Forensic Nursing at GMU?

Published

Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Has anyone out there done GMU's Forensic Nursing Certificate program? http://chhs.gmu.edu/nursing/grad-cert-forensic

It's all online, which is nice -- I'm in Virginia, but not close enough to the GMU campus that I'd want to drive there! :) I'm considering this after I finish my BSN in July. (Yes, I'm planning far ahead. :D)

Any experiences? Thanks! And I'm also considering the Kaplan program, but exploring all avenues.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Welcome to the Forensic Nursing forum, Lunah!!

That post-grad certificate program looks interesting.

Good luck with your decisions.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

I've been lurking here for the past week, checking out the stickies and whatnot. I'm seriously considering applying to the GMU program -- I've corresponded with the program head, and she said they're accepting applications now for a cohort to begin in fall 2010 (August). Gee, how convenient -- that's just about a month after I'll be done with my BSN. :D

I'd also like to get to a SANE-A class before that, though. But finding one in my area has been difficult, even using all the resources in the stickies. I've sent out a few emails this evening, and we'll see if any bear fruit.

Thanks, sirI!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Just a side note -- applicants must either have a BSN, or must be an RN with and ADN and a BS in another area. Just FYI, in case anyone is interested in GMU's program.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Mother Baby & pre-hospital EMS.

I have heard that in order to become a SANE-A, you must have at least 2 years of nursing experience. To do the certificate program at GMU, do you also need to have 2 years of nursing experience before applying? I have been working as an RN since August 2009. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

It doesn't sound like it -- I think you just need to have a BSN, or be an RN with an ADN and a BS in another discipline. I contacted the instructor, and she got back to me almost immediately. Very nice! They're taking applications now for a cohort to being in late August 2010 (fall semester). It's more expensive than the Kaplan program, but I'm wondering if it would be better because the credits might be more apt to transfer to a MSN program later down the road. I haven't verified that -- I'm just speculating. :)

The tuition is a bit steep for out-of-state people -- something around $900/credit. Ugh. It's $398 per credit hour for Virginia residents.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in EMS, ED, Trauma, CEN, CPEN, TCRN.

Well, rats ... I can't even actually apply until I have my BSN completed. Oh well! The instructor emailed me and said to go ahead and apply in June when I graduate, and that they will "expect me" unless told otherwise. So we'll see!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Well, you have something to look forward to next year, Lunah!!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion