Office Systems Technology (OST)

Develops skill in operating a keyboard by touch and to develop an introductory level of skill producing standard business documents using a word processing program with speed and accuracy. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces students to computer concepts and terminology related to operating system, file management and cloud computing. Teaches basic competencies in searching, locating, and evaluating information on the Internet, using email and other online tools, and demonstrating responsible and ethical online and offline behavior. Teaches beginning skills in word processing electronic spreadsheets, presentations, databases and integration as well as how to keep up with emerging technologies and use computer skills to enhance quality of life and employability. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

A hands-on approach to editing business documents. Applies proper placement and structure of business documents. Reviews principles of grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, spelling, word and number usage, and proofreading rules. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces the judicial system (discovery, trial, and appellate processes), civil law, criminal law, legal terminology and legal citations commonly used in the legal field. Includes terms and how to use them in legal context. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides experience in word processing including the mastery of touch typing with speed and accuracy using industry standard software. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Designed to teach students fundamental principles and concepts including: financial markets, futures, bonds, commodities, interest rates, and taxes. The primary emphasis is short and long term financial planning along with interpretation of financial information. Careers in the financial industry discussed. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces the principles of typography, type basics, type aesthetics, how to design with type, parameters of type and how they can be used to produce quality type. Utilizes advanced commands and pagination composition skills. Studies grids, file management and other options such as design standards with business publications. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Produce usable business documents from machine dictation using word processing software, with emphasis on spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Proofreading and editing applications stress the importance of accuracy and quality of document creation and production. Demonstration of office machines will be incorporated. Lecture: 3 hours (45 contact hours).

Presents aspects of the management of records from creation to disposal, using database software to create and edit files and prepare reports. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Uses advanced features of a current word processing software to format and produce documents utilized in an office. Lecture: 3.0 credit hours. (45 contact hours).

Applies skills required for the performance of business tasks: use of numeric keypad to compute payroll, markup/markdown, purchases, loans, discounts, stock and bond transactions; and other business applications. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Studies the practices and procedures of current office concepts with emphasis given to the electronic office including: job application procedures, human relations in the office, business ethics, decision-making skills, travel and meeting arrangements, time and stress management, incoming/outgoing mail processes, and telephone procedures. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Applies administrative procedures office simulations to include organizing, communicating, scheduling, and analyzing. Emphasizes productivity, efficiency, accuracy, and problem solving. Uses technology to research information on the Internet and send and receive e-mail. Continues to develop speed and accuracy. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Applies classroom experiences and skills in a simulated legal office environment. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Uses desktop publishing software to design and produce high resolution publications such as flyers, brochures, business forms, and newsletters. Introduces basic design techniques, type and graphics layout, and related terminology. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Presents aspects of communications technology used in the global business environment, including presentations software; a basic understanding of voice recognition software; planning and composition of written, oral, and electronic communications; grammar, punctuation, and spelling; and principles of proofreading, both manual and electronic. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Expands computer skills through the use of spreadsheet, database management, word processing, and presentation software for the integration of information. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides advanced techniques in electronic publishing design, layout, composition and paste-up. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides instruction in the process of image-editing including how to create original artwork, manipulate color, enhance artwork, graphics and retouch photographs and clipart used in desktop publishing programs. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Uses industry standard software to create business presentations, business graphics, transparencies, and slides. Applies editing, formatting, page layout and design, and paste-up techniques for clarity and impact. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Management principles and techniques and their applications to the modern business office are included. Emphasis is on information systems and the role of managerial personnel. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides the opportunity to apply acquired occupational skills in a realistic setting, enhancing the transition from school to work. Requires approval of OST advisor. Laboratory: 1.0 - 3.0 credits (45-135 contact hours).