Short-term college certificate for DSPs
The Direct Support Professional certificate at Jamestown Community College prepares current DSPs to level up their skills in supporting people and their families navigate social and medical services, as well as their daily lives. At JCC, you'll build a strong foundation in human services, with courses focusing on giving effective and compassionate support, crisis intervention, and case management. As a part of the program, you’ll work with a DSP coach who will support you with coursework and obtaining national certification.
By completing JCC’s three DSP microcredentials, you will earn the Direct Support Professional certificate and qualify for certification through the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).
Eligibility requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Currently employed as a Direct Support Professional with at least six months experience
Where to study at JCC
This program is registered for the Jamestown Campus and Cattaraugus County Campus, and online for working DSPs. Course availability may vary by semester, and some courses may be offered online or at a single campus location. Consult the course schedule for current offerings.
Program pathway
Earn this certificate as a part of:
This program includes courses that may qualify for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL).
Courses
Direct support professional skills
After you complete the program, you will be able to:
- Develop the skills necessary to become a Direct Support Professional.
- Demonstrate understanding of the ethics of the profession.
- Demonstrate understanding of how the principles of rights, access, equity, and autonomy apply to social justice action, past, current, or future.