Non-Credit Programs

Accreditation, Certification & Licensure Approvals

• Central Sterile Processing Technician Program is approved by: The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) CBSPD, INC., Main Street, Suite C-1, Lebanon, NJ 08833
• Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) Program is approved by:  The  State of CT Department of Public Health, 410 Capital Avenue - MS# 12HRS, P.O. Box 340308, Hartford, CT 06134
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Program  is approved by: The American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC), 2233 S Presidents Drive, Suite F, Salt Lake City, UT 84129 (800) 626-2633
• Community Health Worker Program is approved by:  The Department of Public Health, 410 Capitol Ave., Hartford, CT 06134, (860) 509-8000.
• CompTIA A+, Network & Security Programs are approved by:The CompTIA, 3500 Lacey Road, Suite 100, Downers Grove, IL 60515, (866) 835-8020
• National Certified Bookkeeper is approved by: The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, 6001 Montrose Rd., Rockville, MD  20852, (301) 770-7300
• Patient Care Technician Certificate Program is approved by: TheNational Healthcareer Association, 11161 Overbrook Road, Leawood, Kansas 66211 (800) 499-9092
• Personal Trainer National Certification Program is approved by: The World Instructor Training Schools (W.I.T.S.), 2244 Sunstates Court, Suite 107, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, (888) 330-9487, 
• Ophthalmic Assistant Program is approved by: The International Council of Accreditation (ICA), 2025 Woodlane Drive, St. Paul, MN 55125-2998, (651) 731-7243
• Real Estate Principles & Practices Program is approved by:  The State of CT Department of Consumer Protection, Real Estate Division, 450 Columbus Blvd, Ste 801, Hartford, CT 06103, .
• ServeSafe Program is accredited by: The National Restaurant Association. 233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 3600, Chicago, IL 60606-6383, (800) 765-2122
• Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program is approved by: The  Connecticut Pharmacists Association, 35 Cold Spring Road, Suite 121, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, (860) 563-4619

Allied Healthcare

Central Sterile Processing Technician (CSPT)

The Central Sterile Processing Technician is a vital member of the healthcare team contributing to the delivery of safe patient care by ensuring that all instruments and equipment are ready for patient use. Most often, the technician works in a centralized department at a medical institution.

This program provides individuals with education in Sterile Processing using the guidelines established by the Certification Board of Sterile Processing and Distribution. The course is comprised of both classroom, access to the state-of-the-art skills lab and clinical education for a total of 80 hours. Students will be eligible to sit for the Sterile Processing Technician certification examination following the successful completion of the program. The students are required to pass the program with a grade of 70 or better to be eligible for the national exam.

Certified Nurse Aide (CNA)

The CNA program prepares students to work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and private duty. The program consists of 109 hours of classroom theory, hands-on skills in laboratory setting,  and beneficial clinical experiences in an extended care facility. The students will learn to deliver all aspects of personal care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN). After successful completion, students will be eligible to take the State of Connecticut’s Certification exam to practice as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA).

Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

A Certified Professional Coder translates a healthcare provider’s analysis and procedural phrases into codes, or alpha numeric designations. It is necessary for CPC’s to understand the health records and their content in order to conduct proper research and provide the correct coding. With five required courses, individuals will become Certified Professional Coders.

Courses include:

• Medical Terminology
• Human Anatomy & Biology
• ICD-10 Diagnosis Coding and HCPCS
• Medical Coding CPT
• Certified Professional Coder Review

Community Health Worker

A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has an unusually close understanding of the community served. This trusting relationship enables the CHW to serve as a liaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery. A CHW also builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

In partnership with American Medical Response, the EMT curriculum is in compliance with all State of CT Office of Emergency Management Services requirements, including CPR/AED, basic life support skills, medical legal issues, medical, pediatric and respiratory emergencies and patient assessment, EMS and ambulance operations, disaster management, trauma, extraction, hazardous materials, mass casualty incidents and proper documentation including HIPPA.

Mental Health First Aid: Law Enforcement, Correction Officers, and 911 Dispatch Staff

The 8-hour Mental Health First Aid professional development course is taught to help law enforcement, first responders, corrections officers, 911 dispatch staff, and other public safety professionals better understand mental illnesses and addictions.

In addition, it provides training that helps to deescalate incidents so they can respond to mental health related calls appropriately without compromising safety.

Ophthalmic Assistant Certification

The Ophthalmic Asistant program guides students in developing the specialized knowledge necessary for their careers as ophthalmic assistants and will gain skills to take patient histories, provide patient support services, administer tests and evaluations, take eye measurements, maintain instruments and perform a variety of clinical tasks, After completion of the coursework, students must work in an Ophthalmology practice to be able to take the certification examination.

Patient Care Technician Certification (PCT)

The Patient Care Technician is a multi-skilled health care worker who initially earns a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification and then gains additional skills to perform routine patient care treatments including simple lab tests, EKG’s, simple dressing changes, and phlebotomy.  The program consists of 144 hours including the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) review and exam.

Pharmacy Technician Certification

The Pharmacy Technician course is a pre-certification course to prepare students for the official Pharmacy Technician Certification exam. This comprehensive, 84-hour course will prepare students for an entry level position in a community pharmacy, hospital, or long-term care or other institutional setting. During this course, students will also receive an excellent review for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) national certification exam.

Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) Review

The review course will provide Sterile Processing Technicians with information and hands-on lab exposure prior to taking the SPD exam through Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) SterileProcessing.org/cbspd.htm. This review course is tailored to Sterile Processing Technicians who have been working in the field or who have successfully completed the SPT program and are looking for additional training before taking the SPB exam to be Nationally Certified.

Sterile Processing Workshop: Top Things Every Healthcare Professional Should Know about ANSI/AAMI ST79:2017 and the 2020 Amendments A1-A4

The guidelines presented in ST79 are considered “recommendations for optimum performance levels in the processing of reusable medical devices in a health care setting” to ensure safe and effective patient care.

It is responsibility of everyone involved with the sterilization process to ensure that recommended practices, policies and procedures are followed so that patient care is not adversely affected. This course will elaborate on the intended purpose of the document with details about key changes from previous revisions including the four recent amendments from 2020 and published in 2021.

Practical applications about the documents that every sterile processing person should be familiar with will be reviewed.

TEAS Exam Prep

The TEAS preparation course serves as a review for the materials covered in the TEAS Nursing Entrance Exam, commonly required for admission into Connecticut State Community College nursing programs. Subjects such as English, grammar and sentence structure, biology, chemistry, earth science, and mathematics will be covered for exam preparation. Textbook and exam fee are not included.

Business

Grant Writing

This course offers an overview of grant writing basics, including general guidelines, language, statement of need, cover letter, executive summary, evaluation, budget, etc. It will cover sample grants and discuss researching of funding opportunities. The course is recommended for individuals involved in grant procurement and grant preparation. If required, the textbook is an additional cost

National Certified Bookkeeper

Whether you have limited bookkeeping experience or several years under your belt, there’s always time to become certified. The Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation, awarded by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, demonstrates an individual’s skills and knowledge in all bookkeeping functions. This program prepares students for the six-part CB exam. The program prepares students to take the Certified Bookkeeping (CB) exam through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).

Courses include:

• Bookkeeping Practices
• Mastering Correcting and Adjusting Entries
• Mastering Depreciation and Payroll
• Mastering Inventory, Internal Controls & Fraud Prevention

Quick Books

Through hands-on training, students learn how to create a Quick Books company and chart of accounts to suit individual needs. They also become familiar with features that automate accounting functions, such as bank account reconciliations, invoicing customers, receiving payments, making deposits, writing checks, assigning expenses to specific accounts, setting up inventory, and paying sales tax.

Real Estate Principles & Practices

Learn what it’s like to be a real estate sales agent and even become one yourself! The Real Estate program prepares individuals for the real estate licensing exam to become licensed and certified real estate sales agents. Here you will need to complete the mandatory 60 hours of class sessions and pass the final classroom exam with a 70 or better to be eligible for the state real estate license exam. By passing this course, you will meet the minimum educational requirements of the Connecticut Real Estate Commission.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Courses include:

• ESL Level 10
• ESL Level 20
• ESL Level 30
• ESL Level 40

Health, Fitness, and Recreation

Personal Trainer National Certification

Whether a career move or for your own personal knowledge get all the information you need to become a Certified Personal Trainer. This challenging  is taught over a 8-week period for better retention and skill competency. The National Exam is held on the 9th week. This course is formatted as a 62-hour program and is comprised of 16 hours of lecture, 16 hours of practical training and a 30-hour internship. It covers topics including biomechanics, exercise physiology, fitness testing, equipment usage and health assessment. CPR/AED is needed to receive the certificate. W.I.T.S. (World Instructor Training Schools) is the only major certifying body in the country providing comprehensive practical training and internship components

Hospitality

ServSafe^® Food Handler Certification Training

Learn the principles of food safety.  Administered by the National Restaurant Association, the ServSafe® training teaches responsible food service measures and regulatory requirements to prepare the student to become certified and meet any food handler training need

ServSafe^® Food Protection Manager Certification Training

Learn the importance of food safety, good personal hygiene, time and temperature control, cross contamination, cleaning and sterilizing, safe food preparation, receiving and storing food, methods of thawing, hazard analysis and critical control points, food safety regulations and achieve your certification after passing the national exam.

S.M.A.R.T Professional Bartending Certification

Learn how to shake, stir, strain, and pour! Learn how to make special shots, highball drinks, cocktails, and tropical drinks! In addition to mixing drinks, this professional Bartending course also includes the state and national SMART certification (Servers and Managers Alcohol Responsibility Training) recognized by the Connecticut Department of Liquor Control and police departments. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be qualified to work in any environment that serves liquor, including restaurants, clubs, hotels, and catering companies. Students will receive both a certificate of completion and the SMART certification.

Prerequisite: Must be 18 years of age and provide a license or picture ID with date of birth.

Information Technology

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Foundations

The AWS Cloud Foundations is a 24-hour online course that is intended for students who seek an overall understanding of cloud computing concepts, independent of specific technical roles. It provides a detailed overview of cloud concepts, AWS core services, security, architecture, pricing, and support.

Upon successful completion of an AWS Academy course, students get access to a free practice exam and serialized discounted certification coupon for AWS Certification exams. AWS Certifications recognize individuals with the technical skills and expertise to design, deploy, and operate applications and operations on AWS.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Solutions Architect

AWS Academy Solutions Architect covers the fundamentals of building IT infrastructure on AWS. The course is designed to teach solutions architects how to optimize their use of the AWS Cloud by understanding AWS services and how they fit into cloud-based solutions. Although architectural solutions can differ depending on the industry, type of application, and size of the business, this course emphasizes best practices for the AWS Cloud that apply to all of them. It also recommends various design patterns to help you think through the process of architecting optimal IT solutions on AWS. Throughout the course, students will explore case studies that showcase how some AWS customers have designed their infrastructures and the strategies and services that they have implemented. Finally, this course provides opportunities for students to build a variety of infrastructures through a guided, hands-on approach.

To ensure success in this course, students should successfully complete AWS Academy Cloud Foundations (ACF) or have equivalent experience. The course incudes the exam voucher.

CompTIA A+ Certification Preparation

The CompTIA A+ certification is the starting point for a career in IT. This course prepares students for the industry-recognized certification and covers all topics related to the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams, including the maintenance of PCs, mobile devices, laptops, operating systems, and printers. Students will obtain the knowledge required to assemble components based on customer requirements, install, configure and maintain devices, PCs and software for end users, understand the basics of networking and security/ forensics, properly and safely diagnose, resolve and document common hardware and software issues while applying troubleshooting skills. Successful candidates will be able to provide appropriate customer support; understand the basics of virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment.

CompTIA Network+ /Certification Preparation

The CompTIA Network+ certification is the sign of a qualified networking professional. This course prepares students for the industry recognized certification and covers all topics related to the CompTIA Network+ N10-006 exam, including network communication using the OSI model, network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and security. After completing this course, the student will understand the principles and concepts underlying computer networking. Companies such as Dell, HP, Ricoh, Sharp and Xerox recommend or require CompTIA Network+ for their networking technicians. It is a technical prerequisite option for IT technicians seeking to join the Apple Consultants Network, and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense.

CompTIA Security+ Certification Preparation

The CompTIA Security+ certification designates knowledgeable professionals in the field of security, one of the fastest-growing fields in IT. This course prepares students for the industry recognized certification and covers all topics related to the CompTIA Security+ SY0-401 exam, including the most important foundational principles for securing a network and managing risk. Access control, identity management, and cryptography will also be covered in the course, as well as appropriate mitigation and deterrent techniques to address network attacks and vulnerabilities. Security concerns associated with cloud computing, BYOD and SCADA will be covered. ** Tuition includes CompTIA exam voucher and LabSim simulation product. Network+ Certification is recommended before taking the Security+ exam, but not required.

Google IT Support Certification

The Google IT Support Certificate is designed to prepare learners for roles in IT (information technology) support. Certificate graduates who also pass the CompTIA A+ certification exams will earn a dual credential from CompTIA and Google. 

Upon completion of the Google IT Support Certificate, program graduates will:

• Understand the core concepts of all IT Support jobs, including troubleshooting, customer service, networking, system administration, operating systems, and security.
• Know how to assemble a computer, write effective support documentation, route paths and subnets, manage device software, and more.
• Have worked with Linux, Cloud Computing, and Command-Line Interfaces.

The Google IT Support Certificate prepares learners for in-demand jobs such as: Technical Support Specialist, Data Center Technician, IT Help Desk, IT Technician, IT Support Specialist, Computer Support Specialist, and IT Assistant.

Microsoft Office Specialist

The 42-hours hands-on course will include practice time on Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Outlook. Students will learn the basics of all Office programs, including merges, tables, graphics and sharing documents in Word; formulas, data management, formatting and printing in Excel; database creation, criteria in queries, report and form design, grouping data and establishing relationships in Access; creating slide shows, importing from Word, adding tables/graphics, animation and advanced formatting in PowerPoint; and email management, creating folders, adding signatures/attachments, scheduling appointments with others, organizing contact lists and creating/updating tasks in Outlook. Coursework will cover skills found in Office versions 2016, 2019 and 365. Students should have Office software installed on the computers they will use for the online training.

Students who do not have the software installed on their training computer, go to ttp://supportcenter.ct.edu/service/Office365.asp to gain access to Office 365.

Manufacturing Technology

CNC Precision Machining Level 1, 2, & 3

Level One Training: The course is designed to be the first level or introductory course in foundational concepts of Precision CNC Manufacturing. The course provides theoretical concepts as well as the development of the knowledge and skills required in CNC programming, machine setup and operation. The laboratory portion emphasizes practical application of CNC machine tools which involve set-ups and procedures for operation.

1. Review of fundamental G code programming knowledge and terminology.
2. CNC Machine Tool safety.
3. CNC machine tool controls and terminology.
4. CNC Machine tool operations.
5. GD&T - Print reading
6. Feed & Speed calculations and applications.
7. CNC Tooling technologies.
8. Cutter compensation and tool wear commands.
9. Roper part inspection.

Level Two Training: This course is designed to be the second level or intermediate course in gradually more complex concepts of Precision CNC Manufacturing. The course provides theoretical concepts as well as the development of the knowledge and skills required in CNC programming, machine setup and operation. The laboratory portion emphasizes practical application of CNC machine tools which involve set-ups and procedures for operation.

Advanced methods in:

1. G code programming knowledge and terminology.
2. CNC Sub programming techniques.
3. CNC Tooling technologies.
4. Setup of 4 & 5 axis CNC machines
5. Close tolerance inspections and reporting
6. GD&T Applications

Level Three Training: This course is designed to be the third level course in advanced CNC technologies with very a high level of complexity which requires the application of advanced software, multi-axis CNC equipment metrology technologies. The course provides theoretical concepts as well as the development of the knowledge and skills required in CNC programming, machine setup and operation. The laboratory portion emphasizes practical application of CNC machine tools which involve set-ups and procedures for operation.

1. Review of fundamental G code programming knowledge and terminology.
2. CNC Tooling technologies.
3. 4 & 5 axis motion concepts
4. Live tooling concepts
5. Computer Aided Manufacturing
6. Computer Aided Inspections
7. Working with solids
8. Proper part inspection

These classes are flexible and specifically designed in modular delivery format to capitalize on employees’ existing knowledge and skills at any level. CNC Programming Content includes Basic G & M code definitions and functions, Part design to X,Y&Z coordinate procedures & mathematics, proper program structure and development for Fanuc, Haas and other G code controls Multi tool programming, Basic and advanced feed & speed calculations and 2-3 & 4 axis programming.

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) Technology      

A new program to develop the skills & experience of your employees in CMM operation, programming, and setup. The CMM is a device that measures the geometry of physical objects by measuring discrete points on the surface of the object probe. Various types of probes are used in CM Ms, including physical, optical, laser, and white light. PC-DMS is the CAD-enabled software that drives the CMM. PC-DMIS gives users the tools they need to measure any kind of geometry on any kind of part using a wide range of measurement techniques. Students will learn the basic operation of the CMM, the operator interface. Programming techniques will include programming with and without electronic files. SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a feature based, parametric solid modeling design tool used in the common Windows operating system. Learn how to build parametric models of parts and assemblies and make simple, fully dimensioned drawings of those parts & assemblies

Corporate Training & Workforce Development

The trainings can be tailored to specific industry needs and offered on HCC campus in Bridgeport or conveniently held at the company’s location.  We have a vast pool of expert instructors to develop content and learning solutions customized for every employee level to ensure ongoing professional and personal development.

The Customized training can be tailored in areas such as: Manufacturing, Customer Service, Human Resources, Information Technology/Computers, Finance, Leadership and Management Development, Ethical and Legal Issues, QuickBooks/Bookkeeping, Safety & Security/OSHA, STEM Training, etc.

Also, training can be tailored for technical as well as non-technical staff, office as well as front-line production workers. Continuing and Professional Education has the ability to customize trainings to match the needs of our corporate client from existing modules for training.  Common areas of training and workforce development include:

• Business Operations
• Communications
• Customer Service
• Digital Office Systems, and
• Manufacturing Technology
• Microsoft Office
• Organizational Development
• Supervisory & Management Training

Personal Development

Safe Boating / PWC Certification

Become certified to operate a recreational vessel with this complete and basic, safe boating certification course taught in one 8-hour day. All students receive an official diploma and state certificate application upon successful completion of the course.

Introduction to Gardening

An introductory course for learners who are ready to explore the fundamentals of gardening. Includes topics such as: plant zones; soil chemistry; and seed preparation to harvest. Students will gain the proper skills necessary for establishing and sustaining their own vegetable, herb and fruit garden.  This course is interactive and hands-on, including hardening preparation laboratory, the campus garden and local community gardens.

How to Write Music From Home

This course includes songwriting, composing, and learning how to arrange your own music from home:  Learn how to compose your own song, arrange creation, add multiple tracks and instruments, mixing and mastering your music to finish product; what proper copywrite and documentations look like to protect work; market your own music, work with other writers co-writing; keyboard training and proper chord and lead placements.

Meditation (In Studio)

In this class you will learn how to calm your mind, settle your body and achieve healing of the mind, body and spirit. Beginners to practicing meditators will benefit from this class.

Bringing a yoga mat is advised if you would like to sit on the floor (chairs are available).

Our yoga instructor is an experienced educator who has been teaching in higher education for 23 years. The instructor holds a 100 Hour Meditation Teacher Training certification and Restorative Yoga certification through the Jiiva Yoga School.

Professional Development

STEM Carnegie Pathway Training Workshop

The Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway is built on the belief that school systems, individual schools, departments, and individual teachers can improve their STEM education practices through a positive, collaborative approach. It is designed to help the widest possible range of school districts and schools adopt best practices in STEM education. If you are looking for a way to improve STEM Education at your school? The Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway is a free, strategic planning process to improve STEM education at your school or district.

Extension Credit for Professional Development

The Continuing and Professional Education Department at HCC also offers professional development, extension credit, opportunities to our community and corporate partners. 

Currently, the Early Childhood Inclusive Education Program offers contracted, extension credit to providers.  To find out more, please contact Shelly Tomey from Early Childhood Education, STomey@hcc.commnet.edu.

For more information, please contact: 

Anna C. Cruz, MSM
Continuing Education Coordinator
203-332-5214, email:  Acruz@hcc.commnet.edu

Evelyn Meléndez, AS
Continuing Education Assistant
203-332-5990, email:  EMelendez@hcc.commnet.edu

Tatiana Rampino, MBA
Interim Director, Workforce Development & Continuing Education Coordinator
203-332-5084, email:  TRampino@hcc.commnet.edu

Students are able to register ONLINE

1.ONLINE

Click on the HCC Workforce Development and Continuing Education Online Registration through our secure registration portal: https://cscu-ce.easy-forward.com/ce-api/

2. MAIL

Complete the course’s registration form and mail your Registration Form along with check or credit card information to:
Housatonic Community College
WFD & Continuing Education (BH-116)
900 Lafayette Blvd.
Bridgeport, CT 06604-4704

3. BY FAX

This method is only available if you are paying by credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover) and fax to: (203) 332-8558.

4. IN PERSON

When the college is open and able to accept registrations in person.

Tuition Payment for Non-credit Programs/Courses

Full payment is required at time of registration prior to the start of non-credit program/course. Students referred by WIOA, Workplace, VA or the SNAP program, must provide required tuition payment approval documents at time of registration.

Withdrawal Policy

Students must contact the Workforce Development & Continuing Education Office (via email, fax or mail) to submit a written request for withdrawal prior to the first day of class. Program(s)/course(s) that a student withdraws from will be removed from the student’s schedule and will not appear on his/her transcript.

Refund Policy for Non-Credit Programs/Courses

A student who withdraws by the end of business day prior to the first day of class, is entitled to a full refund. In cases relating to medical reasons or other extenuating circumstances supported with proper documentation, refund will be made at the discretion of the administration.

If the college cancels a course or program, the student will automatically be granted 100 percent tuition refund.

Responsibilities of Student Receiving Tuition Assistance

After payments have been received and processed from WIOA, Workplace, VA and/or SNAP, etc., any remaining balance on the student account is the responsibility of the student.

Most questions are answered in the catalog or simply inquire at HO-ContinuingEd@hcc.commnet.edu or call during office hours, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.

Statement of Non-discrimination

Housatonic Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, sex, national origin, marital status, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or genetic information in its programs and activities. In addition, the College does not discriminate in employment on the additional basis of veteran status or criminal record.

Hours

Department Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 am-5:00pm

Questions?

Please call during office hours 203.332.5057 or visit the CE website at www.housatonic.edu/CE 

Closed Weekends and All State Holidays