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OCC Serving As Testing Site For Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

OCC Serving as Testing Site for Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

DeAnna Ratts  /  February 16, 2012  /  Views: 63  /   No Comments

Olney Central College is serving as a testing site for those seeking their Microsoft Office Specialist Certification.

The certification validates the holder's proficiency in using Microsoft Office 2010 and shows the recipient meets demands for the most up-to-date skills on the latest Microsoft technologies.

"The certification helps students differentiate themselves in today's competitive job market," said instructor Shasta Bennett. "It is a resume builder."

The certification also can broaden employment opportunities and demonstrate to potential employers an individual's advanced skills, which can result in higher earning potential.

Candidates must pass one certification exam in order to earn a MOS Certification for that program. Exams are offered in Microsoft Office Word 2010, Microsoft Office Word 2010 Expert, Microsoft Office Excel 2010, Microsoft Office Excel 2010 Expert, Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2010, Microsoft Office Outlook 2010, Microsoft Office Access 2010, Microsoft SharePoint 2010, and Microsoft Office OneNote 2010.

The exams primarily are performance-based and conducted in a "live," or simulated, environment. Candidates are asked to perform a series of tasks to demonstrate their skills. Both Bennett and fellow instructor Amie Mayhall sat for the exams and obtained their certification.

"We felt it was important for us to get certified so we would know exactly what was on the test and ensure our students are prepared to sit for the exams," Mayhall said.

Mayhall noted Microsoft software classes at OCC and the other Illinois Eastern Community Colleges will prepare students to sit for the exam. The certification exam is open to anyone wanting to obtain Microsoft Certification, not just currently enrolled students.

Testing for Microsoft Office Specialist Certification on Microsoft Office 2010 will be offered this spring at OCC. Fees are $100 for the first test, $185 for two tests and $75 for each additional exam.

Those interested in participating should contact Bennett at 618-395-7777, ext. 2231, or send an email to bennetts@iecc.edu. They also can contact Mayhall at ext. 2229, or send an email to mayhalla@iecc.edu. For more information, visit www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mos.aspx.

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