SugaRN

I think the debate between BSN and ADN is really a moot point in Texas but thats just here. I know NYC stopped hiring LVN's in many hospitals a looooong time ago and now Texas is following suit as are many other hospitals in other states. It looks better to governing organizations to have a better educated staff even if that education is on paper and not in the trenches. (retention issues to keep experienced staff is a whole 'nother thread!). With the issues of managed care making healthcare organizations more and more competitive and customer service oriented, whats on paper is really what matters to those doing the hiring. I only know of one hospital system in Dallas that still employs LVN's and I wouldnt be surprised if the trend eventually excluded ADN prepped nurses as well. I think thats a sad trend because many of the most knowledgable nurses I know have ADN's but just as in any other field, you have to get the paper employers want to get the jobs they offer.

LOL, I wasn't offended at all SirI, thanks for the info again. That actually does help alot with my decision.

I didnt mean to imply that the education would be wasted. I meant that if I plan to pursue a Master's degree in forensics is there really any point to completing a certificate program first? In some instances a 'mini-education" such as that received from some cert. programs is all that is really needed for an active role in a given career choice as more hands on experience is most valuable and desireable to those looking to hire. But in some fields, an advanced degree is more desirable...the piece of paper is more important and its not necessarily the quality of the education or the experience the individual has. I hope that makes sense. My point is that for right now, would I be able to truly pursue a career in forensic nursing with completion of the Kaplan program (and taking the CFN exam) or will it just make me a better trauma nurse? (thats a BIG plus for me by the way, but I dont want to stop there!)

Thanks for the welcome and the information. I did come across some of the UCR program in my searching but I didn't find the Fitch program. I will look into that one. Has anyone here completed either one? Would there be any benefit in doing the Kaplan cert. program first and then pursuing the Master's program or would that be a waste of money? Shoot, is the masters degree itself a waste of money (you know sometimes a degree really is JUST a piece of paper lol)?

Hey fellow RNs!! I have been looking into education as a forensic nurse and am absolutely stumped at the lack of available programs! I have done the Kaplan interview and am considering it (I read the Kaplan thread on here, thanks!) but I am more interested in pursuing a Master's degree in the field. I thought UTArlington had a program but I can't find ANYTHING on it, and they have yet to return my phone calls. I saw someone else make a post about UTAustin having a program, but again no luck searching for it online. So, I have kind of hit a dead end. I will most likely do the Kaplan program but I want more than that. Anyone know of any schools offering the online Master's program or of a program in/near Dallas, TX? Thanks for your help in advance.