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Program Facts 
Develop the skills and experience needed to begin an entry-level position as an office assistant with this eight-credit-hour certificate program. Get an introduction to advanced word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software along with Internet tutorials on Web browsing and e-mail. You’ll also learn about basic office skills such as time/records management and collaboration. This certificate is the first in a two-certificate sequence and may be followed by the Administrative Assistant Certificate.
Classes include introduction to business software packages, word processing/spreadsheet/presentation software and an office assistant capstone. All courses are taught by multidisciplinary faculty who are experts in their fields. Many courses are offered online or in blended formats, giving you added flexibility.
Getting a certificate program is a convenient and affordable way to earn college credit and test out career paths that might be a good fit for you. Harper College features three large open computer labs that are staffed with certified IT Student Support Assistants who can assist with select coursework. You can also get additional experience outside the classroom by participating in a variety of student organizations.
This 8 credit-hour certificate program prepares students for positions as assistants in a business office. Students are introduced to advanced word processing and spreadsheets, to use of the Internet including Web browsing and e-mail, and to integrated use of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software. Students are also introduced to office skills such as time and records management and collaboration. This certificate is the first in a two-certificate sequence and may be followed by the Administrative Assistant certificate.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one of the following options: 1 | 3 | |
Option 1 | ||
| CAS 105& CAS 115& CAS 125 | Word Processing Software and Spreadsheet Software and Database Software | |
Option 2 | ||
| CAS 160 | Introduction to Business Software Packages | |
Description: Provides an opportunity to become proficient in the use of currently popular software packages or suites. Includes word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation software and the integration of these applications. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| CAS 135 | Presentation Software | 1 |
Description: Provides an opportunity to become proficient in the use of a currently popular business presentation package. Includes editing, formatting, themes, slide masters and presentation effects. Lecture Hours: 5 Lab Hours: 1 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| CAS 205 | Advanced Word Processing Software | 1 |
Description: Provides an opportunity to become proficient in the use of a currently popular advanced word processing package. Includes document sharing, advanced content formatting, document tracking and reference tools, mail merge, forms and macros. Lecture Hours: 5 Lab Hours: 1 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| CAS 215 | Advanced Spreadsheet Software | 1 |
Description: Provides an opportunity to become proficient in the use of a currently popular advanced spreadsheet package. Includes workbook sharing, advanced content formatting, data importing, filtering, charting, pivot tables, forms and macros. Prerequisite: CAS 115 or CAS 160 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 5 Lab Hours: 1 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| CAS 290 | Office Assistant Capstone | 2 |
Description: Provides students the opportunity to integrate skills introduced in preceding CAS courses through multi-task projects and case studies reflective of the current business office environment. Also provides a foundation for business office skills including time and workload management, records manageement, interpersonal skills, communication skills and leadership. Prerequisite: CAS 125 and CAS 135 with grades of C or better AND prior or concurrent enrollment in CAS 205 and CAS 215 with grades of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 3 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Total Hours | 8 | |
Students may take CAS 105, CAS 115 and CAS 125 or CAS 160 to satisfy this requirement.
For more information about this program, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.
Please note: This program is not eligible for financial aid.