Overview

Assiniboine’s 16-month Office Professional certificate 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

  • 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.
  • Process payroll transactions to comply with government and organizational requirements.
  • Apply critical thinking, problem solving, and time management skills to efficiently address challenges and manage tasks in a fast-paced, high pressure office environment.
  • Demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail in administrative tasks.
  • Manage financial records, process transactions, and support business operations in an office setting.
  • Present information clearly and concisely in a variety of formats.
  • Utilize Microsoft Office, accounting software, and other industry standard software programs for a variety of administrative tasks.

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.
  • Working independently and meeting deadlines.
  • Interacting with the public and providing excellent customer service.
  • Managing multiple tasks, projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Expectations for the Program and Industry:

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

 

Interested in exploring similar program options?

We've got you covered! Here are some other great program options to consider.

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Admissions

Admission Requirements

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

If you received your education outside of Manitoba, please review the equivalent admission requirements: Interprovincial or International.

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 requirements.
 

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DON'T MEET ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS?

If you don’t meet admission requirements, visit our Centre for Adult Learning to upgrade courses.

COURSE UPGRADING

 

Careers & Connections

Career Opportunities

  • Office Assistant
  • Receptionist
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Administrative Clerk

Connections

Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For information on agreements, see Articulation Agreements.

Tools & Supplies

ASSINIBOINE BOOKSTORE

Textbooks, supplies and uniforms may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East Campus. Booklists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program.

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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. See Technology Requirements for detailed information.

Courses & Costs

Costs

Estimated Program Costs
Credits91.0
Tuition$5,610
Course Fees$1,860
Students' Association fees (including Health Premium)$740
Estimated textbooks, tools, and supplies$1,250

Courses

Course List
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
Accounting for Office 1 (ACCT-0066)

This course introduces students to core accounting principles through an integrated approach that combines theory, manual practice, and computerized applications. Students will explore foundational accounting concepts and apply them using both traditional methods and accounting software. Each topic is presented sequentially with theoretical instruction, followed by hands-on manual exercises and computerized tasks, allowing students to develop a well-rounded understanding of basic financial processes used in office settings.

6 credit(s) No No No
Accounting for Office 2 (ACCT-0067)

Prerequisite: ACCT-0066 Accounting for Office 1
Building on the foundations established in Accounting for Office 1, this course continues with a blended approach to learning accounting concepts. Students deepen their knowledge by exploring more advanced topics, practicing manual accounting techniques, and applying them using industry-standard software. Each concept is delivered through a progression of theory, manual work, and computerized accounting, ensuring students gain practical experience and confidence in managing financial tasks in a professional environment.

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
Customer Service 1 (BUSN-0272)

This introductory course develops foundational skills required for effective communication in workplace settings. Students explore key interpersonal skills required for effective customer service.

3 credit(s) No No No
Customer Service 2 (BUSN-0273)

This course helps students build self-awareness to enhance communication, decision-making, and professional relationships. By understanding themselves and how others perceive them, students will improve their ability to deliver effective, empathetic customer service in diverse workplace settings.

3 credit(s) No No No
Customer Service 3 (BUSN-0274)

Prerequisites: BUSN-0272 Customer Service 1, BUSN-0273 Customer Service 2
Building on prior customer service courses, this skills-based course deepens self-awareness and strengthens interpersonal skills for personal and professional success. Students will refine their interpersonal skills to support successful workplace relationships and interactions.

6 credit(s) No No No
Employability and Job Prep (PEDV-1008)

This course prepares students for entering and thriving in the workforce by developing essential employability skills. Through a combination of interactive workshops, real-world simulations and guided practice students will develop key competancies to enhance employability and career readiness.

3 credit(s) No No No
Legal Issues (LAWG-0110)

This course introduces students to foundational principles of Manitoba laws. Emphasis is placed on understanding the structure of the legal system, legislative frameworks that govern business, workplace, and privacy practices.

3 credit(s) No No No
Microsoft Office 1 (COMP-0677)

In this introductory course, students develop foundational word processing skills using Microsoft Word to create a variety of business documents. Students will also learn keyboarding by touch technique, and work toward developing keyboarding speed and accuracy.

6 credit(s) No No No
Microsoft Office 2 (COMP-0678)

In this course, students will apply foundational mathematical concepts to build Excel spreadsheets that use appropriate formulas and functions for accurate data analysis and problem-solving. Students will also learn to format spreadsheets for clarity, visual appeal, and effective data interpretation.

6 credit(s) No No No
Microsoft Office 3 (COMP-0679)

Prerequisites: COMP-0677 Microsoft Office 1, COMP-0678 Microsoft Office 2
This course builds on skills developed in MS Office 1 & 2, developing proficiency in more advanced features of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. Students will acquire the skills and knowledge aligned with applicable Microsoft certification exams, and they will also focus on improved keyboarding speed and accuracy.

6 credit(s) No No No
Microsoft Office 4 (COMP-0681)

Prerequisite: COMP-0679 Microsoft Office 3
In this high-level course, students develop advanced skills in communication, word processing, spreadsheeting, and presentation software, as well as become adept at integrating data between the applications. During this course, students acquire the skills and knowledge aligned with applicable Microsoft certification exams and continue to improve keyboarding speed and accuracy.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Procedures 1 (OFAD-0031)

This foundational course introduces students to essential office practices and administrative tasks in a professional office environment. Emphasis is placed on following protocols, front-line reception duties, handling mail, using office technology, and understanding professional expectations.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Procedures 2 (OFAD-0032)

This course deepens students' knowledge of administrative practices and introduces more complex office tasks. Topics include professional communication and publications, file management, and business meetings. Emphasis is placed on task completion, multi-tasking, and maintaining accuracy under pressure.

6 credit(s) No No No
Office Procedures 3 (OFAD-0033)

Prerequisites: OFAD-0031 Office Procedures 1, OFAD-0032 Office Procedures 2
Building on the skills acquired in Office Procedures 1 and 2, this advanced course prepares students for administrative responsibilities by incorporating some client interactions and/or workplace simulations. Students will engage in managing projects, supervising workflow, and producing business documents. Emphasis is placed on adaptability and decision-making through efficient and ethical office management practices.

6 credit(s) No No No
Payroll and Scheduling (BUSN-0276)

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of effective project management. Students will apply project management methodologies using tools and software as they learn to develop project plans, allocate resources, track progress, and adapt to changing project demands.

6 credit(s) No No No
Practicum - OFFA (PRAC-0462)

Prerequisties: Cumulative weighted grade point average (CWGPA) of 2.0 or greater
A work practicum placement consists of a 240 hour 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.

1 credit(s) No No No
Project Management (BUSN-0275)

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of effective project management. Students will apply project management methodologies using tools and software as they learn to develop project plans, allocate resources, track progress, and adapt to changing project demands.

6 credit(s) No No No
Social Media Administration (MEDP-0116)

In this course students will learn the essential administrative tasks and strategic considerations involved in supporting social media efforts within a business environment. The course combines theory with hands-on practice as students gain familiarity with commonly used social media management tools and learn how to implement social media strategies.

6 credit(s) No No No

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