AAS Office Technology
Associate of Applied Science in Office Technology

This program is designed for students who wish to enter the job market after completing approximately two years of study. The Associate of Applied Science Degree prepares students to assume office support positions or to update or enhance current job skills. Students may utilize their electives to provide an emphasis in medical office careers. Students can use the transcription courses in the program to emphasize either medical office or legal office background.

Program Competencies

• Demonstrate proficiency in formatting and producing business documents using word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.

• Meet or exceed the current speed and accuracy requirements for typing and 10-key operation.

• Recognize effective customer service interactions.

• Perform the general office procedures of equipment operation, mail distribution, phone calls, meeting planning, and travel arrangements.

• Present professional attitude, appearance, and behavior.

• Work ethically and effectively with subordinates, superiors, customers, and other stakeholders in professional matters.

• Transcribe realistic dictation that is sometimes difficult to understand by applying proper use of terminology and effective communication techniques in medical, legal, or general dictation.

• Use manual and electronic filing methods incorporating records management procedures.

• Use effective voice and electronic communication technologies, as well as compose, proofread, and edit business documents.

• Use appropriate skills and techniques to organize, prioritize, and complete tasks and to produce associated documents in a professional office environment.

Program Assessment

Candidates for the Associate of Applied Science degree in Office Technology at Arkansas Northeastern College are required, as a condition of graduation, to participate in the outcomes assessments conducted by the academic units of the College, including general education. Students graduating with this degree will pass the Office Proficiency Assessment and Certification (OPAC) tests.

Additionally, students complete the Microsoft Office Specialist tests in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Fast Facts

• Administrative Assistants and secretarial jobs rank among the largest in number of job openings.

• Administrative Assistants and secretaries are increasingly assuming responsibilities once performed only by managerial and professional staff.

• Legal and medical secretaries perform highly specialized work which requires knowledge of technical terminology and procedures.

• Administrative Assistants and secretaries use computers and specialized software as a regular part of the workload.

• These workers perform a variety of administrative and clerical duties needed to run an organization efficiently.