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Printed on 5/9/2026

Business Support Specialist New

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20-106-13 Certificate (C) 8 Credits Not Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton or Online

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

The Business Support Specialist Certificate prepares you to thrive in today's fast-paced business environment. You'll develop in-demand skills in Microsoft 365, professional communication, office coordination, and digital organization. Through hands-on, real-world projects, you'll build the confidence and technical expertise employers expect from modern office professionals. Step into a career where your organization, professionalism, and technology skills make you the key to business success.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Technical Studies (8 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Microsoft Office
    10-103-120
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10103120
    • Credits: 2.00

    Gain technical skills employers are seeking, through hands-on coursework, using the features in Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 

  • Office Operations
    10-106-105
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10106105
    • Credits: 3.00

    Discover the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively operate in an office environment. This introductory course focuses on enhancing organizational and operational efficiency.

  • Business Networking
    10-106-117
    2Credit
    45
    63
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 45
    • Outside Effort Hours: 63
    • Course Number: 10106117
    • Credits: 2.00

    Provides students with opportunity to develop and analyze networking and business relationships. Includes examination of the networking process, tools to facilitate and enhance networking opportunities, and networking communication development.

  • Business Career Planning
    10-106-199
    1Credit
    27
    27

    • Instructional Hours: 27
    • Outside Effort Hours: 27
    • Course Number: 10106199
    • Credits: 1.00

    Provides students with information and tools to prepare for a Business career. Students will demonstrate professionalism and develop professional employment documents, business communications, and interview strategies.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • Student must complete 9 Semester Units at the Post Secondary Level. Catalog Numbers must begin with 10, 20, 30, 31, or 32.

    • Student is in progress in Office Assistant (31-106-1) Program of Study

    • Student is in progress in Office Coordinator (31-106-3) Program of Study

    • Student is in progress in Business Support Specialist (20-106-13) Program of Study
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Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

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Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.