Office Technologies Course Descriptions

This course develops keyboarding and basic information processing skills with instruction in formatting and editing documents; effective use of email; and accessing Internet and library resources. The class includes both group and self-paced, independent learning activities emphasizing touch typing technique and appropriate workplace computer practices. Class hrs. 4.

This course combines group drills and timings with independent practice activities to increase keyboarding speed while improving technique and accuracy. Class hrs. 2. Prerequisite: Touch-typing skill of 20 wpm.

A comprehensive course on ICD-9-CM involving an in-depth study of coding diseases for all the major body systems. This course takes a systematic approach to hospital inpatient and ambulatory care coding emphasizing specific and correct coding procedures and techniques. Class hrs. 3. Prerequisite: NHSCI 101 Medical Terminology.

A comprehensive course on CPT4 and HCPCS, emphasizing coding for evaluation and management, anesthesia, surgery, pathology, laboratory, radiology and medicine. Also included is coding for emergency rooms, hospitals, physician’s offices and outpatient facilities. The HCPCS coding book is utilized for coding medical, Medicare and Medicaid supplies. Prerequisite: OFTEC 119 Medical Coding/ICD9.

Using an integrated business applications program, currently Microsoft Office, students perform office administration tasks requiring integration of the component programs—word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation graphics—as well as integration with Internet Explorer and a web-based email program. This course emphasizes workplace communications and information processing skills and standards. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: DP103 Computer Information Systems. Offered spring semester.

Students become more efficient computer users by developing basic touch typing and effective keyboarding techniques. Utilizing skill building and word processing software, this course emphasizes business and academic applications. Class hrs. 2.

This course is designed to promote career awareness through cooperative work experience in an office environment. Students integrate classroom theory with a monitored and supervised work experience. Periodic meetings with faculty advisor and written assignments are required. 225 work hours required. Prerequisite: Approval of Curriculum or Department Chair; GPA of 2.5 or higher; 9 earned credits in curriculum-required courses and 3 credits in Comp & Lit I or equivalent for total of 12 credits; and a major declared in this specific curriculum. OFTEC 130 is a prerequisite for OFTEC 131.

An introduction to spreadsheet and database software applications using Microsoft Excel and Access; students learn to create, edit, format, save, and print worksheets, charts, database tables, reports, and mailing labels. Basic computer experience is strongly recommended. Class hrs. 4. Offered spring semester.

This independent study course permits students to explore a specific issue or topic in Office Technologies or to work independently to develop a specific skill competency under the direction of a faculty mentor. Students may earn from one to three credits depending on the complexity of the project, difficulty, or time involved in developing the competency.

Students develop an understanding of word processing concepts and capabilities while learning the specific procedures of a current software program. Basic word processing and file management functions, as well as business and academic document formats, are included. No previous computer experience is required, although keyboarding skill is recommended. Class hrs. 4.

Students learn the more advanced features of a current word processing program and more complex word processing applications. Students use advanced formatting, customization, mail merge, graphics, tables, and desktop publishing features to produce reports, flyers, newsletters, labels and business cards. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: OFTEC 212A Word Processing Applications or permission of the Curriculum Chairperson.

Develop an understanding of the responsibilities and required skills of the administrative office professional in an organizational environment reliant on computer and other communication technologies. This course emphasizes workplace expectations related to organizational skills and time management, interpersonal and technical communications, office technologies and applications, document and records management, ethics, and workplace culture. Class hrs. 4; Pre- or Corequisite: OFTEC 212A Word Processing Applications or equivalent skill level recommended. Offered fall semester.

Principles and strategies of effective written communications as related to current business practices. Special emphasis is placed upon the writing process. Students plan, compose, edit and format business documents; explore ethical and intercultural issues; and examine web-based communications and messaging technologies. Class hrs. 3. Suggested Prerequisite: word processing skills.

Students develop a broad understanding of the U.S. health care system and the role of the health care administration professional. Instruction includes health insurance and medical records management; patient relations and communication skills; government policies, medical ethics and legal issues; and career and professional development. Students also gain experience writing letters such as insurance claims appeals and requests for information, as well as create a resume and develop a job-search and career advancement strategy. Contact hrs. 4. Offered fall semester.

Mastery of the basic functions of a currently used medical billing program such as Medical Manager, including data entry, billing/collections procedures, scheduling appointments, processing of insurance claims, and report generation. Class hrs. 4. Prerequisite: basic computer experience recommended. Offered spring semester.