Inclusion Connects Education
Find trainings, educational materials, and learning opportunities to support people with IDD, their support systems and those who work with the population.
The DSP Advanced Training Certificate is a virtual program launched by NCDHHS, in partnership with the North Carolina Community College System, to support Direct Support Professionals.
Beginning in Fall 2025, the program will pilot at three community colleges: Stanly, Forsyth Tech, and Asheville Buncombe Tech, with plans to expand statewide.
Participants will complete two 8-week online courses that may count toward an associate degree. The initiative is part of a broader state effort to address DSP workforce shortages and improve wages, training, and career pathways.
- A-B Tech: Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – 340 Victoria Road, Asheville, NC 28801. Register to become a Direct Support Professional.
- Forsyth Technical Community College – 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. Call 336-734-7023, ask to register for class by course number
- Course 1, #178186 - DDT 3110: Core Skills for Supporting Individuals with IDD
- Course 2, #178187 - DDT 3120: Advanced Skills for DSPs
- Stanly Community College. Register to become a Direct Support Professional.
Course Options for Spring and Summer 2026
- DDT 3110: Core Skills for Supporting Individuals with IDD; March 16 – May 12
- DDT 3120: Advanced Skills for DSPs; June 8 – July 31
Please note that the courses include a required weekly online meeting on Mondays from 4:30–5:15 p.m., so we encourage you to be sure you can attend each session before registering.
To get more information, visit the A-B Tech Direct Support Professionals page and register directly for the courses. Space is limited.
The Wise Online Academy (WOA) 100 Series is an online training series based on customized employment core competencies. Whether you are a new or seasoned employment professional, this course is for you. Access the self-paced online WOA 100 training and receive an ACRE certification upon completion.
Oral Health: Oral Health NC Division of Public Health and Everyday Dental Care Tips for Caregivers of People with I/DD.
To learn more about Peer Support Specialists in North Carolina, go to the pages below:
- Certified Peer Support Specialists
- Information for Peer Support Specialists
- Information for the Community Members
- Information for Providers
- Frequently Asked Questions on Peer Supports
Additionally, there is great peer support being provided by organizations across North Carolina and more to come soon.
Visit the Traumatic Brain Injury webpage to view information and resources related to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in North Carolina. And reach out to TBIContact@dhhs.nc.gov with any questions.
Each year National Core Indicators – Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities surveys the Direct Support Workforce, who provide services to people with I/DD. The survey results in state-level data, which allows states to better understand their workforce and any challenges they may be facing. This data can then inform strategies to better support DSPs.
Key Strengths
- Wages are increasing, but still below national and living wage benchmarks.
- Lower turnover and stronger retention than the national average, with improvement over recent years.
- More experienced workforce, with a higher share of DSPs staying 3+ years compared to other states.
- Broad mix of service types, indicating a diverse and robust service network.
Key Challenges
- Staffing gaps remain, with notable full time and part time vacancy rates.
- Early staff turnover is high, with many leaving within the first 6 months.
- Wages remain a major barrier and still below the estimated living wage.
- Low survey response rate, limiting how representative the findings are.