Xavier University has launched a dual-degree program it says is the first of its kind in the nation. The program will award two separate degrees -- a master of science in nursing (with a forensic concentration) and a master of science in criminal justice. It's an integrated program consisting of 46 semester credit hours, preparing graduates for non-traditional roles within the criminal justice system, including bioterrorism and disaster planning, the university says.
Xavier says it started the program in the hopes that the dual studies will help prepare students for leadership roles in organizations such as the American Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency and other disaster-relief agencies. “Police and nursing have more in common – as service industries, as helping professions, as first responders and as crisis managers – than many realize,” said Kam Wong, chair of Xavier’s Department of Criminal Justice. "In order for these groups to work together better, they must start to learn from each other.”
Writer: David Holthaus
Source: Laurel Bauer, Xavier
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