The Central County Occupational Center (CCOC), 760 Hillsdale Ave, will restart its vocational nurse program as a part-time program on Jan. 22, 2003, to train new nurses.

"The shortage is so acute that healthcare facilities can't hire enough qualified nursing staff to fill existing vacancies. As a result, this part-time vocational nurse program is badly needed," said Sue Vernacchia, director of CCOC's vocational nurse program.

More than 200 applicants—vying for one of 30 spots—took the entrance examination in September and October. The $2,500 fee-based class will be completed over a period of 22 months.

Approved curriculum in classroom theory, laboratory and clinical practice in a healthcare setting will be included. In addition to tuition, students will need to spend at least $1,500 more on uniforms, lab supplies and books.

"The program was set up in a part-time format to help keep those already working in the field at their jobs while upgrading their skills," Vernacchia said.

To be eligible, students must have either a high school diploma, GED, or have passed the High School Proficiency Test. Students must also receive an appropriate score on a required entrance exam and complete a job interview. Upon successful completion of the CCOC vocational nurse program, students are eligible to apply to the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians to take the Vocational Nurse Licensing Examination. When they receive a passing score on the licensing examination, they become licensed vocational nurses. Students in the CCOC's former full-time vocational nurse program received above-average "pass rates" on their examination.

For more information on CCOC's nursing program or for a tour of the facilities, contact Joyce Monda at 408.723.6461 or visit http://career.metroed.org.