Level I

Level II: Position-Based Competency
Agency managers and staff development personnel select training components from a menu of training topics to ensure personnel employed are able to carry out the particular functions of their position and have the needed knowledge and skills to appropriately implement individualized plans and ensure rights and safety of people receiving services.

Level II

Level III: Certificate of Completion
A certificate of completion is issued to staff members who successfully complete eight core modules, six elective modules, and the Supervised Field Experience in Developmental Disabilities. The agency selects electives from the curriculum based on a staff member’s specific job responsibilities. Prior to certification, staff must demonstrate competence in the Direct Support Skills Standards and complete practica and portfolio products which correspond to the modules completed for certification. The Department of Human Services requires that certification be completed within the first 18 months of full-time employment.
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Level III

Level IV: Advanced Certificationfication
This certification consists of ten additional modules dealing with a variety of training issues including: aging issues, communication, leisure, behavior intervention, traumatic brain injury, dual diagnosis, and a variety of medical and health topics.
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Level IV

Certificate of Completion in Developmental Disabilities - more info
This certificate program is designed to meet the national demand for paraprofessional training of personnel who support individuals with disabilities. Certificate programs consist of at least 15 semester hours of coursework. Completion of our certificate program will be annotated on your academic transcript.
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Level V: Associate of Science in Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
- more info
The Associate of Science degree is an employment benefit offered to staff who work in North Dakota's community-based Developmental Disabilities provider organizations. Tuition for 27 semester hours of Special Education core curriculum is subsidized through a contract with the ND Department of Human Services. Employees pay $50 per semester hour recording fee for each of the twelve Special Education courses. Instruction is delivered on site by the agency's regional staff trainer. The 38 SH of general education requirements can be completed through distance education alternatives or through local post-secondary institutions. Individuals not currently employed at one of North Dakota's Community-Based Developmental Disabilities Provider Agency may complete the curriculum online through MSU Online. Tuition is the current online tuition rate. Change the web link – for MSU online to http://www.minotstateu.edu/online/

Level V

Level VI: Bachelor of Science in Developmental Disabilities (Non-Teaching)
- more info
After completion of the Associate of Science degree in Developmental Disabilities, individuals who desire to pursue a BS in Developmental Disabilities (Non-Teaching) may attend Minot State University or complete the degree through MSU Online. The student must fulfill all requirements for the degree as specified by MSU. Developmental Disabilities courses can be completed on campus or through distance delivery (IVN and Online).
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Level VI

Level VII: Master of Science in Special Education - more info
Individuals may earn a MS degree in Special Education at Minot State University after successful completion of a graduate course of study in
Severe Disabilities.  Anyone interested in pursuing the master’s program should contact the Department of Special Education http://www.minotstateu.edu/cdse/sped/    or the Graduate School Office at MSU http://www.misu.nodak.edu/graduate/ .

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