Program Description
Administrative assistants today are rewarded for their efforts to develop a broad knowledge of their own field and the business world by being awarded the title Certified Professional Secretary (CPS). This title is earned by those who meet the qualifications established by the Institute for Certification, an organization sponsored by International Association of Administrative Professionals.
Students who complete a two-year post secondary Administrative Assistant program in an accredited college such as SCC or SFCC may take the examination before they fulfill work experience requirements which are outlined as follows:
- Students who complete a two-year program in an accredited school and pass the CPS examination must complete three years of verified office experience.
- Students who complete a bachelor's or advanced degree program and pass the CPS examination must complete two years of verified administrative assistant experience.
Successful completion of the work experience requirements and the examination will permit candidates to receive the CPS certification.
Students who have successfully completed 15 to 30 quarter hours of credit at a college within Community Colleges of Spokane may be granted further credit of up to 60 quarter hours upon completing the requirements of the CPS examination.
Upon completion of the 15-credit-hour residency requirement, 30 credits may be granted. Upon completion of the 30-credit-hour residency requirement, 60 credits may apply toward the requirements for an associate in applied science or associate of arts degree at either SCC or SFCC. The designation as a Certified Professional Secretary may permit specific credit to be given, up to 60 credits for the following courses.