Guide to Earning Your Master’s Degree in Forensic Nursing Online
From a list of the top schools to a breakdown of what you’ll learn, here’s everything you need to know before enrolling in an online forensic nursing master’s program.
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If you’re a nurse who wants to take your role to a higher level by combining medical knowledge with the legal field, earning a forensic nursing master’s degree is a path worth considering. Whether working with sexual assault or domestic violence victims, assisting the police with investigations, or supporting attorneys in criminal and civil cases, forensic nurses are a critical resource for those seeking justice. Earning a master’s degree in forensic nursing online can allow you to conveniently get the necessary training for this exciting field while working full-time.
This guide is loaded with information about online master’s degree programs in forensic nursing. Below are profiles of the top forensic nursing master’s programs, descriptions of common courses that schools offer, and how much tuition you can expect to pay for your online forensic nursing degree.
Popular Online Master’s Forensic Nursing Programs
Finding the right online master’s program in forensic nursing can be a time consuming endeavor, and choosing a school is not to be taken lightly. To help you get a sense of what’s available, we have created a best-in-class program curated list of schools that offer the best education in terms of affordability, quality, and student outcomes. Below you will find the top school choices we selected.
FAQs About Earning Your Master’s Degree in Forensic Nursing Online
Enrolling in graduate school is a huge time and monetary commitment, so you definitely should gather as much information as you can before taking on this financial and academic obligation. This section answers common questions about a master’s in forensic nursing, such as the cost, the curriculum, and the skills you will learn.
What exactly is forensic nursing?
Forensic nursing is the intersection of the health care and legal fields, where nurses use their nursing practice expertise to address various legal issues. For example, forensic nurses who specialize in sexual assault are responsible for conducting a physical examination of the victim, and for collecting and documenting evidence that helps bring the perpetrator to justice. Similarly, forensic nurses may work on cases related to domestic violence, elder or child abuse, or murder, where they collect and document evidence, as well as testify as an expert witness in court.
What do you learn in a forensic nursing MSN program?
Every school that offers an online forensic MSN program has a different curriculum, but there are common themes no matter the program. Generally, these programs build on the assessment, consultation, and documentation skills nurses already have, while providing the specific abilities needed to work with crime victims and legal matters. The following are some of the key areas that you may learn when you enroll in a forensic nursing degree program.
- An understanding of the law and the role that nurses play in helping to bolster a legal case. You will also learn about the legal and ethical issues that may arise and how to handle these issues.
- How to use empathy specifically when working with victims of crimes.
- The ability to critically evaluate primary research literature, its relationship to the field, and where it can be applied most effectively.
- An expansive understanding of how ethics, regulations, and scientific progress must be employed in any work done within the field.
- Competency in written and oral communication related to the biological sciences, research methods, emerging concepts, and contemporary trends and issues.
Common Courses in Online Forensic Nursing Programs
- Interpersonal Violence
This course provides a comprehensive look at interpersonal violence so students can understand the signs, cultural and societal issues, historical perspectives, and beliefs that surround this complex subject. Treatment options are discussed, as well as how domestic violence should be documented and reported to law enforcement. - Forensic Pathology
Forensic pathology courses focus on how understanding injuries and diseases are integral parts of medico-legal investigations, particularly in cases related to deaths caused by violence and other suspicious circumstances. You also learn how to collect evidence from a dead body, document this evidence in an official autopsy, and calculate an approximate time of death. - Nursing Law and Ethics
This course covers legal and ethical issues that may arise when working with patients. Building on the knowledge that registered nurses already have, this class addresses patients’ rights, judicial processes, regulations that impact the field, and the role forensic nurses play in legal matters. - Behavioral Criminology
In this class you gain an understanding of the relationship between criminal behavior and various mental disorders that perpetrators might have. Also, this course covers violent crimes that may be committed by people with mental illnesses and FBI profiling techniques that aid in criminal investigations. - Nursing Research
This course explores the methodologies that nursing researchers use to advance the field and how professionals practice nursing in a myriad of clinical settings. Specific topics may include quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis, research ethics, measurement theories, and theory development.
Can I earn my forensic nursing master’s degree completely online?
When you enroll in a master’s degree program in forensic nursing, you may be able to complete your coursework entirely or partially online, depending on your school. For example, some programs may allow students to complete most of their coursework online, but require campus work for certain classes. Whether you choose an entirely online or a hybrid program, you will be required to complete a clinical experience to get hands-on learning about the realities of forensic nursing.
What are the admissions requirements for an online forensic nursing program?
Individual forensic nursing programs have their own admissions requirements; however, generally programs expect their applicants to:
- Have an active nursing license and a certain amount of professional experience
- Earn a degree or diploma in nursing
- Have at least a 3.0 GPA
- Submit at least two recommendations
- Write a personal statement explaining why they want to be admitted to the program
- Provide proof of liability insurance coverage
In some cases, you may be asked to participate in an admissions interview with members of the nursing department. Also, international students may be required to demonstrate proficiency in English by earning a certain score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination.
How long will it take to finish an online MSN in forensic nursing?
Usually, if you enroll in an online forensic nursing MSN program full time, you can expect to complete it in about two years. If you enroll as a part-time student, you can generally complete the degree in about three years.
How much does an online forensic nursing master’s degree cost?
The cost of an online forensic nursing master’s degree program varies depending on whether or not a student enrolls in a public or private school, how long the program lasts, and how much financial aid is awarded. The following are examples of how much students are charged for tuition in specific nursing graduate programs.
MSN in Forensic Nursing with Certification in Investigative Forensics
Total Credits: 51
$885/credit
Financial Aid for Your Online Forensic Nursing Master’s Program
Before enrolling in a program, it’s important to know how you’re going to fund your advanced nursing degree. The following are examples of funding sources that may help you complete your advanced education.
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Scholarships and grants are available from various sources, including individual schools, organizations that support the nursing profession, and government agencies. These resources can be awarded based on merit or financial need. For more information on available options, read our scholarships guide.
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Student loans can help when additional funds are needed for educational expenses. Our student loan guide provides more details on applying for this funding and understanding repayment terms. Also, you can get information on the different types of student loans that may be provided by public or private lenders.
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There are additional ways to pay for education, depending on the school. For example, fellowships and graduate assistantships may be available, which pay for students’ tuition in exchange for completing departmental work, such as assisting with research projects.
Accreditation Standards for Online Nursing Forensics Programs
Online forensic nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These accrediting bodies are important because they vet programs for their quality so you can confidently enroll in nursing schools that develop skills employers need. Accredited programs ensure that you are well prepared to achieve your career goals.
Licensing and Professional Certifications for Forensic Nurses
After completing a master’s in forensic nursing, graduates are qualified to sit for the examinations to earn a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner – Adult/Adolescent (SANE-A®) or Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner – Pediatric/Adolescent (SANE-P®) credential.
Offered by the International Association of Forensic Nurses, these certifications ensure that forensic nurses meet the high standards needed to work successfully with crime victims while assisting law enforcement with criminal cases. To earn a certification, you must demonstrate knowledge on assessment, documentation, evidence collection, patient management, the judicial process, and professional practice standards.
Careers & Salary Outlook for Forensic Nurses
Forensic nursing offers a unique and rewarding career path for RNs, combining medical expertise with investigative skills to assist in legal cases. Nationally, forensic nurses earn a median salary of $86,070, with top professionals bringing in up to $132,680 annually. Entry-level salaries begin at $63,720, reflecting the specialized knowledge required for this role. With opportunities to work in hospitals, law enforcement, and legal systems, forensic nurses play a vital role in bridging healthcare and justice.
The demand for forensic nurses is part of the broader growth in nursing, with the U.S. adding 177,400 new RN positions by 2030—a 5.6% increase. States like California and Arizona lead in growth, with projected increases of 12.9% and 21.9%, respectively, offering abundant opportunities in regions prioritizing healthcare innovation and patient advocacy. Forensic nurses are particularly in demand where healthcare intersects with legal systems, ensuring steady career growth in this specialized field. Explore the data below to see where forensic nursing could take you.
| Area | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % | Avg. Ann. Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Alabama | 51,980 | 54,290 | 2,310 | 4.40% | 3,090 |
| Alaska | 6,130 | 6,800 | 670 | 10.90% | 420 |
| Arizona | 59,110 | 72,050 | 12,940 | 21.90% | 4,820 |
| Arkansas | 28,750 | 30,920 | 2,170 | 7.50% | 1,820 |
| California | 333,700 | 376,900 | 43,200 | 12.90% | 23,420 |
| Colorado | 53,720 | 63,290 | 9,570 | 17.80% | 4,100 |
| Connecticut | 35,420 | 38,310 | 2,890 | 8.20% | 2,270 |
| Delaware | 11,720 | 13,570 | 1,850 | 15.80% | 870 |
| District of Columbia | 11,110 | 11,750 | 640 | 5.80% | 680 |
| Florida | 202,780 | 228,070 | 25,290 | 12.50% | 14,110 |
| Georgia | 81,800 | 94,310 | 12,510 | 15.30% | 5,990 |
| Idaho | 15,480 | 18,580 | 3,100 | 20.00% | 1,230 |
| Illinois | 138,050 | 142,310 | 4,260 | 3.10% | 7,960 |
| Indiana | 67,390 | 71,020 | 3,630 | 5.40% | 4,090 |
| Iowa | 35,700 | 39,270 | 3,570 | 10.00% | 2,370 |
| Kansas | 32,310 | 33,910 | 1,600 | 5.00% | 1,940 |
| Kentucky | 47,300 | 50,400 | 3,100 | 6.60% | 2,940 |
| Louisiana | 43,740 | 47,040 | 3,300 | 7.50% | 2,770 |
| Maine | 14,840 | 15,040 | 200 | 1.30% | 820 |
| Maryland | 48,810 | 52,370 | 3,560 | 7.30% | 3,080 |
| Massachusetts | 30,060 | 32,600 | 2,540 | 8.40% | 1,940 |
| Michigan | 104,150 | 106,910 | 2,760 | 2.70% | 5,950 |
| Minnesota | 68,040 | 71,630 | 3,590 | 5.30% | 4,120 |
| Mississippi | 29,980 | 31,910 | 1,930 | 6.40% | 1,860 |
| Missouri | 76,960 | 84,580 | 7,620 | 9.90% | 5,110 |
| Montana | 10,360 | 11,890 | 1,530 | 14.80% | 750 |
| Nebraska | 22,900 | 24,670 | 1,770 | 7.70% | 1,460 |
| Nevada | 24,290 | 28,810 | 4,520 | 18.60% | 1,880 |
| New Hampshire | 13,690 | 14,600 | 910 | 6.60% | 850 |
| New Jersey | 81,520 | 86,640 | 5,120 | 6.30% | 5,030 |
| New Mexico | 19,020 | 21,940 | 2,920 | 15.40% | 1,390 |
| New York | 204,040 | 256,080 | 52,040 | 25.50% | 5,200 |
| North Carolina | 106,190 | 123,650 | 17,460 | 16.40% | 7,930 |
| North Dakota | 11,500 | 12,700 | 1,200 | 10.40% | 770 |
| Ohio | 131,390 | 135,860 | 4,470 | 3.40% | 7,630 |
| Oklahoma | 37,490 | 39,290 | 1,800 | 4.80% | 2,240 |
| Oregon | 42,720 | 47,680 | 4,960 | 11.60% | 2,930 |
| Pennsylvania | 148,790 | 155,810 | 7,020 | 4.70% | 8,890 |
| Rhode Island | 11,920 | 12,700 | 780 | 6.50% | 740 |
| South Carolina | 45,140 | 49,610 | 4,470 | 9.90% | 2,990 |
| South Dakota | 14,590 | 16,510 | 1,920 | 13.20% | 1,030 |
| Tennessee | 60,020 | 67,720 | 7,700 | 12.80% | 4,200 |
| Texas | 233,850 | 267,980 | 34,130 | 14.60% | 16,900 |
| Utah | 25,300 | 31,710 | 6,410 | 25.30% | 2,170 |
| Vermont | 7,030 | 7,650 | 620 | 8.80% | 460 |
| Virgin Islands | 600 | 490 | -110 | -18.30% | 20 |
| Virginia | 70,190 | 73,240 | 3,050 | 4.30% | 4,160 |
| Washington | 61,030 | 69,180 | 8,150 | 13.40% | 5,150 |
| West Virginia | 22,830 | 23,780 | 950 | 4.20% | 1,350 |
| Wisconsin | 62,260 | 65,570 | 3,310 | 5.30% | 3,770 |
| Wyoming | 5,130 | 5,740 | 610 | 11.90% | 350 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $63,720 | $86,070 | $132,680 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Continuing Education & Related Degrees
For many professionals, earning a master’s degree in nursing is just another stop along their career path. You may aspire to continue education by earning a higher-level degree or an advanced degree in a similar area of the field. The following options might interest you to explore.
Doctorate Nursing Degree Options
- Online Doctor of Nursing Practice
An online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is for those who want to work in a specific area of advanced nursing, such as psychiatric, family, and pediatric nursing. Also, this degree can be used to move into leadership nursing positions. - Online Ph.D. in Nursing
If you want to become an educator for the next generation of professionals, you can get the necessary training through an online PhD in Nursing degree program. In addition, this degree is useful for those wanting to conduct research in nursing practice topics.
Similar Advanced Nursing Degrees Worth Considering
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Programs
If interested in working with patients who have mental health challenges, consider enrolling in an online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner degree program. The training that these programs provide prepares you to work in specialties like addiction, geriatric, and psychosomatic medicine.
Resources for Forensic Nursing Students & Professionals
- Academy of Forensic Nursing
- American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants
- A National Protocol for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations
- Forensic Nursing Network, Inc.
- Guidelines for medico-legal care for victims of sexual violence
- International Association of Forensic Nurses
- Journal of Forensic Nursing®
- Legal Nurse Podcast
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center
