Overview

Assiniboine’s two-year Office Management diploma program prepares graduates to take a leadership role in the office environment.  

Office managers oversee and implement administrative procedures, establish work priorities, conduct analyses of administrative operations and coordinate acquisition of administrative services. 

Program Learning Outcomes 

  • Utilize Microsoft Office, accounting software, and other industry-standard software programs for a variety of administrative tasks.  
  • Use communication and interpersonal skills to interact professionally with colleagues and clients. 
  • Apply problem-solving techniques to resolve complex issues that may arise in office settings. 
  • Demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail in administrative tasks.  
  • Utilize time-management and organizational skills to manage tasks and responsibilities efficiently. 
  • Present information clearly and concisely in a variety of formats. 
  • Anticipate and action solutions to needs of the office.  
  • Maintain professionalism while working towards tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.  
  • Maintain administrative procedures and systems to ensure efficient and effective office operations in both public and private sectors. 
  • Demonstrate leadership skills in managing a team, delegating tasks, and resolving conflicts using effective communication and interpersonal skills. 
  • Evaluate and select appropriate software applications to facilitate office operations and manage information effectively, ensuring data security and confidentiality. 
  • Maintain human resources policies and practices, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and professional development programs. 
  • Understand the legal and ethical implications of workplace policies and practices, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and regulations. 
  • Employ research tools and methods to write professional reports. 
  • Process payroll transactions to comply with government and organizational requirements. 

Examples of what office managers can do: 

  • Plan, organize and coordinate administrative functions, such as record-keeping, scheduling and communications. 
  • Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations and policies, such as labour laws and health and safety regulations. 
  • Prepare reports and presentations, provide updates on administrative activities and making recommendations for improvements. 

Success Factors 

You might be a good fit for this program if you would enjoy: 

  • Being detail-oriented and organized. 
  • Using computers and various software programs in the office environment. 
  • Identifying problems, evaluating options, and developing solutions. Think creatively and make sound decisions. 
  • Managing multiple tasks, projects, and deadlines simultaneously. 
  • Working independently and meeting deadlines. 
  • Working professionally and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders. 

A valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is strongly recommended given the potential need to travel for practicum placement. 

The industry and program environment require individuals to: 

  • Adjust their work style to meet the needs of different situations or people. 
  • Communicate effectively with team members and clients. 
  • Work collaboratively with team members and contribute effectively to group projects. 
  • Maintain professionalism, attention to detail and quality of work under tight deadlines and in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Display strong problem-solving skills to address issues as they arise and develop creative solutions to complex problems. 
  • Be reliable, punctual and regularly attend work. 
  • Continually seek and be open to feedback and critiques. 
  • Listen to direction and act on that accordingly. 
  • Manage projects and time effectively, meeting deadlines and delivering work within industry standards and best practices. 
  • Perform static tasks, such as sitting and using a computer. 
  • Perform physical tasks, such as operating and maintaining small equipment. 
  • Use and keep up to date with changes in technology and be willing to continuously learn and adapt. 
  • Work in a collaborative team environment or independently as the situation requires. 
  • Take ownership of your work and be accountable for meeting deadlines, communicating progress, and solving problems independently as they arise. 
  • Maintain confidentiality and adhere to privacy policies and regulations. 
  • Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to changes in the work environment. 

 

Admissions

  • A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent
  • English 40G/40S or equivalent
  • Consumer/Essential Mathematics 40S or equivalent

English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirement. See assiniboine.net/elp for more information.

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, please read our Helpful Information for International Applicants prior to applying to this program.

Careers & Connections

Career Opportunities

  • Business manager
  • Office manager
  • Executive assistant

Connections

Through the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), graduates/students may write examinations for the Certified Administrative Professional designation.

Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible for students to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For up-to-date information on agreements, visit the Articulation Agreements page.

Tools & Supplies

You benefit from industry networking and guest speakers and attend classes in computer labs, regular classrooms and lecture theatre. This program uses online learning resources and instructional resources.

Booklists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program. Visit the Bookstore website to learn more.

Program Checklist and Textbooks/Supplies

Technology Requirements

Students in this program are required to bring their own laptop for use on-campus. The laptop must meet the technical needs outlined by the program. MAC computing devices are not compatible with program software. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for detailed information.

Courses & Costs

Costs

Estimated Program Costs (Domestic students)
  Credits Tuition Course fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies
Office Management (YR 1) 60 $3,450 $1,050 $470 $1,510
Office Management (YR 2) 60 $3,400 $770 $450 $960

All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.

Estimated Program Costs (International students)
  Credits Tuition Course Fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Required Health Insurance Textbooks, Tools, & Supplies
Office Management (YR 1) 60 $15,530 $1,050 $470 $750 $1,510
Office Management (YR 2) 60 $15,270 $770 $470 $750 $960

All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice. All international students must purchase health insurance. The college adds this fee to your student account and then sends your name and fee to the insurance provider on your behalf.

Courses

To graduate with an Office Management diploma, students must successfully complete 114 academic credits and 6 practical credits. The minimum passing grade for each course is indicated on the course outline. Course offerings are subject to change and may vary by intake.

Year One Courses
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
Accounting Software (COMP-0556)

Prerequisite: ACCT-0003 Financial Accounting 1
Whether working in industry or owning a business, having experience with widely used accounting software packages leadsto a better understanding of an organization’s accounting system and to greater career opportunities. Using multiple accounting software packages, students perform various functions including creating and managing accounts in the general and subsidiary ledgers, and entering purchase and sales transactions for both service and merchandising businesses. Basic payroll transactions, account reconciliations, and financial reporting are also covered.

6 credit(s) No No No
College Foundations (PEDV-0356)

This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation.

0 credit(s) No No No
Financial Accounting 1 (ACCT-0003)

This introductory course in the fundamental principles of accounting provides a basic understanding and application of principles relating to the accounting cycle and current assets.

6 credit(s) No Yes Yes
Office Communications 1 (COMM-0372)

This course teaches the principles of English-language grammar and style for use in an office setting. Course topics include effective written communication, correspondence formats, critical thinking and transcription.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Mathematics (MATH-0104)

This course provides a working knowledge of basic arithmetic and mathematics. This course reviews the basics of arithmetic, graphing and algebra to develop skills for solving practical problems encountered in business. Course topics include manipulation of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, exponents, basic algebra, ratios, proportions, graphing and graphical solutions.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Procedures 1 (OFAD-0022)

This course provides an overview of general office procedures. Topics include office reception procedures, work and time management procedures, filing, meetings and meeting minutes, handling telephone calls, processing mail and appointment scheduling.

6 credit(s) No No No
Organizational Behaviour (PSSY-0004)

This course develops students' knowledge of behaviour science theory and concepts useful in organizations. Topics include: perception, values and attitudes, foundations of group behaviour, teamwork, leadership, organizational culture and organizational change.

6 credit(s) No No No
Presentations and Promotions (COMP-0563)

This course focuses on tools and techniques for designing and delivering effective presentations, as well as creating promotional material. Students will demonstrate proficiency using presentation and desktop publishing software. Students will use presentation software to create effective slide presentations and desktop publishing software to design and produce professional, quality documents including brochures and newsletters.

6 credit(s) No No No
Software Applications 1 (COMP-0564)

In this course, students gain strong knowledge of two software applications-electronic spreadsheets and database management. Students acquire skills which will enable them to create, edit, format and print worksheets as well as use formulas, functions and charts to enhance usability and readability of numeric data. In addition, students will learn how to operate database application software to design and create databases, add and modify data and extract information using queries and reports.

6 credit(s) No No No
Word Processing 1 (COMP-0129)

In this course, students learn keyboarding by touch technique, basic word processing concepts using Microsoft Word and formats of business documents such as memoranda, letters, reports and tables. This course gives students practice in proofreading and communication skills and develops efficient production skills through repetitive and concentrated practice.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Word Processing 2 (COMP-0046)

Prerequisite: COMP-0129 Word Processing 1
In this course, students improve keyboarding speed and accuracy, learn advanced word processing concepts, format business documents such as memoranda, letters, reports, tables, itineraries, minutes and agendas, and practice proofreading and communication skills. This course gives students the opportunity to develop superior production skills through repetitive and concentrated practice.

6 credit(s) No No No
Year Two Courses
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
Financial Accounting 2 (ACCT-0004)

Prerequisite: ACCT-0003 Financial Accounting 1
This introductory course in the fundamental principles of accounting provides a basic understanding and application of principles relating to current and long-term liabilities, as well as accounting principles relating to partnerships and corporations.

6 credit(s) Yes Yes Yes
Graphic and Web Design (COMP-0599)

This course is designed to provide students with a foundation in internet and web fundamentals from a marketing perspective. Students learn how key internet technologies, including email, websites and domain names, function at a conceptual level. Students learn and apply simple HTML coding and image preparation skills using industry standard applications. Copyright and licensing issues are addressed. Key web/mobile design concepts are introduced. Web analytics and social media are explored. Students apply what they learn through the development of a personal web presence.

6 credit(s) Yes No No
Human Resources Processes (HRMG-0043)

This course introduces the topics of human resource management and employment issues for Canadian organizations. Course content examines problems related to employment legislation, job analysis, recruitment, human resource planning, training and development, payroll, tax and benefits.

6 credit(s) No No No
Legal Issues (LAWG-0072)

This course provides legal education that encourages compliance with legal rules in a business setting reducing the occurrence and cost of violations, and recognition of the legal rights and privileges of employers, employees, and consumers. In this course, students learn about the Canadian legal system, forms of business organizations, contract law, tort law, employment standards, insurance law, bankruptcy and privacy law.

6 credit(s) No No No
Marketing Principles (MKTG-0044)

This course provides students with an understanding of the basic marketing skills that are required by employers for success in today's competitive marketplace. Students gain a basic understanding of the role of marketing in society and business, types of markets, the marketing environment, the elements of the marketing mix and the development of marketing strategies and plans.

6 credit(s) Yes Yes Yes
Office Communications 2 (COMM-0373)

Prerequisite: COMM-0372 Office Communications 1
This course immerses students in the conventions of professional written communication and basic research methods. Topics include correspondence, proposals, press releases, technical documentation, editing, research documentation and report writing.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Management (OFAD-0023)

Students learn how to function in an office managerial role. Topics include leadership, scheduling, collaboration, effective decision making and conflict resolution.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Procedures 2 (OFAD-0024)

Prerequisite: OFAD-0022 Office Procedures 1
In this course students learn to set the order of priority for given tasks, utilize office equipment, employ office administration skills, demonstrate employability skills, proofread and communicate, utilize Robert's Rules of Order to effectively chair meetings, and will work in groups, as well as individually, to complete hands-on tasks similar to industry expectations.

6 credit(s) No No No
Personal & Career Development (HRMG-0116)

This skill-development course is designed to produce a deeper understanding of self and others. This is achieved by participation in self-reflective activities, practice with human relationship development, and receiving feedback. Students examine topics related to human relations, getting to know yourself, strategies for improving human relations, team building, special challenges in human relations, and planning for success. Studying and practicing these topics boost relationship competencies and assist in creating a positive professional presence.

6 credit(s) No No No
Practicum - OFAD (PRAC-0266)

Prerequisite: Cumulative weighted grade point average (CWGPA) of 2.0 or greater
A work practicum placement consists of an eight week (240 hours) placement in business and industry. During this experience, the student is expected to perform tasks under direct or indirect supervision by the employer. Credit is given subject to the student submitting evidence that the work has been successfully completed. In addition, the student is required to submit a written report on the work practicum for approval by the designated faculty member.

6 credit(s) No No No
Software Applications 2 (COMP-0566)

Prerequisite: COMP-0564 Software Applications 1
This continuation course build on the skills developed in Software Applications 1. Topics will include tables, working with multiple worksheets, templates, macros, data validation and more advanced functions within the spreadsheets application. Advanced queries, enhanced table design and custom forms and reports within the database management software will also be covered.

6 credit(s) No No No
Software Capstone (COMP-0567)

Prerequisite: COMP-0566 Software Applications 2; COMP-0046 Word Processing 2, COMP-0563 Presentations & Promotions
In this high-level course, students develop advanced skills in word processing, spreadsheet, database management and presentation software as well as become adept at integrating data between the applications. During this course, students acquire the skills and knowledge required to write applicable Microsoft certification exams at the Master level as well as be prepared to compete in software applications competitions provincially and nationally. Troubleshooting, working with PDF documents, and using alternate software solutions for word processing and presentations will also be covered.

6 credit(s) No No No

Fast Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next program information session?

Program information sessions are completely free to attend, and we invite you to bring a guest along as well. It's a good idea to register in advance so we know you're coming.

To find the complete schedule for our program information sessions and to RSVP, visit the program information session page.

I have a Mac laptop, can I use that?

No. MAC computing devices are not compatible with Business Administration or Office Administration program software. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for detailed information.