FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 19, 2006

CONTACT: Lance Noe, (515) 271-2592, lance.noe@drake.edu
Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119, lisa.lacher@drake.edu

SHARPEN PC SKILLS WITH NEW PROGRAMS AT DRAKE UNIVERSITY

Dive into the point-and-click generation with a new series of courses at Drake University.

For people with limited to moderate computer skills, Drake's Center for Professional Studies now offers three programs designed to enhance understanding of personal computer software applications used in today's office environment. There’s the Certificate in Business Technology I, Certificate in Business Technology II and a full-day workshop in Excel Proficiency.

These innovative programs provide an excellent understanding of cutting-edge personal computer software applications. Marcia Laugerman, an experienced faculty member in Drake’s Department of Information Systems and Statistics, developed these programs to offer the most efficient and cost-effective way to master critical skills.

Michelle D. Parks, officer manager at Parks Cosmetic Surgery in West Des Moines, recently completed the Certificate in Business Technology I and II. “The program at Drake enhanced my computer skills tremendously,” she said. “I now complete routine and advanced computer tasks more efficiently and with greater professionalism.”

The Certificate in Business Technology I begins Friday, Feb. 3. It will focus on Windows programs, managing documents and e-mail, mastering Word and PowerPoint and include an introduction to Excel. One class will meet Friday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m. Another session will meet Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon, beginning Feb. 4. The cost is $299, which is less than $20 per hour.

The Certificate in Business Technology II will emphasize mastering Excel, database management with Access and web-authoring with FrontPage along with strategic problem-solving. Students also will delve into research, security and e-commerce on the Internet. The class will meet from 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday afternoons beginning March 31. The cost is $299. Those who sign up for Business Technology I and II will receive a discounted total price of $499, a savings of $99.

Excel Proficiency is a five-hour course designed for those who want to master Excel. The class will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18. The cost is $75.

All classes will be held in Drake computer labs, which mirror computer systems in most professional and academic environments.
For more information and registration, call (515) 271-2592.

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