Administrative Assistant
Develop the technical, business and professional skills needed to run an organized and efficient department while earning an Associate in Applied Science degree. Administrative assistants are needed across the world in a variety of office settings.
Learn a valuable skill-set you can take anywhere through our Administrative Assistant program. Whether you choose to work in legal, accounting, insurance or education, you’ll have a strong foundation of business and computer knowledge.
Today’s fast-paced work environment places an increased demand for administrative assistants to have high computer and technological skills. Through our Administrative Assistant program, you will receive training on web page design, word processing, computer applications, keyboarding, calculating management, transcription and accounting courses. Prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist certification in Word, Excel and PowerPoint and training in our high-tech computer lab. You may also choose to further your professional development by participating in Business Professionals of America’s state and national competitions.
Faculty Contact
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Deb Jones Professor, Office Specialist 712-852-5241 | djones@iowalakes.educreate new email |

Program Details
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Curriculum
Term 1
ACC 131 – Principles of Accounting I
The course examines the accounting methods, principles and terminology needed in the preparation and analysis of financial statements. Included is a study of partnership accounting.
ACC 111 – Intro to Accounting
Introduces the basic principles of accounting and the recoding of simple business transactions using the double entry system. Includes the accounting procedures of journalizing transactions, posting to the ledger, making a trial balance, creating receipt and disbursement of cash.
ADM 116 – Keyboarding II
Tabulations, letters, reports and other production work for students with previous instruction in keyboarding, but with insufficient skill to qualify for the next course.
ADM 132 – Bus Math & Calculators
Provides skills and competencies in basic mathematical functions and in the operation of electronic calculators. Emphasis is on solving business problems and in developing speed and accuracy.
ADM 254 – Business Professionalism
Introduction to Business Professionals of America activities, which includes preparation for state and national competitive events, leadership and professional development.
Grading: P/Q
CSC 110 – Intro to Computers
CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
SPC 101 – Fundamentals of Oral Communication†
The fundamentals course develops the basic skills involved in a variety of communication situations, including oral presentations and interpersonal speaking. Emphasis is placed on organization, audience analysis, vocal and physical delivery, listening, nonverbal communication, critical thinking, and methods of dealing with communication apprehension through class discussion and activities.
Choose either ACC 131 or ACC 111
Term 2
ADM 162 – Office Procedures
Includes modern office skills and technologies, including word processing, automation, records management, reprographics, communication services, time management and methods of handling stress, meeting and travel arrangements and career advancement.
ADM 255 – Business Professionalism II
Business Professionals of America prepares the student for their chosen profession by assisting them in their leadership and professional development for the workplace. Continuation of ADM 254.
Grading: P/Q
Prerequisites: ADM 254 – Business Professionalism
BCA 134 – Word Processing
The essentials of word processing and the use of text-editing equipment.
ENG 105 – Composition I
Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET,COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy
Plus Choose 6 elective credits, suggest: BCA 185 and ACC 161
Term 3
ADM 354 – Business Professionalism III
A course designed to continue introducing leadership topics and discussion which will increase the professional level of business students. Students will have the opportunity to take part in leadership development, such as activities of the Iowa Lakes chapter of Business Professionals of America. This is a continuation of ADM 255.
Grading: P/Q
Prerequisites: ADM 255 – Business Professionalism II
ADM 941 – Practicum
Practical field experience arranged to include office work, direct leadership, and procedures related to career work.
Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor
MAT 110 – Math for Liberal Arts
This is a general survey course which includes sets; number systems; elementary algebra; exponents; equations and inequalities; fractions; ratios; proportion and variation; probability and statistics; elementary graphing; consumer mathematics; and an introduction to geometry.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score or MAT 054 – Math Strategies
Term 4
ADM 355 – Business Professionalism IV
A course designed to continue introducing leadership topics and discussion which will increase the professional level of business students. Students will have the opportunity to take part in leadership development activities, such as activities of the Iowa Lakes chapter of Business Professionals of America. This is a continuation of ADM 354.
Grading: P/Q
Prerequisites: ADM 354 – Business Professionalism III
ArrayBUS 161 – Human Relations†
Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.
ENG 106 – Composition II
Continuation of ENG 105 with emphasis on research and documentation as well as literary analysis.
Prerequisites: ENG 105 – Composition I
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.