Career Pathway Certificate: Direct Support Professional

This 41-hour online certificate program prepares you to be an ethical, capable and compassionate caregiver in the Direct Support Professional (DSP) industry. Demand for trained DSPs is strong and projected to increase substantially. You will learn about disabilities, the rights and responsibilities of individuals with disabilities, how to work with families and support networks, and issues surrounding inclusion. You will also be prepared to know and understand basic industry practices such as professional documentation, effective communication, functional assessments and methods of positive behavior support. Employer partners are seeking qualified people to work in this field so put yourself at the front of the line for hiring!
No cost tuition available through grant funding. Contact College and Career Coach Krista Uptagrafft 844-642-2338, ext. 1176, uptagrafftk@nicc.edu to complete the tuition assistance process today!
Additional funds are available through the Mental Health/Disability Services of the East Central Region by request for providers to use for training stipends for employees who complete the DSP certificate. This project is offered in part through the support of the Mental Health/Disability Services of the East Central Region, visit www.ecriowa.org. For more information regarding the training stipend reimbursement please contact Jan Heidemann, jheidemann@ecriowa.us, (319) 352-2993.