Microsoft® Office Specialist (MOS) Certification Training

What is MOS Certification?

CertiPort in conjunction with Microsoft^® has designed a hands-on computerized certification exam that tests users on real-world examples based on tasks routinely performed by end-users. Microsoft Office users may sit for the internationally recognized MOS exams for the following Microsoft Office products—Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook—at the Core and/or Expert levels.

Because the Microsoft Office suite is used by the majority of businesses and educational institutions, MOS certification helps to ensure that current and future employees possess the required skills needed to complete routine tasks utilizing the software. The exams simply validate the user’s high degree of understanding and proficiency with the software.

What Does MOS Certification Involve?

Upon completion of one or more of the computer application courses, users may select one of the five software applications and register to take one or more exams at an authorized testing center.

MOS exams are timed and have a maximum time limit of either 45 minutes or 1 hour, depending upon the exam.

The MOS testing software runs with Microsoft Office and has the user perform tasks on real documents in the actual application. Users move through the exam questions at their own pace, while keeping in mind the time limits. The idea is to complete all questions within the time limit.

At the end of the exam, the software generates a report showing if he/she has achieved a passing score. If a passing score is obtained, a certificate is mailed to the user’s address within 2-3 weeks.

Exams may be taken in any order. There is no limit to the number of times a test may be taken; however, the user must pay the testing fee each time a test is taken.

What Courses Can I Take to Assist with MOS Certification?

You will receive 3 credit hours for each computer application class completed with a passing grade. Courses that will help you prepare for the MOS examinations include:

Why Obtain MOS Certification from LLCC?

• LLCC utilizes MOS Certified instructors, who also have the designation of MOS Master, because they have passed all MOS exams at the Expert level. The instructors are able to provide real-life examples about the software and the testing experience.
• LLCC computer application classes use official MOS-approved courseware and practice software.
• LLCC MOS preparatory courses utilize the latest Microsoft Office suite to help you improve your computer application skills.
• LLCC computer application courses offer students credit toward both degree and certificate programs, as well as preparing them to sit for the MOS exams.
• LLCC has a history of students who have successfully completed MOS exams. Additionally, we used to have our own LLCC MOUS Academy.
• LLCC is committed to helping students achieve success in the workplace.
• LLCC is approximately 15 minutes away from an authorized MOS testing center. You will need to schedule and arrange payment for your exams by calling 217.744.1500.

When and How Can I Enroll and Complete a MOS Course?

• You can enroll at the start of each 16-week semester to ensure space in your online course.
• If you are just now reading this and it is 3 weeks into the semester, for example, you can still enroll in one or more of the computer application courses. You will still have 16 weeks to complete your course. You may enroll in any Computer Flex Center online course through the Fast Start registration date each semester.

To register for a MOS course, please visit the Computer Flex Center, CFC, located in Logan Hall. The CFC hours are 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday when LLCC is in session.

Details about the Computer Flex Center and a listing of available courses are available on the BUIT Department Web site or by clicking on www.llcc.edu/chovey.

One of the benefits of the Computer Flex Center is that you determine when you wish to enroll in your application courses!

What Is Included in the LLCC MOS Preparation?

Choose the courses that meet your schedule and your budget!

Students desiring a more comprehensive course of study will want to enroll in any of these courses through the LLCC Computer Flex Center. Each course includes a review of the main features of each application, with plenty of:

• hands-on application using the software
• reinforcement exercises
• pre- and post-testing with examples similar to those found on the MOS exam

Class assignments, activities, discussions, quizzes, and tests are provided in the Blackboard course management software platform. You will be assigned an “instructor of record” for each of your courses. Your instructor will grade your assignments and answer any of your questions. Additionally, you can visit the CFC to have CFC staff, who are also instructors, assist you.

Financial Aid

Financial aid may be available for qualifying students. You may be eligible for financial aid to help you your college costs. Because the aid application process takes several weeks, you should apply as early as possible. Additionally, there are certain enrollment dates and class participation guidelines that must be met in order to receive financial aid. Forms and information are available in the Financial Aid Office in Menard Hall, or by calling 217.786.2237.

For more information on Microsoft^® Office Specialist certification, please visit www.certiport.com.

For additional information on the CAS applications courses please contact Mrs. Christie Hovey at christie.hovey@llcc.edu (office phone 217.786.4943). You may also visit her Web site at www.llcc.edu/chovey to see past syllabi.

LLCC and the computer application instructors do not guarantee your success in passing the MOS exams. Rather, LLCC and the computer application instructors provide learning opportunities using instructional materials approved by Microsoft^® and Certiport for the MOS exams.