Personal & Public Services

Direct Support Professional (DCP)

DESCRIPTION:
The Direct Support Professional certificate program prepares graduates to become certified Direct Support Professionals who provide direct support for persons with developmental disabilities and other disabilities including older adults and to provide skill for job enhancement for those already employed in the field of support services.  Graduates are prepared for employment in group homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other adult care facilities.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
Graduates are prepared for employment in group homes, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care facilities.

ADMISSIONS CRITERIA:
Attainment of 18 years or more of age; and documentation of high school graduation or satisfaction of High School Equivalency Certificate requirements.

PROGRAM COSTS: (Program costs are estimates and are subject to change)
Application fee: $15; Tuition: $540; Fees: $162; Books & Supplies: $400; Total Program Costs: $1,117

PROGRAM LENGTH:
Two quarters if full time regular student.

Program Requirements

Credit Hours
Contact Hours
 
Occupational Courses (15 hours)
DCP
110
Facilitating Access to Community Living I
5
5

This is the first of two courses (each accompanied by a practicum) designed to provide people working in direct support roles with the knowledge and tools that will enable their support of people with disabilities within a context that is inclusive, community-based and person centered. Topics include: the changing role of support, systematic instruction, discovery process, person centered planning, individual accomplishments, community/neighborhood exploration, representation, personal assistance, family supports, and social networks/social capital.

DCP
111
Facilitating Access to Community Living II
5
5
This is the second of two courses designed to provide people working in direct support roles with the knowledge and tools that will enable their support of people with disabilities within a context that is inclusive, community-based, and person centered. Topics include: motivation, encouragement, and challenging behavior; systematic instruction in natural environments; rights, safeguards, confidentiality, and documentation; personal wellness; medical supports; medications; conduct and expectation; learning organizations/organizing for performance; and Georgia’s Services System.
DCP
113
Direct Support Practicum I
2
6

This practicum accompanies DCP110 - Facilitating Access to Community Living I involving people working in direct support roles with people with disabilities in a context that is inclusive, community-based and person centered. Topics include: systematic instruction, discovery process, individual accomplishments, person centered planning, community/neighborhood exploration, representation, personal assistance, family supports, and social networks/social capital.

DCP
114
Direct Support Practicum II
3
9
This practicum is designed to accompany DCP111 Facilitating Access to Community Living II, providing guided experience in supporting persons with disabilities in community environments in a manner that is inclusive, community-based and person centered. Topics include: motivation, encouragement, and challenging behavior; systematic instruction in natural environments; rights, safeguards, confidentiality, and documentation; personal wellness; medical supports; medications; conduct and expectation; learning organizations/organizing for performance; and Georgia’s Services System.
Credit Hours: 15
Contact Hours: 25