Forensic nursing is an emerging and specialized field that combines nursing science with forensic science and criminal investigation. Forensic nurses provide comprehensive care to victims of violence, abuse, and traumatic events while also collecting and preserving evidence for legal proceedings. As the demand for forensic nursing services continues to grow, more educational institutions are offering programs to train nurses in this unique discipline. Here are some of the best schools to consider for forensic nursing classes:

Duquesne University

Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Forensic Nursing program. This program is one of the first of its kind in the United States and has been running for over 15 years. The curriculum covers topics such as forensic theory development, victimology, and the legal system, preparing graduates for various roles, including sexual assault nurse examiners, legal nurse consultants, and death investigators.

Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University’s online MSN in Forensic Nursing program is consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation. The 38-credit-hour program combines nursing skills with forensic science and expands the nurse’s role in health and justice. Students gain expertise in evidence-based practice, forensic methodologies, and the legal system through asynchronous online coursework and 500 experiential learning hours in their community.

Oakland University

Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, offers the first and only Forensic Nursing program in the state. The program includes an MSN in Forensic Nursing and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Nursing. The curriculum emphasizes interprofessional education related to the diverse roles and responsibilities of forensic nurses, preparing graduates to serve as leaders in the specialty.

Texas A&M University

The Texas A&M University Health Science Center offers an online MSN in Forensic Nursing program that prepares graduates to provide trauma-informed, patient-centered care to survivors and perpetrators of violence and abuse. The program includes on-campus clinical experiences and covers topics such as victimology, forensic investigation of injury, and forensic healthcare policy and ethics.

Monmouth University

Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, offers an MSN in Forensic Nursing and a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Nursing. The program recognizes forensic nursing as an emerging field and prepares graduates to work in various areas, including domestic violence intervention, sexual assault nurse examination, elder abuse, child abuse, and death investigation.

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Forensic Minor allows students to choose a specialty, including a focus on forensic nursing. The adult gerontology nursing program with a forensic focus prepares nurses to work with victims of crimes and understand the psychology of criminal behavior. Graduates are equipped with advanced nursing practices and knowledge of forensic science and the criminal justice system.

When choosing a forensic nursing program, it’s essential to consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, clinical experience opportunities, and faculty expertise. Many of these programs are offered online or in a hybrid format, providing flexibility for working nurses. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to pursue various careers in forensic nursing, including sexual assault nurse examiners, legal nurse consultants, death investigators, and correctional nurses.