Information for Students

The NYSVAA encourages applications from service providers and advocates from a broad range of allied professions, organizations and agencies dedicated to serving crime victims in all geographic areas of New York State.

The Basic Academy is designed for people who have either less than five years of experience in the field of crime victim advocacy or their current area of specialization. Providers with more than five years experience should explain their need in the application. The Advanced Institutes are open to providers with five years or more in the field or are in management positions.

Basic NYSVAA:  A Student Selection Committee reviews applications and selects up to 50 participants who demonstrate a commitment to serving crime victims. Those with less than five years of experience in their current area of specialization will be considered with preference. The academy will consider additional criteria in order to represent urban, suburban, and rural communities and the state’s wide range of racial, cultural, and professional groups.  If you are not selected you may ask to be put on a waiting list.

Costs:
The registration fee of $325 includes the 40-hour course, meals, lodging in residence halls for five nights, course materials, NYSVAA Textbook and Resource Manual, and access to campus facilities. You are responsible for your own travel costs and any incidentals you may wish to purchase. Some scholarships are available based on need. The fee is due upon notification of acceptance. You must notify us of your withdrawal 10 days in advance of the Academy if you want to request a refund, except in cases of emergency.

Schedule:
The Academy begins on Sunday and ends on the following Friday. Weekday classes start at 8:30 AM and end at 5:30 PM, with some evening sessions as well  You are encouraged to stay on campus to get the full benefits of the Academy experience.

Continuing Education, Undergraduate and Graduate Credit, and
Certifications available:
Certificates of Completion will be granted upon fulfillment of all requisite conditions, participation in all academy sessions, and completion of all coursework. Additional college credits may be available for additional fees. Courses may be eligible for Credentialed Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) credits, and may be counted toward Provisional Certification through the National Advocate Credentialing Program of the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA).  Specific information will be available upon application.