DDS Partnership

The Direct Support Certificate Program was created to support and enhance the careers of direct support staff in the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and DDS-funded programs. This career pathways program, a collaboration between DDS and the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges (MACC), helps direct support staff take the next step in their human services career.

The Direct Support Program is offered through seven community colleges in the Commonwealth (Bristol, Holyoke, MassBay, Massasoit, Northern Essex, North Shore and Quinsigamond). The DDS Direct Support Program in Human Services is a seven-course educational program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of direct support workers in DDS settings (both private and public). Made possible through funding from a DDS grant, the program provides curriculum resources to faculty and staff involved in the project and enables seven Community Colleges across the Commonwealth to offer the courses; work with area human services providers to enroll students; and provide students with tuition assistance and case management support. Instruction and training is provided by both community college faculty and DDS Regional Training Directors.

The curriculum and program design are based on the National Community Support Skill Standards (a set of skill and competencies used by direct support staff in their work). The program is a true career pathway; assisting direct support workers achieve career mobility, sustainability, and advancement. Students are also able to pursue further educational goals by proceeding on to an associate degree. This successful collaboration between the expert trainers at DDS, college faculty, and MACC has resulted in more than 600 students completing the program.

For more information please visit the Direct Support Certificate Program at: https://www.mass.gov/lists/direct-support-certificate-program#application-&-participating-community-colleges-

The Direct Support Certificate Program is available at the following Community Colleges: