Back to EPUT program information
What is this program all about?
The goals of this program are three-fold, you earn an Associate in Science degree in Electronics Technology; Electric Power Utility Technology Option, learn various electrical job skills with paid training, and upon successful completion you may receive a job offer from NSTAR to work for the company in any available electrical positions.
What is the start date and how do I apply to this program?
The program has a Fall semester (September) start date. The EPUT application should be available at BHCC’s Admission Office and on the NSTAR website in early November of the previous year. For general information, call the Admissions Office at 617-228-3398 or visit the Admissions & Registration counter on the 2nd floor of the main lobby. You can also contact the NSTAR hotline at 781-441-8300 or email EPUT@nstar.com
How do I get into the Program?
Admission to the program is a four-step process. The first step in the process requires applicants to take a College Placement Test (CPT) at Bunker Hill Community College to place into college level math, reading and English. In addition, the applicant will need to complete an application in its entirety that can be found at http://www.nstar.com/careers/eput.asp or at BHCC. If BHCC considers the applicant to academically eligible, their application will be forwarded to NSTAR. As part of the application for admission to this program, students sign a release form so that NSTAR can conduct a Criminal Record Offender Information (CORI) check, a Driving Record check and a drug and alcohol screen. After successful completion of these screenings, the applicant must then pass a physical prescreen designed to test their strength and ability. The last step of the process includes a formal interview at NSTAR.
*Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or have U.S. Work Authorization and at least 18 years of age as of September 4, 2012 (for the class starting in September 2012).
When do you stop accepting applications to this program?
Generally by March 1 of each year. The application and NSTAR’s EPUT website will list the application deadline.
Where can I take the Placement/Assessment Test?
On the Charlestown campus, in room B-118 on a walk-in basis Monday – Wednesday from 8:30am to 7pm, Thursdays from 11am to 7pm, Fridays from 8:30am to 4pm and during the academic year from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. Testing is also available on the Chelsea campus, call 617-228-2101 for times and location.
What if I am not academically eligible to apply to NSTAR after taking the CPT (College Placement Test)?
Students who do not meet the academic eligibility requirements may retake the CPT one more time within a 6 month period (students who completed a writing sample are not eligible to retest in the writing/English portion of the CPT). We strongly advise students wishing to re-take the CPT take advantage of our on-line practice tests and/or obtain additional instruction in any weak areas before retesting. Alternatively, students may enroll in the appropriate developmental coursework to fulfill academic eligibility. Completion of such coursework does not guarantee acceptance into the EPUT program.
I've already taken Accuplacer (the CPT) at another college/university, can I use those scores?
Students who have completed the Accuplacer at another institution may still need to take parts or the entire test at BHCC. You may bring in an official Accuplacer report from another college or university to the Assessment Office (Room B118) at BHCC or call them at (617) 228-2377 and identify yourself as an NSTAR EPUT candidate. The Assessment Center Coordinator will determine whether your scores qualify to meet the academic application requirements of the EPUT/NSTAR program. Please note that the scores may not be handwritten and not every college or university utilizes the same sections of the Accuplacer exam – BHCC requires reading, sentence skills, arithmetic and elementary algebra. Please note, reading and English scores are only valid for 2 years and math scores are only valid for 1 year.
If I have already successfully completed college level coursework, to whom do I send my transcripts?
Students who have successfully completed a college level writing (English composition) course and/or college level math courses with grades of C or better from an accredited college or university should bring a copy of their unofficial transcript to the Admissions Office at BHCC to have it evaluated by an Admissions and Transfer Counselor to determine if the courses will satisfy the academic requirements for application or whether the student will be required to take part or all of the CPT (College Placement Test).
Am I guaranteed a seat in the program if I satisfy all the prerequisites for application?
No. If you meet all prerequisites for the program, the final stage is a formal interview. Candidates will be evaluated and the most qualified applicants will be accepted into the program.
Who is responsible for the CORI, the Driving Record check, the Drug and Alcohol test, the physical prescreen and the interview?
After BHCC considers the applicant to academically eligible, their application will be forwarded to NSTAR. The company, upon receiving a complete application package for admission to this program, will then perform the background checks and will guide the applicant through the process.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program is a two-year, full time day program. The program will take two-years to complete regardless of previous successful college-level academic experience*. There is not an evening or part time option. Between semesters, students are required to work for NSTAR as paid interns.
*Some positions may require additional formal training or educational credits
Do I have to work for NSTAR between semesters?
Yes, the paid internship is required for completion of the program. Interns will be paid $12 per hour the first year and $13 per hour the 2nd year for the required 40hrs per week work experience during the semester breaks totaling a minimum of 12 weeks per year.
What is the starting salary of an entry level utility worker?
About $20 -$30 per hour.
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes and students are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid. In order to qualify for financial aid, students must both apply to Bunker Hill Community College and complete a FASFA (Free Application for Student Aid) online. Future candidates for the EPUT program initially apply as a General Concentration major (AA:GENCN) and must complete the FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov requesting a FAFSA report be sent to BHCC. BHCC’s school code is 011210. For questions regarding financial aid, please contact the Financial Aid office at 617-228-2275.
Who can I contact if I have any additional questions or concerns?
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