Certificate in Victim Advocacy

Certificate

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University is designed to prepare students for roles in supporting and advocating for victims of crime. This emerging field within criminal justice focuses on providing the skills and knowledge needed to understand and assist victims through various stages of the criminal justice process. The certificate combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Students enrolled in this certificate will gain insights into victimization's psychological, social, and legal aspects. The certificate offers flexibility to accommodate diverse student needs through online and on-campus courses. It’s ideal for those looking to enhance their current qualifications or seeking to enter the field of victim advocacy with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of supporting victims.

Why pursue a Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University offers specialized knowledge and practical skills for those pursuing a career in victim advocacy. This certificate enhances your major by equipping you with the skills needed to support and advocate for victims effectively. FHSU offers both online and on-campus courses, making it flexible and accessible to accommodate different learning styles and schedules.

Moreover, the curriculum is led by experienced faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. Their insights and professional connections provide students with a rich educational experience beyond textbooks. This practical focus ensures that students are knowledgeable and capable of applying their skills in real-world settings, making a tangible difference in the lives of crime victims.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University is designed for individuals passionate about supporting crime victims and making a meaningful difference in their communities. This certificate is ideal for the following:

Current criminal justice professionals seeking to advance their knowledge of victimology and advocacy
Social workers looking to expand their expertise
Students pursuing degrees in related fields
Community activists and advocates
Those seeking career advancement in victim support roles
Law enforcement officers focusing on victim support

Learning Outcomes

Our Certificate in Victim Advocacy is designed to enhance and complement your major by providing specialized skills and knowledge for supporting and advocating for crime victims. This certificate emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, preparing students earning the certificate to make a significant impact in their field.

Evaluate Victims' Rights and Needs

Students will learn to critically assess crime victims' legal and emotional needs. This includes understanding the various rights afforded to victims within the criminal justice system and how to advocate for these rights effectively. Students can provide comprehensive support, ensuring victims' needs are met with sensitivity and professionalism.

Develop Support Strategies

Students will be trained to create effective support strategies tailored to each victim's unique circumstances. This involves developing crisis intervention plans, coordinating with legal and social services, and providing ongoing emotional support. Devising and implementing these strategies is crucial for successful victim advocacy.

Apply Crisis Intervention Techniques

The certificate emphasizes the importance of immediate and effective crisis intervention. Students will gain practical skills in managing crises and supporting victims immediately after a crime. This includes techniques for calming and reassuring victims, assessing their needs, and connecting them with necessary resources.

Integrate Interdisciplinary Knowledge

The curriculum integrates criminal justice, psychology, and social work knowledge to provide a holistic approach to victim advocacy. This interdisciplinary perspective ensures that students understand the multifaceted nature of victim support and can apply diverse strategies to address the complex needs of victims. Students will be well-equipped to collaborate with professionals from various fields to support victims comprehensively.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University prepares students for real-world applications by integrating practical experiences into the curriculum. Students will learn to navigate the complex legal and emotional landscapes crime victims face, gaining the skills necessary to provide adequate support. Courses cover essential topics such as crisis intervention, victims' rights, and the psychological impacts of victimization, all of which are crucial for real-world advocacy roles.

Hands-on projects and case studies simulate real-world scenarios, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a controlled environment. This experiential learning ensures that they are well-prepared to step into roles within law enforcement agencies, social services, non-profit organizations, and other settings where victim advocacy is essential. The practical skills acquired through the certificate enable students to make an immediate impact in their careers.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying ahead of the curve in victim advocacy means being attuned to the latest advancements and trends in the field, and the Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University ensures that students are well-prepared in this regard. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current research and best practices in victim support, including trauma-informed care and restorative justice practices. This ensures students learn the most effective methods for supporting victims in today's ever-evolving landscape.

Furthermore, the certificate emphasizes integrating contemporary issues and innovative approaches into the coursework. Students are introduced to cutting-edge practices and are encouraged to think critically about how these can be applied in real-world settings. Keeping the curriculum aligned with the latest developments in the field ensures that students are prepared for current challenges and equipped to adapt to future trends in victim advocacy.

Practical Activities

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy at Fort Hays State University emphasizes practical experience alongside theoretical learning. Students engage in activities that enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for effective advocacy.

Additionally, the certificate may offer internship opportunities with local organizations, providing students with real-world experience, professional insights, and opportunities to build valuable connections.

What You’ll Learn:

Understand victims' rights and needs
Develop support strategies for victims
Gain knowledge of the criminal justice process
Learn about crisis intervention techniques
Explore the psychological impacts of victimization

How You’ll Learn:

Online and on-campus coursework
Practical applications and case studies
Interdisciplinary approach
Engaging with experienced faculty
Interactive projects and assignments

Courses

The core curriculum of the Certificate in Victim Advocacy consists of 12 credit hours designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of victim advocacy. Courses cover key areas such as victims' rights, crisis intervention, and the psychological impacts of crime. Each course is structured to blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Major topics include the criminal justice system's approach to victims, the development of effective support strategies, and the legal frameworks that protect victims' rights. This curriculum is crafted to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively support and advocate for crime victims. The diverse course offerings ensure that students are well-prepared for various roles in victim advocacy.

CRJ 327: Juvenile Justice

This course surveys theoretical and applied approaches to understanding delinquency and the juvenile justice system, including practical examination of law enforcement, court, and correctional methods for managing juveniles.

CRJ 365: Women and Crime

This course explores issues related to women as offenders, victims, and professionals working in the criminal justice system.

CRJ 367: Victim Advocacy

This course explores the intersection of the criminal justice system and victim services, integrating research, theory, and practical application to address and understand the needs of survivors.

Discover the full Certificate in Victim Advocacy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Victim Advocacy as part of their major will have access to a variety of career opportunities. The certificate equips students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in roles within the field of victim advocacy.

Victim Advocate

Victim advocates directly support individuals affected by crime. This role involves guiding victims through the legal process, providing emotional support, and connecting them with necessary resources. Victim advocates often work in police departments, courts, or non-profit organizations dedicated to victim support.

Crisis Intervention Specialist

Crisis intervention specialists provide immediate assistance to individuals in crisis. This includes offering emotional support, developing crisis intervention plans, and coordinating with other services to ensure comprehensive care. This role is crucial in helping victims navigate the aftermath of a crime and begin their recovery.

Social Worker

Students who earn the Certificate in Victim Advocacy alongside their B.A. or B.S. in Social Work can pursue careers as social workers, where they provide essential support to crime victims. This includes conducting assessments, counseling, and coordinating with other professionals to ensure victims receive the holistic care they need. Social workers play a crucial role in helping victims rebuild their lives and regain stability.

Law Enforcement Officer

With a specialization in victim advocacy, law enforcement officers can focus on supporting crime victims within police departments. These officers ensure that victims are treated with empathy and respect throughout the criminal justice process. They also advocate for victims' rights and connect them with appropriate services and resources.

Non-Profit Organization Advocate

Students may also work with non-profit organizations dedicated to victim support and advocacy. In this role, they help develop programs and policies that protect and empower victims. This can involve community outreach, policy development, and direct support services. Non-profit advocates work to create safer communities and improve the overall response to crime victims.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,369.52* (on-campus) or $3,087.96* (online)* per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that the Certificate in Victim Advocacy complements, providing further opportunities for specialization and career advancement:

FAQ

What are the career opportunities after completing the Certificate in Victim Advocacy?

Students who complete the Certificate in Victim Advocacy as part of their undergraduate program can pursue roles as victim advocates, crisis intervention specialists, social workers, law enforcement officers, and advocates for non-profit organizations. The certificate prepares students for various positions supporting and advocating for crime victims.

Can I complete the certificate online?

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy offers online and on-campus courses, providing flexibility to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences.

What kind of practical experience will I gain from this certificate?

The Certificate in Victim Advocacy includes potential internships with local organizations. These experiences help students apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

How long does it take to complete the Certificate in Victim Advocacy?

The certificate requires 12 credit hours to complete. The duration depends on the student's pace and course load each semester. Still, it can typically be completed within one year.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Criminal Justice Club:Open to students pursuing a major, minor, or certificate in Criminal Justice, or majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club engages students in career specific opportunities for service, networking, and social activities. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities varying by semester based on student interest.
Delta Tau Omega: As a member of the Criminal Justice Club, students can join the FHSU Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega, which allows members to participate in regional and national conferences. Attendance at these conferences includes competitions in written testing, mock crime scene, physical agility, scholarly research posters, the national research paper and scholarship competitions, and others. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in criminal justice coursework to be active in this organization.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club encourages research on topics that can improve the community. The club collaborates with the FHSU community and local Hays residents, hosts events for student engagement, and participates in community service projects. The mission is to deepen interest in sociology and its role in understanding society and improving the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Students majoring in sociology may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the sociology honorary society. The society promotes scholarship and fellowship for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Membership requirements include junior standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, with at least 12 hours of sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association exists to allow students to grow their leadership capacity through building relationships, developing skills, and challenging themselves to practice leadership. The association promotes opportunities for students to lead through various events and activities.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 32 to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to significant federal financial support, all trainings can be provided at little to no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely.

The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs.

The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities.

The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Victim Advocacy

Certificate

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