Students are gaining credentials before they even graduate through the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification competitions.
Last semester, students Yonatan Pena Orellana and Andrew Tran each earned a top-three statewide ranking in the MOS PowerPoint certification competition, demonstrating exceptional technical skills and highlighting the strength of QCC's commitment to career-ready learning.
Why it matters
- Students are gaining independently verified industry-recognized credentials.
- Credentials demonstrate workplace readiness.
- Students can list the credentials on resumes, LinkedIn, and college or scholarship applications.
"Students are at the center of everything we do," said Professor of Computer Information Systems Gargi Chug. "These certifications help them succeed academically, prepare them for careers, and give them confidence in the skills they've developed."
How it works
Students who demonstrate strong performance in CIS 111 are invited by faculty to take part in the certification program and receive access to advanced preparation materials. The exams and preparation resources are free for students thanks to Perkins funding and support from the course publisher. QCC's involvement in the MOS certifications was developed by Chug, Professor of Computer Information Systems Charulata Trivedi, and Adjunct Instructor of Computer Information Systems Robert Knox
The exam
- Exams are offered in Word, Advanced Word, Excel, Advanced Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
- Students complete project-based tasks involving authentic workplace scenarios.
- Rankings are determined not only by exam scores but also by how quickly students complete the assessment.
- Students from across Massachusetts compete for statewide recognition.