Program Overview
The Developmental Disabilities Direct Support Certificate is designed to prepare students for rewarding careers assisting individuals with developmental disabilities. The program combines academic coursework with practical field placements at local agencies, equipping students with the necessary skills to support children and adults in various settings, including recreational, residential, vocational, and educational programs.Graduates of the DSC program are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in their communities by promoting independence and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Program Highlights
- Combines in-person and online coursework for flexibility.
- Hands-on experience through placements at local agencies.
- The 21 credits earned can be applied toward NSCC鈥檚 Developmental Disabilities Associate Degree or transferred to other institutions.
- The program is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services to provide education for employees at DDS-funded programs. Pay as little as $50 per 3 credit courses!
Program Details
Expand AllCollapse AllView and print the required courses for the Developmental Disabilities Direct Support Certificate.
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
The curriculum is structured to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Courses include:
- Introduction to Developmental Disabilities
- The Human Services Worker
- Helping Skills in Human Services
- Supervision and Leadership in Human Services
- Field Placement & Seminar 1 for Human Services Practitioner
For a full list of courses visit our.
Graduates of the Developmental Disabilities Direct Support Certificate program are prepared for entry-level positions in various human service settings such as community agencies, residential facilities, vocational programs, and educational settings. Potential roles include:
- Direct Support Professional
- Residential Support Staff
- Day Program Assistant
- Vocational Support Worker
- Educational Aide
Students interested in continuing their education can apply credits from this certificate toward NSCC鈥檚 Developmental Disabilities Associate Degree.
Additionally, NSCC maintains transfer agreements with various four-year institutions, expanding opportunities for students to pursue bachelor's degrees in their chosen fields. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors to explore transfer agreements and plan their academic pathways accordingly.
Developmental Disabilities Contributing Partners and Agencies
MA DDS Community Council Training and 7 Participating CC's offering DSC
Pat Cronin, Director Staff Development and Training, 9I果冻制作厂east Region-DDS
Erinn Gilmore, Program Coordinator - NSCC
Adjunct Faculty, Former NSCC Employees, NSCC Student Alumni
Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDS)
Participating Agency Representatives
Behavioral Health Providers
Bass River, INC
Bay Cove
Bridgewell
Catholic Charities
Communitas
CREST Educational Collaborative
Lahey Hospital
Local Public Schools
Local Hospital Partners
MA Hire
NuPath, Inc.
9I果冻制作厂east ARC
NEEDS Center
NRS 9I果冻制作厂east Residential Services
9I果冻制作厂shore Consortium
9I果冻制作厂 Suffolk Mental Health Association
Shore Educational Collaborative
Turning Point
TILL
Please note the data above reflects a degree in the listed program
Program Questions
developmentaldisabilities@northshore.edu
781-477-2215
Contact Admissions
General Assistance
Visit CentroHub, NSCC鈥檚 virtual concierge.
Accreditation
9I果冻制作厂 is an accredited public institute of higher education where all are welcome and each is challenged. NSCC is accredited by NECHE, the New England Commission of Higher Education.