Developmental Disabilities and Human Services Letter of Specialization

Program Overview

The Developmental Disabilities and Human Services Letter of Specialization is a credential program that equips students with knowledge, skills, and experience in working with individuals with disabilities. The program combines coursework in developmental disabilities and human services with experiential learning opportunities and an internship experience, preparing students for careers in areas such as direct service provision, advocacy, research, and policy. Offered through a partnership between UMass Amherst and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, the program provides students with access to resources and opportunities to enhance their preparation for a career in the disability and human services field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Developmental Disabilities and Human Services (DDHS) Letter of Specialization is a credential program designed to prepare students for careers in the disability and human services field. It is a partnership between the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at UMass Amherst and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

Objectives:

The program aims to provide students with:

• Knowledge and understanding of developmental disabilities and human services.
• Skills and experience in working with individuals with disabilities.
• Preparation for careers in the field.

Program Description:

The DDHS Letter of Specialization involves:

• Coursework: Students choose three courses from a range of topics related to developmental disabilities, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, disability history and policy, and intersections of disability with race, gender, and sexuality.
• Experiential Learning: Students have access to volunteer opportunities, field trips, lectures from invited speakers, and career panels.
• Internship Experience: The program emphasizes the combination of coursework and internship experience as excellent preparation for careers in the field.

Careers:

The DDHS Letter of Specialization prepares students for careers in various settings, including:

• Direct Service Providers: Working directly with individuals with disabilities in residential settings, schools, or community-based programs.
• Advocacy and Policy: Working in organizations that advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Research and Evaluation: Conducting research on developmental disabilities and human services.

Other:

• The program is offered through the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at UMass Amherst.
• The program is a partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS).
• Students have access to a variety of resources and opportunities, including volunteer opportunities, field trips, lectures, and career panels.