Local Arizona Nursing Graduate Earns Full Scholarship for Master's Degree

In an incredible achievement for both her and her institution, Brooke Fickett, a recent graduate from the Southfield campus of the Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN), has been awarded a full-tuition scholarship for her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at the American College of Education (ACE). This full scholarship is part of a new partnership between AZCN and ACE, which aims to bolster educational opportunities for nursing graduates.

Brooke Fickett is one of only two AZCN alumni selected nationwide to receive this prestigious award, which opens up new avenues for advanced education and the potential for significant leadership roles in the nursing field. She expressed her aspirations, stating, "My long-term goal is to become a nurse educator. Pursuing my MSN through American College of Education will provide the foundation I need to formally teach, mentor, and prepare future nurses for safe and competent practice."

The Southfield campus of AZCN, which welcomed its first cohort of nursing students in 2021, has seen a remarkable surge in the success of its graduates. Almost 200 nurses have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) since its inception, contributing to a national alumni network of nearly 5,000.

This partnership with ACE provides a unique benefit: graduates can transfer nine credits from their BSN program directly into the MSN curriculum at ACE, thus saving time and money. Additionally, those enrolled in the MSN program benefit from discounted tuition rates.

According to Monica Carson, ACE's Chief Growth Officer, the partnership responds to the growing nursing shortage, which presents critical needs in healthcare. "This partnership allows us to further address the nursing shortage, providing more opportunities for nurses to continue their education and fill critical faculty needs," she stated. "We are proud to support graduates like Brooke, who are hardworking, dedicated, and ready to step into roles to support the future of healthcare."

The scholarship and the partnership itself embody AZCN’s commitment to uplifting its graduates and adapting to the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape. "We are proud to create opportunities that support our graduates and advance our mission to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the communities they serve," said Jason E. Anderson, CEO of AZCN.

Reflecting on her journey, Fickett remarked, "Arizona College of Nursing played a major role in shaping both the nurse and the person I am today." With her scholarship from ACE, she is well on her way to advancing her career in nursing and leadership, all while addressing pressing healthcare needs in her community.

For those unfamiliar with these institutions, Arizona College of Nursing aims to deliver educational opportunities that enhance individuals' lives through nursing education. It offers a three-year BSN program that is fully accredited and designed to prepare students for successful careers as Registered Nurses (RNs). The program is available at 24 campuses across 15 states, all accredited by recognized agencies.

On the other hand, the American College of Education specializes in offering affordable, fully online programs encompassing various fields, including business, education, and nursing. This institution is dedicated to providing innovative and engaging programs tailored to adult learners seeking to further their education.

As Brooke Fickett embarks on this new chapter, the partnership between AZCN and ACE promises not only to enrich her own career but also to lead to greater support for the future of nursing education and patient care. The advancements in educational collaborations like this one represent a vital step forward in addressing the ongoing challenges within the healthcare system.