Online Receptionist Certificates

If you enjoy working with people in an office environment, you might want to consider becoming a receptionist. An online office assistant certificate program can train you to work as a receptionist in a number of different settings, including dental, medical and legal offices. Read on to learn more about online programs in this field. Schools offering Administrative Assistant degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Kinds of Receptionist Certificates Are Available Online?

Online receptionist certificate programs are quite rare. Some schools will allow you take a portion of your receptionist courses online, while the majority of the classes are conducted on-site.

You can, however, enroll in an online office assistant certificate program, which teaches you the skills needed to work as a receptionist. There are also online certificate programs that train you in a particular field of office work, such as legal, medical or salon assistance.

How Does an Online Certificate Program Work?

An online office assistant certificate program typically takes 1-3 quarters to complete, which takes a few months in most cases. Coursework consists of independent work like online readings and weekly worksheets that you have to complete within a certain time frame. Online programs often encourage class interaction in the form of discussion boards, where you can post comments and questions to the faculty and your fellow students.

Some programs require students to have access to a testing area to take exams in person. Testing sites often include local libraries, high schools or community colleges. Typically, you must pass each course section while maintaining a minimum GPA to receive your certificate.

What Classes Can I Expect to Take?

Courses for an office assistant certificate program will you train you to carry out the basic daily tasks of a receptionist, such as using office computers and equipment, dealing with the public, booking appointments and taking phone calls. Common office assistant classes include:

  • Document filing
  • Record keeping
  • Customer service skills
  • Typing
  • Telephone and communication skills
  • Computer technology

What Can I Do with the Certificate?

With training in office administrative procedures, you can find work as a receptionist for a number of different offices or businesses. You can also become a virtual receptionist, which allows you to work off-site for an employer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of receptionists was expected to rise by 15% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). This faster than average growth rate was due in part to an increase in the number of medical and health care offices. The BLS reported that receptionists had a mean annual salary of $26,260 as of May 2010.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

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