Online Victim Advocate Classes, Courses and Training Programs

Online victim advocate classes provide the skills and training needed for professionals who work with crime victims. Most students who complete class work receive a victim advocacy certificate. Online classes can be found within many criminal justice and social work bachelor's and master's degree programs, as well as in some paralegal training programs.

Overview of Online Victim Advocate Courses and Training Programs

Students may earn a Certificate of Completion in Victim Advocacy by taking online classes as part of a bachelor's or master's degree program in legal studies, criminal justice or social work. The program objective includes helping victims deal with the devastating effects that crime has on the lives of individuals and families impacted by it by understanding the various issues involved. In addition, students learn how to provide assistance to victims during and after times of crisis resulting from criminal activity. Graduates work as victim advocates in various settings, including domestic violence shelters, crisis centers and with state and county offices that assist victims. Other career options include careers as probation, parole or peace officers and social workers.

Course Requirements

Online classes and training programs require basic Web page navigation skills and access to a computer with Internet connection. Students should have a general knowledge of creating and attaching files and using chat forums, message boards and e-mail. School websites list information regarding additional technology requirements.

List of Online Victim Advocate Courses

Most online victim advocate training programs focus on the same material and present it as a single course. Students can expect to complete training in about seven weeks.

Victim Advocacy Course

The class provides students with a basic introduction of victim advocacy and victims' rights legislation. Students learn how the legal process works. The course also includes training for community and grief counseling and crisis intervention. Graduates understand the steps to helping victims receive temporary restraining orders and find employment. Specific topics covered in most classes include:

• Legal terminology and process
• Guardianships
• Domestic violence
• Rape
• Suicide
• Child abuse
• Sexual assault
• Homicide and murder
• Battery and robbery
• Venue and jurisdiction