Direct Care Worker Training Level I

Registration Is Open!

*Virtual seats are reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Who Should Attend: Prospective and experienced Direct Care Workers (DCWs) are welcome!

Admission criteria:

  1. Age of 16 years or greater
  2. Eligible to work in the United States
  3. Access to computer and internet for virtual training

We would like to advise interested participants that:

  1. No high school diploma or equivalency is required
  2. While we do not require proof of English language proficiency, all programming is currently offered only in English, including written materials.

Course Description: MDHHS adopted 15 standardized DCW Competency guidelines in 2022, paving the way for recognizing competent DCWs as professionals. The FREE 12- HOUR VIRTUAL FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING* program is designed to provide foundational skills in direct care work. This course covers topics such as communication, safety, personal care, and more. Upon completion, participants receive a Direct Care Fundamentals certificate.

*Flexible Scheduling: Our Level 1 certificationis designed to accommodate the busy schedules of direct care workers. We know your schedule can vary! That’s why you can complete the 12 hours of training at your own pace—find the sessions that fit your availability. You’ll need to complete classes 101-112 to earn your certification, but there’s no need to stress about doing them in order! While we recommend taking the classes sequentially for the best learning experience, you can take them out of order if necessary. And if you’re unable to finish all the classes right now, don’t worry! You can come back and pick up where you left off whenever you’re ready. If you’re not ready to commit to the full 12 hours, or if you’re looking for a refresher on a specific topic, you’re welcome to take individual classes as needed. Whether it’s for a quick skills boost or building toward your certification, the flexibility is yours!

Class Descriptions

Class Schedule

Training Highlights

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  • Competency-based: Upon completion of the training, the student can demonstrate the skills and knowledge needed to perform the role.
  • Instructor-led: the training classes are led by a trainer who has completed the IMPART Alliance Train-the-Trainer program. Instructors demonstrate continuing competency to provide instruction, work with adult students, and knowledge regarding the direct care field.
  • Real-time Virtual: the training classes are offered to students at synchronous times, delivered via a web conferencing platform (Zoom).
  • Collegial, virtual setting: Taking classes with other direct care workers offers the chance to work together on class activities and learn from one another’s experiences.
  • Curriculum: Developed using relevant, current, best practice recommendations and IMPART Alliance’s understanding of direct care workers’ unique learning needs. Our curriculum is comprehensive and prides itself on including all the complex knowledge and skills necessary in a way that is accessible and meaningful for students of all experiences.

Funding: This project is supported by grants to MSU IMPART Alliance, administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services; one through FY23 General Funds and one through American Rescue Plan Act/Home and Community Based Services Spending Plan funds.

Ready To Apply?

Registration Form

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DCWs with any type of previous training, credentials, or experience are welcome in the course. Our trainings are designed with stackable certificates, with the opportunity to select only the certification(s) of interest. For example, CNAs without training or experience in the instrumental activities of daily living might wish to take the level 3 courses.

Participants in our courses will be issued a certificate of completion from IMPART Alliance after successfully completing the courses at each level.

IMPART Alliance recognizes the impact supportive employers have on training outcomes. Interested employers can support their employees to sign up for classes offered by IMPART Alliance or support an expert DCW from their organization to complete our Train-the-Trainer course.

IMPART Alliance offers a Train-the-Trainer course, becoming an IMPART Alliance DCW trainer is an opportunity for experienced professionals with a passion for teaching to champion direct care. Applicants to this course are requested to share their experience in direct care work and approach to training, admission is contingent on availability.

All our trainings offer the opportunity for interactive learning activities for professionals to develop their knowledge and skills.

Courses are designed with DCWs of all types in mind. Our curriculum covers information DCWs need in every setting working with adults.