About the Vocational Office Training Program

The ESL Vocational Office Training Program (VOTP) is a two-semester certification course designed to equip non-native English speakers with the skills needed to advance in their chosen professional careers and vocational programs. The curriculum enables students to develop essential job search and interview techniques, workplace communication proficiency, and the ability to create professional documents and correspondence. Additionally, participants learn to collaborate effectively on projects and presentations while mastering digital tools. Beyond classroom learning, the program builds confidence in public English-speaking scenarios. The VOTP certificate serves as formal recognition of the student’s dedication and achievement in vocational ESL, providing valuable proof for potential employers and other stakeholders.

Please watch the videos below to hear from VOTP students.

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Create professional workplace correspondence and documents, using intermediate-level English and a variety of technology tools.

• Collaborate on professional workplace projects and presentations, using intermediate-level English and a variety of technology tools.

• Apply appropriate intermediate-level English and cultural strategies in the U.S. workplace.

• Employ intermediate-level English and communication skills to identify potential employers, market one’s skills and experience, and interview appropriately for a specific job.

• Create a professional resume and cover letter for a specific job, using appropriate intermediate-level English.

What Will You Gain from VOTP? 

• Confidence in yourself and your ability to speak English in front of others.

• Knowledge and skills that will help you find good job positions such as write professional cover letters and resumes, and interview successfully and with confidence in English.

• Business, computer, and communication skills as well as the ability to communicate about them in English.

• Language and technical skills that help you with credit classes and job opportunities.

• Certificate at the end of the program that may be considered equivalent to up to one years' experience for certain office jobs.

• A warm, friendly, and supportive community that provides additional help and support throughout the program.

Additional Program Details:

The VOTP program uses project-based learning in 8 classes over 2 semesters. Students commit to one full year working together as a cohort. Working closely with classmates in teams, students solve problems and develop their language skills. By the end of the program, students will have a professional resume and targeted cover letter, as well as confidence presenting to groups and responding to interview questions. Students develop a professional social media presence on LinkedIn and other sites and learn how to network to find the job they want. 

Upon completion of the courses with a passing grade and achievement of 45+ WPM typing speed, students qualify for an official Certificate of Achievement which is recorded on their City College of San Francisco transcript. It also fulfills the “substitution” requirements of clerical training listed in certain positions. Graduates of our program have found work across industries in the Bay Area and beyond.