Business Technology
Overview
Folsom Lake College’s business technology curriculum is designed to provide an entry point into an ever changing, exciting career. Many opportunities are available that can lead to immediate employment or career advancement. Whether students take one class or a step toward a degree, business technology is applicable in all industries.
The business technology curriculum is designed to provide students with information technology skills used in today’s business environment. Students also receive an education in the major areas of business that are aligned with respective technology skills. Students in the program learn critical thinking, problem solving, how to use business software, and the procedures utilized in electronic workspaces.
The administration and management of today’s business and government organizations rely heavily upon information technology for the efficient achievement of goals. The collection, storage, and retrieval of data by computers is involved in the wide range of business activities including daily operations, management decision making, and long-range planning. As the dependence on information technology grows, so does the need for information technology specialists.
- Administrative or Executive Assistants
- Consultants
- Office Managers
- Programmers
- Systems Analysts
- Technology Communications
- User Support Analysts
Some career options may require more than two years of college study.
- Faculty experts current on the latest, most relevant business software
- Courses integrated with business program offerings
- Business software skills applicable to any industry
- Division Dean Dr. Christopher Morris
- Department Chair Elizabeth Swithenbank
- Meta-Major Business and Management
- Phone (916) 608-6292
- Email careerprograms@flc.losrios.edu
Certificate of Achievement
Business Information Worker II Certificate
The Business Information Worker II (BIW II) Certificate will prepare students for mid-level office and administrative support in a variety of job positions in a multitude of industries, including office and executive administrative support, office supervision, small business support, retail sales, and customer service representatives. The BIW II Certificate builds on the foundation established in the BIW I certificate. Students will gain needed skills in Access, Excel, PowerPoint, QuickBooks, in addition to records management and customer relations. Students who successfully complete the BIW II certification will be prepared to test for multiple Microsoft Office Specialist certification exams.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2024
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 341 | Computerized Accounting | 3 |
| BUSTEC 364 | Intermediate Electronic Spreadsheets | 1 |
| BUSTEC 308 | Advanced Computer Keyboarding and Formatting | 3 |
| BUSTEC 332 | Integrated Business Projects | 3 |
| BUSTEC 361 | Advanced Word Processing | 1 |
| BUSTEC 366 | Electronic Presentations | 2 |
| BUSTEC 367 | Database and Records Management | 3 |
| Total Units: | 16 |
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate proficiency in advanced business technology applications.
- demonstrate proficiency in business administration skills.
- demonstrate proficiency in business communication skills.
- apply customer service skills in a business environment and provide a positive customer service experience.
Certificate
Business Information Professional I Certificate
The Business Information Professional I Certificate prepares students for entry-level office, computer, and administrative support positions in a variety of industries. This certification includes courses in: oral and written business communications; computer application skills, including beginning Excel, Word, and Outlook; the fundamentals of computer systems; and critical thinking and problem solving. This certificate is a collaborative certificate and courses are available at multiple colleges. Students can reference the required course list to find more information regarding the courses available at each college. This certificate can be completed 100% online.
Catalog Date: August 1, 2024
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ENGWR 300 | College Composition (3) | 3 |
| or BUS 100 | English for the Professional (3) | |
| or BUS 310 | Business Communications (3) | |
| MATH 300 | Introduction to Mathematical Ideas (3) | 31 |
| BUSTEC 126 | Outlook: Basics | 12 |
| BUSTEC 305 | Introduction to Business Information Technology | 3 |
| BUSTEC 307 | Computer Keyboarding and Skill Building | 3 |
| BUSTEC 309 | Computer Familiarization | 13 |
| BUSTEC 360 | Word Processing Beyond the Essentials | 24 |
| BUSTEC 362 | Comprehensive Electronic Spreadsheets | 25 |
| BUSTEC 366 | Electronic Presentations | 26 |
| BUSTEC 498 | Work Experience in Business Technology | 0.5 -4 |
| Total Units: | 20.5 - 24 |
1Substitute course, BUS 105 - Business Mathematics, is available at American River College, Cosumnes River College, and Sacramento City College.
2Substitute course, CISA 126 - Outlook: Basics, is available at American River College.
3Substitute course(s), CISC 300 - Computer Familiarization, is available at American River College and Sacramento City College. CISC 302 - Computer Familiarization, is available at Cosumnes River College.
4Substitute course, CISA 305 - Beginning Word Processing, is available at American River College, Cosumnes River College, and Sacramento City College.
5Substitute course, CISA 315 - Introduction to Electronic Spreadsheets, is available at American River College, Cosumnes River College, and Sacramento City College.
6Substitute course, CISA 340 - Presentation Graphics, is available at American River College, Cosumnes River College, and Sacramento City College.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate proficiency in business technology applications.
- demonstrate proficiency in business administration skills.
- demonstrate proficiency in business communication skills.
- apply customer service skills in a business environment and provide a positive customer service experience.
Career Information
Students who successfully complete the Business Information Professional Certificate are prepared for entry-level positions in office, computer, and administrative support positions in a variety of industries.
Business Technology (BUSTEC) Courses
BUSTEC 102 Computer Keyboarding 10-Key
- Units:1
- Hours:9 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course introduces the numeric keypad and develops the ability to key information into a computer with speed and accuracy. Simulated employment tests based on industry standards are included. Students are required to have access to a computer with a 10-key key pad, the Internet, and an active Los Rios e-mail account.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate proficiency on a numeric keypad by touch at a rate of 8,000+ or more keystrokes an hour with 98 percent accuracy.
- apply data entry techniques of 10-key operation to a variety of job-related tasks and employment tests.
- examine business documents and select the correct information for alpha/numeric input.
BUSTEC 110 Business Procedures for Professional Success
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUS 100 or BUSTEC 307
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 100X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course prepares students to perform various information processing procedures and problem solving tasks required to support both today’s office systems and those of the future. Students learn critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, supervision skills, office procedures, and information processing technologies to manage their work, as well as necessary attributes of an office professional. These skills will provide the background for advancement to supervision and management positions. Primary emphasis is on processing documents using introductory skills in word processing, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, and e-mail. Also included are managing information storage and retrieval, and coordinating office communications, to improve the efficiency of office functions.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- solve business problems involving decision-making and critical thinking.
- communicate effectively both orally and in writing as a member of a business team.
- use operating systems and application software to perform business tasks.
- apply business procedures for the use and operation of business technologies.
BUSTEC 126 Outlook: Basics
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 360
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 106X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course introduces Microsoft Outlook, the industry-leading personal information management software. Topics include understanding and navigating the Outlook environment, managing Outlook settings and processes, managing messages, managing schedules, and managing contacts and tasks. This comprehensive course prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Outlook Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage Outlook settings and processes.
- manage messages.
- manage schedules, including appointments, meetings, and events.
- create and manage contacts.
- create and manage tasks.
BUSTEC 299 Experimental Offering in Business Technology
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course is designed to provide training needed for today's workforce. This course teaches skills that employers from across the nation have identified as the key skills workers must master for businesses to increase their competitiveness. These eight categories include: navigating technology at work, time management, organization skills, effective listening, valuing diversity, interpersonal communications, value-added service, and using creativity and innovation. This course utilizes skill building activities including role playing and critical thinking to teach these valuable skills.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- review and demonstrate the ability to use computer-based technology.
- demonstrate the use of time management, workplace organization, delegation and business attitude and professionalism.
- examine and demonstrate the ability to deliver clear verbal and non-verbal communication.
- exercise awareness of culture-based as well as non-culture-based behavior and language.
- demonstrate the ability to improve verbal communication skills including effective listening.
- demonstrate effective teamwork and the ability to utilize the concepts of problem solving and interpersonal skills in the workplace.
- demonstrate effective customer service skills.
- implement the use of creativity and innovation in development of new ideas.
BUSTEC 305 Introduction to Business Information Technology
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 100X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course prepares business professionals to use office systems, technologies, and sustainable procedures to support today's digital work environments. Topics include the use of business-related hardware and software, business communication, electronic calendars, project management, records management, business document preparation, cloud-based applications, information storage, and team collaboration. Critical thinking, problem-solving, administrative procedures, and information processing technologies are used to complete assignments and activities applicable in a business environment. Skills learned in this course provide a foundation in information and communications technology used in administrative, business, and management positions. This course is not open to students who have previously taken BUSTEC 110.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- describe best practices for office procedures and business communications.
- describe how business technology, hardware, operating systems, and application software is used in business.
- solve business problems involving decision-making and critical thinking.
BUSTEC 307 Computer Keyboarding and Skill Building
- Units:3
- Hours:44 hours LEC; 30 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 309
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 110X; C-ID BSOT 120X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This intensive introductory computer-keyboard course emphasizes operating alphabetic, numeric, and symbol keys by touch. It includes computer-keyboarding techniques, speed-and-accuracy development, proofreading proficiency, and the use of essential computer-keyboarding information. Students will need access to a computer, the Internet, and an active Los Rios email account.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- apply ergonomic principles required to maintain posture, hand positions, and avoid eyestrain.
- demonstrate the ability to type at least 24 words per minute with no more than three errors on a three-minute timed test.
- demonstrate proficiency on a numeric keypad by touch at a rate of 8,000+ or more keystrokes an hour with 98 percent accuracy.
BUSTEC 308 Advanced Computer Keyboarding and Formatting
- Units:3
- Hours:44 hours LEC; 30 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:BUSTEC 307 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 130X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course is an advanced keyboarding and formatting course. The course builds upon current computer-keyboard skills and stresses speed and accuracy keyboarding techniques. Students will complete individualized skill improvement plans based on a computerized assessment of computer keyboarding speed and accuracy.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- demonstrate typing speed of 30 words per minute on a 5-minute timed writing with less than 5 errors.
- demonstrate the proper use of computer-keyboard equipment, technical concepts, and proofreading symbols.
- evaluate, revise, and edit documents for formatting, keyboarding accuracy, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
BUSTEC 309 Computer Familiarization
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 105X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This is an introductory course to provide general knowledge on topics such as how computers work, computer terminology, and the impact of computers on society and the work environment. Beginning level hands-on instruction using an operating system, word processing software, spreadsheet software, and the Internet will be emphasized. Students will be reading and interpreting written and oral instructions of a technical nature. Students with limited computer knowledge should take this course in-class, not on-line. Students should have access to a computer with internet and an active Los Rios e-mail account. They should have computer media to store data files such as a USB drive. This course is not open to students who have previously taken CISC 300.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify the components of computer hardware by describing and stating the purpose and capabilities of the various hardware devices such as system case, power supply, disk drives, monitor, motherboard, printer, mouse, keyboard, and various ports.
- describe the differences between operating system, application, and utility software in respect to what each program does in relationship to a computer system.
- describe and show the use basic Windows operating system commands to prepare storage media, view, copy, move and erase files and folders.
- create, save, and print simple word processing documents using basic editing and formatting techniques.
- design, create, preview, save, and print simple spreadsheets using basic data entry, editing, and formatting techniques.
BUSTEC 331 Exploring Computer Environments and the Internet
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
The course focuses on the most common hardware components used in personal computers, file management, and the Internet. Topics include the basic components of a computer system, file management principles, and Internet fundamentals. Students should have access to a computer, Internet and active Los Rios e-mail account.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- list basic computer hardware components and discuss how computers work.
- effectively utilize the graphical user interface to work effectively with the operating system and application programs.
- locate files, folders and data on various computer media.
- manage files and folders through copy, move, delete, and rename features of the operating system.
- discuss basic Internet and computer operating system concepts using appropriate terminology.
- demonstrate use of efficient Internet search techniques using search engines and subject directories.
BUSTEC 332 Integrated Business Projects
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 360 or 363
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course integrates office administration skills and procedures using a suite of computer applications. Course content integrates word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, and communication software to create, format, revise, share, and maintain business documents and data. Hands-on business projects are based on current office systems and incorporate problem-solving skills and real world business simulations.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- describe the concepts and theories of integrating software functions.
- integrate the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, and electronic communication software to create, format, revise, share and maintain business documents and data.
- analyze the purpose of a business project and select software to complete the project.
BUSTEC 333 Exploring Word Processing and Presentation Software
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course introduces the student to word processing and presentation software. The basic features and skills of creating, editing, formatting, inserting tables and graphics, and enhancing word-processed documents and graphic presentations are covered. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios e-mail account. This course is not open to students who have completed CISA 308.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- utilize efficient techniques in creating and formatting typical business documents.
- analyze document requirements and use appropriate features when creating business documents that require the integration of text, charts, and/or graphics for distribution or presentation.
- manipulate data by using various features such as cut, copy, paste, and sort.
- format documents using basic editing features such as setting margins, inserting headers and footers and choosing page orientation in addition to applying attributes that adjust the style, size, and appearance of characters.
- convert text, table, and chart data between applications.
- evaluate and analyze appropriate layout and design of documents for specific audiences.
BUSTEC 360 Word Processing Beyond the Essentials
- Units:2
- Hours:30 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 307 and 309
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 121X; C-ID BSOT 111X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course is designed to provide industry entry-level competency in word processing. In this course students will learn word processing operations: creating, editing, formatting, saving, retrieving, and printing text documents. In addition, this course will provide students with a competency in managing documents, inserting and formatting text, paragraphs, and sections, managing tables and lists, creating and managing references, inserting and formatting graphic elements, and document collaboration. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios e-mail account. This comprehensive course prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Word Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage documents.
- insert and format text, paragraphs, and sections.
- manage tables and lists.
- create and manage references.
- insert and format graphic elements.
- manage document collaboration.
BUSTEC 361 Advanced Word Processing
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:BUSTEC 360 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 121X; C-ID BSOT 131X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course is designed to build upon previous training in the use of word processing. The course covers managing document options and settings, advanced editing and formatting features, and creating custom document elements. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios e-mail account. This class is not open to students who have previously taken CISA 301. This comprehensive course prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Word Expert certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage document options and settings.
- use advanced editing and formatting features.
- create custom document elements.
- use advanced word processing features, such as forms, macros, and mail merge.
BUSTEC 362 Comprehensive Electronic Spreadsheets
- Units:2
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 36 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 309 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 112X; C-ID BSOT 122X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This is a comprehensive electronic spreadsheet course taught using Microsoft Excel. Upon completion of this course students will be able to manage worksheets and workbooks, manage data cells and ranges, manage tables and table data, perform operations by using formulas and functions, and manage charts and graphics. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios email account. This course is not open to students who have taken BUSTEC 364. Successful completion of BUSTEC 362 prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Excel Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage worksheets, workbooks, data cells, data ranges, tables, and table data.
- perform operations by using formulas and functions.
- manage charts and graphics.
BUSTEC 363 Introduction to Electronic Spreadsheets
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:BUSTEC 309
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 112X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course is designed to introduce the student to the use of spreadsheets with Microsoft Excel. After this course students will be able to manage worksheets and workbooks, manage data cells and ranges, design a spreadsheet, develop formulas for accurate automatic calculations, use spreadsheet functions, and developing "what-if" models based upon relative and absolute cell referencing. Students will apply mathematical concepts and skills. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios e-mail account. Successful completion of BUSTEC 363 and BUSTEC 364 prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Excel Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- create accurate spreadsheets efficiently using text labels, number values, formulas, and functions.
- audit underlying mathematical formulas or functions for validity and accuracy using formula view.
- produce valid and effective formulas which automatically calculate accurate results from varied data by using cell referencing and functions efficiently.
BUSTEC 364 Intermediate Electronic Spreadsheets
- Units:1
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:BUSTEC 363 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 122X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course will extend the capabilities of students who have started to use electronic spreadsheet software. Topics and laboratory assignments will include managing complex tables and table data, performing advanced operations by using formulas and functions, and managing charts. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Students must have an active Los Rios e-mail account. This class is not open to students who have previously taken CISA 311. Successful completion of BUSTEC 363 and BUSTEC 364 prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Excel Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage complex tables and table data.
- perform advanced operations by using formulas and functions.
- create, modify, and format charts.
BUSTEC 366 Electronic Presentations
- Units:2
- Hours:31 hours LEC; 15 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 114X; C-ID BSOT 124X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course teaches students how to create and manage presentations, insert and format shapes and slides, create slide content, apply transitions and animations and manage multiple presentations. Upon completion, students will have electronic presentation competency at industry entry-level and will be able to create professional-grade sales presentations, employee training, instructional materials, and kiosk slideshows. This comprehensive course prepares students for the Microsoft Office Specialist PowerPoint Associate certification exam.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- create and manage presentations.
- insert and format text, shapes, and images.
- inset tables, charts, SmartArt, and media.
- apply transitions and animations.
- manage multiple presentations.
BUSTEC 367 Database and Records Management
- Units:3
- Hours:42 hours LEC; 36 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:CISC 300
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID BSOT 113X; C-ID BSOT 123X; C-ID BSOT 133X
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course introduces database management systems. Using the Microsoft Access application, students will design and implement practical database applications. Topics include such items as database and report design, data views and queries, and data maintenance. Students will also learn about the rules that have been established by the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA), and how those rules are applied in real-world contexts. Principles and practices of effective records management for indexing, storage, and maintenance of various types of records are explored. This comprehensive course prepares students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Access Expert certification exam. This course is not open to students who have previously completed CISA 320 or CISA 321.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- manage databases.
- create and modify tables.
- create and modify queries.
- modify forms in a layout view.
- modify reports in a layout view.
- use alphabetic and numeric indexing rules.
- describe the importance of database maintenance, reliability, accuracy, credibility, repair and backup.
BUSTEC 498 Work Experience in Business Technology
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of Business Technology. Course content will include understanding the application of education to the workforce; completing required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. During the semester, the student is required to attend orientation. Students must complete 27 hours of related paid or unpaid work experience for .5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional .5 unit. The course may be taken for a maximum of 16 units. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Online students must have an email account. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- identify competencies for effective and competitive workforce performance as written in the minimum three (3) learning objectives created by the student and the employer/work site supervisor at the start of the semester.
- manage personal career plans and decision making using industry & workforce information and online resources.
- behave professionally and ethically, exhibiting adaptability, initiative, self-awareness and self-management as needed.
- exhibit effective communication, collaboration, leadership skills at work, with consideration to workplace dynamics and social and diversity awareness.
- demonstrate critical and creative thinking skills as they apply to the workplace.
BUSTEC 499 Experimental Offering in Business Technology
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2024
This is the experimental courses description.
