Why Earning Your BSN Matters: Insights from a UIC RN to BSN Professor

Nancy Innella, PhD, RN, has dedicated her career to advancing nursing through both clinical practice and education. With more than two decades of experience in the field, Nancy has worked in pediatric inpatient care and the operating room and has focused much of her career on teaching and research. After earning her PhD, she transitioned to teaching in a nursing BSN program, where her research on feeding practices for Hispanic preschool children and end-of-life care has garnered international recognition. Along with her peer-reviewed publications, she continues to be an influential voice in nursing education.

Nancy joined UIC’s Online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2016, bringing her vast clinical experience and passion for research into the classroom. She works to create an interactive and supportive online learning environment where students feel engaged and prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare industry.

Can you provide an overview of your background and experience in the field of nursing?

I graduated with a BSN in 1999 and worked in pediatric inpatient nursing before transitioning to a staff nurse role in the operating room. While serving as the perioperative educator, I completed my MSN and began teaching at an associate-level nursing program. After 14 years of teaching, I earned my PhD and moved to teaching at the university level in a BSN program. My research focuses on feeding practices for Hispanic preschool children and effective teaching techniques in end-of-life care. I’ve had the privilege of speaking internationally on my research and publishing in multiple peer-reviewed journals.

What inspired you to teach in UIC’s online RN to BSN degree program, and how has your professional experience shaped your teaching?

During my PhD program, I was introduced to UIC’s RN to BSN program. I was so impressed by the program’s quality and high ratings that I was honored to join the faculty in 2016. My background in education and research has helped me develop interactive teaching methods that engage students in the online environment. Even though the courses are asynchronous, I strive to make students feel connected to the school community. My experience with research also allows me to teach nursing research at a practical level for BSN-prepared nurses.

What sets UIC’s online RN to BSN degree apart from others in terms of curriculum, faculty expertise, or opportunities for students?

Many faculty members, including myself, have been with the program for nearly a decade! They are a dedicated team of professionals with expertise across various areas of nursing. We are committed to providing a high-quality education and ensuring a strong connection between students and faculty. I prioritize meeting with students individually to review concepts and assignments they may be struggling with. The assignments are designed to encourage students to include their nursing experiences, helping them see how the content directly applies to their everyday nursing practice.

What are the most significant benefits of earning a BSN degree?

A BSN opens doors for nurses to work in community settings, such as public health nursing or school nursing, and provides opportunities to move into nursing leadership and management. This is an area that they might not have been able to go into without this higher level of degree that covers courses like community health nursing and leadership.

How will the RN to BSN degree program equip students for current challenges in the industry?

The program provides not only essential nursing knowledge but also opportunities for students to pursue higher-level positions. We use Open Educational Resources (OER) instead of textbooks, ensuring that students have access to the most current information and that it is not outdated by the time a textbook is published. Faculty regularly update course content to reflect the latest healthcare industry trends, so students always learn what’s most relevant.

How does the RN to BSN program at UIC help nurses transition into more advanced roles in healthcare?

Many nursing positions now require a BSN degree, especially in hospitals seeking Magnet status. They require nurses to obtain a BSN within so many years of being hired. Completing the RN to BSN program provides this qualification and equips nurses with advanced knowledge in evidence-based practice, community health, informatics, and leadership. These are key areas that open doors for more advanced roles.

What advice would you give prospective students considering UIC’s online RN to BSN program?

This program offers a quality education supported by a dedicated faculty and administration who work towards the student’s success. The flexibility of asynchronous courses allows students to work around their schedules, whether they are early risers or prefer to study late at night. Faculty are committed to supporting students and providing contact information to ensure timely responses to any questions.

Additionally, it’s important to never stop learning and growing.  Even with advanced degrees, there are educational programs and information and changes in healthcare that are important for nurses to keep up with. Nursing is a versatile career with many opportunities, and you will always find a job.