Sumner College
Acceptance rate
88.9%
2025
Peer median 95.5%
Undergraduates
532
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 19 : 1
“Peers” are all 185 private two-year health professions schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Sumner College, located in Portland, Oregon, is a well-respected institution known for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. Established with the aim of equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers, the college emphasizes practical, hands-on learning experiences alongside theoretical instruction. Sumner College offers a variety of programs, particularly in health sciences, business, and technology, enabling students to pursue their interests and prepare for the ever-evolving job market. The college's focus on career-oriented education has resulted in strong job placement rates for graduates, who are often sought after by employers in various industries.
The campus culture at Sumner College is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a sense of community among students and faculty. With a diverse student body, the college celebrates different backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing the learning experience for all. Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, including clubs, events, and community service, fostering personal growth and leadership skills. Furthermore, the college prides itself on its experienced faculty, who are dedicated to mentoring students and providing individualized support. The combination of a nurturing environment, strong academic programs, and a commitment to student success makes Sumner College an attractive choice for those looking to further their education in a supportive setting.
Enrollment Growth and Gender Ratio Dynamics
The enrollment figures at Sumner College demonstrate a remarkable growth trend over the years. In 2013, the undergraduate student population was just 249, but by 2023, this number surged to 510. This increase reflects a significant rise in student interest, potentially indicating improved academic offerings or enhanced reputation. However, the college has primarily focused on undergraduate education, as evidenced by the consistent absence of graduate students during this period.
The gender ratio among undergraduates has also experienced notable changes. In 2013, only 22% of undergraduates were male, while in 2023, this figure dropped dramatically to approximately 11.5%. This shift suggests a growing female predominance in the student body, which could be attributed to broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has been outpacing male enrollment nationally. This could also reflect the college's initiatives or programs that appeal more to female students.
Graduation rates have shown some fluctuation as well. The 100% graduation rate rose to about 79% in 2018, but saw a decline to around 26% in 2019 before rebounding to over 62% in 2020. Such variability might signal challenges in student retention or academic rigor, necessitating further investigation into the factors affecting these outcomes.
Retention rates have generally remained high, peaking at nearly 96% in 2018, which indicates that once students enroll, they are likely to continue their studies at Sumner College. This high retention is a positive indicator of student satisfaction and institutional support.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, with a slight increase to 13 in 2023 from 12 in earlier years. This change suggests a potentially increased demand for faculty as enrollment grows, which is critical for maintaining the quality of education.
Overall, the data reflects a dynamic and evolving educational environment at Sumner College, characterized by significant enrollment growth, shifting gender demographics, and fluctuating graduation rates that warrant ongoing attention from the administration.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Portland
- Nearest international airport
- Portland International Airport (PDX), about 1 mi
- Academic calendar
- Differs by program
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Joanna Russell (College President)
- Phone
- 5039726230
- Address
- 8338 NE Alderwood Road Ste 100, Portland, OR 97220
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 95.5% · all 185 private two-year health professions schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Sumner College
The admission data from Sumner College reveals some interesting trends over the years. The acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated significantly from 2017 to 2023. Notably, the admission rates for females reached a peak of 100% in both 2019 and 2023, indicating an inclusive approach towards female applicants, while the male acceptance rate varied, peaking at 79.1% in 2022.
The enrollment numbers displayed a dramatic increase in 2022, with 135 students admitted, compared to just 5 in 2017. This sharp rise could suggest a strategic effort by the college to expand its student body, possibly in response to changing demographics or a growing reputation, as reflected in its ranking.
The data also shows that the number of applicants denied admission varied, with a notable increase in 2022 when 42 applicants were denied. This could indicate a more selective process, as the college received a larger pool of applications, allowing it to be more discerning in choosing candidates.
Overall, the trends at Sumner College reflect broader patterns seen in higher education where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversity and expanding enrollment while also managing selectivity. The rise in enrollment, particularly among female students, mirrors national efforts to promote gender equity in education. However, the variability in acceptance rates signals that institutions must balance growth with quality and student fit, ensuring that they maintain their educational standards while meeting the needs of an evolving student population.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Data at Sumner College
The data regarding admission test scores at Sumner College reveals a consistent trend of unavailability in detailed performance metrics over the years from 2007 to 2023. Each year shows a lack of reported SAT and ACT scores, indicating either a potential shift in the admissions strategy or a lack of transparency in sharing such critical data.
In recent years, many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, reflecting a growing trend in higher education that prioritizes holistic review processes over standardized testing. This move has been widely debated, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional testing schedules and accessibility. Colleges and universities are increasingly recognizing that standardized tests may not fully capture a student's potential or readiness for higher education, leading to a reassessment of how admissions decisions are made.
Moreover, the absence of submitted scores could also suggest that Sumner College is focusing on other aspects of student profiles, such as personal statements, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular involvement. This shift could align with broader efforts to diversify the student body and promote equity in admissions.
Overall, while the lack of data limits the ability to draw specific conclusions about academic performance trends, it highlights significant changes in the higher education landscape regarding admissions processes. As institutions like Sumner College navigate these changes, ongoing transparency and communication about admissions criteria will remain crucial for prospective students and their families.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
18 applicants in 2025, 88.9% admitted
16 admitted 2 not admitted Yield 87.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Sumner College
The graduation data from Sumner College highlights some intriguing trends within the healthcare education sector, particularly in Registered Nursing. In 2023, there were 12 graduates with a bachelor's degree, but notably, there were no master's or doctorate graduates in this field. This could indicate a growing trend toward entry-level positions in nursing, as the demand for registered nurses continues to rise due to an aging population and increasing healthcare needs.
The high number of associate degree graduates, totaling 69, coupled with 4 international students, suggests that many students are opting for quicker pathways into the nursing profession. The associate degree serves as a critical entry point into the workforce, enabling graduates to begin their careers sooner while potentially pursuing further education down the line.
The absence of bachelor's degree graduates among international students indicates that this demographic may be facing challenges in pursuing advanced nursing education in the U.S. This could be attributed to various factors, including visa regulations or financial barriers.
Overall, the data reflects the dynamic nature of nursing education and the pressing need for healthcare professionals. As the demand for qualified nurses continues to grow, institutions may need to adapt their programs to better serve both domestic and international students, ensuring that they are equipped to meet the evolving healthcare landscape. The trends observed here align with broader industry reports predicting sustained growth in nursing roles, emphasizing the importance of educational institutions in bridging the gap between workforce needs and qualified professionals.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $94,997 |
Students
532 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 23:77 · Freshman retention 100.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 454
- First-year undergraduates 14
- Transfers and others 64
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (532)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Sumner College in 2023
The student composition data from Sumner College in 2023 presents a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate students. Notably, the incoming freshmen class comprises 25 students, with a significant majority being female at 68%, while male representation stands at 32%. This trend aligns with broader educational statistics, which often show a higher enrollment of female students in higher education.
In contrast, the returning undergraduate students total 342, exhibiting a stark gender disparity with only 8.5% male representation compared to 91.5% female. This raises questions about the factors influencing such a gender imbalance, particularly in the context of retention rates and academic engagement among male students.
Among the transfer students, there are 143 individuals, with a gender ratio of 15.4% male to 84.6% female. The consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across all categories might suggest a trend that reflects societal shifts towards female empowerment in education, but it also could point to systemic issues that affect male students' participation and success in higher education settings.
The demographic breakdown of students by race is crucial for understanding the college's commitment to diversity. However, the data lacks comprehensive details for the returning students and does not provide insights into the racial composition of the transfer students. This omission highlights an area for potential improvement in data collection and reporting, as understanding the racial diversity within the student body is essential for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
In conclusion, while the data indicates a strong female presence at Sumner College, the underlying reasons for gender imbalances and the need for more detailed demographic information warrant further exploration to enhance the institution's approach to diversity and student success.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Sumner College in 2023
The age composition of students at Sumner College in 2023 reveals intriguing trends regarding the distribution of undergraduate and graduate students by age. The data highlights a significantly higher number of female undergraduates compared to their male counterparts across most age categories. For instance, in the 25-29 age group, there are 100 female undergraduates versus just 17 male undergraduates. This disparity reflects a broader trend in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses male enrollment, particularly in undergraduate programs.
Interestingly, the age group of 22-24 also shows a substantial difference, with 60 females enrolled compared to only 12 males. This could suggest that women are increasingly pursuing higher education immediately after high school or at a younger age compared to men.
Moreover, the data shows that there are no graduate male or female students enrolled in any age category, indicating that Sumner College may not offer graduate programs or that there is a significant gap in graduate enrollment. This absence of graduate students could be a critical area for the college to address, as diversifying educational offerings may attract a broader demographic.
Overall, the trends observed in this data not only reflect the current enrollment patterns but also resonate with national statistics indicating a growing female presence in higher education. It raises questions about the factors influencing these trends and the potential need for initiatives aimed at increasing male enrollment at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 185 private two-year health professions schools in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Comments on International Student Demographics at Sumner College
The data from 2007 reveals some interesting insights into the international student population at Sumner College. With a total of 166 undergraduate students, only 4 are international, representing approximately 2.41% of the undergraduate body. This relatively low percentage indicates that the college may not have been a primary destination for international students at that time.
In a globalized education environment, institutions often strive to increase their international student enrollment, recognizing the value these students bring in terms of diverse perspectives and cultural exchange. The limited representation of international students could suggest that Sumner College either had not yet established strong recruitment strategies or was competing with other institutions that may have offered more attractive programs or support services for international students.
The absence of data regarding graduate students indicates a missed opportunity for a more comprehensive understanding of the college's appeal to international students at different academic levels. Many universities have seen a surge in international graduate student enrollment, often due to advanced research opportunities and specialized programs.
As higher education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for Sumner College to assess its strategies in attracting a more diverse student body, especially in light of the increasing globalization of education. Enhancing support for international students could not only enrich the academic environment but also bolster the college's reputation on a global scale.
Cost
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$10.8M
Expenses$8.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 185 private two-year health professions schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Portland State UniversityPortland · 6.9 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Reed CollegePortland · 7.0 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
Lewis & Clark CollegePortland · 9.7 mi
Liberal Arts #97
-
Pacific UniversityForest Grove · 26.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
George Fox UniversityNewberg · 26.7 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Willamette UniversitySalem · 49.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Oregon State UniversityCorvallis · 77.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of OregonEugene · 108.5 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of Puget SoundTacoma · 116.7 mi
Liberal Arts #100
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Sumner College:
-
Portland State University - Ranked 280 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its urban campus in downtown Portland.
-
Reed College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Reed College is ranked 67 and is known for its rigorous academics and a strong emphasis on independent thinking and research.
-
Lewis & Clark College - With a rank of 93, this liberal arts college is recognized for its beautiful campus and strong programs in the humanities and sciences.
-
University of Oregon - Ranked 98, this comprehensive university is well known for its research programs and a vibrant campus life in Eugene, Oregon.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus - A prestigious comprehensive university ranked 40, it offers a wide range of programs and is recognized for its research contributions and scenic campus.
These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, providing a variety of educational opportunities in the region.
Peer median 0.0 · all 185 private two-year health professions schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Sumner College
The crime statistics from Sumner College over the years reveal a relatively low incident rate, particularly when viewed against national averages for college campuses. In 2015, the college recorded its highest crime rate with 7.63 incidents per 1,000 students, primarily due to two arrests related to firearms. Following this peak, there were no reported incidents from 2016 to 2018, indicating a significant drop in criminal activity and suggesting effective measures in campus safety and student conduct.
However, in the subsequent years, there were sporadic incidents, with two arrests again reported in both 2022 and 2023, with corresponding rates of 4.99 and 3.92 incidents per 1,000 students respectively. This slight increase may warrant further investigation, particularly in relation to trends in campus safety protocols and student engagement.
Overall, the data suggests that while Sumner College has faced some challenges, it maintains a relatively safe environment for its students. This is important given the broader context of rising concerns around campus safety nationwide. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential to sustaining this positive trend, ensuring that students feel secure while pursuing their education. For more information on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.