We provide several instructional self-defense programs that inform and coach members of the WashU community on effective techniques to avoid and deter instances of sexual assault.
For more information about our self-defense programs, contact Officer James Grandstaff at jamesg@wustl.edu.
R.A.D. Program—Rape Aggression Defense for Women and Men
Rape Aggression Defense Systems is a premier self-defense program taught in over 40 states and Canada.
The R.A.D. System is comprised of easy-to-learn, effective physical defense techniques. This dynamic, hands-on, 12-hour program begins with awareness, risk reduction, avoidance and prevention. Certified instructors teach basic techniques.
The class and materials are free, and there is a free lifetime return and practice policy. Classes are limited to 20 women or 20 men and consist of four three-hour sessions. You must attend all sessions to complete the course. Modest dress is required. Shoes must have good support for lateral movement.
In Defense of SELF
The Washington University Police Department developed this one-hour program for faculty, staff, students and family members. The program teaches easy-to-use strategies that anyone can employ for protection in the event of an attack.
This course is not a “hands-on” self-defense course but is intended to teach participants to recognize dangerous or hazardous situations, raise personal awareness and provide options for situations in which they must defend themselves.
In Defense of SELF instructors are all certified police officers and certified self-defense instructors through the Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) System.
Programs can be tailored to specific groups (sororities, fraternities, residence halls, departments, etc.) or specific concerns (dating violence, stalking, club drugs, how predators target victims, etc.)​.