Direct Support Professional I

Direct Support Professional I

The Direct Support Professional - Level I microcredential is designed for employed Direct Support Professionals as well as those who are interested in developing the competencies necessary for the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) - Level I 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 15 NADSP E-Badges.

Admissions requirements for application (current degree-seeking students):

• Matriculation into a Farmingdale State College degree program
• Completion of the Microcredential Application on Etrieve

For Non-matriculated students:

• Completion of the non-matriculated student application
• High school diploma or GED
• Fluent in the English language
• Currently employed by a Human Services organization with at least 6-months of experience in the field
• Completion of the Microcredential Application on Etrieve (Instructions will be emailed after completing the non-matriculated student application)

Requirements to earn the microcredential:

• To achieve the DSP-I microcredential, students will complete PSY 101: Introduction to Psychology and PSY 132: Introduction to Human Services.
• Students must also complete a noncredit DSP-I Portfolio. Guided by the instructor, students focus on professional writing and reflection skills and prepare a portfolio that documents DSP Level I 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 15 NADSP E-Badges (E-Badges are embedded as assignments in the Introductory Psychology and Human Services courses).

Stackable to:

• Applied Psychology B.S.
• Liberal Arts and Sciences A.A.

Time to complete:

1 semester

Cost to attend:

Standard tuition rates apply. Visit for tuition and student consumer information.

Students meeting eligibility requirements may be eligible for Part-Time TAP for Non-Degree Credentials up to 11 credits per semester at SUNY. Visit Non-degree Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program for more information.

Effective Spring 2025: Grant funding may be available for the DSP-I 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 dsp@farmingdale.edu.