Office Technology - Accounting Emphasis

This program offers the student a solid foundation in the general knowledge, practices, and procedures required to work effectively in the accounting field. The courses in the accounting component provide a foundation in all phases of basic accounting and prepare the student for later study of more advanced accounting topics. In addition to certifications in Microsoft, Intuit QuickBooks certification is also included in the technical major component. The general education component is designed to enhance the student's knowledge and awareness of significant issues in the workplace and in the student's personal development. The career objective for this program is to give the graduates the general knowledge and specific skills needed to obtain entry-level employment in the accounting departments of businesses and governmental entities.

Objectives include providing students with the accounting skills required for entry-level positions as account clerks and related occupations in business, industry, and government; developing an awareness and understanding of the various accounting and automated accounting applications used in business; and providing the skills to use the most popular word processors, databases, and integrated spreadsheets used in today's automated office. O*NET target occupations include Accounting Clerk, Bookkeeping Clerk, Auditing Clerk, Payroll Clerk, and Statement Clerk.

Getting started at ICT is easy and stress-free. The application process for all programs begins with a personal visit with an Admissions Representative at the campus under consideration, who will guide you through the entire process, from program selection and scheduling classes to tuition and financial assistance. The interview also includes a tour of the campus and, if appropriate, a sample lesson.

Associate of Science Degree — Office Technology. Offered at the Main Campus (Chamblee), and Affiliate Campuses in Gainesville, Morrow, and Newport.

The institution maintains a Financial Planning Department to assist students in obtaining the financial assistance they require for their educational expenses. Available resources include federal aid, part-time employment (administered through the Employment Assistance Office) and student loans from private lenders. Federal assistance programs are administered through the Office of Student Financial Assistance, U.S. Department of Education. Any U.S. citizen, national or person in the United States for other than temporary reasons who is enrolled or accepted for enrollment (on at least half-time basis) may apply for the programs.

Grants

The Federal PELL Grant is an important source of gift aid for students who demonstrate financial need. Each year the institution also makes a limited number of awards through the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG) program, targeted for those students who qualify based upon financial need. The Federal College Work Study Program (CWSP) provides employment for students who demonstrate financial need and who must earn a part of their educational expenses.

Institutional Payment Plans

It is the goal of the institution that every needy and academically qualified student be able to seek the training necessary to obtain a skilled job. While each student's financial condition and resources may vary, the Financial Planning Department, within certain guidelines and policies, will arrange an affordable financial plan for each applicant. Plans are available for all students.

Student Loans

The institution, as a matter of practice, will discourage the student assuming unnecessary debt and encourage the student to "pay as you go" if possible. There are generally three types of Federal Loans available at this institution: the PLUS Loan (Parent Loan for undergraduate students), the Subsidized Federal Direct Loan (available to dependent and independent students with a limit of $3,500 for the first academic year and $4,500 for the second academic year), and the Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan. This institution also has sources for alternative loans for students who are not qualified for federal loans; these loans have a slightly higher interest rate (currently 9%) and require payments at the time the student begins his/her studies.

Veterans Benefits

The institution is pleased to work with eligible veterans who wish to attend the College under the various programs available for educational assistance. During the admission process, the admissions department will assist the veteran in obtaining proof of eligibility, which is required for admission to any eligible program of study.

Total program tuition is $34,560 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

The most important objective of the Employment Assistance Department is to assist each graduate to obtain employment in his/her area of specialization. Satisfactory completion of coursework, including Career Development (LAS050) and fulfillment of all other obligations to the institution, is required in order to receive the assistance of this office.

The Employment Assistance Department provides specific training in various job-seeking techniques, including self-placement. The Employment Assistance Coordinator works with each eligible student prior to graduation to determine areas of employment interest and to explore employment options. Students are then informed as options become available. Continuous employment and re-employment assistance is provided to all eligible graduates. Although it is impossible to guarantee each student a job or a specific wage rate, the Employment Assistance Department works diligently to provide appropriate leads and arrange specific interviews. Records indicate that graduates of Interactive College of Technology and Interactive Learning Systems are well received in the business community.

The instructional staff works very closely with the Employment Assistance Department's staff in helping students to realize and meet the requirements of employers in business and industry. Through the joint efforts of the Employment Assistance Department and the instructional staff, students are made aware of their skill levels as compared to those desired by employers, and are advised and guided by the staff to attain the skill levels required to obtain employment.

Within the Office Technology program and all computer and business application courses, Interactive College of Technology principally utilizes an individualized computer-based educational system commonly referred to as COMPETENCY-BASED EDUCATION — a system that takes the beginning-level student and increases the skill competency each day. Through individualized instruction, each course can be delivered in a manner that meets the individual needs of each student. The low student/instructor ratio enables the instructor to be constantly available to assist each student. Instead of the traditional lectures, the student is provided information through the computer with customized educational courseware.

The technical divisions of Information Technology (taught at the main campus in Chamblee), and Heating and Air Conditioning Technology emphasize hands-on education. Low student-teacher ratios and functioning laboratories enable the student to learn by doing whenever possible and practical. The institution also includes an externship requirement in all its vocational programs of study, placing the student in a real-life environment in which the skills acquired in the program of study can be put to practical use.

Key advantages of the computer-based instructional classes include: the student learns at a rate unique to the individual — not at the pace of a structured class; absences do not cause a student to miss important material; the competency-based learning approach ensures a well-trained and qualified graduate with no learning gaps; the student has unlimited laboratory access during projected time of enrollment; low student/instructor ratio; and lifetime refresher and technology upgrade privileges.

In all program areas where there is a national certification, the passing of the certification is required to successfully pass the course. This high academic standard validates the graduate's skills and competencies. The campuses are non-residential; however, the staff assists students whenever possible in arranging suitable housing. All new students are required to attend a comprehensive orientation program, and formal commencement exercises are held once each year.