Office Assistant

Office Assistant Certificate

Choose this program to train for a career as a receptionist or office assistant. Employers such as physician’s offices, law firms, temporary help agencies, and consulting firms are in need of skilled office staff. You could also work for manufacturing and industrial firms, telecommunications companies, and retail and wholesale organizations, plus many other businesses that need office clerical support.

Employment Information

Estimated Program Costs
Estimated costs based on 4 quarters to complete this program
Average Tuition and Fees per Quarter: $1,700
Average cost per credit: $119
Total Tuition and Fees: $6,800
Average annual cost of living in Bellingham
Living expenses (housing and food): $16,512
Transportation: $1,935
Miscellaneous/Personal: $1,800
TOTAL: $20,247

Tuition Fees and Rates overview page

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

The program typically starts in Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer Quarters.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Complete guided self-placement.

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 57

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

Quarter 1
AENGL 100 Applied English 5 CR
This applied English course focuses on the workplace communication skills needed to send, receive, and process oral and written information. Along with a review of writing fundamentals, learners will use principles of clear communication, professionalism, and cultural awareness in occupational contexts. Learners will sharpen their reading, writing, and presentation skills.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher or RDG 085 with a C or higher, and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher or ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Bracy
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Th 8:00 AM-10:10 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MWF 2:10 PM-3:30 PM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Richards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
BUS 188 Business English 5 CR
Communication skills in any organization are essential. Applying standard English rules and making sure that information is clearly communicated will help students be a valuable asset for any employer. Business English focuses on the improvement of basic grammar and proofreading skills needed to effectively compose and edit written business documents. Specific areas include proofreading, parts of speech, sentence structure, capitalization, abbreviation, number usage, punctuation, writing style, and vocabulary.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher, AND ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher OR ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
OR
ENGL& 101 English Composition I 5 CR
A composition course in which students read, analyze, and write essays using a variety of rhetorical strategies, as well as develop and verbally express ideas clearly and effectively. The critical reading of essays will provide a basis for the student's own critical writing, which will reflect a command of college-level literacy standards. Attention to writing fundamentals and stylistic techniques will also be included. Word processing, email and internet knowledge required.
Prerequisite:
ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension score of 85 or RDG 085 with a C or higher, AND ACCUPLACER Sentence Skills score of 86 or ENGL 092 with a B or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MWF 10:10 AM-11:30 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MW 8:30 AM-9:50 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Bracy
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
BIT 100 Survey of Business and Information Technology 2 CR
Students will study career and networking opportunities in business and information technology, develop an academic plan, and prepare for the job search and job application process. It is recommended that this course be completed in a student's first quarter.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 W 2:30 PM-3:50 PM Camden
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024 W 2:30 PM-3:50 PM Massey
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CAP 101 Introduction to Computer Applications 5 CR
General computer skills are important for students and employees. In this course, students will use a personal computer to demonstrate basic skills in Windows and Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Students will describe safe technology practices, use the tools within the BTC learning management system, demonstrate file management techniques, and demonstrate proper keyboarding techniques.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher.
Core Courses for Program
AENGL 100 Applied English 5 CR
This applied English course focuses on the workplace communication skills needed to send, receive, and process oral and written information. Along with a review of writing fundamentals, learners will use principles of clear communication, professionalism, and cultural awareness in occupational contexts. Learners will sharpen their reading, writing, and presentation skills.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher or RDG 085 with a C or higher, and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher or ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Bracy
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Th 8:00 AM-10:10 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MWF 2:10 PM-3:30 PM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Richards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
BUS 188 Business English 5 CR
Communication skills in any organization are essential. Applying standard English rules and making sure that information is clearly communicated will help students be a valuable asset for any employer. Business English focuses on the improvement of basic grammar and proofreading skills needed to effectively compose and edit written business documents. Specific areas include proofreading, parts of speech, sentence structure, capitalization, abbreviation, number usage, punctuation, writing style, and vocabulary.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher, AND ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher OR ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
OR
ENGL& 101 English Composition I 5 CR
A composition course in which students read, analyze, and write essays using a variety of rhetorical strategies, as well as develop and verbally express ideas clearly and effectively. The critical reading of essays will provide a basis for the student's own critical writing, which will reflect a command of college-level literacy standards. Attention to writing fundamentals and stylistic techniques will also be included. Word processing, email and internet knowledge required.
Prerequisite:
ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension score of 85 or RDG 085 with a C or higher, AND ACCUPLACER Sentence Skills score of 86 or ENGL 092 with a B or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MWF 10:10 AM-11:30 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MW 8:30 AM-9:50 AM Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Bracy
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
BIT 100 Survey of Business and Information Technology 2 CR
Students will study career and networking opportunities in business and information technology, develop an academic plan, and prepare for the job search and job application process. It is recommended that this course be completed in a student's first quarter.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 W 2:30 PM-3:50 PM Camden
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024 W 2:30 PM-3:50 PM Massey
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
BUS& 101 Introduction to Business 5 CR
Students are introduced to the broad field of business and its organization, operation and management. Business opportunities, ownership, marketing, physical factors, human resource, finance, regulations and decision-making processes are emphasized. Other topics include problems of organization, strategic management and controls. Fulfills the social science requirements at Bellingham Technical College.
Prerequisite:
Recommend experience in Word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Th 10:30 AM-12:40 PM Miller
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024 Miller
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024 Miller
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
BUS 150 Math for Business 5 CR
Financial management is an important aspect of any organization. Students will apply math concepts to business applications as they study financial institutions, statistics, pricing and sales, payroll, debt, investing, and insurance. These topics are useful in both career and personal life.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher, and AND ACCUPLACER Arithmetic (238) or higher OR MATH 90 with a C or higher
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Newton
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024 MWF 12:30 PM-1:50 PM Miller
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CAP 101 Introduction to Computer Applications 5 CR
General computer skills are important for students and employees. In this course, students will use a personal computer to demonstrate basic skills in Windows and Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Students will describe safe technology practices, use the tools within the BTC learning management system, demonstrate file management techniques, and demonstrate proper keyboarding techniques.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher.
CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communications 5 CR
Designed to introduce students to the application of basic interpersonal communication theory, with a focus on achieving success in the workplace. Topics explored include self-awareness, self-disclosure, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, assertiveness, teamwork and group dynamics, conflict management strategies, and communicating in a diverse world.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher or RDG 085 with a C or higher, and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher or ENGL 092 with a C or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 MWF 10:10 AM-11:30 AM Burns
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Burns
09/20/2023-12/08/2023 Burns
09/26/2023-12/05/2023 T 10:30 AM-12:40 PM Zamora
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Electives
Office Assistant students may choose elective credits from any 100 level or higher courses with the following prefixes: ACCT, ACCT&, BUS, BUS&, CAP, HT, and IT. 18 CR

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year closest to the year started, without going over, to see program requirements for a student who started the program that year:

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate proper keyboarding technique with a minimum speed and accuracy.
Perform math calculations for business scenarios and analyze business financial documents.
Communicate verbally and in writing using standard English.
Prepare business documents using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Analyze business organizational structure and the role of an administrative assistant in the office environment.
Apply techniques for managing time, organizing records, and running meetings in an office environment.

Employment Outlook

Employment opportunities for receptionists are expected to grow because so many receptionists work for firms in services industries – including physician’s offices, law firms, temporary help agencies, and consulting firms – that are expected to experience significant growth. Job openings should be plentiful due to the large size and high rate of turnover associated with this occupation.

The average annual wage in this field is $37,211, with an earning potential of about $46,426 per year.

Administrative assistants are needed in a variety of industries. Employment for administrative assistants is projected to grow 19 percent in Washington State and decline by 9 percent across the United States according to O*Net OnLine

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Bracy
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	Th	8:00 AM-10:10 AM	Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM	Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Richards

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MW	8:30 AM-9:50 AM	Henkel
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Bracy

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	W	2:30 PM-3:50 PM	Camden
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	W	2:30 PM-3:50 PM	Massey

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	Th	10:30 AM-12:40 PM	Miller
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Miller
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024			Miller

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Newton
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MWF	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Miller

Office Assistant

Office Assistant

Office Assistant Certificate

Employment Information

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 57

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Core Courses for Program

Electives

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support