The objective of the Office Technology programs is to develop levels of competence in skills and knowledge needed by the entry-level office workers for modern businesses and organizations.

Successful students from the two-year associate degree program should be prepared to pass civil service examinations and the various employment tests given by large businesses and industrial offices. Basic general education courses such as writing, mathematics, and speech are included in the two-year program. Business-related courses, including accounting, supervision, small business, and computer applications, give the student a foundation for office work. In addition, students become proficient in necessary secretarial skills, including extensive computer knowledge using current software in word processing and spreadsheets. Law firms, medical offices, governmental agencies, and other businesses in the Golden Triangle area actively recruit graduates of the two-year program.

Office Technology is a Tech-Prep program, which means that high school Tech-Prep students can enter the OTA program and receive up to 12 semester hours of credit. After completing the associate of applied science degree in Office Technology, graduates may pursue an Enhanced Skills Certificate in Medical Office Technology. This certificate is intended to provide skills beyond career entry or in a new or specialized area.

The Office Technology program also allows students to earn a variety of certificates after completing 31-32 hours of specified college course work. Students can begin the one-year certificate programs without having passed COMPASS® but must pass COMPASS® before taking the English and math required for completion of these certificates. The one-year Certificate of Completion Clerical option will enable the graduate to obtain an entry-level position in a business office. The clerical option includes two courses in accounting.

The one-year Certificate of Completion in Medical Office Technology will allow the graduate to work in a doctor’s office or hospital as support staff. Graduates will have working knowledge of medical transcription, terminology, and record-keeping methods.