Sumner College

Sumner College stands as a beacon for aspiring professionals, particularly in the rapidly evolving healthcare sector. While rooted in a rich history of career-focused education, today it is primarily recognized for its robust nursing programs, designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields. For prospective students and their families, Sumner College represents a commitment to relevant, hands-on learning that directly translates into rewarding careers.

The college's journey began in 1974 in Portland as The Court Reporting Institute, founded by Bill Ellis with a singular focus: training proficient court reporters for the legal community. This initial dedication to specialized, vocational training laid the groundwork for its future adaptability. Over the years, it expanded its scope significantly, changing its name to the College of Legal Arts in 1986 and introducing programs like Legal Secretarial and Paralegal, thereby broadening its impact within the legal field.

A pivotal transformation occurred in 2007 with its acquisition by Cascade Education, LLC, leading to a new strategic direction focused on healthcare. Renamed Sumner College in 2009, it launched its inaugural nursing program, marking a significant shift. By 2012, it achieved a notable milestone, becoming the second proprietary school in Oregon approved to offer an Associate-level Registered Nursing Program (AAS). This evolution highlights Sumner College's dynamic response to workforce needs, culminating in its current offering of advanced nursing degrees, including a 100% online RN to BSN course starting in 2020 and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree program from 2023, solidifying its place as a key contributor to Oregon's healthcare education landscape.