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Prepare to Make a Difference
The Developmental Disabilities Certificate Program is intended for students who wish to work with individuals with developmental disabilities in educational, clinical, and community settings. It provides both foundational knowledge and practical experience for those pursuing careers in fields such as special education, social work, psychology, or nonprofit services, as well as for individuals already working in these areas.
This is the only certificate program currently offered in the division. It has been supported by the Kennedy Fellows Program and the CUNY Office of External Programs, in collaboration with public and nonprofit employers.
Who Should Consider This Certificate?
- Students in Disability Studies, Social Welfare, Education, Psychology, or related field
- Paraprofessionals working in public schools, particularly in Special Education
- Practitioners or service providers supporting individuals with developmental disabilities
- Students from any CUNY division or major seeking practical and theoretical training to enhance their degree
Students interested in pursuing the certificate should consult with their academic advisor to determine how it can be integrated into their degree program. The certificate is open to students from any division or major within CUNY.
For additional information, please contact the CCNY CWE Front Desk at cwefrontdesk@ccny.cuny.edu to schedule an appointment with a supervisor.
Requirements
The certificate consists of three required courses and one elective, totaling 14 credits. It combines interdisciplinary theory with real-world application. Most courses carry 4 credits, with the exception of the internship, which is 2 credits.
IAS 31235 | Foundational (DS)
Intro to Developmental Disabilities
This course will provide an overview of the field of developmental disabilities. The perspective is interdisciplinary, and in addition to surveying the nature, diagnosis and treatment of such disorders as intellectual disability, autism, epilepsy, learning disabilities, and cerebral palsy, related areas such as legal ramifications and advocacy will be studied. This introductory course is recommended for workers in the area of developmental disabilities, paraprofessionals in the public school system (especially in Special Education), and others interested in learning about developmental disabilities. 4 hr.; 4 cr. (W)(U) (Developmental Disabilities Certificate Program)
IAS 31240 | Foundational (DS)
Issues for Adults with Developmental Disabilities
This course will identify critical issues confronting developmentally disabled adults, and will survey strategies for coping with these challenges. Case methodology will be used to discuss problems and techniques that arise in work, family or community situations. Intended primarily for practitioners in the field. 4 hr.; 4 cr. (W)(U) This class counts toward the Developmental Disabilities Certificate Program.
Pre-requisite: IAS 31235 or permission.
IAS 31249 | Internship
Internships in Developmental Disabilities
For eligible students who wish to supplement classroom study with supervised experience in the field. Students whose jobs involve the developmentally disabled may arrange to complete the work at their places of employment. All placements subject to approval. Bi-Weekly meetings with a faculty member are mandatory. 4 hrs.; 2 crs. (U)
Pre-requisite: IAS 31235, and IAS 31240.
One Elective Course (DS)
Students may select from a wide range of approved electives in Anthropology, English, Film, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology, as well as many interdisciplinary electives. Refer to the Class Schedule for a list of specific elective courses approved for the Disabilities Studies Concentration. 4 hr.; 4 cr.
Completion & Recognition
Upon successful completion of the required and elective coursework, students are awarded a Certificate in Developmental Disabilities, which formally acknowledges their focused academic preparation and applied experience in the field.
Last Updated: 07/07/2025 16:48