Direct Support Professional - Level I Prep

What you'll learn

Become a nationally certified direct support professional (DSP) with this grant-funded DSP I microcredential! This is the first in a two-microcredential series. DSPs help people with developmental and physical disabilities live full lives and engage in their communities. You will gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to advocate for and with the individuals you support in a profession centered on the principles of access, equity, and autonomy. Open to current professionals in the field. There is limited time grant funding from the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) to cover all tuition, fees, books, course materials, national certification by the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals and educational supports. In addition, the program will offer a $750 incentive to eligible students who complete each microcredential and earn certification. Successful completion of this microcredential prepares all for further study and readies existing DSPs for advancement.

An online microcredential from Finger Lakes Community College (8 credits). Registration is completed with Finger Lakes Community College. Eligible for financial aid.

Who can enroll

Ages 18 and up.

Upcoming sections

What you can earn

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.