The two new continuing education programs can easily be expanded to fit neatly into associate degree programs, Rogers adds.

The Business Computer Operator program is being offered for the first time and in such a way, by attending special weekend sections of the courses, can be completed in the five month January to June, 2004, time frame. "However," Rogers quickly adds, "They can also complete the program in one semester by taking the regularly scheduled courses."

Preparing students to complete computer tasks using the Microsoft Office for Windows XP suite of programs, the program of study uses Microsoft Word 2002, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Microsoft PowerPoint 2002, Microsoft Excel 2002, Microsoft Access 2002 and Microsoft Publisher 2002, to complete common office tasks.

As a program for business computer operators, the group of courses are designed to prepare students for employment at a minimum cost.

The Medical Transcriptionists program has been successfully offered in the fall of 2003 and will be offered in the spring semester which begins Jan. 20.

Aimed at preparing students for employment in the health care services support field, the courses have been designed to hold the cost to the student to a minimum. This course of study, a 13 hour certificate program, can also be expanded to "fit nicely into a Professional Office Systems Technology associate degree program." Rogers concludes.

Students who complete the Medical Transcriptionists program earn credit hours that also apply to the Medical Assisting certificate program which puts more emphasis on basic medical procedures performed in the medical office and the Medical Insurance Billing and Coding certificate program which emphasizes the functions of diagnosing patient information and applying codes necessary for reimbursement for services rendered and patient billing.

Information on any of these or other programs offered at the Greenbrier Valley Campus can be obtained by telephoning 304-647-6560 or writing or visiting GVCNRCTC at 101 Church Street, Lewisburg, 24901. Rogers can be reached in her second floor office in Greenbrier Hall by telephoning 304-647-6579.

November 6, 2003

Submitted by Mike Williams