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Apply Your Expert Knowledge

Forensic nursing, like traditional nursing, is divided into several specialty areas such as the sexual assault nurse examiner, crime scene and death investigator, the correctional nurse, and psychiatric nurse. Nurses who have an interest in the forensic aspects of healthcare provide necessary services for the victims of violence. Furthermore, law enforcement and the legal community are now realizing the positive impact forensic nursing is having on case outcomes. The ability to recognize forensic issues and to preserve, document and collect evidence are essential skills of today's healthcare professional.

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    Est. Tuition $4,800

  • Computer and user icon

    Learning Format Online

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    Duration 9-15 months *

    *Duration times can vary, talk to your advisor for more information.
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    Total Units 16 Units

  • Registered nurses
  • LVNs/LPNs
  • Other licensed medical professionals

  • Collect forensic evidence
  • Communicate with the various members of the multidisciplinary forensic team
  • Provide treatment for triage and emergency intervention for patients who exhibit potential forensic issues
  • Identify and adhere to basic policies and procedures required for conducting sexual assault examinations
  • Understand the social and political implications of escalating violence
  • Comprehend and apply a standardized body of scientific knowledge for death investigation and the forensic evaluation of the deceased, the circumstances, and the environment
  • Understand the concept, development, function, and collaboration of the multi-disciplinary team
  • Describe and relate forensic nurse professional practice issues to the nursing process
  • Understand the ethical practice in forensic nursing and applicable scope and standards of practice, both nationally and internationally
  • Describe recommended techniques for collecting, preserving, and documenting forensic evidence to meet legal guidelines for admissibility in court proceedings

Prior to enrolling, please ensure that you meet ONE of the following minimum requirements:

  • Registered nurse
  • Licensed vocational nurse or equivalent
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Physician
  • Physician's assistant
  • SANE certified nurse
  • Licensed paramedic

ELECTIVE UNITS: Current SANE certification may be acceptable in lieu of university/college-level credit. A copy of your certification will be required. Please contact the Extension program coordinator for additional details.

UCR Extension is an accredited provider of California Board of Registered Nursing credit.

All courses provide California Board of Registered Nursing continuing education credit.

Registered Nurse continuing education totaling 20 hours or more may be acceptable in lieu of university/college level credit. These hours may be a combination of professional meetings, SANE training and other workshops where continuing education was earned.

Required Courses

Course Formats
Course Schedules are Subject to Change
Required (12.00 Units )
 
WinterSpringSummerFall
Introduction to Forensic Science in Healthcare SettingsThis course examines the basic principles and techniques of forensic sciences.
3.00 Units
Forensic Approaches to Blunt Force and Firearm InjuriesThis course examines injuries incurred from vehicular trauma, stabbings and firearms and other assaults.
2.00 Units
Occupational Considerations in Forensic NursingOccupational injuries and work-related deaths are examined in terms of their medicolegal aspects.
2.00 Units
Forensic Photography in the Healthcare SettingThis course will introduce students to basic forensic photography theory and practice.
1.00 Units
Sworn Testimony for the Healthcare SpecialistThe basic purpose of using sworn testimony is to assure that the information provided is truthful and as correct as possible, and presented in a manner that is objective, fair and accurate.
2.00 Units
Introduction to Forensic Pathology for Health Care SpecialistsThis course examines the evolution of the present-day forensic pathologist and the role(s) he/she plays in implementing the statutes mandated by law.
2.00 Units
Elective (4.00 Units )
 
 
WinterSpringSummerFall
Examination and Care of Sexual Assault Patients: Adult/AdolescentThis comprehensive online course prepares qualified health care professionals to perform forensic evaluations of adult and adolescent, male and female sexual assault victims.
4.00 Units
Forensic Nurse Death InvestigationAccording to the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN), the basic educational requirements for didactic education in FNDI is 40 hours.
4.00 Units

Getting Started

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life and work schedules.

Jun23Summer 2025
Aug11Summer 2025
Sep22Fall 2025
Future Dates

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Mike Grace

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