Office Assistant Certificate (Introduction & Advanced)

(Formerly known as Business Information Worker I & Administrative Professional) Students formerly enrolled in the Business Information Worker Certificate Program are encouraged to meet with an Academic Counselor to review coursework and transfer to the current program.

Start the Path to a Career as a Secretary or Administrative Assistant!

The Office Assistant (Introduction & Advanced) certificates are designed, as a series of certificate options, to prepare students for entry-level office and administrative support job positions.

The Office Assistant Certificate Programs were designed as a series of certificate options to prepare students for entry-level office and administrative support in a variety of job positions, including general office clerks, administrative assistants, executive assistants, retail salespersons, customer service representatives, receptionists, information clerks, and more.

What You’ll Learn

• Students who complete the program will learn to:
  • Search the Internet
  • Use Microsoft Office at a professional level
  • Type a minimum of 35 net words per minute (NWPM) with five or fewer errors
  • Perform administrative tasks such as trip planning, file management, and preparing payroll
  • Create letters, memos, and reports with proper business formatting
  • Answer phone calls and take messages
• To be eligible, you must:
  • Students must be 18 years or older
  • Complete an NOCE Admissions Application
  • Complete online general orientation at least 24 hours before registering
  • Recommended: Have basic English language reading, writing, and speaking skills, and/or be at an ESL Intermediate High level
  • Recommended: Have basic math skills
• Program Guide(s)

  Office Assistant Introduction | 2024/25 Program Guide PDF

  Office Assistant Advanced | 2024/25 Program Guide PDF

  Business Information Worker I Conversion Program Guide to Office Assistant Introduction 2024-2025 

  Administrative Professional Conversion Program Guide to Office Assistant Advanced 2024-2025

As an administrative assistant, you’ll help your office run more efficiently. Often, this involves managing information: setting up meetings and appointments, organizing files, and providing information by phone and email. Some roles may also include doing research and managing projects.

You’ll get training on the latest business computer software, practice interviewing, and develop the skills to become a valuable administrative team member.  

Career Highlights and Opportunities

• Skills You’ll Need
• Advanced Offie Assistant Careers

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I receive when finished and how long does it take?

  Students who complete the Office Assistant Certificate program(s) receive a certificate. Each program can be completed in as little as 9 months.
• How much does it cost?

  The Office Assistant courses are tuition-free. However, students are responsible for covering the cost of textbooks, software, course supplies, and a parking pass. Your course instructor(s) will provide an estimate for the cost of required textbooks, software, and course supplies during your first course meeting. 
• What are the jobs and how much do they pay in California?

  Career opportunities include positions such as secretary, administrative assistant or associate, office assistant, or clerk typist.

  • Average Hourly Wage for Office Assistant, Introduction: $20.00 to $22.00
  • Average Hourly Wage for Office Assistant, Advanced: $22.00 to $25.00

  Note: Salary and employment outlook is for Orange County, CA, and will vary depending on skill, experience, employer, and geographic location.