Best Nursing Schools in Oregon for 2025
đ„ Top Nursing Schools in Oregon (2025)
1. Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
- Location: Portland, with campuses in Ashland, Klamath Falls, La Grande, and Monmouth
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95% for the Portland accelerated BSN program in 2024
- Tuition: Approximately $13,848 (in-state), $18,480 (out-of-state)
- Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD
- Notable Features: OHSU is Oregon's only academic health center, offering a 3-year BSN program with small class sizes and personalized instruction. The university emphasizes rural healthcare and provides extensive clinical experiences across its campuses.
2. University of Portland
- Location: Portland
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.25% in 2024
- Tuition: Approximately $51,352 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN, DNP
- Notable Features: The School of Nursing & Health Innovations boasts a near-perfect NCLEX pass rate, reflecting its commitment to excellence in nursing education. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and strong community partnerships.
3. Linfield University
- Location: Portland
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 95.35% for the traditional BSN program in 2024
- Tuition: Approximately $49,417 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN to BSN, MSN
- Notable Features: Linfield's School of Nursing offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on leadership and community health. The university provides robust support for NCLEX preparation and career placement.
4. George Fox University
- Location: Newberg
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96% in Spring 2024
- Tuition: Approximately $38,860 per year
- Programs Offered: BSN
- Notable Features: As Oregon's largest private university, George Fox integrates Christian values into its nursing program. Students gain hands-on experience through diverse clinical rotations and benefit from a supportive learning environment.
đ Choosing the Right Nursing Program
When selecting a nursing school in Oregon, consider the following factors:
- Location: Evaluate the campus's proximity to your residence and clinical sites. Some programs offer multiple campuses or online options to accommodate different needs.
- Tuition and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and explore financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and loan forgiveness programs.
- NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates often indicate strong academic support and effective preparation for licensure exams.
- Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing pathway you're interested in, whether it's a traditional BSN, accelerated program, or advanced degrees.
- Graduation and Employment Rates: Research the school's graduation rates and job placement statistics to gauge student success.
đ Next Steps
- Research: Visit the official websites of the schools listed to gather detailed information about program requirements and application deadlines.
- Prepare: Complete any prerequisite courses and gather necessary documentation for applications.
- Apply: Submit applications to your chosen programs, keeping track of deadlines and required materials.
- Plan Financially: Apply for financial aid through FAFSA and explore scholarship opportunities specific to nursing students.
- Stay Informed: Attend information sessions or contact admissions counselors to ask questions and gain insights into the programs.George Fox University
Embarking on a nursing career in Oregon offers the chance to receive quality education while enjoying the state's natural beauty. With the right preparation and resources, you can find a program that aligns with your goals and sets you on the path to a rewarding profession.
For more information on nursing job opportunities, visit GoodWork.
