Students

Today's educational institutions must help students develop 21st-century business computing skills in addition to critical-thinking abilities. No matter where your students are in their educational careers, most will use those skills while in school and as members of the workfoce. Microsoft Office Specialist certification provides proof of desktop skills and is a professional credential recognized around the world.

Students who achieve Microsoft Office Specialist certificatin by passing a performance-based exam earn a certificate, potential college credit via the American Council on Education (ACE) College Credit Recommendation Service, and the confidence that will set them apart in a competitive job market.

Teachers

An important Microsoft objective is to provide educators with comprehensive solutions that support their educational goals. Microsoft Office Specialist certification fulfills this objective by helping teachers and students achieve a common level of desktop computing skill. Shared skill levels enable teachers to use Midcrosoft Office programs to structure curricula and teaching methods that increase learning inside and outside of the classroom.

Certified teachers can also save valuable time by assigning, collecting and grading student work using Microsoft Office programs. By encouraging students to achieve certification, teachers can help them stay engaged in and connected with their coursework, gain confidence, and realize their potential.

Your Institution

Educational institutions that offer Microsoft Office Specialist certification position themselves as leaders in the use of technology and in workforce development. Such leadership can incrase credibility with students, teachers and parents, as well as with businesses and other organizations looking to hire graduates who are prepared for the 21st-century workplace.

Microsoft Office Specialist certification exams use Microsoft Office programs to deliver an authentic, performance-based evaluation of Microsoft Office skills. In addition, offering certification testing wihtin your organization is convenient and can help your institution potnetially qualify for funding under the No Child Left Behind Act.

The Business World

Today, Microsoft Office is the most widely used business productivity program in the world. However, the average user masters only a portion of the software's functionality. More and more, businesses are encouraging employees and job candidates to become certified. Companies doing so report improved employee competence and productivity, as well as increased credibility with coworkers, clients and customers.

Microsoft Office certification exams directly measure Microsoft Office skills and, equally important, the ability toa pply those skills on the job. This ssessment provides a qualitative basis for employment-related decision making, including employee screening and selection.