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Online Master of Science in Nursing

Forensic Nursing

  • Two Year, Part-Time Program
  • No Campus Visits – 100% Online
  • Competitive Tuition Rates

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  • Admission Requirements
  • Enrollment Support
  • Engaged Learning
  • Program Features
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Care and Advocate in Medicolegal Cases

The American Nursing Association recognized Forensic Nursing as a specialty in 1995. Cleveland State University was one of the first universities in the nation to offer the Master of Science in Nursing - Forensic Nursing.

Rated #2 nationally by both Nurse.org and Online Schools Guide, our online MSN in Forensic Nursing program combines your nursing skills with forensic science and expands your role to promote recovery, health and justice.

Forensic nurses are impartial — they advocate for truth and justice in a caring and compassionate way.

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Accredited by the CCNE

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

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Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Higher Learning Commission

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#1 Part-time Law School in Ohio - Cleveland State University

#1 Public University in Ohio for Social Mobility

by U.S. News & World Report

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Achieving your MSN in Forensic Nursing qualifies you for roles as legal nurse consultants, death investigators, forensic psychiatric nurses, clinical forensic nurses and correctional nurses. Forensic nurses advocate for truth and justice in a caring and compassionate way, and provide forensic-nursing services to lawyers, the court system, or patients, according to the specific case. In addition, forensic nurses provide consultation or expert testimony in civil and criminal proceedings. Coursework focuses on evidence-based practice, forensic methodologies and the legal system. 

  • 100% online didactic coursework is asynchronous.
  • There are no on-campus residencies to attend.
  • You will complete 500 experiential learning hours in your community.
  • You can earn this degree in 2 years part-time.

MSN in Forensic Nursing

Curriculum Sample

This course focuses on the critical analysis of scientific knowledge related to clinical problems identified from the perspective of the advanced practice nurse. Students investigate evidence-based practice culminating in application to identified clinical problems. (3 credits)

This course focuses on various models drawn from population health, mental health, holistic nursing practice and crisis intervention theory, including crisis response training as developed by the National Organization for Victim Assistance to develop a theoretical framework for guiding forensic nursing practice. The course provides an overview of the stress framework and individual functioning for both the victim and the perpetrator, including spiritual and cultural perspectives. (3 credits)

This course focuses on the discovery phase of a lawsuit. The course includes physical, psychological, epidemiological and legal examinations performed to identify, collect and preserve evidence. An overview of deposition, interrogatory and expert witness reports is explored. (3 credits)

This course is designed to prepare nurses to interface with the legal system. The course format focuses on an overview of the legal process and the role of lawyers, prosecutors, judges, jury and evidence. It provides a special emphasis on trial preparation and the roles of witness preparation, including the presentation of evidence and expert testimony. (3 credits)

Learn More

We’re here for you and ready to help you with enrollment and answer your questions about the program, including tuition, admission requirements, curriculum details and more.

Forensics in Nursing by the Numbers

6000
International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) members
371000
Job openings through 2028*

*Zippia.com

90000
Median annual salary (MSN graduates)*

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

ENGAGED LEARNING

Hands-on practice complements online coursework.

Engaged learning provides real-world opportunities to immerse yourself in your field and apply your growing knowledge. Engaged learning relies heavily on teamwork skills and provides an arena where you work professionally with community partners, your peers and CSU faculty members. Engaged learning combines civic involvement with academic coursework in a way that benefits you and the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master’s degree program in nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Cleveland State University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org) Cleveland State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the largest regional accreditor in the U.S.  

This six-semester program requires 38 credits of online coursework and 500 practicum hours. It can be completed part-time in 2 years.

The MSN in Forensic Nursing costs $614.25* per credit hour for in-state students ($23,341.50 total* + fees) and $615.25* for out-of-state students ($23,379.50 total* + fees). Financial aid may be available to our online students.

*Tuition rates as of 01/22/2024. Rates are subject to change. Visit csuohio.edu/bursar/tuition-and-fees for current rates.

Yes. Our faculty members are dedicated, caring and experienced professionals who want you to succeed. Our faculty are full-time professors and/or Certified Nurse Educators. Classes are small you can quickly get the feedback you need.

WE CAN HELP

Dedicated Student Support

A CSU enrollment advisor can answer your questions and guide you through the application process. Click the button below to fill out a form and start the conversation.

  • Admission Requirements
  • Curriculum Details
  • Experiential learning
  • Enrollment Support
  • Financial Aid
  • Tuition Costs