Contact: Kris Hudson
Phone: (952) 681-3886

BLOOMINGTON, Minn., Nov. 19, 2002 – Pearson Professional Testing, the electronic testing business of NCS Pearson, today announced that it has signed an exclusive, three-year contract to provide electronic test delivery services for Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). CCI exams will be delivered through the Pearson Professional Centers, NCS Pearson’s company owned and operated network of more than 200 test centers.

CCI is a not-for-profit corporation, established for the sole purpose of administering credentialing examinations as an independent credentialing agency. CCI represents the summation of testing processes for the cardiovascular professional that began in the 1960s.

"For our conversion from paper-and-pencil to computer-based tests, it was essential that we partner with a strong leader in the electronic testing industry," said Brian D. Longtin, executive director of CCI. "CCI chose Pearson Professional Testing because of their innovative technology and flexible test center options." Longtin continued, "Pearson Professional Testing’s advanced testing system will significantly enhance our credentialing program. And, the Pearson Professional Centers will offer opportunities for on-demand testing and provide a more secure and professional testing environment for our exam candidates."

"We are pleased that our test delivery services meet the stringent needs of the CCI program," said Bob Whelan, vice president and general manager of Pearson Professional Testing. "CCI is one of several premier clients who demand a high level of security and control for their testing programs, and are choosing to deliver exams in our state-of-the-art Pearson Professional Centers. Our test centers, systems and processes have been carefully designed, offering flexible, yet secure and reliable delivery options for the high-stakes testing industry."

NCS Pearson is a global provider of applications, services and technologies for education, testing, assessment, government and complex data management. Through its electronic testing business, Pearson Professional Testing, NCS Pearson implements innovative testing solutions that enhance the performance, reliability and security of professional licensure and certification testing programs throughout the world. NCS Pearson operates as a business of Pearson Education, the world’s largest integrated education company, which in turn is part of Pearson, the international media company.

For more information about Pearson Professional Testing, visit www.pearsontesting.com.

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