Overview
Learn to support patients when they need more than health care.
This microcredential consists of two online courses that, when taken together, provide a registered nurse with the education required to work as a Forensic Nurse Examiner and perform the role of a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE). These courses are recognized by all health authorities in BC.
The first course (FSCT 7810) provides the legal and medical context for the Forensic Nurse Examiner role.
The second course (FSCT 7840) provides forensic knowledge and skills for forensic health assessments and trauma informed care of victims of sexual violence. This course is taught by a leader in forensic nursing, and features guest lectures by several experts in the field, including a lawyer, nurse practitioner, psychologist, and other leading FNEs with specialized areas of expertise. It is approved by the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) as meeting the educational requirements to sit for the certification exam as a SANE-A.
Fast track to Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) training
Hospitals needing to train RNs as FNEs may request to enrol their nurses in just FSCT 7840. Upon request by a supervisor, the FSCT 7810 prerequisite will be waived.
“FSCT 7810 exceeded my expectations! It provided me with an excellent introduction and overview of Forensic Health Sciences. The coursework was intriguing and allowed me to demonstrate my newfound knowledge and some creativity, and dare I also say – it was fun! Colin was an amazing instructor, clearly knowledgeable, engaging and passionate about forensic health science. This course has definitely motivated me to take more courses in this area.”
Jaycee Arbour, Nurse Practitioner, Sherwood Park
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Entrance Requirements
Application processing
Ongoing throughout the year.
Recommended for success
- Registered Nurse or in final year of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program
- English proficiency
- Competency with computers and online learning
- An internet connection fast and reliable enough to participate in live seminars
International applicants
This program is not available to international students. View available programs
Apply to program
Formal application to the microcredential is not required. Upon successful completion of the courses, email the program contact with your full name, student number, and mailing address to be issued a microcredential.
Scheduled Intakes
Ongoing Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) intakes: January, April, and September.
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Costs & Supplies
A FNE scholarship for these courses is available through the British Columbia Women’s Institute. Find more information here!
Tuition fees
Please see the Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) Fees page for information on tuition fees and refunds.
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Courses
Class hours
Courses may be offered evenings and weekends. Asynchronous content will be posted online.
Program matrix
Check current availability of courses for this program.
Required courses: | Credits | ||
---|---|---|---|
FSCT 7810 | Introduction to Forensic Health Sciences | 3.0 | |
FSCT 7840 | Forensic Nurse Examiner Core Education: Theoretical Aspects | 3.0 | |
Total Credits: | 6.0 |
Check current availability of courses for this program.
Digital badge information
For information on how to obtain your course and/or microcredential digital badge, please review our Frequently Asked Questions page.Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
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Program Details
Program delivery
Online: This program is delivered fully online.
Program location
Courses are offered through online learning.
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Graduating & Jobs
RNs who earn this microcredential will be eligible to work in the role of a Forensic Nurse Examiner in BC, and can take their FNE skills to the next level through the Advanced Forensic Nurse Examiner Microcredential.

Learn why BCIT faculty Aimee Falkenberg became an advocate and changemaker for forensic nursing in Canada. Photo: Island Health
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Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.