Direct Care Practice

18 Credit Certificate Program

Program Description
The Direct Care Practice Certificate program trains practitioners to supply direct care to individuals, families, or groups in the community. Students learn about the multiple roles direct care workers in public and private sectors are asked to play. Through courses and a practicum provided at a community organization, the program offers tangible ways to gain confidence and competence in specific skill areas identified by potential employers and codified by national performance standards. Skills obtained in the Direct Care Practice program can be applied to many specific populations. Graduates of the program will have skills that are of use in virtually any human services setting. The program incorporates skill standards established on a nationwide basis through the Community Support Skills Standards Project, thereby ensuring consistency in direct care service.

Employment Potential
Development of this program was prompted by requests from community agencies to meet their emerging employment needs for individuals trained in direct care practice. A summary of Ulster County direct care agencies and organizations reveals that more than 400 people are hired locally each year in this field.

The Direct Care Practitioner works with a variety of populations, depending on the agency. These may include home-based family preservation services, childcare centers, foster care placements, day treatment programs, residential treatment facilities, elder daycare/respite programs, group homes, jails and alternative correction programs, short- and long-term rehabilitation centers, crisis hot lines and centers, sheltered workshops/day habilitation clinics, assisted living/skilled nursing facilities, and others.

With additional education and/or work experience, graduates of the program may find other opportunities in higher level positions at these facilities.

Requirements for Program Entry

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Satisfactory placement in Entering Student Assessment
Admission to the Human Services A.A.S. program

Developmental Assistance Available
For students who do not meet basic reading and math requirements, or who have other learning issues, extra assistance is readily available through SUNY Ulster's Learning Center, Times Square math lab, the Writing Center, the Peer and Friend Tutor Program, and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors.

For More Information
Deanna Schreiber
Coordinator, Human Services
Office: Vanderlyn Hall, VAN 239
Phone: 800:724-0833, ext 5078 or
            845:687-5078
E-mail: schreibd@sunyulster.edu