Victim Advocacy Certificate

The Blue Ridge Community and Technical College Certificate in Victim Advocacy prepares graduates to be strong victim advocates in their communities. This includes a partnership effort with the National Advocate Credentialing Program (NACP). Those who complete the required coursework en route to earning the certificate, are authorized to use the C.A. credential after their name upon completion of the application with NACP.

Program Overview
The Victim Advocacy Certificate prepares learners to be active advocates in the field, offering the opportunity for learners to build skills in case management, investigation, trauma-informed approaches, and standards for professionalizing the field of victim advocacy. It also teaches essential skills for those working closely in fields involving gathering evidence from possible victims or witnesses of crime, particularly children. Topics covered include proper documentation, remote observations, rapport building, use of objectivity, and scientific methodology of interviewing models.

Program Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
•    Examine the emotional and social competencies essential for criminal justice professionals to do their jobs effectively
•    Show understanding and respect for a culturally diverse environment
•    Demonstrate ability to conduct a forensic interview using appropriate techniques
•    Demonstrate the foundational skills necessary to become a credentialed advocate