COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

VIC0001 Victimology: Theoretical Perspectives

The majority of Canadians experience criminal victimization at some point in their lifetime. The meaning of the term "victim" is explored through theoretical perspectives and case studies. Students conduct critical analysis and learn research methods in the field of victimology. Students are introduced to victim classifications, community victimization, the link between victimization and offending and violence prevention strategies. Special attention is also given to the examination of the development of victims' rights at the regional, national and international level.

VIC0002 Victims of Crime

It is essential for professionals in the field of victimology to ensure that victims of crime are not further traumatized by the very interventions designed to assist. Students examine the impact of various types of victimization including cyber-crime, homicide, sexual assault, elder abuse, drunk driving, assault, intimate partner violence, globalization, human trafficking and fraud. Students explore issues of grief, loss, trauma response and the costs associated with victimization. Case studies and role playing, assessment, advocacy and advanced communication skills are developed through discussion.

VIC0003 Victimization and the Law

Being a victim of crime thrusts a person into a number of legal systems. Students critically examine legal systems from a victim's perspective. Particular focus is placed on the criminal and family law systems and how they intersect. Relevant legislation, as well as recommendations from inquests and inquiries are examined. Restorative justice and victims' rights are explored.

VIC0004 Violence Against Women

Students learn theory and practical skills essential to assist women who are victims of violence. Students examine historical and social perspectives of violence against women; issues of power and authority within a feminist theoretical framework; different forms of violence against women, such as sexual violence and femicide; and women's varied experiences of violence (as impacted by race, class, sexual orientation, ability and age). Through a combination of case studies, literature and media analysis, group activities and discussion, practical demonstrations, role plays, and community research, students learn how to support women who are victims of violence, to assess women for risk of violence, to recommend personal safety plans, and to best advocate for appropriate and needed services.

VIC0005 Indigenous Peoples: Understanding and Reducing Victimization

Indigenous Peoples are over-represented both as victims and offenders. Students explore the impact of the residential schools, effects of colonialism on traditional values and culture, as well as structural victimization. Students critically examine and assess Canada's principal approaches to addressing victimization and offending by and against Indigenous Peoples. Through discussion and experiential learning from an Indigenous perspective, students gain insight and understanding of Indigenous teachings, Indigenous worldview, culturally relevant healing, crime prevention and restorative justice.

VIC0006 Victims and the Media

Crime is frequently reported and sensationalized in the media. Students are sensitized to the impact of the media on victims of crime. Through a review of current events, students evaluate the role of the media in the lives of victims, paying particular attention to privacy issues. Students develop media research, communication and public relations skills to effectively advocate for victims' issues in the media.

VIC0007 Men and Victimization

Men who experience victimization often encounter barriers to seeking help. Students explore masculinities theory, stigma, help-seeking behaviours, and male-centred treatment approaches. Special attention is paid to men's experiences of sexual violence, partner violence, institutional violence, and war-related trauma. Through case studies, in-class activities, and research, students will consider how society can better prevent and respond to male victimization.

VIC2000 Professional Development and Self Care

Working with victims of crime is a demanding profession. Students learn the principles of debriefing, self-care and stress management in preparation for field placement. Seminars involve the discussion of issues relating to the placement environment and analysis of on-the-job situations. Students are able to understand their personal strengths and limitations and to develop and critique personal strategies for managing occupational stress. Special attention is given to working within professional guidelines and the creation of individual plans for professional development. Through examination of Victim Service Standards students develop knowledge of ethical codes, confidentiality and ongoing education that guide professional practice in victim services. Students complete field placement documentation and consultations with their field placement supervisor.

VIC2001 Childhood Victimization

Childhood victimization can have long-term negative impacts and shape the way a person views the world and those surrounding them. Students examine short- and long-term effects of childhood victimization and gender-related issues. Common myths are explored regarding children's symptoms and the effects of childhood victimization. Students gain an understanding of criminal and child welfare investigations, as well as relevant legislation and professional requirements related to reporting and documentation. Child development (ages, stages, capacities) and parental/guardian considerations are explored. Students develop the interpersonal skills necessary to listen to and to interview children and their families. Emphasis is placed on appropriate victim support and prevention of recurrence.

VIC2002 Diversity and Victim Assistance

Students develop the knowledge and skills required to provide culturally competent services to victims. Students explore the dynamics of difference from a personal and professional perspective. Emphasis is given to marginalized and minoritized populations. Through critical analysis and examination of core concepts (identity, equity, anti-oppression, reflective practice and cultural competency), students learn how to work with all populations requiring victim services while applying an anti-oppression framework.

VIC2004 Victimology: Assessment and Intervention

Victim assistance workers must be able to plan and implement skills and techniques aimed at the prevention of crime and healing of victims. Students are introduced to the theoretical basis and practice of victim service interventions. Students learn to conduct threat assessments, triage, facilitation, mediation, and negotiation. Special emphasis is placed on recognizing and addressing the acute needs of victims in crisis and delivering interventions from a client-centred perspective.

VIC2005 Victim Assistance Services

Victim service professionals are required to collaborate with service agencies to plan, deliver and evaluate victim service programs and initiatives. Students research and identify the vast array of community, provincial and national services, including financial remedies, counselling, mental health, medical and addiction services. Students learn to facilitate interagency communication and multidisciplinary case management. Through case studies, students identify and assess the needs of victims, identify the most appropriate referrals, and present strategies and approaches that can be used to advocate for victims within and between various systems.

VIC2006 Field Placement

In collaboration with faculty and agency personnel, students work in an agency providing victim-centred services, research, or advocacy. This field placement experience provides students with the opportunity to integrate theory with practice and to contribute to victim service initiatives within a community setting. Those already working with an approved victim services agency may opt, in consultation with their supervisor, to conduct a research project within their agency. Students reflect on their learning through seminars, discussions and journals.

Pre-requisites: VIC0001 and VIC0002 and VIC0003 and VIC0004 and VIC0005 and VIC0006 and VIC0007