Direct Support Professional III
The Direct Support Professional - Level III microcredential is designed for employed Direct Support Professionals who are interested in further developing their competencies for the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) - Level III certification. The microcredential consists of two, 3-credit Psychology courses that provide students with a broad understanding of psychology and human services, along with a portfolio based on completion of 20 NADSP E-Badges. Note: The DSP-III microcredential stacks on top of the DSP-II microcredential, so the DSP-II microcredential is a prerequisite for the DSP-III microcredential.
Admission requirements for application:
- Successful completion of the DSP-II Microcredential
- Currently employed by a Human Services Organization
- Completion of the Microcredential Application on Etrieve
Requirements to earn the microcredential:
- To achieve the DSP-III microcredential, students will complete two courses, PSY 322: Understanding Neurodiversity: Autism Spectrum Disorder and PSY 323: Professional and Ethical Issues for Direct Support Professionals.
- Students must also complete a noncredit DSP-III Portfolio. Guided by the instructor, students focus on professional writing and reflection skills and prepare a portfolio that documents DSP Level III knowledge and skills gained through field-based practice. The portfolio will consist of students' responses to writing prompts that are required for NADSP E-Badges.
- Students must also complete 20 additional NADSP E-Badges for a total of 50 E-Badges (E-Badges are embedded as assignments in the coursework).
Stackable to:
Time to complete
1 semester
Cost to attend:
Standard tuition rates apply. For tuition and student consumer information, please click here.
Students meeting eligibility requirements may be eligible for Part-Time TAP for Non-Degree Credentials up to 11 credits per semester at SUNY. For more information,please click here.
Effective Spring 2025: Grant funding may be available for the DSP-III microcredential to those who are currently working at a participating Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)-affiliated employer looking to meet new academic and career goals. This grant funding will cover the cost of tuition, books, course materials and National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) credentialing for students and educational supports. In addition, the program offers an incentive to eligible students who successfully complete a microcredential and earn NADSP certification. For more information, contact psychology@farmingdale.edu
Contact Information
Psychology Department
Knapp Hall, Second Floor
934-420-2725
psychology@farmingdale.edu
PSY 322 Understanding Neurodiversity: Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by differences in social communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and repetitive behaviors/restricted interests. Autistic individuals represent a wide spectrum of presentations, abilities, and interests; yet this diversity is rarely accurately captured and represented in modern popular writings and media. In this seminar we will draw upon the fields of developmental psychopathology, social cognition, and social/affective neuroscience to discuss and critically examine the history of and current research into the causes (etiology), types (nosology), characteristics (symptomatology), prevalence, and treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Successful completion of the course requires students to gain a broad-based understanding of the history and current knowledge regarding autism spectrum disorder as well as engage in critical, independent thinking and thoughtful evaluation of contemporary research and modern popular coverage in this area. Prerequisite(s): (PSY 241 or PSY 232 and PSY 315) or (PSY 253 and PSY 315)
PSY 323 Professional & Ethical Issues for Direct Support Professionals
This course explores the professional and ethical responsibilities of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Students will examine the principles of ethics, community inclusion, crisis prevention, and the promotion of individual rights. Emphasis is placed on developing practical skills and strategies to support individuals effectively and professionally. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and research-based evidence on best practices, students will gain the tools needed to navigate the complexities of direct support roles. Prerequisite(s): PSY 240 and PSY 241