The course format includes lectures and discussions, experiential exercises, working group assignments, interactive on-line computer experience, and self examinations. Currently, a total of 36 topics are taught during the six-day course. The course material is presented in sequence, building a foundation of legal theory and victimology. It includes coverage of the operation of federal and state criminal and civil justice systems and victims' rights, as well as foundations in current research and statistics. Selected specific victim topics are presented in lecture and discussion format.
Interactive exercises facilitate application of knowledge in practice.
Advanced topics are presented as electives. The comprehensive Academy Text was first developed in 1995 and was revised and updated for the 1996 Academy, with new chapters added. Eighteen authors contributed to its original development, which covered 32 different subject areas and serves as the basis for the current course curriculum. In 1997, an Academy Text Supplement was developed, consisting of updates to most chapters, including relevant statutory and legislative material. Another chapter, International Issues in Victim Assistance, was added with the 1997-98 Academy Text Supplement, which again updated virtually all text chapters.