Business Technology Information
Today's employers seek tech-savvy individuals who enjoy a fast-paced work environment. Learn about the business world while gaining hands-on experience in software application packages through Heartland's highly flexible Business Technology and Administrative Office Professional programs. Many of the courses, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access, are offered in an open learning format. This allows you to complete a class at any point during a semester - whatever fits your needs.
The courses included in the Business Technology certificate program count toward the completion of HCC's Business Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree and the Administrative Office Professional Associate in Applied Science degree (AAS). You may also qualify for free vouchers to take Microsoft certification exams in our Business Technology Learning Center.
Employment of secretaries and administrative assistants is projected to grow 12% from 2012 to 2022. Strong communication and organizational skills, along with expertise in technology expand your opportunities for advancement in the field.
Bureau Of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department Of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-2013 Edition
There are different paths into this field. Consider your career goals and personal interests, and then choose the option that best meets your needs.
FIRST: Start by earning a Certificate
Certificate - Accounting
Students will learn skills needed to work in the accounting field. Students will gain experience in
recording transactions, financial statement preparation, payroll accounts, corporate financial decision-making, and business communication.Certificate - Administrative Office Professional
The Certificate in Administrative Office Professional prepares students to specialize in jobs requiring the use of computers and other business technologies including, but not limited to, the following: receptionist, office clerk, office manager and administrative assistant. The student receives extensive hands-on experience in application packages. The courses included in completion of the certificate are accepted toward the completion of the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Business Technology.
Certificate - Bookkeeping
This certificate provides students with extensive knowledge and industry certifications in bookkeeping and payroll accounting functions. Upon completion, students will be prepared for success in positions such as Accounting Assistant Clerk, Accounts Payable Clerk, and Payroll Specialist. Courses in this sequence may be applied toward the Accounting Certificate and the Business Technology – Accounting AAS degree.
Microcertificate - Data Analytics
The data analytics microcertificate is composed of two courses which will introduce students to the concepts and software tools that would be part of an entry-level data analytics position. Students of this program may be just starting their education or may have already obtained a degree or work experience and are updating their skills to include this skillset to improve their marketability.
Certificate - Microsoft Office Specialist
- Microcertificate - Word Microsoft Office Specialist
- Microcertificate - Excel Microsoft Office Specialist
- Microcertificate - Access Microsoft Office Specialist
Students completing the Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate will be proficient in the basic and advanced features of all programs in the Microsoft Office Suite. Upon completion of this micro certificate, students will be prepared to earn certification as a Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook and OneNote Microsoft Office Specialist, as well as Expert Word and Excel Microsoft Office Specialist. Students can apply this certificate toward the Business Technology – Microsoft Office Specialist AAS degree.
Certificate - Small Business Management
The Certificate in Small Business Management is designed to improve and enhance the general business skills of small business managers and entrepreneurs. The curriculum includes classes in business communications, accounting, computer skills, taxes, customer relations, marketing, financial planning and small business management. The program is designed to serve managers and small business owners in a variety of occupations such as residential contracting, restaurants and catering, real estate, personal service industries, retailing, automobile repair, landscaping and other occupations. This program is intended for individuals employed as managers or owners of small businesses who could benefit from additional education to enhance their business skills, for those interested in obtaining business skills prior to the opening of their own business, and for students interested in seeking office management positions within small businesses.
THEN: Choose a path that best meets your career goal
Associate in Applied Science - Business Technology
Earning a Business Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree opens additional and more advanced career paths. These include becoming a(n):
- Organizational Support Specialist
- Statistical Assistant
- Financial Assistant
- Actuarial Assistant
