Direct Disability Support Services

Certificate

A counselor talks to a man in a wheelchair

Certificate

 Empower Lives with MCC’s Direct Support Services Program

MCC’s Direct Support Services certificate program prepares students to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through a blend of classroom learning and hands‑on experience, students gain the knowledge and confidence to provide person‑centered care, advocate for clients, and support daily living needs.

AREA OF INTEREST

Community Engagement & Development

DEPARTMENT

Education & Human Services

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585-292-2200

admissions@monroecc.edu

In our Direct Disability Support Services certificate program, you’ll learn: 

Person‑centered care and individualized support planning
Effective communication with clients, families, and professionals
Advocacy and empowerment strategies
Daily living support including health, safety, and personal care
Crisis intervention and problem‑solving
Professional ethics and responsibility

Build Key Skills

Compassion

Advocacy

Communication

Interested in something else? Explore by your interests

This certificate can open doors to meaningful, people‑focused careers in the human services field. Graduates are prepared to step into roles that directly support individuals with disabilities, helping them live more independently and participate fully in their communities. With practical training and internship experience, students gain the confidence and skills to pursue employment in residential programs, nonprofit agencies, healthcare facilities, and educational organizations—building a career that makes a lasting impact.

Career Opportunities: 

Direct Support Professional
Residential Counselor
Community Living Specialist
Behavioral Health Technician
Human Services Assistant

Where You Could Work 

Nonprofit agencies
Residential programs and group homes
Community service organizations
Healthcare facilities and clinics
Educational institutions

Local Employers: 

Heritage Christian Services
Hillside Family of Agencies
Lifetime Assistance, Inc.
Arc of Monroe
Mary Cariola Center

Stay on Track with a Success Coach 

Your Student Success Coach will help you choose classes, plan your path, and stay on track from your first semester through graduation. They’re here to support your goals and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. 

See How Your Success Coach Can Help

Move Forward Easily

This stackable certificate allows you to build your education one step at a time while gaining valuable, job-ready skills along the way. It's a flexible, cost-effective pathway that lets you advance your career without starting over, giving you recognized achievements at every milestone. The Direct Disability Support Services certificate is designed to apply toward an A.S. degree in Human Services, making it easier to keep moving toward your long-term educational and career goals.

Explore Human Services

Free Tutoring & Academic Assistance

Looking for a confidence boost in a challenging class? MCC’s Tutoring and Academic Assistance Center (TAAC) is here for you. TAAC offers free one-on-one and group tutoring for more than 300 courses to help you stay on track with homework, studying, and exams.

Student & Academic Support

Ready to Apply?

Applying to MCC is free, with no college essay or test scores required.

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 Prepare for a meaningful career supporting individuals with disabilities through MCC’s Direct Disability Support Services Certificate, offering hands‑on training, professional internships, and essential skills in person‑centered care, communication, documentation, and advocacy.

CERT

Certificate

CC’s Direct Disability Support Services certificate builds practical, person‑centered skills for supporting individuals with disabilities through hands‑on coursework and real‑world field experience. Students learn communication, documentation, advocacy, and individualized support strategies that prepare them for entry‑level roles in disability services.

Length

2 years / 30 credit hours

Students typically complete this program in 4 semesters of full time study.

Location

Downtown Campus

Program Requirements

Courses & Prerequisites

Important Links

Career Services

Quality Education That Fits Your Budget

MCC’s low tuition, plus financial aid like grants and scholarships, make your education possible.

Financial Aid Available Scholarships

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Common search terms

Direct Disability Support Services

Getting Started?