Certificate in (DDS) Direct Support in Human Services
Degree & Certificate Programs
Program Details
The Direct Support Certificate is a program initiated by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) in partnership with the Massachusetts Community Colleges Executive Office. It is an educational program especially designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of direct support workers in DDS settings.
This College-approved certificate consists of 22 college level credits. Major topics include the organization and history of the social welfare system, the dynamics and skills of effective group work, effective oral and written communication, interpersonal relations and supportive counseling skills, and work site certification. National Skills Standards for Human Service Workers will be integrated into the curriculum. The certificate is designed to strengthen writing, problem solving, and critical thinking skills by utilizing reading assignments and discussions of daily experiences, challenges and concerns of direct support workers.
Direct support workers who are employed at an agency under contract with DDS, with a GED or high school diploma, and who have the support of their employer, are eligible to apply. Participants are required to take the community college placement assessment and demonstrate college-level skills in reading and writing. Applicants are accepted into the program in May, June, September, and January.
Program Outcomes
Students who complete the DDS Direct Support Certificate will learn how:
- To enhance the knowledge and skills of direct support workers in DDS settings.
- To strengthen writing, problem solving and critical thinking skills of direct support workers.
- To attract and retain dedicated and qualified workers.
- To prepare students for transfer into Human Services, Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Education or other helping professions.
- To assist students with self-development and career planning, basic skill and knowledge improvement, and professional education.
- To assist students working in a variety of DDS settings to further their professional development and career advancement.
Academic Map
Certificate in Dept of Devel. Svcs (DDS) Direct Support in Human Services
A minimum of 7 classes and 22 credits is required. At least 11 credits of your certificate must be taken at Massasoit. Note: Each course completed and passed can only fulfill one program requirement. The same course cannot be used to satisfy multiple program requirements.
Required Courses
3 Credits in HSRV 101
Introduction to Social Work/Human Services
3 Credits in HSRV 103
Group Dynamics
3 Credits in HSRV 221
Special Topics in Human Services
3 Credits in HSRV 222
Developmental Disabilities
4 Credits in HSRV 405
Seminar & Field Experience in Human Services I
3 Credits in ENGL 101
English Composition I
3 Credits in PSYC 101
General Psychology
This academic map is a suggested semester-by-semester guide to keep you on a clear path to program completion. Please note that some classes are offered only in certain semesters, have prerequisites, or minimum passing grades. Winter and/or Summer Session classes may be available for some classes. Your academic advisor will provide you with clear direction needed to stay on course and discuss scheduling options with you. Taking courses not reflected on this map may result in courses not counting toward the completion of your requirements.