Overview
This 1-year program prepares you for a dynamic career as an administrative professional. Skilled administrative assistants are in demand in almost every industry, and this hands-on program prepares you for a variety of entry-level positions.
In addition to learning office procedures and business computer applications, an emphasis is placed on critical thinking, customer service, professionalism, communication, problem-solving and teamwork. The program focuses on the demands of a modern office, including organizing activities and meeting deadlines.
Practical applications include document processing, computerized bookkeeping, database, spreadsheets, office procedures and social media.
Work experience
- Field experience is a mandatory credit course, providing the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills outside the classroom.
- Opportunities are typically unpaid and last approximately 5 weeks.
- Transportation, accommodations and other costs related to work experience courses are your responsibility.
- For more information, visit work experience opportunities.
Study options
- Part-time study is available and takes 2 years to complete. Check the Locations and Availability tab for part-time offerings.
Choose NSCC
- You get the hands-on, practical experience employers want. Most campuses offer a model office to apply your skills.
- Instructors keep in close contact with industry experts to ensure you're learning the skills employers require.
Other info
- This program offers students a look into today's modern office, with guest speakers and field trips to various organizations.
Courses may include
These are some of the courses offered in this program. It is not a complete list and courses are subject to change in advance of the academic year.
Recognizing prior learning / transfer credits
If you have previous learning (course, employment, etc...) that's relevant to your program, you may be able to apply to earn credit. Not all programs are eligible. Learn about our recognizing prior learning (RPL) process.
ACTG 1100 - Bookkeeping
This course introduces students to the basic principles of manual bookkeeping in a service industry. Emphasis will be placed on practical applications of bookkeeping: examination of financial documents, source documents, double-entry journalizing and posting to the general ledger. Students will also reconcile a bank statement and maintain petty cash records.
This course cannot be used to fulfill an elective requirement for students in the Business Administration program.
ACTG 2010 - Computerized Accounting I
This course is designed to provide practical applications of accounting principles and procedures using a basic integrated accounting software package. Students will process transactions using the general, accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory, and payroll modules. Students will also use financial statements and other reports to provide accurate financial information to supervisors.
This course is accepted toward certification with the Canadian Institute of Bookkeeping (CIB).
This course is accepted as a pre-requisite for the Canadian Professional Accountant Advanced Certificate in Accounting and Finance (CPA – ACAF) program.
COMM 1205 - Communications - Workplace Foundations
Effective communication is fundamental to career success. This course will apply the communication cycle to improve the impact of written messages, presentations, and interpersonal interactions.
COMM 2215 - Communications - Workplace Applications
This course explores the detailed and specialized messages that are part of the current workplace. The course will give students the opportunity to research, format, and write targeted messages such as reports and letters. The course also prepares students for the job search.
COMP 1103 - Document Production I
This course will introduce students to the principles of keyboarding and document processing. Students will develop proper touch keyboarding techniques and use current timed writing standards to key a speed of 25 words per minute. This course introduces students to electronic file management, as well as, presentation and email software. Students will produce properly formatted, error-free documents using word processing software.
Note: This course is not eligible to Business Administration students for use as an elective.
COMP 2000 - Applied Social Media
Students will explore current trends in the use of social media platforms in the workplace. They will develop the skills to assess and identify the suitability of social media platforms. This course will engage students in hands-on application of these platforms to communicate. Course content will emphasize the importance of ethical and respectful communication in building professional relationships and delivery of outstanding customer service.
COMP 2106 - Document Production II
This is an advanced course that builds upon the skills and techniques acquired in Document Production I. Using word processing and desktop publishing software, students will produce a variety of high-quality business documents. Students will demonstrate proper touch keyboarding techniques and use current timed writing standards to key a projected speed of 40 words per minute.
COMP 2107 - Advanced Spreadsheets
This course delves into advanced spreadsheet concepts, equipping participants with the skills necessary to excel in modern business environments. Students will explore a range of topics, including creating, editing, and effectively utilizing spreadsheet templates. The course emphasizes hands-on experience in applying knowledge to develop proficiency in spreadsheet software.
COMP 2112 - Applied Spreadsheets
This course introduces the student to electronic spreadsheets. Basic formulae and functions will be used to perform calculations on the spreadsheet data as well as applying formatting skills to enhance the appearance and clarity of printed spreadsheets and reports. Students will also learn to correct common errors, and to utilize sorting and filtering functions to increase efficiency.
This course cannot be used to fulfill an elective requirement for students in Business Administration.
MGMT 1010 - Organizational Behaviour
This course gives students a fundamental understanding of the factors that influence effective interactions within an organization.
Individual traits, team dynamics, and organizational culture will all be examined as factors contributing to workplace success and sustainability. Topics such as perception, diversity, motivation, ethics, conflict resolution, and change will be examined to help students become better equipped to interact with others in an organization and to find career satisfaction.
OFFI 1010 - Office Procedures I
This course will provide students with introductory skills necessary to work in a professional office. Customer service and time management skills are taught and practiced in a model office environment. Operating office equipment, managing office mail, supporting meetings and event planning are covered in Office Procedures I.
OFFI 2010 - Office Procedures II
Through the use of classroom lectures and an office simulation package or practical experience, students will build on skills acquired in Office Procedures I to demonstrate proper protocols, procedures and processes when working in an office organization and work environment.
This course is not eligible for a supplemental.
OFFI 2109 - Administrative Terminology
This course will provide students with the opportunity to learn and apply introductory administrative support terminology in various fields of work. Students will have the opportunity to explore current administrative applications used in industry.
OFFI 2995 - Work Experience
The Work Experience course provides learners with the opportunity to apply the skills developed within the Office Administration program. Learners gain valuable experience and may receive employer references through the completion of this course.
This is a course of 175 hours spread over five weeks. Learners will also benefit from feedback and debriefing during the work experience course.
SAFE 1000 - Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
This course offers learners basic overview of WHMIS principles and establishes a solid foundation to support workplace-specific training on the safe storage and handling of controlled/hazardous products. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive basic WHMIS certification.
SAFE 1001 - Introduction to NS OH&S Act
This course offers students an introduction to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Act of Nova Scotia, which is required by any person employed in a Nova Scotia workplace. This is a generic, introductory course that provides basic knowledge of the Act for students and is considered to be the basis from which more specific training can be given.
