About the Program

The Business and Information Specialist Career Pathway three-term certificate prepares students for entry-level office positions requiring “soft skills” in dealing with clients, customers, vendors and the public, as well as filing, records management, computer applications, and basic written communication duties. Courses included in this pathway can be applied toward completion of the one-year Business Assistant certificate and the Associate of Applied Science in Business Technology degree. This program can be completed entirely through online delivery.

Program Learning Outcomes

The curriculum in RCC courses is derived from a set of identified learning outcomes that are relevant to the discipline. Program learning outcomes for the Business Assistant Business and Information Specialist Career Pathway Certificate are:

Business Communication

Develop professional communications methods appropriate to business situations.

Technology

Use technology to assist with business operations.

Entry Requirements

Students are required to complete the Placement Process to determine skill level and readiness in math, reading, and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined through the Placement Process.

Advanced Standing

Coursework from accredited colleges and universities will be accepted in accordance with college policies and the Business Technology Department Chair’s approval. In order to ensure that coursework is current, program courses over 10 years old must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate department chair before being accepted toward core requirements. Students must complete coursework in their major at a “C-” or better level before proceeding to advanced coursework. High school College Now credit will be accepted in accordance with the current articulation agreement.

Credits earned in the successful completion of Career Pathways Certificates can be applied to other certificates and degrees in the Career Pathway. For more information, speak to a program advisor.

Completion Requirements

Students must complete all courses in this program with a grade of “C-” or better to receive their pathways certificate. Certain prerequisite courses are graded on a pass/no pass basis only. A grade of “P” for these courses indicates a student earned the equivalent of a “C-” or better grade.

This guide lays out an optimal path to graduate. Where zero credits are listed in the prerequisites, students may place into a higher level(s) based on designated placement. Note: some prerequisites may be required for graduation. Please consult an advisor with any program completion questions.