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
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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 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
ADM 936 – Occupational Experience
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.
BUS 160 – 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.
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.
Term 2
ACC 161 – Payroll Accounting
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
ACC 310 – Computer Accounting
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.
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.
BCA 185 – Beginning Webpage Development
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.
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