Program Overview
The Victim Advocacy Certificate of Proficiency is a post-baccalaureate program that equips students with specialized knowledge and skills to assist victims of crime. It combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for roles as victim advocates in various victim-serving agencies. The program includes required courses in criminal justice, victimology, and victim advocacy, as well as elective courses in related fields. Graduates are prepared for careers in victim services, including victim advocacy, crisis counseling, and social work.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Victim Advocacy Certificate of Proficiency (COP) is a post-baccalaureate program that provides specialized knowledge and skills related to assisting victims of crime. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications and prepares graduates for roles as victim advocates working with various victim-serving agencies.
Objectives:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and its impact on crime victims.
- Develop knowledge of the psychological, social, and legal issues faced by victims of crime.
- Enhance skills in providing crisis intervention, advocacy, and support to victims of crime.
- Foster collaboration and networking with professionals in the field of victim services.
Outline:
Required Program Courses (13 credit hours):
- CJ 1010 SS - Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
- CJ 2400 - Criminal Court Process (3 credits)
- CJ 3300 - Victimology (3 credits)
- CJ 2861 INT - Victim Advocacy Capstone (1-3 credits)
Elective Courses (6 credit hours):
Select six credit hours from the following:
- FAM 4400 - The Family in Stress (3 credits)
- CJ 1340 - Criminal Investigation (3 credits)
- CJ 2350 - Laws of Evidence (3 credits)
- COMM 2110 HU CEL - Interpersonal and Small Group Communication (3 credits)
- PSY 1010 SS - Introductory Psychology (3 credits)
- PSY 2020 - Mental Health Awareness (3 credits)
- PSY 3850 - Forensic Psychology (3 credits)
- SOC 1020 SS/EDI - Social Problems (3 credits)
- SOC 3000 - Self and Society (3 credits)
- SW 1010 SS CEL - Introduction to Generalist Social Work (3 credits)
- SW 2100 SS - Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (3 credits)
- SW 2200 SS/EDI - Issues in Diversity (3 credits)
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of methods, including:
- Exams and quizzes
- Written assignments
- Case studies
- Class participation
- Capstone project
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced faculty from the Department of Criminal Justice and allied disciplines, including psychology, social work, and communication. Teaching methods include lectures, discussions, practical exercises, case analyses, and guest lectures from practitioners in the field.
Careers:
Graduates of the Victim Advocacy COP are prepared for a wide range of careers in victim services, including:
- Victim advocate/specialist
- Crisis counselor
- Court advocate
- Case manager
- Social worker
- Law enforcement officer
- Probation/parole officer