Rape Aggression Defense Training
Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training is a comprehensive course for women (assigned, identifying, and transgender) that teaches awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and risk avoidance, progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training. Taught at more than 1,000 colleges and universities across the United States, RAD is the only program endorsed by the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA).
VCU Police conducts Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) classes each semester. This class teaches participants physical self-defense techniques and raises awareness about sexual assault, violence, and abduction. The class is for women (assigned, identifying, and transgender) and is free to students. The cost is $10 for faculty, staff and visitors.
While RAD for women is designed for women, VCU Police offers programs, activities and services to all students, faculty, and staff. Any person interested in participating in a program or wanting more information should email Will Chapman at chapmanwj@vcu.edu.
The RAD Class
The Basic Self-Defense for Women program is a 9-hour course. Participants spend the first three hours in the classroom for open discussion and lecture on risk awareness, reduction, recognition and avoidance. The next six hours demonstrate physical techniques. The final three hours of RAD feature (optional) simulation, in which a certified RAD “aggressor” acts out real-life scenarios, and participants defend themselves using the techniques learned in class. Attendance for the entire course is required to participate.
RAD at VCU
The Basic Self-Defense for Women program is a nine-hour course. Available dates for Spring semester 2025 are as follows:
- February 8, 8am - 5pm
- March 22, 8 am - 5pm
- April 5, 8am - 5pm
Participants spend the first three hours in the classroom having an open discussion and a lecture on risk awareness, reduction, recognition, and avoidance. The following six hours demonstrate physical techniques.
On April 6th, there will be an optional simulation class. In this class, a certified RAD “aggressor” will act out real-life scenarios. During this simulation, participants defend themselves using the techniques learned in class.
Questions?
Email Will Chapman at chapmanwj@vcu.edu.