Direct Support Professional
Time to Completion:
16 Weeks
Schedule:
Asynchronous
What You’ll Learn
The Direct Support Professional (DSP) program at Forsyth Tech prepares individuals to provide high-quality, person-centered support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across community and residential settings.
This fully online, asynchronous program includes two 8-week courses that build foundational and advanced skills for working in the field.
Students will explore topics such as promoting independence and inclusion, effective communication, documentation and ethics, crisis prevention, supporting health and safety, and implementing individualized support plans. The program emphasizes real-world application, self-reflection, and strategies that uphold dignity, respect, and self-determination for individuals served.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of both courses, students earn a Direct Support Professional Certificate, demonstrating readiness for employment in community-based and residential care environments, day programs, and human services agencies.
Courses:
DDT 3110 – Core Skills for Supporting Individuals with IDD
DDT 3120 – Advanced Skills for DSPs
Estimated Cost
Spring 2026 course offerings are FREE due to a state grant opportunity!
Requirements
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
Career Information
- Support individuals with daily living activities such as personal care, meal preparation, and household management
- Assist with communication, mobility, and social engagement skills
- Implement individualized service or support plans
- Monitor and document progress, behaviors, and health-related observations
- Encourage community participation, recreation, and employment opportunities
- Promote dignity, respect, and personal choice in all aspects of care
- Collaborate with families, healthcare providers, educators, and other team members
- Advocate for individual rights and inclusion
- Group homes and residential facilities
- Community living and day support programs
- Vocational and employment support settings
- Schools and educational programs
- Private home care and respite services
$15 – $18 / hour.
Essential Skills and Attributes
- Compassion, empathy, and patience when supporting individuals with diverse needs
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Reliability, professionalism, and ethical judgment
- Adaptability in responding to changing needs or situations
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
- Commitment to promoting inclusion, dignity, and self-determination
- Basic computer literacy for documentation and communication
Program Contacts
For more information, please contact Billie Jo-Juice Stepto (bjuice-stepto@forsythtech.edu or 336.757.3286) or Aida Buljina (abuljina@forsythtech.edu or 336.734.7790).
To see if you qualify for a scholarship, please contact Michael Glontz at 336-757-3701 or mglontz@forsythtech.edu.