Administrative Assistant Academy
About the Program
The TVC Administrative Assistant Academy provides training to individuals who want to attain employable office skills within a short period of time. The AA Academy will train students not just for a job, but for a career as an office professional. 
In today’s modern workplace, administrative professionals are the core of almost every successful business. With the rise of new opportunities in e-commerce and the computer industry, computer-savvy professionals are in demand. In addition to a working knowledge of computers, office professionals require effective organizational, communication, and customer service skills. Proper training and education can open up many career opportunities for persons seeking employment.
The Administrative Assistant Academy is approximately 12 weeks in duration. Classes will begin at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Students will be expected to attend every class and be timely in both arriving for class and in the submission of assignments.
By using a variety of instructional methods, the Academy instructors will enable employable graduates to pursue successful careers. Instructed in a work-based environment, students gain the confidence they need as they acquire job skills. The curriculum is continuously upgraded to meet the changing needs of employers.
Why should I enter the AA Academy?
Office assistants constitute the largest single segment of the work force and are now grouped into more than 20 different classifications requiring distinct, specialized skills. The AA Academy prepares students for employment in financial, health care, and business service companies. You will learn the latest applications in computer technology and sharpen your skills with courses in managing projects, coordinating teams, and meeting organizational goals. Courses offered include office procedures and specialized courses in desktop publishing, interpersonal communication, and office management.
What is the job outlook for AA Academy graduates?
Professional careers are in great demand. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, more than 370,000 positions will be created by the year 2005. Salaries vary a great deal, depending on skill level, experience, level of responsibility, location, and industry. Starting salaries for secretaries with limited experience range from $25,000 to $30,000.
What academic credentials will I earn?
Students successfully completing this program earn 16 credits. Most of these credits count toward an Applied Business one-year certificate or a two-year Applied Business associate's degree.
Where is the AAA program offered?
All training is conducted at the Tanana Valley Campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks at
604 Barnette Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
How do I qualify for the AAA program?
Students must have COMPASS test scores for placement in Business English.
How long is the training and what is the typical class schedule?
Instruction will last 12 weeks followed by a 2-week practicum. Classes will meet Monday thru through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. with a one-hour break for lunch.
What courses will I take?
- Keyboarding
- Windows
- MS Word
- MS Excel
- MS PowerPoint
- Desktop Publishing
- Human Relations
- Business English
- Office Procedures
- Job Skills
- Practicum
How much will it cost?
The cost of the program and textbooks for Alaska residents is approximately $3,700.
What is the process to enroll?
- Complete a UAF Application for Admission form and pay the $40 fee.
- Complete the COMPASS placement test.
- Schedule an interview with the AAA coordinator, Jean Heusinkveld, at (907) 455-2815, or email at jean.heusi@uaf.edu (interview may include a typing test, if appropriate).
- Secure funding sources. Contact Financial Aid Office (907) 474-7256.
For more information contact:
Jean Heusinkveld, Faculty Coordinator
Administrative Assistant Academy
UAF Tanana Valley Campus
604 Barnette Street, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
email: ffejb@uaf.edu
phone: (907) 455-2815
Page Last modified: May 01 2008.
Any questions or comments regarding this web site
can be sent to: Webmaster
