A recently expanded partnership between the University Center at McHenry County College (MCC), Aurora University (AU), and Northwestern Medicine aims to increase educational opportunities for nurses across the community.
Through the partnership, those currently working as Registered Nurses (RNs) and others who have graduated with their associate degree in nursing (ADN) can complete their bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) through Aurora University (AU) in just three semesters.
The program is delivered in a high-touch, hybrid format (face-to-face and online classes) that meets once a week in eight-week modules. The in-person classes will take place at the University Center at MCC in Woodstock.
“The expanded partnership offers our nurses the opportunity of diversity in educational opportunities in McHenry County,” said Hillary Crumlett, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Vice President, Operations and Chief Nursing Executive at Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital. “As healthcare continues to become increasingly complex, the advancement of education and training of our professional nursing team assures the delivery of world-class care at Northwestern Medicine and demonstrates a deep commitment to our community and their health.”
“We are excited for the University Center partnership to provide an opportunity for nurses to advance their career and earn a BSN locally,” added Amy Druml, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CMSRN, Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital. “Research has shown that organizations with higher percentages of BSN nurses have better patient outcomes. At Northwestern Medicine, we are always striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients and the community.”
The RN to BSN program offers flexible scheduling designed for working nurses and small class sizes for a personalized education.
“Delivering the courses in a hybrid format is a unique feature of this program,” said Dr. Betsy Schnowske, Director of Nursing at MCC. “It allows for important engagement between nursing students, who often rely on each other for support. It also provides more opportunities for student-to-faculty interactions versus completing an all-online program.”
Students will attend classes at the University Center on the same day each week so they can plan work their work schedules accordingly.
“This will be a new, centralized opportunity for our MCC nursing graduates and RNs employed at county hospitals and healthcare facilities,” said Kailley Harmon, Executive Director of the University Center at MCC. “We are thrilled to provide access to a flexible degree program close to home and a way to fulfill the workforce needs of our local community."
Interested students can apply for the Fall 2024 RN to BSN program.
Those interested in learning more about the nursing profession are invited to attend an information session with MCC’s Nursing faculty on Wednesday, June 5 from 6:30–7:30 p.m. in the College’s Luecht Auditorium.