About Us
Direct Care University is a national platform designed to support the people who provide hands-on care in communities across the country.
Overview
Direct care workers—such as direct support professionals, personal care aides, and caregivers in aging and disability services—play a vital role in supporting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and people with complex health needs. Yet their training and credentials are often fragmented across employers and states. Direct Care University solves this by giving workers a professional home where they can create a profile, complete training, track their learning hours, and earn portable credentials that stay with them throughout their careers.
How It Works
Through the platform, caregivers can progress through a clear credential pathway—from foundational roles like Associate Caretaker to advanced levels of Direct Care Worker certification. Along the way, they can build specialized expertise in areas such as:
- Memory care
- Behavioral health
- Trauma-informed care
- Nutrition
- I/DD support
- Activity planning
Each credential represents verified training and competencies, helping workers demonstrate their skills while allowing employers to easily recognize qualified, prepared professionals.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the direct care workforce by creating accessible training, transparent career pathways, and portable credentials that empower caregivers and improve the quality of care. By investing in the people who support others every day, Direct Care University aims to elevate the profession, reduce workforce shortages, and build a stronger care system for the communities that depend on it.