Direct Support Professional I

What you'll learn

Advocate for and with people with developmental disabilities through this Direct Support Professional (DSP) I microcredential. This microcredential, the first in a series of three, is designed to help elevate the DSP profession and provides the skills and strategies necessary to earn national certification from the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Through a partnership with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), students may be eligible for a limited time grant that pays for all tuition and fees and books. Thanks to a partnership with OPWDD, limited time grant funding is available to pay for your tuition, fees, books, course materials, NADSP credentialing, and educational support. Eligible students who complete each microcredential and certification can earn $750 stipends. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for continued study and prepares current DSPs for advancement.

An online microcredential from Orange County Community College (90 instruction hours). Registration is completed with Orange County Community College. Eligible for financial aid.

Who can enroll

Ages 18 and up.

Upcoming sections

What you can earn

Pathway to Credit

This Orange County Community College course can count toward credit at the SUNY campuses below. Each campus decides how the credit applies; confirm with its admissions or registrar office.

Skills covered

Career outlook

Related occupations: Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, Patient Care Technician

Healthcare support jobs in New York are projected to grow faster than average through 2032.

Funding opportunities

You may be able to pay for this course with the funding below. Each program decides who qualifies.