Business students are required to demonstrate competency in foundational technical skills they will need to be successful in future business classes and in the business world. These skills include MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel. There are three options for students to demonstrate their skill level. Two options include passing assessments that earn Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications. The MOS certification provides a professional credential recognized around the world and demonstrates computing proficiency essential in the workplace. Consider carefully which option is best for you.

Option 1: Bethel Credits: Successfully complete BUS106 Introduction to Business Applications – 1 credit

A basic understanding of business applications software. Students gain a working knowledge of word processing, presentation software, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and Internet Research. BUS 106 embeds assessments demonstrating competency in MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel. Students who successfully complete this course will have passed a MOS certification which can be added to a student’s resume. Codes to access these three MOS exams are purchased through the Campus bookstore.

Option 2: Non-Bethel Credits

Transfer credits from another university may apply toward meeting the requirement. Students who pursue this option are encouraged to petition the course through the Registrar’s office in advance of taking the class to ensure it will fulfill our requirement. For further questions on what will transfer for the technology requirements, please contact the Transfer Specialist in the Registrar’s office.

Option 3: Test-out through successfully passing the following MOS exams – Zero Credit

We realize that some students may already possess strong skills in MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Excel. If that is the case, you can sign up and take the following three 50-minute assessments to demonstrate your skills:

• MOS: Microsoft Office Word 2019 Core - Exam MO-100
• MOS: Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2019 - Exam MO-200
• MOS: Microsoft Office Excel 2019 Core - Exam MO-300

Successful completion of the testing option requires 1) completing all 3 exams 2) passing the MS Excel exam and 3) passing either the MS Word OR the MS PowerPoint exam. Be aware that the exams are very challenging. If you don’t have an expert understanding of these applications it is unlikely that you will be able to pass the exams. Even with an expert understanding it is advised that you complete the study resources below. These exams may be taken through an external testing location, or may be taken at Bethel. No credits are given for passing the exams.

More information regarding this option can be found on the MOS Certification page.