Office Administration - General
Play a central role in operational success - explore a career in office administration.
- Based in the nation's capital, the program maintains a close working relationship with many government departments including Global Affairs Canada, Canada Revenue Agency, and The Privy Council
- After graduating, this flexible one-year program gives you the option to pursue a specialized education by taking one of Algonquin College's Office Administration diploma programs
- Experience is gained through a hands-on learning project in the first semester, and you will continue to develop those skills in your second semester
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
Competitive?
Spring 2025
May
No
July
No
Fall 2025
September
No
November
No
Winter 2026
January
No
March
No
Spring 2026
May
No
July
No
This program offers bi-monthly intakes, starting twice per term, so you can start or continue learning without missing a beat. See full details about our offerings in September, November, January, March, May, and July.
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
The one-year Office Administration - General Ontario College Certificate program provides the knowledge and skills that prepare you for a rewarding office administration career.
Develop both theoretical and applied skills during various simulated office situations. Practise conducting administrative procedures and producing industry-standard documents. Enhance your ability to use digital tools by conducting research and mastering Microsoft Office applications and other industry-standard software packages....(read more)
Overview
Play a central role in operational success - explore a career in office administration.
The one-year Office Administration - General Ontario College Certificate program provides the knowledge and skills that prepare you for a rewarding office administration career.
Develop both theoretical and applied skills during various simulated office situations. Practise conducting administrative procedures and producing industry-standard documents. Enhance your ability to use digital tools by conducting research and mastering Microsoft Office applications and other industry-standard software packages.
After graduating, this flexible one-year program gives you the option to pursue a specialized education by taking one of Algonquin College's Office Administration diploma programs. Earn a diploma after completing one more year of studies in either the Executive (available online) or Health Services (available on campus) specializations. With each option you graduate with essential office skills, as well as critical skills for success, such as resourcefulness, responsibility, creative thinking, and problem solving.
Graduates may find employment opportunities in a variety of entry-level support staff or administration positions in both public and private sectors.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Enjoy working in an office environment.
- Have an interest and aptitude in computer and technology applications and enjoy a hands-on approach to learning.
- Enjoy working independently and in a diverse team environment.
- Are well organized and pay attention to detail.
- Work effectively under time constraints.
- Have the ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time.
Courses
Read this before applying:
This program is undergoing changes for the 20/21 academic year. If you began this program prior to Fall 2020, please refer to the Academic Planner or Archived Program Information to confirm the courses required for your Program of Study version.
Online  On campus:  |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | |||
| ENL1962 | 42.0 | English FundamentalsEnglish FundamentalsStudents develop language skills necessary to promote success in program courses and, ultimately, business careers. Students achieve correctness and mastery in writing sentences appropriate to a business environment through the study of English language usage, grammar, mechanics, and style. Skills acquired in these areas enable students to demonstrate competence in composing, editing, and proofreading written messages. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2326 | 42.0 | Digital WorkspACE ApplicationsDigital WorkspACE ApplicationsIn our rapidly evolving workspace environment, efficient use of computers and office productivity tools is essential for the timely completion of assigned tasks. Beginning with the operating system, students develop a range of valuable skills to manage daily work-flow including file management, digital communication tools, calendar management, and a variety of collaboration applications. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2335 | 28.0 | Presentation ApplicationsPresentation ApplicationsEfficient use of presentation applications is vital in today's workplace. Students develop presentation software skills through a series of activities and practical tests, increasing abilities with presentation software. Emphasis is placed on following instructions, proofreading, and using software functions correctly. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2338 | 70.0 | Administrative Skills and ProceduresAdministrative Skills and ProceduresAlthough tools and techniques may change, the role of the administrative professional remains a valuable asset in all types of organizations. With the increase in technology, the human touch remains a cornerstone of business interactions and achievement of goals. Topics explored include support staff responsibilities, time management, front-line reception and public relations, cultural diversity, records management, postal and courier services, reference sources, office organization and layout, ergonomics, time, work, and resource management, teamwork and problem solving, telecommunication techniques, services and equipment. Practical assignments and case studies examine both the organization and dissemination of oral and written communication. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2339 | 70.0 | Document Production and Keyboarding 1Document Production and Keyboarding 1The ability to produce documents that meet acceptable Canadian business standards is an essential skill in today's office environment. Applying ergonomic techniques, students develop touch keyboarding skills creating and formatting documents for business-related correspondence. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, ability to follow instructions, proofreading and editing, and the correct use of software functions. Students learn to touch-key the alphabet and numbers, developing keyboarding accuracy and speed to meet productivity standards. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| QUA2227 | 42.0 | Business Math FoundationsBusiness Math FoundationsStudents review the essentials of business mathematics. Ratio, proportion and percent are covered. Students also study payroll-type applications. Students study mark-up and mark-downs, cost-volume-profit analysis, simple and compound interest, compute measures of central tendency and dispersion. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 02 | |||
| ACC2207 | 56.0 | BookkeepingBookkeepingThe ability to accurately record day-to-day transactions is an essential skill for bookkeepers and office administration staff. Students complete the full accounting cycle from identifying and recording business transactions through to the preparation of financial statements using Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Activities focus on the manual preparation of accounting records. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL1813B | 42.0 | Communications ICommunications ICommunication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students develop stronger grammar and business-writing skills to become effective business communicators. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2300 | 56.0 | Advanced Word ProcessingAdvanced Word ProcessingEfficient use of computers and office productivity tools is essential for the timely completion of assigned tasks in the workplace. Students continue to develop their skills with office productivity tools. Through a series of activities and practical tests, students enhance their abilities with advanced word processing functions, ensuring that they are following instructions, proofreading and using software functions correctly. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2340 | 70.0 | Document Production and Keyboarding 2Document Production and Keyboarding 2Business documents represent proof of an organization's communications and transactions and, as such, must be produced in an efficient and consistent manner. Students further develop productivity rates with an emphasis on following instructions, proofreading and editing, and correct use of software functions. Students create, edit, and format formal reports and more complex business correspondence. Students continue to build on the keyboarding skills developed in level 1, increasing their accuracy and speed using an automated software application to meet productivity standards. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| OFF2395 | 56.0 | Spreadsheet Applications (Oa)Spreadsheet Applications (Oa)A spreadsheet application's ability to automate mathematical calculations has ensured it is one of the most popular types of business applications in the modern office. Students produce and format professional looking spreadsheets that include basic and complex mathematical formulas. In addition, the data in these spreadsheets are transformed into charts and tables in order to summarize, analyze, manipulate, and share spreadsheet data more effectively. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to AstronomyIntroduction to AstronomyWhat can the sky tell us about our place in the universe, and how life began? This introductory course to astronomy will teach students indigenous and Western constellations in the sky, as well as introduce them to the major planets. Students will act as beginning astronomers and engineers by performing sketches, doing research on astronomy topics, and learning about missions to Mars that are on the hunt for signs of life. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesPsychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesEmphasis is on the study of signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. Additionally, there are discussions about eating and sleeping disorders, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design ThinkingDesign ThinkingThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL0009 | 42.0 | Introduction to Children's LiteratureIntroduction to Children's LiteratureThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL0010 | 42.0 | Science FictionScience FictionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free OntarioWaste-Free OntarioThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of LearningPsychology of LearningStudents explore how individuals acquire knowledge and skills and how environments influence the learning process. Through examination of different theories from both historical and current perspectives, students develop an understanding of how learning is influenced by developmental, psychological and social elements. Students use real life experiences to identify how these theories can be used to support learning and development within continuously changing environments. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityDisability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingPositive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingWhile fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with explaining how individuals and communities flourish through the scientific exploration of happiness, optimal human functioning, and civic engagement. The field of Positive Psychology has the objective of making life more satisfying and meaningful through interventions that promote and develop qualities such as self-knowledge, learned optimism, gratitude, mindfulness, resilience, and community connection. Students participate in both interactive lectures and on-line discussions, maintain weekly journals, and develop personal strengths through direct engagement with well-being initiatives. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaFree Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionTransatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among UsThe Fungus Among UsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and EthicsProfessionalism and EthicsProfessionalism and ethics are the foundation for those preparing for leadership roles in the workplace, community and educational settings. By exploring the different facets of leadership theory and ethical dilemmas, students develop decision making, judgment, and personal value positions that form the basis for the examination of professional conduct and personal accountability. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsForeign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-BusinessIntroduction to E-BusinessStudents are provided with tools, skills, an understanding of technology, business concepts and issues that surround the emergence of electronic business. Emphasis is on that part of the Internet known as the World Wide Web (WWW), where such tools as browsers are used. In addition to acquiring basic skills for navigating the Internet, students develop an understanding of the current practices and opportunities in electronic publishing, electronic shopping, electronic distribution and electronic collaboration. Students also explore several of the problems surrounding electronic business and commerce, such as security, authentication, privacy, encryption, safeguarding of intellectual property rights, acceptable use policies and legal liabilities. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSI1702 | 42.0 | Government of CanadaGovernment of CanadaStudents explore the Canadian governmental system and consider key principles of democracy and federalism. In addition, students analyze the impact of government on the lives of its citizens, as well as the ways in which citizens and communities affect the government. Finally, students examine the diverse political, national and ideological dynamics of Canadian politics. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0001 | 45.0 | Co-Dependency as an AddictionCo-Dependency as an AddictionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0007 | 42.0 | Cults and TerrorismCults and TerrorismThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0014 | 42.0 | Learning, Thinking and Problem SolvingLearning, Thinking and Problem SolvingThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY1754 | 42.0 | Selected Topics in PsychologySelected Topics in PsychologyThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneDynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| SSC5012 | 42.0 | Anti-Racism, Discrimination and EquityAnti-Racism, Discrimination and EquityThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates are equipped with skills for a variety of entry-level support staff or administrative positions in both public and private sectors.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Conduct oneself professionally and adhere to relevant legislation, standards and codes of ethics.
- Schedule and coordinate tasks, within specific deadlines and according to set priorities.
- Receive, process and distribute communications in the workplace to assist the flow of information.
- Operate and provide support related to the use of office equipment and technologies.
- Locate, file and retrieve documents and records from a variety of electronic and paper sources to support daily office operations.
- Record basic financial information using established document formats, procedures and accounting software.
- Produce routine business documents using available technologies and established standards and formats.
- Use interpersonal and client service skills to respond to diversity and to support the vision and mission of the organization.
- Compile resources as well as services to prepare summary reports.
- Select and use information technologies to support communication with internal and external stakeholders.
- Assist in the organization and coordination of meetings and travel arrangements.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $830 per level. For more information go to https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Application Information
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION - GENERAL
Program Code 0210X09FAO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
This program has flexible delivery options.
Courses appearing to be unavailable online (during the registration period) may have substitute courses which are taken instead. If you are a full-time student, you are automatically put into those courses; if you are part-time, please contact your student advisor for the current substitutions and links to these courses.
PLEASE NOTE that in the Office Administration programs there are certain courses where it is mandatory for the students to have a Windows-based computer as some of the software application functions used in the program do not run effectively on other platforms (even when running via Parallels on MAC). MAC laptops and Chromebooks will not be supported in the Office Administration programs.
Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
Program Progression:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).
Contact
Future Students
For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.
Current Students
For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.