JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — SUNY Jamestown Community College now offers three new microcredential programs that provide required training and education for direct support professionals who are in high demand in western New York and across the state.

They are free for a limited time to students who are New York state residents.

SUNY JCC has three levels of its Direct Support Professional program that prepares students to earn national certification with the National Alliance of Direct Support Professionals as they earn college credits. Each of the Direct Support Professional microcredentials is nine or 10 credits and can be completed in one semester.

Direct support professionals help people with physical and developmental challenges to increase self reliance and support goals of living more independently in their communities. The role might include duties such as caregiving and providing assistance with daily activities, employment, transportation and emotional support, and advocating for rights and services.

JCC’s Direct Support Professional programs are free for New York residents – including tuition, fees, books, course materials, and NADSP credentialing – thanks to a partnership with the State University of New York and the NYS Office for Persons with Developmental Disabilities.

A $32 million investment from NYS OPWDD will allow JCC and other SUNY colleges to operate the program through 2030, or until funds are exhausted.

“As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of education and workforce development, Jamestown Community College is proud to join this expanded partnership between SUNY and OPWDD,” said Daniel DeMarte, JCC president. “Our commitment to providing accessible and innovative programs aligns perfectly with the Direct Support Professional microcredential initiative, which enhances the skills of our students and addresses the critical need for compassionate care for individuals with developmental disabilities. This investment will empower our students and make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important endeavor.”

Professor Shannon Bessette played an important role in establishing the Direct Support Professional programs.

“Our region is in dire need of trained and caring professionals to support people who face daily physical and development challenges,” Bessette said. “It is crucial that JCC be on the front lines of human services education and offer students the education needed for this all-important line of work. We have seen that students are eager to get started in these careers, which is very exciting.”

JCC’s Direct Support Professional 1 requires one hybrid course at a JCC location in Jamestown, Olean, or Dunkirk, while DSP-2 and-3 can be completed online. Students can further use these earned credits to pursue JCC A.S. degrees in Human Services and Individual studies. Eligible students also may receive a $750 stipend upon completion of each microcredential.

JCC’s microcredentials are short, focused credentials that provide in-demand skills and learning experiences for current students and working professionals. Each microcredential helps students build industry-specific skills that support professional development, stack into a related certificate or degree, or complement a specific field of study.

The DSP microcredentials are open to new students in the fall. To learn more, visit sunyjcc.edu/DSP or call (800) 388-8557.