The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.
The courses have been intentionally placed and should be prioritized in
the order
in which they appear. If you are unable to take all the courses in
a semester, you
should prioritize enrolling in the courses in the order below.
Some courses have
been noted as “Appropriate for Intersession” 
. Should you need (or want) to take
classes
in the summer and/or winter intersessions,
the program recommends these courses as appropriate for the condensed
schedule of
the intersessions.
Some pathways combine a “Certificate of Achievement” and an “Associate
Degree”. If
you are pursuing only the Certificate of Achievement, you are only
required to take
the courses marked “Program Requirement” 
.
All pathways include at least one “Gateway Course” 
which introduces you to the program and/or field of study and helps you
decide if you want to continue with this Academic and Career Path.
Most Associate degrees (though not Associate Degrees for Transfer)
require satisfying the SMC Global Citizenship requirement. If the Program
Requirements do not include a “Global Citizenship course” 
, be sure to select a General Education course that also satisfies Global Citizenship.
The core of this certificate program provides advanced computer skills and business concepts that can be applied in nearly every industry. Students will learn to use Microsoft Office products, as well as other computer software applications, that can be applied in business situations to create, edit, format and publish documents, spreadsheets, presentations and databases.
Students can select from three specializations within the Computer Business Applications Certificate program:
- Social Media Specialist students will be introduced to the finer points of the most popular social media applications, including search engine optimization, HTML and digital marketing.
- Office Finance Specialist students will develop the skills necessary to handle basic accounting and bookkeeping procedures for small businesses.
- Microsoft Office Specialist students will develop additional expertise in each of the Microsoft Office applications. This specialization assists in preparation for the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification exams.
Upon completion of the program, students will:
- Upon completion of the program in Computer Business Applications, students will be able to analyze different type of business information, use the Internet to support findings, and use software applications to produce various business reports and presentations used in industry of concentration area.
Icon Key
-
Gateway Course
-
Program Requirement
-
General Education -
Appropriate for
Intersession
-
Available Online -
Global Citizenship
NOTE: Noncredit Pathway Opportunities: The noncredit certificates of completion below can serve as a bridge into for-credit coursework in this program. Refer to www.smc.edu/noncredit for more information.
- Business Essentials Level 1: BUS NC 901 and 902
- Customer Service: BUS NC 911 and 912
- Receptionist: BUS NC 911 and CIS NC 902 and 903
Semester 1
15-17 Units
This beginning course explores the foundations of technology as well as current trends and emerging topics in information technology. Students complete hands-on projects in operating systems, web browsers, and web-based office applications. Students will also be introduced to topics such as understanding programming, computer security and social media.
An overview of the functional areas of business in a global society. Students will complete the course with knowledge of the general business environment, economic systems, business ethics, operations and project management, and technology and information systems. In addition, students will learn the fundamentals of economics, business ownership, entrepreneurship, finance, management, leadership, and marketing. Key themes woven throughout the course include exploration of career options and development of business problem-solving skills.
- Skills Advisory: eligibility for Engish 1
- Area II-B: Social Science (Group B)
This course is designed to teach keyboard mastery by touch, improve speed and accuracy, and use Microsoft Word to create and revise business documents. Proofreading skill development is also included.
Computers are used in all work environments. To function efficiently, computer users must be able to input data on a computer keyboard quickly and accurately. This course is designed to develop the computer keyboarding skills that are required to function in the workplace.
- Skills Advisory: OFTECH 1
- Skills Advisory: OFTECH 1C
MATH 20 or higher college level recommended for ACCTG 1
See the full list: SMC GE Area IV-B Course
This introductory course in rhetoric emphasizes clear, effective written communication and preparation of the research paper.
- Prerequisite: ENGL 21B or
- Prerequisite: ENGL 22
- Prerequisite: ESL 19B or
- Prerequisite: Group A on the Placement Test
- 1A: English Composition
- A2 - Written Communication
- Area IV-A: Language and Rationality (Group A)
Semester 2
15 Units
This course introduces students to information systems and their role in business. Topics include information systems, database management systems, networking, e-commerce, ethics and security, computer systems, hardware systems, and application software (word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation graphics). In this course, students develop computer-based solutions to a variety of business problems.
This course is designed to review principles of grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and number format; improve vocabulary and spelling; and develop proofreading and editing skills. Word Processing software is used to create and revise business documents.
Through the use of Microsoft Word software, skills are developed in creating, revising, formatting, storing, and printing a variety of business documents. Skills are developed from basic functions and editing tools through intermediate features such as AutoText, columns, custom tab settings, charts and graphs, graphics, envelopes, labels, and headers/footers. Emphasis is placed on professional quality production of documents. Students also learn to increase productivity through the use of automated features and multiple windows. Students develop problem-solving skills through the use of document revisions and trouble-shooting assignments. Additionally, students develop advanced skills in areas of interest ranging from legal applications to brochures and newsletters. Hands-on experience is provided in a microcomputer lab. This class covers the objectives necessary for the MOS and Expert certification in Word.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1
- Skills Advisory: Ability to type 25 wpm
This course provides an exploration of intellectual, psychological, social and physical factors that impact lifelong learning, well-being and success. Topics include motivation and self-efficacy; critical thinking, academic integrity and active study strategies; health issues and lifestyle choices; relating to others as a global citizen; written and oral communication; time management; career exploration; and educational planning.
- E - Lifelong Understanding and Self-Development
Semester 3
15 Units
Microsoft Outlook has become a primary means of office communication and task management. In this course the student will learn to effectively use all features of Outlook e-mail, calendar, contacts, tasks, and notes; create and manage Outlook folders; collaborate with others for scheduling meetings and resources; configure and customize Outlook; and integrate Outlook contacts with other Microsoft Office programs. This class covers the objectives necessary for the MOS certification in Outlook.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1
SMC GE Area II-A Course 3 units
SMC GE Area I Course 3 units
ENGL 2 recommended
See the full list: SMC GE Area III Course
Semester 4
15 Units
Elective Course 3 units
Elective Course 3 units
Elective Course 3 units
Elective Course 3 units
Specialization Tracks
9 Units
Select and complete one of following specialization tracks (9 units required)
Track 1: Social Media Specialist
This course introduces students to digital marketing. Students will learn how to develop and implement various digital marketing channels, such as search-engine optimization (SEO), search engine marketing (SEM), social media marketing, pay per click (PPC) advertising, affiliate marketing, email marketing and content marketing. The course will emphasize the strategic role of digital marketing in traditional marketing; its impact on the customer experience; and how to track its effectiveness.
This hands-on course provides all the skills necessary to navigate, create and manage content on the World Wide Web. Students will become familiar with the Internet and its underlying technology and security. The course also covers the principles of Web page design, the use of graphics and other media files, and the creation of linked documents. Students will use both HTML and a Web authoring program to create and edit Web pages, and will have the opportunity to put their Web sites online by publishing to a Web server.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1
Digital marketing enables an individual or business to promote an organization, brand, product or service using a variety of online marketing strategies: content marketing, social media marketing, search engine marketing and e-marketing. Numerous tools and applications are utilized to deliver these strategies, such as a content management system; blogging; content creators and editors for images, posts and videos; crowdsourcing; podcasting; RSS feed and directories; social media business accounts and ad managers, like Facebook Ad Manager; search engine advertising, like Google Ads; SEO techniques and tools; third party tracking and analytics tools, such as Google Analytics; email and direct message marketing; and event promotion. This course provides the skills to use these tools and applications for a successful digital marketing campaign.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1
Track 2: Office Finance Specialist
This course includes a detailed study of business applications using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet package. Topics include the commands, formats, and functions of Excel with emphasis on its use as a problem solving and financial analysis tool. Students will also learn to create macros, customize ribbons and tabs, and integrate Excel with other applications and the World Wide Web. Students will also have an introduction to writing Visual Basic code.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 4
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1 or
This course introduces the student to the sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporate forms of ownership. This course also familiarizes the student with recording, classifying and interpreting financial data for service and merchandising businesses. It includes a study of the journals, ledgers and financial statements used by these entities. Also covered are computerized accounting systems, internal control, ethics, cash, accounts and notes receivable, merchandise inventory, plant assets and intangible assets, liabilities, and equity accounts. Basic managerial accounting topics are also introduced.
- Skills Advisory: MATH 18 or
- Skills Advisory: MATH 20
This course surveys basic bookkeeping principles and practices and the use of records to help bookkeepers and business owners/managers better understand common business terms, transactions, and record keeping in small businesses. This course provides the student with the basic accounting concepts and procedures required for all businesses. Through lecture and problem solving, the student will learn to do a full set of books pertaining to a small business enterprise. Topics covered include analyzing and classifying business transactions, financial statements, worksheets and adjusting entries, bank reconciliations, payroll, specialized journals, and tax aspects of small businesses.
This course provides the student with a business approach to computerized, integrated accounting principles using QuickBooks. Students will work with the various components of an accounting system in an ongoing business, as well as set up an accounting system for a new company. Topics include the creation of a QuickBooks company, processing daily accounting entries, the analysis of financial statements, creation of reports and graphs. Students will gain experience in the creation and use of invoices, purchase orders, inventory, bank accounts, and payroll. In addition, students will be able to complete the entire accounting cycle including recording adjusting entries and making corrections on the transactions as needed. Hands-on experience is provided in a microcomputer lab. This class covers the objectives necessary for the QuickBooks certification.
- Skills Advisory: ACCTG 1 or
- Skills Advisory: ACCTG 21
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1 or
- Skills Advisory: CIS 4
This course provides the student with a business approach to computerized, integrated accounting principles using QuickBooks Online. Students will work with the various components of an accounting system by setting up an accounting system for a new company. Topics include the creation of a QuickBooks company, processing daily accounting entries, working with payroll online, maintaining inventory, the creation, and the analysis of financial statements and other managerial reports. Hands-on experience is provided. This class covers the objectives necessary for QuickBooks Online certification and QuickBooks ProAdvisor.
- Skills Advisory: ACCTG 1 or
- Skills Advisory: ACCTG 21
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1 or
- Skills Advisory: CIS 4
Track 3: Microsoft Office Specialist
This course includes a detailed study of business applications using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet package. Topics include the commands, formats, and functions of Excel with emphasis on its use as a problem solving and financial analysis tool. Students will also learn to create macros, customize ribbons and tabs, and integrate Excel with other applications and the World Wide Web. Students will also have an introduction to writing Visual Basic code.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 4
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1 or
This course presents an introduction to relational database management systems using Microsoft Access. It is designed to familiarize the student with Microsoft Access and its application in the business world. Topics include: designing, maintaining and querying a database; creating forms, reports, and macros; and an introduction to writing Visual Basic code. Hands-on experience is provided in a microcomputer lab. This class covers the objectives necessary for the MOS certification in Access.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 4
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1 or
Through the use of Microsoft PowerPoint software, skills are developed in planning, creating, formatting, enhancing and delivering presentations for business applications. Topics include audience analysis, selection of presentation media, and the creation and presentation of slides, transparencies, and posters. The use of animation, sound and other special effects, as well as Web publishing techniques, will also be covered. Hands-on experience is provided in a microcomputer lab. This class covers the objectives necessary for the MOS certification in PowerPoint.
- Skills Advisory: CIS 1