Practical Nursing at Sumner College
With 87% of applicants admitted, Sumner College prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 514 students in Portland, OR.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $52,391/yr, edging above the $44,151 national average for Practical Nursing — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand for this trade.
AI risk is moderate — 18% task exposure — and the 21% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Practical Nursing graduates.
At $16,322 in median debt against $52,391 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance quickly — a hallmark of affordable trade programs.
At #372 out of 703 programs, Sumner College's financial outcomes for Practical Nursing trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $52,391 to $66,539 shows 27% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Practical Nursing connects to 2 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Practical Nursing graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses | $62,340 | +2.6% | 75% |
| Nursing assistants | $39,530 | +2.3% | 90% |
About Practical Nursing Careers
Your career begins on the front lines of patient care as a nursing assistant. In a hospital or long-term care facility, your active days will be spent helping patients with essential tasks like bathing, eating, and moving safely. You’ll be a vital part of the medical team, taking blood pressure and temperature and serving as the eyes and ears for the supervising nurses.
Compare & Explore
Practical Nursing Overview
Practical Nursing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Sumner College
Considering a 4-Year Degree Instead?
Compare how bachelor's degree graduates fare on earnings, ROI, and AI resilience.