programs consistently demonstrate exceptional student preparation and success.
- Bushnell University achieved a perfect 100% pass rate across three years
- Chemeketa Community College maintained a 98.73% average pass rate
- Linn-Benton Community College recorded a 98.17% average pass rate
Geographic Performance Trends
Nursing program performance varies significantly across Oregon's major metropolitan areas.
- Eugene shows the highest average pass rate at 95.09%
- Portland, the largest city, has a slightly lower average pass rate of 88.83%
- Newberg demonstrates strong performance with a 94% pass rate
Program Type Comparison
Different nursing program types demonstrate varied success rates in preparing students for professional certification.
- ADN programs have the highest average pass rate at 93.5%
- BSN programs average 90.09% pass rate
- MSN programs show the highest rate at 95%, though with a smaller student population
Bushnell University
Eugene, OR - Private 4-year - bushnell.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bushnell University's BSN program provides a comprehensive nursing education rooted in a Christian worldview, emphasizing ethical leadership and compassionate patient care. Students benefit from evidence-based practice curriculum and hands-on clinical experiences across diverse healthcare settings. The program consistently demonstrates excellence with a remarkable 100% NCLEX pass rate across recent years. Clinical training integrates quality improvement strategies and leadership development, preparing graduates to excel in modern healthcare environments. Students can expect a supportive academic environment that combines rigorous academic preparation with practical skills training. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the program focuses on nurturing well-rounded nursing professionals committed to making meaningful healthcare contributions.
- 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) offers an intensive 12-month pathway for career changers and motivated students seeking rapid nursing credentials. Designed for efficiency, the program boasts a perfect 100% NCLEX pass rate and 93.85% completion rate. The curriculum covers 44 credits at $1,225 per credit, providing comprehensive clinical rotations in acute care hospitals, community clinics, and specialty healthcare settings. Students experience expert faculty guidance, with two annual start dates in fall and spring. The program emphasizes ethical leadership, evidence-based practice, and a Christian worldview, preparing graduates for diverse nursing roles. Small cohort sizes ensure personalized learning and hands-on clinical experiences across multiple healthcare environments.
- 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
Treasure Valley Community College
Ontario, OR - Public 2-Year - tvcc.cc
Associate - Associate Degree Nursing Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
Treasure Valley Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Program offers a robust 60-credit pathway to nursing excellence in Ontario, Oregon. With an exceptional NCLEX pass rate consistently reaching 100% from 2020-2024, this campus-based program stands out among Oregon nursing schools. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum spanning six quarters, including an innovative LPN to RN Bridge option. The program uniquely allows students to qualify for PN-NCLEX after the first year, providing accelerated career progression. Admission requires a TVCC application by April, with financial aid and scholarship opportunities available. Accredited by ACEN, the program emphasizes scientific principles, technical standards compliance, and a commitment to individual student development, preparing graduates for successful healthcare careers.
- 60-credit program.
- Six quarters completion.
- Campus-based learning.
- 100% NCLEX pass rate.
- LPN to RN Bridge available.
- Eligible for PN-NCLEX after first year.
- Fall term start.
- Financial aid options.
- Scholarships available.
- ACEN accredited.
Clatsop Community College
Astoria, OR - Public 2-Year - clatsopcc.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science – Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Clatsop Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program provides exceptional nursing education in Astoria, OR. With a consistent 100% NCLEX pass rate from 2022-2024 and cohorts averaging 18 students, the program demonstrates remarkable student success. The comprehensive two-year curriculum emphasizes holistic health principles, focusing on wellness promotion, health maintenance, and restoration techniques. Students gain extensive hands-on clinical experience, preparing them thoroughly for professional nursing roles. The program offers competitive admission with prerequisite requirements and provides robust financial aid and advisory support. Graduates are well-equipped to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue rewarding careers in healthcare, benefiting from high-tech educational resources and a curriculum designed to develop advanced clinical skills.
- 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.
- Health restoration skills.
- Advisory support offered.
Chemeketa Community College
Salem, OR - Public 4-Year - chemeketa.edu
Associate - Nursing - Nursing, AAS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chemeketa Community College's Associate of Applied Science in Nursing provides a robust entry point into the nursing profession. Spanning 93 credit hours with a rigorous curriculum emphasizing patient-centered care, the program boasts an impressive NCLEX-RN pass rate ranging from 97-100% in recent years. Students must maintain 'C' or better grades across all courses, ensuring a high standard of academic performance. The program integrates comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and core nursing disciplines, blending theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, this program equips students with essential skills for quality healthcare delivery and successful professional certification.
- 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.
- Oregon State Board approved.
- ACEN accredited program.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Chemeketa Community College's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program delivers an innovative educational pathway for registered nurses seeking career advancement. With a remarkable NCLEX pass rate consistently at 97-100% over recent years, the program demonstrates exceptional student preparation. The hybrid curriculum strategically combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, offering flexibility for working professionals. Located in Salem, Oregon, the program emphasizes hands-on training through strong local hospital partnerships. Graduates benefit from a comprehensive approach that meets Oregon's healthcare workforce demands, preparing them for advanced nursing roles. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the program prioritizes accessibility and professional development for aspiring nursing professionals.
- 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
- Hands-on training opportunities
- Supports diverse student needs
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) delivers an exceptional pathway for aspiring registered nurses with consistently impressive NCLEX performance. Over the past five years, their NCLEX pass rates have remained strong, ranging from 89% to 100%, demonstrating the program's robust educational quality. Located in White City, the program provides comprehensive nursing education emphasizing both theoretical foundations and hands-on clinical skills. Students benefit from curriculum approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing, ensuring rigorous academic standards. The program requires a Social Security Number for licensure and offers informative information sessions to guide prospective students through their nursing education journey. Prospective students can expect a dynamic learning environment designed to prepare them comprehensively for professional nursing practice.
- 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.
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
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
- 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
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
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.
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