OFFICE ADMINISTRATION - GENERAL
Program Outline
Major: OFAG
Length: 1 Year
Delivery: 2 Semesters
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Effective: 2010-2011
Location: Barrie, Midland* (Winter only), Muskoka*, Orangeville*, Owen Sound, South Georgian Bay*
Start: Fall + Winter
*to confirm Regional campus offerings, contact the Office of the Registrar
Description
This one-year program prepares graduates to assist in a wide variety of office settings. The workplace role of the Office Administration graduate is to support the management of an organization by carrying out three key and interdependent functions: organizing, processing information, and communicating. Office Administration - General studies may also form the foundation for enhanced and specialized learning leading to an Office Administration - Legal, Medical, or Executive Diploma.
Initially, students enroll in a common first semester. In second semester, they have course selection options to complement the prescribed general curriculum; further their interests, skills, and career goals; and provide options if they are interested in pursuing year 2 of the Office Administration - Legal, Medical, or Executive Diploma Programs.
Industry trends and requirements are continually monitored to ensure curriculum remains current and relevant.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are employed in a variety of entry-level administrative assistant and clerical positions in manufacturing, transportation, telecommunications, entertainment, government, education, banking and numerous professional services.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- apply time management and organizational skills to facilitate the completion of tasks and meet deadlines in the workplace;
- assess, establish, organize, process, maintain and respond to electronic and paper communications/records to facilitate the flow of information;
- apply a variety of mathematical and estimating techniques accurately for general business documentation;
- use appropriate document formats and procedures to record financial information for the workplace within a specified time frame;
- use effective communication, problem-solving and interpersonal skills to assist with the completion of individual and team tasks and promote the image of the organization;
- communicate clearly, concisely, and correctly in the form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of audiences;
- use critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a multi-tasking environment;
- participate in society as an informed and understanding citizen pursuing an enriched personal life and professional growth through self-directed career planning and life-long learning;
- be aware of cultural and ethical issues that may arise in any business environment;
- understand fully the concepts of commonly used business computer applications such as word processing, desktop publishing/graphics, spreadsheets, databases, presentations, groupware, E-mail, and Internet;
- use business vocabulary and apply transcription, and language skills to produce accurate business correspondence by a specified deadline, using computer technology;
- research, develop, and present reports substantiating the selection of resources or services for the workplace using written and oral presentation techniques and appropriate technology;
- troubleshoot, diagnose and solve basic hardware/software problems.
Program Progression
Fall Intake
Sem 1 - Fall 2010
Sem 2 - Winter 2011
Winter Intake
Sem 1 - Winter 2011
Sem 2 - Summer 2011
To confirm Winter (January) intake, contact the Office of the Registrar.
Admission Requirements
Applicants following the OSS curriculum must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD - 30 credits) or equivalent. OSS applicants must also have Grade 12 English (C) or (U) (ENG4C, ENG4U). Also recommended: Mathematics: Any Grade 12 College Mathematics (MAP 4C or MCT 4C), or any Grade 12 University Mathematics.
Applicants who are 19 years of age or over by the first day of classes, and who lack the academic entrance qualifications, may be considered for entrance to an appropriate post-secondary diploma or certificate program as mature applicants. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis and acceptance will be determined by counselling, Communication Placement Assessment (CPA), previous post-secondary education and evaluation of experience. Some programs also have specific prerequisite requirements that must be met prior to admission. Mature applicants must meet all program specific prerequisites. Those applying as mature students and having no documentation of Grade 12 education must supply, if required, proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver's licence. Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the Academic Calendar for further details.
Graduation Requirements
8 Mandatory Courses
2 Communications Courses
1 Optional Course
1 General Education Courses
Graduation Eligibility
To graduate from this program, the passing weighted average for promotion through each semester, from year to year and to graduate is 60%. Additionally, a student must attain a minimum of 50% or a letter grade of P (Pass) or S (Satisfactory) in each course in each semester.
Mandatory
COMP1012 Computer Business Documentation
COMP1013 Advanced Computer Business Documentation
COMP1048 Introduction to Keyboarding
MATH1004 Business Math for the Office Professional
OFAD1001 Office Procedures and Strategies
OFAD1003 Multi-Media Language Processing
OFAD1007 Spreadsheet and Presentation Applications
OFAD1008 Word Processing and Database Applications
Options
BUSI1011 Professional Business Practices
HURM1000 Human Resource Management Foundations
OFAD1004 Introduction to Legal Office Administration
OFAD1006 Introduction to Medical Office Administration
OFAD2014 Bookkeeping for the Office Professional
OFAD2015 Administrative Support and Records Management
The descriptions that follow provide brief outlines of the courses. Please note that some courses have prerequisite and/or corequisite requirements not shown here, that need to be met in order to enroll in the course. You will be advised of any requisite requirements during the registration process, or you can contact the academic area for further details.
Communications
COMM1000 College Communications
COMM1001 Communications at Work
COMM1004 World Links: Wired Communications
COMM1006 Professional Writing
COMM1007 Oral Presentations
COMM1012 Visual Analysis in Communication
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
BUSI1011 Professional Business Practices 42.0 Hours
You will learn how to prepare and present yourself and your work in a professional manner according to business ethics and protocol(s). In addition you will develop skills to manage office politics, social situations, travel and communications. Finally, you will develop an understanding of appropriate cultural and travel protocols for success in international business situations.
COMM1000 College Communications 42.0 Hours
Effective communication skills are essential for success in college and career. This entry level course promotes development of college level skills related to information literacy and current communication technology. Students focus on writing, researching, presenting, editing and proofreading. They incorporate writing conventions, analyze and valuate information, and prepare and deliver ideas orally. In addition, they edit and proofread their own and others'writing.
COMM1001 Communications at Work 42.0 Hours
Students develop their communication skills for the workplace. Using available technology, they research, write and edit work-related correspondence and short reports, individually and collaboratively. With audio-visual support, they prepare and deliver professional presentations that have vocational emphasis. In addition, students complete other communication tasks specific to their vocational areas.
COMM1004 World Links: Wired Communication 42.0 Hours
Computers are revolutionizing our ability to communicate for the purposes of learning and conducting business. This project-based course develops skills to communicate effectively using electronic media. Hands-on experience is combined with an examination of the characteristics of computer-mediated communication, its role in society, and its use in the workplace. Prior experience with basic Internet functions and Web page construction is strongly recommended. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
COMM1006 Professional Writing 42.0 Hours
Professional writing skills are required in all service, technical, and business environments. In this advanced course, students develop researching, planning, designing, and writing skills used to prepare workplace materials. Individually and collaboratively, they learn and practise the processes involved in producing such information as policies, written instructions, training materials, and online help. Experience with word processing is expected. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
COMM1007 Oral Presentations 42.0 Hours
This advanced communications course is designed to further students' proficiency in verbal communication in both individual and group presentations. Students develop their delivery and presentation skills while working on a range of oral communication activities that start with short, informal introductions and comments and work up to more researched, persuasive, multimedia presentations. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
COMM1012 Visual Analysis in Communication 42.0 Hours
In the modern visual world, the way messages are viewed and disseminated has changed dramatically with technological advances. In this course, students develop their theoretical and practical communication skills at an advanced level by investigating the power of visual imagery. Students focus on interpreting, analyzing, and critiquing a broad range of visuals in terms of intention and effectiveness. In addition, students complete research projects including presentations.
COMP1012 Computer Business Documentation 42.0 Hours
This course is designed to develop skills in word processing and document design and formatting. Emphasis is placed on accuracy and efficiency. Keyboarding skill using the correct touch technique is highly recommended. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
COMP1013 Advanced Computer Business Documentation 42.0 Hours
This course provides further development of touch keyboarding techniques as well as advanced skills in business formatting and documentation. Emphasis is placed on the efficient production of business applications, using advanced features of current word processing software. The minimum keyboarding speed in this course is 45 net words per minute. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
COMP1048 Introduction to Keyboarding 42.0 Hours
This course is designed to build proficient keyboarding skills, including using correct touch technique. Emphasis is placed on accuracy and efficiency. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
HURM1000 Human Resource Management Foundations 42.0 Hours
This course provides an understanding of the modern Canadian human resources function. It covers the historical development of human resources management, the influence of government, staffing, employee relations, current trends and future issues. It provides a brief introduction to more specialized areas including compensation, training and development, employment law, industrial relations, occupational health and safety, and human resources planning. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
MATH1004 Business Math for the Office Professional 42.0 Hours
This course introduces students to the mathematical concepts and formulas commonly used by office administrators in a business environment. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1001 Office Procedures and Strategies 42.0 Hours
This course introduces current office procedures necessary to perform administrative support functions as well as an opportunity to develop learning strategies that will prepare the student to confront academic, personal and career challenges. A combination of practical tasks and processes provides a solid foundation for those entering administrative careers. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1003 Multi-Media Language Processing 42.0 Hours
This course provides the development of skills needed to transcribe a variety of dictated material to mailable office standards within prescribed time limits using digital transcribers, CD ROMs, and current word processing software. Business vocabulary from a variety of employment areas is introduced. Grammar rules, spelling, keyboarding, and language skills are integral components of this course. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1004 Introduction to Legal Office Administration 42.0 Hours
This course introduces the student to basic routines, procedures, documentation, law and terminology common to the legal field. Generic and process skills are developed within a situational learning environment. An overview of the various areas of the law is presented with emphasis on material common to all areas. Current social/legal issues are examined and discussed both individually and within groups. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1006 Introduction to Medical Office Administration 42.0 Hours
This introductory course consists of learning medical terminology necessary to equip the student with the required vocabulary to prepare a variety of dictated medical correspondence to mailable standards. Ethical and cultural issues relating to the medical environment are discussed and students do literary and internet research to prepare presentations related to cultural issues. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1007 Spreadsheet and Presentation Applications 42.0 Hours
This course provides the development of spreadsheet and presentation design skills. Students will learn how to organize, calculate, manipulate and use graph data. A variety of financial functions and formula entries will be explored including IF analysis. Learners will work with multiple worksheets and workbooks. Students will use presentation software to prepare professional looking presentations. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD1008 Word Processing and Database Applications 42.0 Hours
This course is designed for the development of word processing and database skills. Students will use word processing software to create, enhance, and format documents. Using database software, students will plan, create, update and maintain database structures. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
OFAD2014 Bookkeeping for the Office Professional 42.0 Hours
This course introduces basic bookkeeping principles, procedures and concepts as applied to a service business. The bookkeeping cycle, involving journals and ledgers to the preparation of financial statements, is covered. The use of appropriate software is also encouraged. It is strongly recommended students have completed MATH1004 Math for the Office Professional, MATH1002 Math of Finance, or an equivalent course. In addition, it is recommended students have a good knowledge of spreadsheet software.
OFAD2015 Administrative Support and Records Management 42.0 Hours
This course provides the further development of progressive business practices necessary for entry into today's workplace. Emphasis is placed on business travel; international customs; meetings and conferences; reference resources; office communication; and records management, both paper based and electronic. Students will develop team-building skills, exercise critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, and participate in constructive classroom interaction. This course is eligible for Prior Learning Assessment.
Adults with significant life and work experience may receive credits toward a college certificate or diploma program through an assessment process.
More information about Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
NOTE: Information contained in College documents respecting programs is correct at the time of publication. Academic content of programs and courses is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational objectives and employment market needs. The college reserves the right to add or delete programs, options, courses, timetables or campus locations subject to sufficient enrolment, and the availability of courses.
Last Update: March 08, 2012.