Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Career Development Program

A collaboration between the New Jersey Association of Community Providers (NJACP), New Jersey Council of County Colleges, and Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE), the Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Career Development Program is a statewide initiative to expand and strengthen New Jersey’s direct care workforce. The program focuses on two key goals:

• Attracting new talent — encouraging individuals not yet in the field to pursue meaningful careers as Direct Support Professionals.
• Advancing current DSPs — providing opportunities for professional growth and continuing education in caring career fields.

Right now, the program is available through Bergen Community College and Rowan College of South Jersey. Learn more at the resources below.

• RCSJ Direct Support Professional Career Pathway Certificate
• Direct Support Professional | Bergen Community College
• DSP Career Center - NJACP

Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG)

Current and future DSPs who are New Jersey residents aged 18 or older may be eligible to pursue an associate’s degree in health care, social services, or a related field tuition-free or at a reduced tuition with the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG).

Learn more at Community College Opportunity Grant | HESAA or download and share the CCOG Flyer.pdf.