Waynesburg University’s has been recognized as a top RN to BSN program going into 2024 by allnurses’, slated at the number five spot according to the website. According to the Waynesburg University press release detailing the ranking, allnurses valued, “affordability, duration and flexibility,” as three of the key facets when compiling the information needed to put this ranking together.

     Lina Hixson, who serves in overseeing may facets of the program including course design, faculty teaching assignments, course revisions, student advising and other portions spoke on how she, as well as her colleagues have worked to bring these programs back to Waynesburg and the credit she wished to attribute to that portion of the faculty.

     “Our entire nursing faculty worked alongside me when integrating general education course assignments into RN-BSN courses back in 2018-19. The richness of course content in all of the RN-BSN courses is a testament to the scholarly work of our nursing faculty.” Hixson said.

     Considering the adulation that came with such a high ranking by allnurses, Hixson listed off some of the parts of having an all online program that serve as advantages to all involved.

     “The convenience of completing weekly course requirements from home or other remote site. Our students are working nurses and most do not have flexible work schedules due to staff shortages. They can avoid travel time to and from a college campus which allows them more time with family and to focus on course work in lieu of traveling to class.” Hixson said, while continuing on with noting that the only disadvantage she sees with this format is that the students do miss the in-person meetings and being able to exchange ideas with other students.

     Another individual who serves a role in this program is that of Sherry Parsons, who is the chair for the Nursing Department. While being new to the role according to Hixson, she detailed how her & Parsons have worked together in making this recognition possible.

     “Sherry has been mainly involved teaching in the undergraduate program and leading student health services up until the fall of 2023. She is new to the role of department chair, however, she provides oversight and guidance to all the nursing programs in her new role. The recognition of the RN-BSN program rests solely on the work of the graduate nursing faculty and administration. I have been providing administrative oversight of the RN-BSN program since 2018.” Hixson said.

     When it comes to what is to come for the Waynesburg RN to BSN program, Hixson remains hopeful that this is only the beginning of continued success and growth.

     “I would hope that this recognition by allnurses would inform working nurses within and outside of our Southwestern PA region that WU offers a quality RN- BSN program for the working RN which would spark interest and growth in our program enrollment.” Hixson said.