What Are Computer Application Courses?
Do you like to work with different kinds of software applications, such as preparing high-quality reports, or designing distinctive slide presentations? How about courses in Computer Applications?
Computer Application courses include introductory computer classes, classes in word processing (learning about the two leading software packages), spreadsheet, database management, presentation graphics (such as slide presentations), operating systems (both Windows and LINUX), and using the Internet.
Why Take Computer Application Courses?
With the explosion and integration of technology in the work place, the demand for computer-competent employees has grown over the last several years. Computer skills are necessary in almost every organization, company, or agency. Even entry-level clerical, secretarial, and other office positions now require applicants to be able to navigate the Internet as well as use the word processing and spreadsheet software.
Word Processing Technician Certificate
Just beginning? Why not start with the word processing certificate? This
Word Processing Certificate introduces you to computer concepts and skills in two major word processing software packages currently used in the United States. This certificate allows you to bring basic computer knowledge and word processing skills to entry level positions. It also provides you with electronic documentation (ePortfolio) of all past and current educational and professional accomplishments and experiences to fit individual job requirements in business companies, private non-profit organizations, government agencies, and legal firms.
Such positions include: office assistants and clerks, information and records clerks, and correspondence clerks. Additionally, areas such as web site design, accounting or bookkeeping, banking, and supervisory/managerial positions require some skills in text processing as integral parts of the job. Based on recent Bureau of Labor Statistics (2002-2012) figures, job demands in these areas will grow an average of 7% annually and will continue to exceed the number of available and trained workers.
Information Processing Technician Certificate
After this first level, why not continue on to an
Information Processing Technician Certificate? As a matter of fact, many students who are currently employed in entry-level office-related jobs using word processing skills are very interested in opportunities for advancement. These positions usually require competencies in additional computer applications courses in the Windows operating system, spreadsheet, database management, graphic presentations, and the use of the Internet. Such positions include: information technician, customer or client service representatives, and customer support specialists. Using recent Bureau of Labor Statistics (2002-2012) figures, job demands in these areas are even higher than for the entry-level positions - growing from a low of 24% to a high of 47%!
Information Processing Specialist Certificate
Need to know a little more? How about the next step? The
Information Processing Specialist Certificate builds upon a previous background in the use of computer application programs. As you advance in an office-related career path, technical expertise in all aspects of information processing is expected. In addition to advanced software courses in spreadsheet and database management, this certificate also provides you with hands-on training in hardware support and maintenance. In many organizations, students who are currently employed in mid-level office positions are interested in opportunities for advancement to lead or resource person. These positions require a high proficiency with office software applications as well as the ability to identify and troubleshoot microcomputer problems. Such positions include: first line supervisors, administrative analysts, information resource personnel, or lead administrative specialists. Recent Bureau of Labor Statistics (2002-2012) figures show that job demands in these areas will grow approximately 6.6%.
Information Processing Associate In Science Degree
Don't stop now! Did you know that all of these courses and certificates are directly applicable to the
Information Processing Associate in Science Degree? This degree combines computer software proficiencies, and competencies in hardware support, maintenance, and repair with general education requirements. You will be able to incorporate three inter-related certificates (Word Processing Technician, Information Processing Technician, and Information Processing Specialist) as major fields of study with course work in natural science, social science, humanities, languages and rationality, and living skills to earn an Associate in Science degree in Information Processing.
Importantly, with this degree, you are eligible for continued job advancement. Many employees with advance software proficiencies and competencies in hardware support, maintenance, and repair are considered top candidates for supervisory or managerial positions. Such positions include: office supervisors, office managers, computer support specialists, or information processing specialists. Job demands in these areas will grow approximately 19.2% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2002-2012).
PC Support Certificate And Associate In Science Degree
Not interested in managerial duties? Are you more of a hands-on type of employee? If you are, there is the
PC Support Certificate and Degree. With the rapid expansion of computers into all aspects of society, there is a growing need for technicians with a broad range of knowledge in computer applications to install, maintain, and support computers and the networks that they utilize. Students earning this certificate are prepared to acquire entry-level positions in computer support. Employers hiring students earning this certificate will immediately benefit from the skills the students bring to their jobs. Job opportunities for students receiving the
PC Support Certificate include entry level positions in the following areas; Technical Salesperson, Help Desk Support Technician, Systems Analyst, Data Entry Personnel, Assistant Documentation Specialist, and Assistant Trainer.
