Online Degrees in Forensic Nursing
An online degree in forensic nursing can provide an individual with the credential they need to become a forensic nurse, clinical nurse specialist, or enter a related position. The only online degree offered in forensic nursing is an online forensic nursing certification. However, this certification provides one of the credentials needed to enter the medical field as a forensic nurse or in a related position.
- Online Forensic Nursing Certification prepares individuals with one of the credentials they need to achieve a career as a forensic nurse, clinical nurse specialist, or related position. Individuals aspiring to become a forensic nurse or enter a related position should be a registered nurse, have experience with traditional patient care, and be certified as a sexual assault nurse examiner by the American Forensic Nurses.
Online Forensic Nursing Courses
Coursework in programs for an online forensic nursing degree may vary depending on the institution. However, some common courses to expect include information on science of violence, abuse victims, criminal activity, traumatic accidents, study of legal processes, specialty science courses, and other related courses.
Forensic Nursing Degree Careers and Salary Information
An online degree in forensic nursing enables people to enter a career as a forensic nurse or other related position. A forensic nurse evaluates and cares for victims of assault, sex crimes, and domestic abuse. They may collect evidence of the abuse and be presented as an expert in a court case related to a patient or incident that they have been investigating. The median entry level salary for people with a degree in forensic nursing is approximately $50,000. However, this may range from $40,000 to $60,000 depending on the person's employment setting, level of education, and on-the-job experience. Employment settings may include hospitals, police forces, non-profit organizations that offer affordable medical care for victims of crimes, and other clinical settings. The number of registered nursing careers is projected to grow by 23% by 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. With an increasing number of nurses coming up to retirement age and retiring and a growing number of patients in need of attention, more registered nurses will be in demand. As police forces seek to strengthen cases against criminals and increase convictions, forensic nurses will become a more valued asset to their investigations.