60 Credits AAS3292/AAS2255, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
Resources
With the Administrative Office Specialist鈥擜ssociate of Applied Science Degree, students can choose an emphasis from five options that best fit their interests. Students who are interested in more than one emphasis will benefit from an overlap in the core curriculum, so they can earn several degrees with a minimum number of additional credits.
Campuses: Faribault and North Mankato
Program Start Semesters: Fall and Spring
Base estimate for 60 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $12,317
Tools and Equipment: $ n/a
Total Estimated Cost: $12,317 *
and you'll see that tuition at 色中色 is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Note: Keyboarding Prerequisite Requirement
Students must either currently have or attain the skills in OTEC1001 Computer Software for College and OTEC1790 Keyboarding for College before entry in the Office Administration and Technology programs.
Required Core Courses 11 Courses
Complete all of the following courses:
OTEC1820 Business English (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide students with comprehensive, up-to-date instruction in the correct use of English grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, capitalization, abbreviations, and number usage in written business communications. Students will develop proficiency in proofreading, identifying common errors, and using reference materials to correct sentences, paragraphs, and business documents. (Prerequisite: None)
OTEC1822 Microsoft Excel (4 credits)
This course prepares students to work with Microsoft Excel in a career setting or for personal use. It begins with the introduction of concepts such as creating, editing, and formatting worksheets in a uniform, attractive style. It includes inserting formulas, creating charts, and enhancing the display of worksheets of varying complexity. The course will move on to the advanced concepts and features of formatting, using functions, analyzing numerical data, and projecting outcomes to make informed decisions. Features of protecting workbooks, using macros, using pivot tables, and customizing the Excel environment are also included. Current communication needs will be met by including hyperlinks to external information, as well as importing, exporting, and sharing date. (Prerequisite: none)
OTEC1840 Microsoft PowerPoint (3 credits)
This course is designed to build student skill at both a basic and advanced level in Microsoft PowerPoint. It begins with the introduction of concepts such as creating a basic presentation with pictures, shapes, and WordArt, adding media and animation. It continues with the basic skills students need to acquire to use the application proficiently. Once students are proficient at the basic level, the course moves on to the advanced concepts and features such as customizing templates and handouts using masters, developing presentations with content from outside sources, and organizing slides and creating photo albums. (Prerequisites: None)
OTEC1860 Microsoft Word (4 credits)
This course is designed to build student skill at both a basic and advanced level in Microsoft Word. It begins with the introduction of concepts such as file management, entering text, editing, terminology, spelling, and printing. It continues with the basic skills students need to use the application proficiently. Once students are proficient at the basic level, the course moves on to the advanced concepts and features such as macros, merging, and tables. (Prerequisites: None)
OTEC2800 Office Keyboarding (3 credits)
This course covers the continuing development of keyboarding speed and accuracy. Advanced document formatting, such as letters, tables with special features, templates, labels, mail merges, multi-page reports, columns, etc., will be included. Students will continue to develop proofreading skills as they format documents from straight copy, rough draft, handwritten copy, and arranged and unarranged sources. (Prerequisite: A minimum keyboarding speed of 40 words per minute on a 3-minute timing, with 3 errors or less or advisor approval.)
OTEC2810 Computer Technology (3 credits)
This course provides computer technical information that goes beyond the basics for college educated students. It covers not only hardware and software but the new, emerging technology trends that affect computing and everyday life. Topics such as networks, data security, personal privacy, online safety, digital rights, and Internet usage will be addressed. There will be an emphasis on social and ethical issues for thought-provoking course discussions. (Prerequisite: None)
OTEC2820 Business Communications (3 credits)
This course covers the principles of effective writing and requires students to plan, compose, and format a variety of business communications. Emphasis is on proofreading, editing, and revising communications not just to make them correct but also to make them better. Types of communications may include letters, memos, e-mail, announcements, instructions, form letters, and digital media. Specific letter or memo types may include request and response, claim and adjustment, persuasive, credit and collection, and goodwill communications. Students will learn about letter and envelope formats, international communication differences, and organizational approaches for writing correspondence. Students will learn about words to avoid, transitions, parallel structure, and the you attitude. (Prerequisite: OTEC 1820)
OTEC2850 Integrated Information Systems (3 credits)
This is an intensive course that provides project-based learning with a business scenario setting utilizing critical thinking skills. The projects emphasize the integration of various computer applications to create professional documents. Students will incorporate time management, electronic communication, Internet searches, and current technology practices to be successful in an office work setting. (Prerequisites: OTEC 1822, OTEC 1840, OTEC 1860, OTEC 2870)
OTEC2870 Information Resource Management (3 credits)
This course covers rules and procedures for coding, indexing, filing, and retrieving documents in alphabetical, numeric, geographic, and subject systems. Applications include simulated correspondence filing and card filing using both manual and electronic methods. Students will learn how to use database management software to manage information. Records management topics emphasize records control and retention, final disposition of records, and records management issues and trends. (Prerequisite: None)
Portfolio must be taken for three credits.
OTEC2901 Employment Portfolio (2-3 credits)
This course will focus on developing knowledge that will serve as a foundation for the student's employment search process by assisting in developing successful marketing strategies for employment. Students will create distinctive portfolios to assist in their career search. This course is open to all majors but is a required capstone course for the Office Administration and Technology program. Recommended as a final semester course to prepare students to start the employment search process upon graduation (Required as a final semester course for Office Administration and Technology program students). (Prerequisites: none) Variable credits depending on degree/program: Office Administration and Technology AAS degree/program: 3 credits. All other degrees/programs: 2 credits
An internship must be taken for 2 credits for the Office Specialist, Financial, Medical, and Technical Emphasis. A 3 credit internship must be taken for the Legal Emphasis.
OTEC2915 Internship (1 - 3 credits)
This course is designed to provide the student with a purposeful occupational experience in the Office Administration and Technology field. The internship is an individualized experience. A plan is created for each student in conjunction with the training site to provide experience related to the skills and knowledge acquired in the program. This plan is based on the college's and the program's core competencies. (Prerequisites: OTEC 1822, OTEC 1860, OTEC 2820 or Internship Coordinator's approval.) Variable credits depending on emphasis selected: Administrative Office Specialist- Legal: 3 credits. Administrative Office Specialist-All other emphasis areas: 2 credits.
Office Specialist Emphasis
This degree is designed to prepare learners for employment as administrative assistants. Administrative assistants perform a variety of tasks, which may include the following: learn and use various computer applications, prepare and edit business documents, file, manage records, use electronic calendars, handle telephone calls, schedule meetings, make travel arrangements, greet visitors, and process mail. Other responsibilities may include the following: perform research, supervise or train others, record minutes at meetings, purchase equipment and supplies, and present data. After completion of this program, students will be proficient with verbal and written communications, as well as decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Complete the following 3 courses:
ACCT1810 Financial Accounting (4 credits)
This course covers the fundamental accounting concepts and principles which are used in a business environment. Topics include an introduction to accounting and business, completing the accounting cycle, inventories, internal controls, receivables, cash flow statements and financial analysis. (Prerequisites: None)
MKT1820 Introduction to Business (3 credits)
This course covers the basic fundamentals of the world of business. Emphasis will be placed on the nature of business and the trends that will change the way business is conducted in the twenty-first century. The latest technology and business terms will provide an updated look at the business world.
MKT1830 Customer Service (3 credits)
This course covers the importance of customer service and how the student can achieve quality customer service. Total Quality Management is an essential part of customer service and how quality service is relayed to the consumer. This course explains how to develop a service attitude, dealing with various types of customers, handling customer complaints, decision making and using the team concept.
Required Arts and Sciences for Office Specialist - 16 credits from 3 MnTC Goal Areas
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
Choose 10 more LAS credits in consultation with Advisor to complete a total of 60 credits.
Office Specialist 鈥� Financial Emphasis
This program is designed to prepare learners for employment as administrative office specialists in financial offices. Administrative office specialists in financial offices perform a variety of tasks, which may include learning and using various computer applications, preparing and editing business documents, filing, managing records, using electronic calendars, handling telephone calls, scheduling meetings, making travel arrangements, greeting visitors, and processing mail. Other responsibilities may include: routine calculating, posting, and verifying primary financial data in maintaining accounting records, preparing daily bank deposits, writing checks, and maintaining a cash disbursement system.
Complete the following 5 courses:
ACCT1810 Financial Accounting (4 credits)
This course covers the fundamental accounting concepts and principles which are used in a business environment. Topics include an introduction to accounting and business, completing the accounting cycle, inventories, internal controls, receivables, cash flow statements and financial analysis. (Prerequisites: None)
ACCT1811 Managerial Accounting (4 credits)
This course focuses on current and long-term liabilities, partnerships, corporations, long-term investments, managerial accounting concepts, job costing, process costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, and capital budgeting. (Prerequisite: ACCT1810 with a grade of C or higher)
ACCT1814 Payroll Accounting (3 credits)
This course covers various state and federal laws pertaining to the computation and payment of salaries and wages. Topics include preparation of employment records, payroll registers, time cards, employee earnings records, and state and federal reports. In addition, we will explore setting up and maintaining a payroll system using Quickbooks. (Prerequisite: None)
Required Arts and Sciences for Financial Emplhasis - 15 Credits
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
ECON110 Principles of Macroeconomics (3 credits)
Macroeconomics is the study of issues that affect whole economies including economic growth, employment levels, management of the money supply, international trade, and economic instability. The course will examine tools governments can use to stabilize and grow economies, as well as controversies surrounding their use. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) This class satisfies MnTC Goal Area 5 (History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences) and MnTC Goal Area 9 (Ethical and Civic Responsibility).
OR
ECON120 Principles of Microeconomics (3 credits)
Microeconomics is the study of how people, businesses, governments, and other institutions make economic decisions. Topics include market price determination, income determination, resource allocation, and impacts of government policies. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) This course satisfies MnTC Goal Area 5 (Hist/Soc/Behav Science) and Goal Area 2 (Critical Thinking).
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
Choose 6 more LAS credits in consultation with Advisor for a total of 60 credits.
Office Specialist - Legal Emphasis
This program is designed to prepare learners for employment as administrative office specialists in legal offices. Legal administrative assistants perform the administrative tasks in a law office such as answering the telephone, managing the electronic and paper files, transcribing, preparing law office correspondence and legal documents, maintaining the calendar, personal contact with attorneys, courthouse personnel, law office personnel, and others. In addition, the legal administrative assistant drafts documents, gathers information relevant to the client's case, has personal and phone contact with the client, and does minimal legal research. Overall, the legal administrative assistant manages the procedural tasks for clients in the law office with an attorney's supervision. All courses in this program are offered online.
Complete the following courses:
ADS1201 Civil Litigation and Criminal Law (Ridgewater College) (3 credits)
This course covers the legal terminology, procedures, and documents used in the practice of civil litigation and criminal law. Topics include document drafting, legal research and analysis, ethical considerations, and trial preparation.
ADS1202 Real Estate and Corporate Law (Ridgewater College) (3 credits)
This course covers the legal procedures, documents, and terminology relating to real estate and corporate law. Real estate law includes ownership methods, legal descriptions, transfer and financing documents. Corporate law includes major business ownership structures and the documents and formalities followed in each.
OR
ADS1203 Family Law and Estate Planning/Probate (Ridgewater College) (3 credits)
This course covers the legal terminology, procedures, and documents used in the practice of family law and estate planning and probate administration. Topics include property and deed drafting and formation of business structures.
ADS1204 Legal Documentation (Spring odd years only - Ridgewater College) (3 credits)
This course covers the drafting and editing of mailable legal documents and transcription of dictated material using word processing software. Emphasis will be on utilizing legal forms and materials, legal terminology, building accuracy in document keying, editing, and proofreading.
Required Arts and Sciences for Legal Emphasis - 16 credits from 3 MnTC Goal Areas
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
Choose 10 more LAS credits in consultation with Advisor for a total of 60 credits
Office Specialist - Medical Emphasis
This program is designed for learners interested in working in a medical facility and who enjoy office work. Learners will become proficient in keyboarding, word processing, grammar and sentence structure, medical terminology, computer technology, and medical records. The increased technology in this field demands skilled office personnel as physicians and other health care professionals rely upon the expertise of the Administrative Office Specialist. Examples of duties include scheduling appointments, reviewing medical prior authorizations, and verifying medical insurance. The opportunity to work in many health care settings is appealing for those wishing to engage with health care specialists and patients. Employment opportunities would include clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities, chiropractic clinics, and other health care related facilities.
Complete the following four courses:
HC1000 Medical Terminology (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the language of medicine that is used in the health care profession. The student will learn to spell, pronounce, define, and interpret medical terminology related to body structure, disease, diagnosis, and treatment. (Prerequisites: None)
Complete two credits in Health Care Core Foundations
HC1525 Health Care Core Foundations (1 - 4 credits)
This variable credit course will focus on the requirements needed by healthcare professionals to effectively work in a variety of healthcare settings and explore workplace skills such as accountability and responsibility, workplace behavior, approaches to assist clients, and expectations of teams and team members. This course provides a framework for healthcare workers to interact with diverse clients and staff, including belief systems, cultural practices, and respect and sensitivity to cultural, gender, and age issues. Identifying elements of communication and how those elements can develop into effective communication within the healthcare setting is a key focus, as well as learning when and how to utilize those skills in challenging situations. Health care ethics will be addressed and target ethical decision-making and personal and professional values. Legal issues in healthcare will round out the course, concentrating on healthcare laws and social media in healthcare. Healthcare safety and standards precautions will be incorporated, as well as personal wellness for the healthcare professional. This variable credit course was designed as a part of the Minnesota Health Care Core Curriculum. (Prerequisites: None)
HC1550 Electronic Health Records (2 credits)
With the implementation of the electronic health record in today's healthcare environment, it's essential for students entering the healthcare field to understand this technology and how it relates to work in the industry. This course is designed as an introduction to the history of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and concepts behind the structure of electronic medical recording systems. Additionally, it will provide students the opportunity to use multiple functions of an educational electronic health record. (Prerequisites: None)
MA1020 Medical Office Procedures (3 credits)
This course will review administrative duties that are performed by a medical assistant. Emphasis will be on clerical functions, bookkeeping procedures, insurance claims, professional communications, medical coding, legal concepts, medical office operational functions including written and electronic. (Prerequisite: Acceptance into one of the following programs: Medical Assisting, Health Unit Coordinator, or Administrative Office Specialist - Medical)
Required Arts and Sciences for Medical Emphasis - 16 credits from 3 MnTC Goal Areas
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
OR
PHIL150 Medical Ethics (3 credits)
This course examines the moral problems confronting medical providers and surveys the broader field of bioethics. After providing a general introduction to ethical concepts and theories, it focuses on specific issues relating to the American health care system, including access to care, inequality, obesity, reproductive rights, end-of-life care, disability, organ transplantation, and alternative medicine. Emphasis is placed on practical application of moral principles and critical analysis of case studies. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 6-Humanities/Fine Arts and 9 - Ethical/Civic Responsibility)
Choose 10 more LAS credits in consultation with Advisor for a total of 60 credits.
Office Specialist - Technical Emphasis
This program is designed to prepare learners as Administrative Office Specialists with a focus on technical support. Learners will develop skills in computer software, electronic mail, network management, media management, applications support, systems administration tasks, computer maintenance, Internet, and emerging software technologies.
Complete the following courses:
COMP1140 Web for Business (3 credits)
This course approaches developing web pages from a business point of view. It covers HTML5 and CSS3 markup languages used to create web pages. The course is intended for people wanting to learn how to create and publish web pages. No previous experience with HTML or programming is required. (Prerequisites: None)
COMP1200 PC Hardware and Software Essentials (4 credits)
PC Hardware and Software, presents an in-depth exposure to computer hardware and operating systems. Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested best practices in maintenance, and safety issues. Through hands on activities and labs, students learn how to assemble and configure a computer, install operating systems and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. In addition, an introduction to networking is included. This course helps students prepare for CompTIA's A+ certification. (Prerequisites: None)
COMP1360 Introduction to Data Communications and Networking (4 credits)
This course serves as a general introduction for students seeking to acquire a foundation in current network technologies for local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the Internet. The course provides an introduction to the hardware, software, terminology, components, design, and connections of a network. Network concepts such as the OSI model, topologies, and major protocols, as well as the basic functions of system administration and operation are also included. The course is operating system independent and provides an introduction to several popular network operating systems. (Prerequisite: COMP 1200 or instructor approval)
Required Arts and Sciences for Techical Emphasis - 15 credits from 3 MnTC Goal Areas
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
OR
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
PHIL100 Ethics in Society (3 credits)
This course studies the foundations for moral beliefs and values and the part they play in practical ethical judgments. After providing a general introduction to moral concepts and theories, the course covers a wide range of social problems through an analysis of power, privilege, and justice. The class is organized by overarching themes of race, social class, gender, and global concerns and addresses issues involving criminal justice, economic inequality, gender differences, and sexuality. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Area 7a - Human Diversity, MNTC Goal Area 7b - Race/Power/Justice, MNTC Goal Area 9 - Ethical/Civic Resp)
Choose 9 more LAS credits in consultation with Advisor for a total of 60 credits
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
