Administrative Assistant Certificate

The Administrative Assistant Certificate program is a 1,098 hour (36.6 week) certificate program which includes word processing, spreadsheet, database, desktop publishing, computerized accounting, and presentation software. Students also learn business communications, business math, office procedures, effective job search techniques, accounting, and self-management skills. There is a three-week practicum component to this certificate.

The Administrative Assistant Certificate program is offered on campus as well as online. On-site students are normally enrolled full time; students wishing to take courses on campus on a part-time basis should consult with the department chair. Online students may complete the program part time. 

Graduates may be employed as receptionists, general clerks, administrative or executive assistants, and other similar careers.

Graduates may also continue their education as the Administrative Assistant Certificate program is recognized by other programs such as the Okanagan College Legal Administrative and Medical Administrative Assistant Certificate programs. As well, select courses transfer to the Okanagan College Business Administration, Canadian Institute of Bookkeeping (CIB), and the Canadian Payroll Association programs.

Admission Requirements

• B.C. Secondary school graduation, or equivalent, or 19 years of age and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes.
• English 11 with minimum 50% or alternatives; or a minimum score of 70% on an Okanagan College Office Administration English entrance test.

Program Outline

Prior Learning Assessment

Students who are in the Administrative Assistant program and pass OADM 165, 167, 169 and 128/129 may apply for equivalence for BUAD 128 Computer Applications I.

Students who are in the Administrative Assistant or Accounting/Bookkeeping programs and pass OADM 143 and 142 may apply for equivalence for BUAD 111 Financial Accounting I.

Students who are in the Administrative Assistant program and pass OADM 110, 111 and 181 may apply for equivalence for CMNS 112 Business Communication I.

Students who are in the Accounting/Bookkeeping program and pass OADM 145, 169A and 169B may apply for equivalence for BUAD 128 Computer Applications I.

Students who are in the Accounting/Bookkeeping program and pass OADM 144 may apply for equivalence for BUAD 121 Financial Accounting II.

Graduation Requirements

Minimum passing grade per course is 70%.