Forensic Nursing Schooling

Hello,

I had a few questions regarding forensic nursing and being certified by IAFN or receiving a certification from a school. I recently graduated with my RN BSN and have always had an interest in forensics. I am looking into the University of Riverside-Extension forensic nursing certification program as it appears that this program really prepares you for this field.

For those that are enrolled or have graduated from the UCR program, are you able to practice forensics once completing the program or do you still need to be certified by IAFN? Also, are you able to take 2 classes at once with the UCR program? Do you have to set up your own forensic clinical hours with the UCR program?

I guess I am having difficulty deciding on either being certified by IAFN or receiving a certificate from a forensic program? Is one beneficial over the other?

I know Penn State offers an online forensic program, but I am not sure if they offer a SANE certification.

Any help or information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, SoonSurgery