Requirements to Become...
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What are the Requirements to Become a Secretary?

As a secretary, you help keep offices running smoothly by managing communication and information, scheduling meetings and appointments, maintaining files, managing projects, conducting research, disseminating information, and training new staff members. Secretaries work in all kinds of settings, from schools to government agencies, and most enjoy a typical 40-hour work week. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects secretarial work to offer many new jobs in the coming years, so if you're an organized self-starter with excellent communication skills looking for steady employment, you may want to consider becoming a secretary.

Requirements to Become a Secretary

The BLS observes that the traditional skills of writing, word processing, and communication still make up the basic requirements to become a secretary, despite the evolving role of the position. However, aspiring secretaries also want to make sure they meet the more concrete qualifications demanded of them, such as:

1. Formal education. Options include:
  • A college degree, preferably related to the industry in which the candidate is seeking employment
  • High school vocational programs that teach basic office skills
  • One to two year programs offered by businesses, technical schools, and community colleges
  • Specialized training programs geared towards medical and legal secretaries
2. Extensive software knowledge, such as desktop publishing, project management, spreadsheets, and database management.

3. Certification. Testing and certification for proficiency in office skills are available through several organizations. Prestigious designations include the Certified Professional Secretary (CPS), and the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP). While elective, certification can open up increased employment and advancement opportunities.




The following colleges offer programs that can help you become qualified for a Secretary career:
  Virginia College

Ready to earn a well-respected degree? Need a flexible schedule? Virginia College can help. Become an office superstar with our business program. Or make a difference in your community by earning a paralegal or Criminal Justice degree. Can't get enough of your computer? Try our programs in Information Systems or Cybersecurity. No matter what program you choose, you'll get the top-quality education you deserve with an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College.

  Fortis Institute

At Fortis Institute, we provide students with the skills and training they need to prepare for a variety of in-demand career fields, including Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Dental Assistant, and Medical Business & Clinical Specialist. We offer qualified instructors, personalized attention, career services for our graduates, and much more. Programs vary by location. Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information.

  Northwestern College

Prepare for a lifetime of opportunities at Northwestern College. Founded in 1902, Northwestern College is a family-owned business dedicated to helping career-oriented students just like you succeed in business and in life. We offer day, evening and weekend classes for the flexibility you need to balance work, school, family and other obligations. Small class sizes ensure that you'll receive plenty of personalized attention from our dedicated faculty.

  Kaplan College - KHE

Looking to gain a competitive edge in your career? Kaplan College offers a learning experience that is anything but typical. Our faculty and staff are not just academics—they're seasoned professionals who can give you the real-world knowledge you need to succeed. And we offer a flexible and accelerated schedule designed to meet the needs of your busy life. Our programs are designed to prepare you for success in any of a variety of fields, including Criminal Justice, Health Care, Business, Education, Information Technology, Legal Studies, or Fashion and Design.

  CDI College

For over 40 years, students have trained for new careers at CDI College! With premier programs in business, technology and health care, your CDI training will provide a solid foundation in skills that will help you launch a meaningful career. You will build an impressive skill set in your area of study, plus gain the interpersonal expertise that will help make you successful.

  Florida Technical College

Florida Technical College realizes that a successful education requires a lot more than just reading books and taking tests - especially in today's highly competitive job market. That's why they’ve structured their Health Care, Technology, and Programming curricula to achieve one thing for their students: success in the real world. Students benefit from personal attention from experienced instructors and hands-on training in fully equipped lab classrooms.



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