Registered nurses often work in clinical settings; some may experience higher stress levels during their day-to-day functions.
However, it is a very rewarding job with many benefits.
Registered nurses will monitor patients, administer medication to patients, and consult with healthcare providers daily.
The nursing profession is regarded as a highly trusted and noble profession.
The job offers a deep sense of emotional satisfaction derived from caring for others.
5 Registered Nurse Schools in Oregon
1. Clatsop Community College
Clatsop Community College is located in Astoria, Oregon.
The school offers an Associate Degree program in nursing.
The program prepares students for an entry-level position by incorporating the latest techniques and procedures of the field into the curriculum.
Students are awarded an Associate of Applied Science – Nursing Degree after completing the two-year program.
Successful students are eligible to take the licensing exam (NCLEX-RN) upon completion of the program.
The curriculum comprises hands-on training and clinical skills.
The student’s residence determines tuition.
In-state students pay $105 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $210 per credit hour.
2. Central Oregon Community College
Central Oregon Community College is located in Bend, Oregon.
The school offers an Associate Degree program in nursing.
Students are awarded a Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate after completing the two-year program.
Students are eligible to sit for the National Nursing Exam NCLEX-RN to obtain their nursing license upon completion of the program.
Admission to the program is very competitive, and information sessions are held via Zoom throughout the year to explain the minimum entry requirements, general information, and selection criteria for the program.
Tuition for the program is as follows:
- In-district: $113 per credit hour
- Non-Resident Veteran: $136 per credit hour
- Out-of-District / In-State: $159 per credit hour
- Border State: $159 per credit hour
- Out-of-State: $131 per credit hour
3. Southwestern Oregon Community College
Southwestern Oregon Community College is situated in Coos Bay, Oregon, and offers an associate degree nursing program.
Students are prepared to work in various nursing settings, act professionally, practice relationship-centered care in their employment, develop insight into their field through self-analysis, demonstrate leadership skills, communicate effectively with employees of all levels, and make sound clinical judgments and decisions.
Upon completion of the course, students are eligible to sit for the national licensure examination (NCLEX-RN).
The application process is very competitive, and students must complete 52 credit hours of prerequisites and obtain an average C grade to qualify for the nursing program.
The tuition for undergraduate courses per credit hour for US residents is $105.
International students pay $210 per credit hour of study.
4. Lane Community College
Lane Community College is located in Eugene, Oregon.
The school offers an Associate Degree program for Registered Nurses.
The program prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RN) by taking the NCLEX-RN licensure exam upon completing the accredited program.
The full-time program requires three years of study.
Students are eligible to continue for a fourth year through online lectures, theory, and clinical experience through local facilities to obtain their bachelor’s degree.
The Associate Degree program prepares students for an entry-level position in the field of nursing.
Students learn to make sound clinical decisions and work effectively as contributing healthcare team members.
The program comprises 90 credit hours as well as 45 credit hours of prerequisites.
Tuition for the program is estimated to be $32,897.
5. Mt Hood Community College
Mt Hood Community College is located in Gresham, Oregon.
The school offers a four-year competency-based program that addresses the need for nurses to make sound clinical decisions based on knowledge, skills, and experience.
The first year of study is devoted to completing the 45 credit pre-admission requisites.
Completing the course allows students to sit for the Registered Nurse National Council Licensure Examination (RN-NCLEX).
Students are trained to be skilled in evidence-based practice, working effectively in a team, assisting individuals and families with supportive care, and promoting health amongst patients.
The approximate tuition per year for in-state students is $4,815; for an out-of-state student, it is $9,720.
Registered Nurse Schools in Oregon – Summary Table
Top 5 Schools in Oregon
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Clatsop Community College | 1651 Lexington Ave, Astoria, OR 97103 |
| Central Oregon Community College | 2600 NW College Way, Bend, OR 97703 |
| Southwestern Oregon Community College | 1988 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420 |
| Lane Community College | 4000 E 30th Ave, Eugene, OR 97405 |
| Mt Hood Community College | 26000 SE Stark St, Gresham, OR 97030 |
Salary
Registered nurses working in the capital city of Portland, Oregon are compensated based on their qualifications and years of experience.
The salary range for an RN, depending on the exact position in this city, is $61,844 to $110,909.
The salary will also depend on the facility that the RN is working in.
Annual Salary Range:Average Salary of Registered Nurse (RN)s in Oregon
| City Name | Salary |
|---|---|
| Portland | $68,940 |
| Eugene | $64,760 |
| Salem | $65,390 |
| Gresham | $68,860 |
| Beaverton | $68,940 |
| Hillsboro | $68,720 |
| Medford | $63,370 |
| Springfield | $64,620 |
| Bend | $64,030 |
| Corvallis | $64,450 |
Regional Salary in Oregon
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albany, OR | 560 | $101,740 | $48.91 | $133,820 | $78,870 |
| Bend-Redmond, OR | 1,970 | $107,180 | $51.53 | $129,670 | $83,680 |
| Corvallis, OR | 780 | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - | - NA - |
| Eugene, OR | 2,900 | $98,890 | $47.54 | $121,230 | $80,660 |
| Grants Pass, OR | 480 | $98,890 | $47.55 | $129,470 | $81,120 |
| Medford, OR | 2,220 | $99,240 | $47.71 | $119,540 | $81,890 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | 23,380 | $111,610 | $53.66 | $134,800 | $84,490 |
| Salem, OR | 3,850 | $96,040 | $46.17 | $119,750 | $65,460 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license to work as a registered nurse in Oregon?
Yes.
Students must attend an accredited program before applying for licensure through examination.
Registered nurses who hold a license in another state and want to work in Oregon must complete the license through endorsement documents.
How hard is the RN exam?
The examination is very challenging, and candidates who want to sit for the exam must be very well prepared.
What are the pros of being a registered nurse?
There is a high demand across the US for registered nurses, which seems to grow yearly.
There is a high earning potential coupled with diverse opportunities and flexible schedules for registered nurses across the country.
Is there a demand for registered nurses in Oregon?
Yes.
According to the Oregon Employment Department, over 27,000 job openings in registered nursing will open in the next ten years.
How long is a license valid in Oregon?
Two years.
Registered nurses must renew their licenses on or before their birthdays.
