Administrative Assistant Certificate

"I originally chose Douglas College because it had a good reputation for its business and administrative programs. I wanted to learn the skills that are required today in many administrative professions. The classes were small which allowed more teacher to student interaction. The work experience allowed me to apply the class knowledge in a real, hands-on business environment."

Julia Chiu, Administrative Assistant Certificate Program graduate

The Administrative Assistant Certificate prepares you for technical and administrative support positions such as secretary, executive secretary, administrative assistant, executive assistant, professional assistant, sales assistant, marketing assistant and research assistant.

The program can be taken full-time or part-time depending on your needs. The full-time program is a two-semester (eight month) program that begins in September, while the part-time program begins in September and January.

For admission and other details, please see the Administrative Assistant Certificate section of the Douglas College Calendar.

Courses

While in the program, you'll take courses such as accounting, business communications, administrative procedures and keyboarding development. You'll also work with other students as part of a team, a dynamic that may reflect your future work environment.

Work Experience (practicum)

The full-time Administrative Assistant Certificate program has one practicum, giving you work experience before you even graduate. The practicum is three weeks in length, and many students are asked to stay on in regular positions once their practicum is completed.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Some courses in the Administrative Assistant Certificate program may be challenged for credit through the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Service. If you have knowledge or skills that relate to this field, contact the PLAR office for more information.

Further Education

Once you've successfully completed the Administrative Assistant Certificate Program, you can choose to go on to our Office Administration Diploma Program. This is a two-year Diploma program, but by completing your certificate you'll only need to complete one more year to get your diploma.

Our Diploma transfers to Kwantlen University College's Bachelor of Business Administration Degree Program (BBA in Entrepreneurial Leadership.)

Contact Us

David Cordon, Administrative Assistant Chair
604-527-5431
e-mail