The Forensic Nursing (FN) program at OU is the first and only program of its kind in Michigan, and one of only a handful in the nation with two program options, the Master of Science in Nursing - Forensic Nursing and a Graduate Certificate-Forensic Nursing.

The FN program prepares graduates for professional practice in the role of the forensic nurse through the application of knowledge and principles foundational to nursing science and forensic science. Curriculum emphasizes interprofessional education related to the diverse roles and responsibilities of the forensic nurse as an independent practitioner and collaborator within the multidisciplinary forensic team while providing specialized care and services to individuals, families, communities, populations, and systems that have experienced violence, trauma, or maltreatment.

To be considered for graduate admission, applicants must submit the Nursing CAS Graduate Application (nursingcas.org) and additional department requirements by the published application deadlines:

1. Applicants for admission to the Master of Science in Forensic Nursing and Graduate Certificate in Forensic Nursing program must have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with an overall undergraduate cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above from an institution accredited by the National League for Nursing or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
2. Proof of a current unrestricted Registered Nurse license in the United States or its territories.
3. A CV or resume demonstrating a minimum of one year of clinical experience as an R.N. (at the start of the program) is required during which time the applicant must have functioned as an independent decision maker and demonstrated advanced psychomotor skills.
4. Two (2) Recommendation for Graduate Admission Forms must be completed by healthcare professionals in forensic nursing, leadership, administration/management, or education and are able to attest to the applicant's nursing skills and/or abilities. One reference must be from a colleague who is familiar with the applicant's work.
5. Professional statement of 500 to 1,000 words. The professional statement should focus on the applicant's reason for seeking formal forensic nursing education, how recent clinical experience has prepared him/her for forensic nursing practice, career goals after program completion, as well as plans for professional development in the specialty of forensic nursing. The professional statement will be evaluated on content and appropriate use of grammar, style, spelling and rhetoric.
6. Qualified applicants may be selected for an individual interview with a School of Nursing faculty. The interview will be scheduled after all application materials have been submitted.

To apply, go to nursingcas.org.