An online office assistant certificate program can train you to work as a receptionist in a number of different settings, including dental, medical and legal offices. Learn about certificate programs and how an online program works. Read about common courses and what you can do with your career.
What Kinds of Receptionist Certificates Are Available Online?
Online receptionist certificate programs are quite rare. Some schools allow you to take a portion of your receptionist courses online, while the majority of the classes are conducted on-site.
You can, however, enroll in an online office assistant certificate program, which teaches you the skills needed to work as a receptionist. There are also online certificate programs that train you in a particular field of office work, such as legal or medical assistance.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Certificate Specializations</b></td><td>Programs offer medical or legal specializations</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Course Structure</b></td><td>No special requirements other than possible on-campus attendance for exams</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>Typing, record keeping, customer service, computer technology, document filing</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td>$31,110* (<i>for receptionists and information clerks</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-29)*</b></td><td>4%* (<i>for all receptionists and information clerks</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoesAnOnlineCertificateProgramWork">How Does an Online Certificate Program Work?</h3><p>An online office assistant certificate program typically takes 1-3 quarters to complete, which takes a few months in most cases. The coursework consists of independent work, like online readings and weekly worksheets that you have to complete within a certain time frame. Online programs often encourage class interaction in the form of discussion boards, where you can post comments and questions to the faculty and your fellow students.
</p><p>Some programs require students to have access to a testing area to take exams in person. Testing sites often include local libraries, high schools or community colleges. Typically, you must pass each course section while maintaining a minimum GPA to receive your certificate.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatClassesCanIExpectToTake">What Classes Can I Expect to Take?</h3><p>Courses for an office assistant certificate program will you train you to carry out the basic daily tasks of a receptionist, such as using office computers and equipment, dealing with the public, booking appointments and taking phone calls. Common office assistant classes include:
</p><ul><li>Document filing
</li><li>Record keeping
</li><li>Customer service skills
</li><li>Typing
</li><li>Telephone and communication skills
</li><li>Computer technology
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithTheCertificate">What Can I Do with the Certificate?</h3><p>With training in office administrative procedures, you can find work as a receptionist for a number of different offices or businesses. You can also become a virtual receptionist, which allows you to work off-site for an employer.
</p><p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of receptionists is expected to rise by 4% between 2019 and 2029. Work experience and experience with computers may increase job prospects. The BLS also reported that receptionists had a median annual salary of $31,110 as of May 2020.</p>
