Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree
Program Overview
The Administrative Office Systems Legal AAS degree program at Peninsula College prepares students for administrative roles in the legal field. It emphasizes advanced Microsoft 365 skills, real-world business projects, and writing proficiency. Graduates are equipped for careers as legal assistants, administrative assistants, and other administrative support roles in legal environments.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program Overview:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program at Peninsula College prepares students for various administrative-related job opportunities in the legal field. It provides up-to-date curriculum that adapts to the rapidly changing workplace, focusing on developing advanced skills in Microsoft 365 and digital literacy. Students learn through an interactive online learning environment, observing, practicing, and training in real-world business environments. The program combines technology skills with writing and specialty courses to prepare students for a wide range of office settings, including legal, accounting, administrative support, computer applications support, and medical.
Program Objectives:
- Prepare students for various administrative-related job opportunities
- Equip students for a rapidly changing workplace
- Monitor and enhance the relevance of course curriculum to ensure a high-quality program
- Monitor community needs and curriculum relevance through Advisory Committee meetings
Program Description:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in administrative roles within legal environments. The program emphasizes:
- Advanced Microsoft 365 training, including intermediate and advanced levels
- Interactive training and skill-based assessments completed in a virtual environment
- Real-world business situation-based projects
- Development of writing skills for technical and business applications
- Personalized tutoring support for all AOS students
- Availability of short-term certificates of proficiency as stepping stones towards degree completion
- Reduced costs for AOS course textbooks, online learning tools, and software
Outline:
Program Content:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics, including:
- Digital Literacy: Essential skills for success in digital environments, covering information and communication technologies for finding, evaluating, creating, and communicating information.
- Microsoft Word: Beginning to intermediate word processing skills in Microsoft Word and associated technologies, including document creation, editing, formatting, table handling, theme and building block utilization, document illustration with graphics, data source and document merging, and cloud computing integration.
- Microsoft Excel: Beginning to intermediate spreadsheet skills in Microsoft Excel and associated technologies, covering spreadsheet creation, editing, and formatting; data analysis using formulas; workbook data management; table data creation and analysis.
- Microsoft Access Databases: Beginning to intermediate relational database management skills in Microsoft Access and associated technologies, including table, relationship, form, and report creation, and cloud computing integration.
- Microsoft PowerPoint Comprehensive: Creation of mixed media presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint and associated technologies, including the development and sharing of interactive presentations online with voice, video, inking, and screen recording, cloud computing integration.
- Writing Essentials: Development of writing skills through a step-by-step approach, covering parts of speech identification and usage, punctuation, capitalization, number handling, effective sentence and paragraph writing, and individualized study plans based on digital self-diagnostic exercises.
- Business Communications: Application of writing skills to various technical and business applications, including exercises and activities aligned with the latest business communication practices, digital coverage of social media and communication, and demonstration of verbal communication skills through self-recorded videos.
- Computer Forensics I: Introduction to Computer Forensic: Exploration of the role and skillset of computer forensic professional investigators, including an overview of the computer investigation process, data acquisition process, crime scenes, and forensic tools.
- Applied Math for Professional & Technical Programs I: College mathematics applications in professional and technical programs, covering topics such as mathematical modeling, numerical operations, measurements, geometry, linear and nonlinear equations, exponent, radical, and polynomial operations, functions, formulas, plane analytical geometry with graphing, and trigonometry.
- Advanced Microsoft Word: Advanced word processing skills in Microsoft Word and associated technologies, covering multipage and research paper creation, application of automated functions, document collaboration and sharing, building electronic forms, use of advanced graphical tools, cloud computing integration.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel: Advanced spreadsheet skills in Microsoft Excel and associated technologies, including the use of advanced functions and formulas, chart enhancements, "what-if" analysis, data analysis with PivotTables, data exchange with other programs, file sharing, incorporation of web content, and programming with XML.
- Office Procedures and Technology: Use of current technologies to complete administrative tasks in a professional office environment, including planning and writing effective business correspondence, planning and presenting oral office communications, report creation and processing, records management procedures, onsite and online business meeting planning, business travel arrangement, career option research, market trend analysis, job duty and earnings identification, and the creation of targeted employment documents.
- Business Law: Introduction to the fundamentals of business law and the principles of the American legal system, including criminal, tort, and business law, contracts, sales, Uniform Commercial Code, and employment, with emphasis on familiarity with Washington's RCWs (Revised Codes of Washington) and WACs (Washington Administrative Codes) through regional business law case research.
- Advanced Applications of Microsoft 365: Advanced applications of word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases, involving project-based application of advanced skills in an integrated, comprehensive business practice set of problems, and the creation of solutions using Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access, with cloud computing integration.
- Ethics in Criminal Justice: Philosophical foundations of moral and ethical theory, doctrines, and controversies for understanding the significance of practicing good moral and ethical judgment in the performance of criminal justice duties.
- Contemporary Global Issues: Development of analytical skills for understanding major contemporary world developments and the basis for advanced study in world politics, deepening understanding of globalization and the necessity for common solutions to global problems transcending borders.
Course Schedule:
The sample schedule provided outlines a typical full-time student schedule starting in fall quarter, aiming for AAS degree completion. It includes the following courses:
First Quarter (Fall):
- AOS 101: Digital Literacy
- AOS 105: Introduction to Microsoft Word
- AOS 105: Introduction to Microsoft Word
- BUS& 101: Introduction to Business
Second Quarter (Winter):
- AOS 106: Introduction to Microsoft Excel
- AOS 135: Writing Essentials
- AOS 135: Writing Essentials
- CSIA 280: Computer Forensics I: Intro to Computer Forensic
Third Quarter (Spring):
- AOS 107: Microsoft Access Databases
- AOS 112: Microsoft PowerPoint Comprehensive
- AOS 112: Microsoft PowerPoint Comprehensive
- AOS 170: Business Communications
Fourth Quarter (Fall):
- AMATH 121: Applied Math for Professional & Tech Programs I
- AOS 205: Advanced Microsoft Word
- AOS 205: Advanced Microsoft Word
- CJ& 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice
Fifth Quarter (Winter):
- AOS 206: Advanced Microsoft Excel
- AOS 214: Office Procedures and Technology
- AOS 214: Office Procedures and Technology
- BUS& 201: Business Law
Sixth Quarter (Spring):
- AOS 212: Advanced Applications of Microsoft 365
- AOS 212: Advanced Applications of Microsoft 365
- CJ 241: Ethics in Criminal Justice
- SOCSI 101: Contemporary Global Issues
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These include:
- Assignments and projects: Students demonstrate their understanding and application of concepts through assignments and projects, including research papers, case studies, presentations, and reports.
- Quizzes and exams: Quizzes and exams assess students' knowledge and comprehension of course material, ensuring their grasp of key concepts and principles.
- Observation and participation: Instructors observe and evaluate students' participation in class discussions, group work, and other interactive activities to assess their engagement, critical thinking, and communication skills.
- Virtual environment training and skill-based assessments: The program utilizes virtual environments for training and skill-based assessments, providing students with realistic simulations to demonstrate their proficiency in various software applications.
Assessment Criteria:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program utilizes specific criteria to evaluate student performance, including:
- Accuracy and completeness: Assessments evaluate students' ability to provide accurate and comprehensive answers, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: Students' ability to analyze information, identify problems, and develop effective solutions is assessed through assignments, projects, and exams.
- Communication and presentation skills: The program assesses students' ability to communicate their ideas effectively, both orally and in writing, through presentations, reports, and other assignments.
- Professionalism and ethical behavior: Students' adherence to professional standards and ethical guidelines is evaluated throughout the program, ensuring their readiness for the workplace.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365: The program places significant emphasis on students' proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, assessing their ability to use these tools effectively for various administrative tasks.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program utilizes diverse teaching methods to cater to varying learning styles and enhance student engagement. These methods include:
- Interactive lectures: Instructors deliver interactive lectures to introduce new concepts, provide context, and engage students in discussions.
- Hands-on activities and simulations: Students actively participate in hands-on activities, projects, and simulations to reinforce their understanding of concepts and develop practical skills.
- Group work and collaboration: The program encourages collaboration and teamwork through group projects and assignments, fostering students' communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
- Virtual learning environment: The program utilizes a virtual learning environment to supplement in-class instruction, providing students with access to online resources, discussion forums, and interactive exercises.
- Personalized tutoring: All AOS students have access to personalized tutoring support, offering individualized assistance to enhance their learning journey.
Faculty:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Faculty members hold advanced degrees and have extensive experience in teaching and industry, providing students with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights.
Unique Approaches:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program at Peninsula College incorporates several unique approaches to enhance student learning and prepare them for success in the legal field:
- Real-world business situation-based projects: The program emphasizes project-based learning, utilizing real-world business situations to provide students with hands-on experience in applying their skills.
- Cloud computing integration: The program fully integrates cloud computing into its curriculum, ensuring students are proficient in utilizing cloud-based tools and applications essential in modern office environments.
- Reduced costs for course materials and software: The program offers reduced costs for AOS course textbooks, online learning tools, and software, making education more accessible and affordable for students.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program are prepared for a wide range of administrative-related job opportunities, particularly within the legal field. Potential career paths include:
- Accounting assistant
- Computer applications support
- Executive assistant
- Legal assistant
- Medical office assistant
Employment and Earnings Information:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), administrative support professionals have a median annual wage of $40,690 in May 2022. Employment in this field is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, with an estimated 57,900 new jobs over the decade. Graduates of the Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program from Peninsula College are highly sought after by legal and medical offices, government agencies, schools, hospitals, and private enterprises due to their specialized training and proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications.
Career Outcomes:
The Administrative Office Systems Legal, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree program prepares students for success in various administrative roles within legal environments. Graduates of the program have gone on to secure rewarding careers as:
- Legal assistants, providing support to lawyers with tasks such as case preparation, document management, and client communication.
- Administrative assistants, handling various administrative duties, including scheduling appointments, managing correspondence, and providing general office support.
- Office managers, overseeing the daily operations of legal offices, ensuring smooth functioning and efficient workflow.
- Paralegals, conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting attorneys with legal proceedings.
- Legal secretaries, providing confidential and specialized support to attorneys, managing schedules, preparing legal documents, and maintaining case files.
Peninsula College
Overview:
Peninsula College is a public community college located in the beautiful North Olympic Peninsula of Washington state. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and bachelor's degrees. The college is known for its commitment to student success, community engagement, and academic excellence.
Services Offered:
Peninsula College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Admissions:
Guidance on the application process, academic calendar, testing center, and transcript services.Registration:
Assistance with registering for classes, accessing the class schedule, and advising.Financial Aid:
Information on financial aid options, tuition and fees, scholarships, and workforce programs.Student Life:
Opportunities for student involvement, including athletics, clubs, and organizations.Career Center:
Resources for career exploration, job search, and internship opportunities.Library Resources:
Access to a wide range of books, journals, databases, and other research materials.Other Services:
Access services, campus safety, child care, food services, tutoring, and veterans services.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Peninsula College offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
The college has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC).Clubs and Organizations:
Students can join a variety of clubs and organizations, such as the student government, honor societies, and cultural clubs.Events:
The college hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions.Community Engagement:
Peninsula College encourages students to get involved in the local community through volunteer opportunities and service learning projects.Key Reasons to Study There:
Small Class Sizes:
Students benefit from personalized attention and close relationships with faculty.World-Class Faculty:
The college boasts a dedicated and experienced faculty committed to student success.Beautiful Location:
The college is situated in a stunning location with access to the Olympic Mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean.Affordable Education:
Peninsula College offers a high-quality education at an affordable price.Strong Transfer Programs:
Students can earn an associate degree and transfer to a four-year university.ʔaʔk̓ʷustəƞáwt̓xʷ House of Learning:
The college is home to the first longhouse in the nation built on a community college campus, offering a unique cultural experience.Academic Programs:
Peninsula College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Associate Degrees:
In various fields, including arts and communication, business and management, healthcare, information technology, math and science, skilled trades, and social sciences and education.Certificates:
In specialized areas, such as welding, nursing, and business administration.Bachelor's Degrees:
In partnership with other institutions, the college offers bachelor's degrees in fields such as nursing and business administration.Other:
Location:
Peninsula College has campuses in Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Forks.Quick Facts:
The college offers over 120 degrees and certificates, has an average class size of 11 students, and provides over $1 million in scholarships annually.Diversity and Inclusion:
The college is committed to creating an inclusive campus environment for all students.Entry Requirements:
Students entering this program should have basic knowledge of a computer and touch-typing skills. It is recommended that online students complete HUMDV 101. Writing classes are embedded in the program. Students are required to place into the English and math/applied math courses required for this program. Learn more about placement options by visiting the Assessment and Placement website: pencol.edu/placement-testing.