— Adam S.I had a great experience with CLS. Well-organized content, accessible instructors, engaging coursework. Overall a great experience.
Victim Advocacy Certificate Course
Starting at:
$995
Get started in a rewarding career providing invaluable legal services
Flexible 100% online class
24/7 course accessibility
Complete in just 7 weeks
Text Only format available through select partners
More InformationInformation webinar video recording
Learn more about this course!
About this course
This intensive program is designed to train and qualify students to provide assistance to crime victims. The course provides an overview of criminal procedure and discusses the devastating effects crime can have on its victims.
Course topics include legal terminology, legal process, legislation regarding victims’ rights, jurisdiction and venue, ethics, effects of victimization on the victim, victim advocate skills, guardianships and crisis intervention. It also covers counseling skills for victims of assault, battery, robbery, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, murder and homicide.
The Victim Advocacy Certificate Course meets the training needs of busy professionals who are interested in assisting crime victims in progressing through the criminal justice system and toward successful recovery.
View our recorded webinar
Learn about the coursework, learning outcomes and answers to frequently asked questions
Victim Advocacy Certificate Course webinar — This session was recorded on November 18, 2020 and mentions a January 11 start date. Our courses are open enrollment and start every 8 weeks.
Class format
Find the right option for you
For over 40 years, CLS has provided students with flexible and effective legal education through a variety of formats catered to a busy life. All formats are designed and updated to remain on pace with the current industry, and are taught by working professionals. Whether you prefer to learn 100% online around your schedule or at your own pace via our text-only format, we have an option for you.
No matter which option you choose, the Victim Advocacy Certificate Course offers you a high-quality education by providing the fundamental skills you will need to succeed as a Victim Advocate.
CLS by BARBRI features in an online format the Victim Advocacy Certificate Course that has been offered for over 15 years at colleges and universities throughout the nation. This course is available via computer to students who desire a flexible study schedule that retains weekly deadlines.
- View the Course Syllabus
- Review the material as many times as necessary for full retention of the information.
- Benefit from interaction with the instructor and other students by way of email and a discussion board.
- Complete the online course in 7 weeks.
- Email assignments and exams on the course web site.
- Once registered, your password and access information will be sent in time for the start of class.
Highly Recommended Legal Resource:
- WESTLAW legal research access. Please call 1-800-522-7737 for more information. Order online
CLS by BARBRI features in a text-only format the Victim Advocacy Certificate Course that has been offered for over 15 years at colleges and universities throughout the nation. This course is available to students who desire a flexible study schedule that retains weekly deadlines.
- View the Course Syllabus
- Review the material as many times as necessary for full retention of the information.
- Student mails or emails assignments and take-home exams.
- Questions can be directed to the instructor via a toll-free number or by mail or email.
- Student may start the course at anytime and has a maximum of six months to complete the Victim Advocacy Certificate Course.
Highly Recommended Legal Resource:
- WESTLAW legal research access. Please call 1-800-522-7737 for more information. Order online
Course details
Learning outcomes
Participants will be prepared to work in victim advocacy arenas, such as domestic violence shelters, crisis centers and crisis hotlines, and with state and county governments to assist crime victims in progressing through the criminal justice system and toward successful recovery.
Upon graduation from the course, you will be eligible for the Provisional Credential through the National Advocacy Credentialing Program (NACP) in affiliation with the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA). Your prior experience in the field may also qualify you for the Basic, Intermediate or Advanced Credential through the NACP.
Career outlook
Our nation’s state courts see more than 100 million cases of victimization each year, and crime can have a devastating impact on those involved. Victim advocates provide invaluable legal services, including advocating for victims’ rights and guardianship, reviewing related legislation, crisis intervention, and counseling victims of assault, battery, robbery, domestic violence, child abuse and other crimes. Instruction from CLS relates to a broad range of topics, including those areas of law in which victim advocates are most in demand. A career as a Victim Advocate could offer you an opportunity to work in a variety of places, such as domestic violence shelters, crisis centers and hotlines, or government agencies. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a High School Diploma or GED to take CLS courses?
CLS courses are designed for adult students and are taught on a college level. Minimum requirements to take any of our courses are a high school diploma or GED, and to be 18 years of age prior to enrollment.
Can I get financial aid?
Traditional financial aid (Pell grants, Stafford Loans, etc.) usually do not apply to these courses due to their continuing education status. Please view our Payment Options information to explore possible options.
Request more information
Are you interested in learning more about the Victim Advocacy Certificate Course? Complete this contact form to receive emails and text messages from CLS. You’ll also be able to set up a personalized consultation with one of our Enrollment Counselors, who can answer all of your questions and recommend the best course for you.
You’ll receive updates on:
- How CLS courses work
- Victim Advocate career growth and outlook
- Course pricing, payment options and promotions
- Exclusive webinars, events and more!
Watch our recent informational webinar video recording
What you’ll learn:
- How the online course works
- Instructor and peer/student interactions
- Career growth and earning potential
- Our accredited college and university partners
- Course pricing and payment options
- Required materials and textbooks
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