Local agencies are seeing a high need for direct support positions, especially those in the category of Developmental Disabilities. In addition to working with individuals with developmental disabilities, direct support professionals may work in child care centers, day treatment programs for persons with mental illness, residential treatment facilities, eldercare and respite programs, foster care agencies, jails and alternative correction programs, short‐ and long‐term rehabilitation centers, crisis centers, day habilitation programs, assisted living/skilled nursing facilities, sheltered workshops, and other human service settings. The Direct Support Professional micro-credentials provide training to increase the potential for advancement within these organizations. The curriculum presented in this micro-credential aligns with the national certification offered to Direct Support Professionals through The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).
This micro-credential provides the student the opportunity to apply for Level One certification. Fifteen (15) competency areas have been approved by the NADSP Board of Directors. These competency areas allow direct support professionals to meet the industry demand for quality care of the populations they serve. Additionally, each competency area outlines specific observable skills that should be demonstrated by the direct support professional. For a level 1 certification, 50 educational hours in the following competency areas are required: Ethics, Crisis Prevention and Intervention, Safety, Person-Centered practice, and Health and Wellness.
Stackable to Degree Program
These micro-credentials align with requirements for the Human Services AS should students choose to continue their education after obtaining micro-credentials.
Direct Support Professional Level I (micro-credential) → Direct Support Professional Level II → Human Services, AS → Human Services/Social Work BA/BS (transfer college).
This micro-credential is 12 credits.