Essential Information
Executive assistant certificate programs are designed to provide the training necessary to effectively and professionally provide administrative and secretarial support to individual executives or to executive teams. Students learn office procedures and protocol, computer skills, and telephone and email etiquette, among other abilities.
Certificate programs can last a few days or a few months, depending on the specific program. Many programs may require participants to have a high school diploma or GED, fundamental computer skills, and a minimum typing speed. Some programs may require a final project that allows students to demonstrate what they've learned.
Executive Assistant Certificate
In addition to technical subjects such as computer skills, courses leading to an executive assistant certificate may focus on critical thinking, office management, and even conflict resolution. Office procedures and professionalism may be important parts of the program. Common topics might include:
- QuickBooks
- Accounting
- Creating worksheets & spreadsheets
- Business writing
- Office procedures
- Meeting planning
Popular Career Options
Holders of this certificate may work as executive secretaries or executive assistants, office managers, administrative assistants, secretaries, and office personnel.
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that employment for executive assistants and secretaries will decrease by 9% between 2019 and 2029 (www.bls.gov). The BLS reported that, as of 2019, executive secretaries and administrative assistants made a median salary of $63,110.
Continuing Education Information
Depending on the industry in which they're employed, secretaries and administrative assistants can gain a number of certifications from various organizations, such as the International Association of Administrative Professionals, Legal Secretaries International, Inc. and the National Association of Legal Secretaries. Certifications from these organizations include Certified Administrative Professional, Professional Legal Secretary and Professional Legal Secretary, respectively.
Students in executive assistant certificate program learn various office skills, including computer skills and phone etiquette. Upon completion of a program and with some work experience, executive assistants may go on to pursue official certifications in various areas to advance their careers.
