VCPA Candidates FAQ's | Vanderbilt Nursing

What are anticipated VCPA tuition costs?

None. VUMC provides VCPA free of charge to attendees who commit to working in a Care Partner role after completing the program.

Will I have a job with VUMC when I complete the program?

Yes. Prior to being admitted to the program, you will interview with one or more hiring managers. When you accept an offer from one of our managers, you will be enrolled in the next available VCPA start date.

Will my training be applicable at other hospitals and health care facilities?

Yes. VCPA teaches trainees many skills to assist in patient care that are applicable to other hospitals and care settings.

Will I have a voice in what department or unit I will be assigned?

Yes. You will apply directly to the department that you are interested in working.

Am I required to enroll in a nursing program?

No, this is not a requirement for VCPA or the Care Partner role. For Care Partners interested in enrolling in a nursing program, VUMC provides Nursing Tuition Assistance.

If I have previous experience as a Care Partner, Nurses’ Aid or Patient Care Tech, will I need to attend VCPA?

No. VCPA is designed to teach patient care skills for applicants without related healthcare experience.

If accepted, how quickly can I start?

Once you have accepted an offer from VUMC, you will be enrolled in the next available VCPA start date. VCPA holds courses most months.

What expenses can I expect if accepted into VCPA?

VCPA will provide attendees with all required training supplies and their first set of scrubs. Attendees will need to provide their own closed-toe shoes to wear in the clinical environment.

What is the starting pay? Are there differentials?

The hiring manager will discuss pay with you when they offer you a position at VUMC. Differentials are provided for nightshift, weekends, and holidays.

Does VCPA offer part-time positions?

VCPA requires full-time commitment to complete the program. Once the program is completed, you may be eligible to move to part-time or PRN positions (pending department availability and hiring manager’s approval).

I have child-care needs and can only work during certain times. Does VCPA offer flexible hours?

VCPA offers training M-F 7:00a to 3:00p for the first 3 weeks of employment. Flexible hours, including night and weekend shifts, may be available. Talk with your department manager to learn about specific opportunities that may be available to you.

Is there an opportunity to work overtime? Is overtime required?

Many departments have opportunity to work overtime, although overtime is not required. Some departments require one or more call shifts during a scheduling window. Ask your department manager about their department’s requirements in your interview.

Will I be required to work weekends and holidays?

Weekend and holiday work requirements vary by department. Ask your manager about their department’s requirements during your interview.

Will this program prepare me to become certified?

Certification requirements vary based on the organization that sponsors certification. VCPA provides training on basic skills needed to provide patient care in the hospital. We cannot guarantee that it will prepare participants for certification.

What happens if a participant is absent from class?

Because of the short duration and intensity of the program, it is imperative that participants make every effort to attend each class meeting. VCPA instructors will work with the participant to make up missed content if only one day is missed during the 3-week period. Should the participant miss more than 1 consecutive day, the participant will not be allowed to progress in the program. The participant may re-enter the program, if space is available, with the next cohort.