Administrative Support Specialist

Develop the technical, business and professional skills needed to be a proficient office professional while earning a diploma in our Administrative Support Specialist program. Today’s fast-paced work environment places an increased demand for office workers to have high computer and technological skills. You will receive adequate training from various computer and business courses to thrive in the workplace.

Expand your knowledge with job-related courses such as Office Procedures, Beginning Web Development and Payroll Accounting. You’ll have the opportunity to prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist Certification testing by completing word processing and spreadsheet courses. Learning basic and computerized accounting will ensure that you’re ready for bookkeeping duties.

Gain real work experience with on-the-job training available at medical offices, banks, insurance companies, real estate  offices or right here on campus. Develop the flexibility and variety of skills necessary to meet the changing needs in business settings. Enter the workforce with the technical training and experience necessary to be a bookkeeper, receptionist or office specialist.

Faculty Contact

Deb Jones
Professor, Office Specialist
712-852-5241 | djones@iowalakes.educreate new email

Program Details

PROGRAM LENGTH: 2 terms

DEGREE: Diploma (40 credits)

CAMPUS: Emmetsburg

Did You Know?

Starting Salary: $24,160

Average Salary: $37,515

Projected Employment Growth: 1.3%

Online availability 50%, Special Certifications Available

Curriculum

Term 1

Credits: 3

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.


Credits: 3

Tabulations, letters, reports and other production work for students with previous instruction in keyboarding, but with insufficient skill to qualify for the next course.


Credits: 2

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.


Credits: 1

Introduction to Business Professionals of America activities, which includes preparation for state and national competitive events, leadership and professional development.

Grading: P/Q


Credits: 5

Apprenticeship in office systems. Students work as regular employees in offices supervised by staff members. This work experience is introductory to meet the student’s abilities and career objectives.


Credits: 2

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.


Credits: 3

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.


Credits: 3

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.


Term 2

Credits: 3

This introductory course covers the processes of completing payroll records and implementing payroll procedures. Topics include methods of computing compensation, state and federal laws affecting payroll, mandatory and voluntary payroll deduc­tions, methods of keeping records, and preparation of internal and governmental reports.

Prerequisites: ACC 131 – Principles of Accounting I


Credits: 2

This course provides students with a basic understanding of the accounting cycle on microcomputers. Topics include general ledgers, accounts receivable and payable, payroll, inventory and depreciation.


Credits: 3

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.


Credits: 1

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


Credits: 3

The essentials of word processing and the use of text-editing equipment.


Credits: 3

Introduces web page construction theory along with practical ap­plications. Content includes basic terminology.HTML language and the planning and construction of the student’s own web page.


Credits: 3

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