The Microsoft Certification program has concluded another successful year. The program, which has moved out of pilot and recently received permanent funding, issued 477 Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certifications to faculty, staff and students during this fiscal year. Since its inception, 920 certifications have been awarded.
This past semester, eight class sections in total participated in the program utilizing Microsoft Certifications to complement course content. Sociology 3312 instructed by Professor Leslie DeArman had 25 students certify in Microsoft Excel. “The Database Methods and Analysis course teaches students to perform data analysis using three software programs: MS Excel, Survey Documentation and Analysis (SDA), and SPSS. Students being MOS Certified in Excel adds a lot in terms of qualifying the skills learned in class to prospective employers. It really helps reinforce what they are learning in the classroom as well as greatly enhance their overall Excel skillset.” Prior to adding Microsoft Certifications to her course, Professor DeArman completed her certification in order to be familiar with the resources the students would be provided. Professor DeArman shared, “Since the class utilizes MS Excel, it made a lot of sense to have the students certify. The majority of students were excited about the opportunity to have an industry standard certification knowing it would be held in high regard.”
Currently, faculty from Cox School of Business, Dedman College, and Simmons School of Education and Human Development participate in this program with plans underway to offer the exams to students in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs through Meadows School of the Arts.
The Microsoft Certification program was recently approved for students to receive their information literacy proficiency. Students may learn more by visiting the Approved Activities website.
Microsoft Office Certification study materials are available to all faculty, staff, and students. An info session will be hosted on June 12 for those who would like to learn more about the program.
