Foundations in Victim Services

Professional Development Hours: 33

The course Foundations in Victim Services is a foundation level professional education program that provides exposure to a broad spectrum of topics that are necessary to form the core of basic education in victims' rights and services. The program draws from the resources of the National Victim Assistance Academy text, New Directions in the Field: Victims' Rights and Services for the 21st Century, and other materials. While these national materials serve as the basis for the program, application of the content to the jurisdiction (region, state, tribal area, etc) emphasized. This is done through applied instruction and the development of supplemental materials unique to that jurisdiction. Supplemental materials may include cultural dynamics, legislation, as well as programs and policies specific to the jurisdiction. Development of these materials occur through a partnership between the JCVVS and the contracting jurisdiction.

This intensive, five-day educational program addresses over thirty different areas, either as core topics or electives presented within the general categories of:

• Foundations in Victimology and Victims' Rights
• Overview of Justice Systems and Emerging Issues
• Physiological and Psychological Impact of Crime
• The Prism of Victimization: Age, Culture, Ability, Location
• Types of Crime Victimization
• Financial Remedies: Compensation, Restitution and Civil Remedies
• Collaboration and Professionalization

Professional Certificate

Participants are eligible for a Professional Certificate in Victim Assistance - Foundation Level issued by the Joint Center on Violence and Victim Studies.

Requirements for the professional certificate

• attendance
• successful completion of a comprehensive examination
• participation in group project

Check the course schedule for available courses.