Program Options
- Certificate of Achievement
Program Information
Retail is one of the fastest growing, most dynamic parts of the world economy. Careers in retail are people/service oriented, fast-paced, and entrepreneurial. This certificate program was designed to fill the training needs of the retail industry and to provide a course of study that will enable students to prepare themselves for careers that will improve their financial status and enhance their opportunities for professional growth. The program was developed in collaboration with industry professionals, including the WAFC, (Western Association of Food Chains).
Career Paths
The options in retail management are many, including store management, buying, merchandising, and central management.
- Management Trainee
- Department Manager
- Store Manager
- Regional Manager
- Buyer
- Sales
Business Department Chairperson
Jim Henderson
408.741.4609
email: jim_henderson@westvalley.edu
Certificate Requirements
2007-2008 Academic Year
Acctg 010
Accounting Fundamentals Financial
5 Units
Recommended Preparation: Math 902
Financial accounting includes basic accounting theory and procedure for a sole ownership, financial statements, payroll and applicable taxes, inventory methods, depreciation, bank reconciliations, petty cash, and other financial topics. Computer application of these topics is also covered.
Bus 033
Functions of Management
3 Units
This course is an overview of the functions of management with a focus on planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling the operation successfully.
Bus. 034
Human Resource Management
3 Units
This course covers employee recruitment and selection, training, performance appraisals, governmental regulations, compensation and benefits.
Bus 035
Retail Management
3 Units
This course is an in-depth study of the various kinds of retail firms and competitive environment in which they operate. Studies will cover consumer behavior, product analysis, store layout, budgeting, and the evaluation of store operations.
Bus 056
Marketing Principles
3 Units
This course is a survey of marketing concepts which include activities involved in the transfer of goods and services from the producer to the customer. Internet research assignments are required in this course.
Bus 062
Business Math
3 Units
This course is a review of basic math principles used in accounting, banking, and insurance. Computer assignments will provide students with useful business programs to solve application problems.
Bus 066
Human Relations in Business
3 Units
This course surveys human relations behavior within a business setting with emphasis on the development of personal relationships, resolving conflicts, building rapport and maintaining excellent customer, client, and peer relationships.
Bus 078
Business Communication
3 Units
This course explores techniques used to improve communication ability in the business world. It covers oral communication and techniques of business writing style with emphasis on composition of letters, memoranda, resumes, and reports.
CA 010D
Computer Keyboarding and Document Formatting
3 Units
Students will learn to type using a computer keyboard and/or improve their current keyboarding skill and accuracy. Using Microsoft Word, students will prepare documents such as business letters,memoranda, tables, and reports.
CA 030
Microsoft Office: What You Really Need to Know
3 Units
This course is designed for both business users, graduate students and the home user who wants to know the top ten skills needed to be successful with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Total Number of Units 29-30
Office Internship (Optional)
NOTE: A grade of "C" or better must be earned for all required courses in certificate programs.
Other Business Career Offerings
Questions about Career Programs? Call 408.741.2098
email: cathy_aimonetti@westvalley.edu
or stop by the Career Programs Center, AAS 35
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