College of Technology

Department of Business Technology

Vicki Micheletto, Chair

The Business Technology Department of The University of Montana-Missoula College of Technology collaborates with business and industry to prepare graduates to compete in and contribute to a dynamic global society. The department attracts and retains skilled faculty with the professional experience and theoretical background to utilize diverse instruction which reflects current and emerging business practices. Faculty actively engage student in the learning process by integrating experiential technical education and empowering students to adapt to an ever-changing world.

Students may choose from six Associate of Applied Science degree programs and four certificate programs. Degree programs include Accounting Technology with an option in Computer Support; Administrative Management; Food Service Management; Medical Information Technology with options in Health Information Coding Specialty, Medical Administrative Assisting and Medical Transcription; Legal Support Services; Paralegal Studies; and Management with options in Entrepreneurship, and Sales and Marketing. Certificate programs include Culinary Arts, Customer Relations, Medical Reception, and Sales and Marketing.

Special Degree and Certificate Requirements

General education requirements are integrated into the following programs. Refer to the Academic Policies and Procedures section of this catalog for the specific requirements.

Accounting Technology-A.A.S. Degree

Students in the Accounting Technology program are trained to be accounting technicians and to occupy positions such as staff accountants and paraprofessionals. These technicians maintain the financial records of entities in the areas of manufacturing, service, merchandising, government, and nonprofit. Program graduates use technology to gather, compile, and analyze data; decide which software applications to accomplish various business tasks; apply accounting principles to aid in making business decisions; and communicate budgetary and accounting information to nonfinancial colleagues and managers.

Students who enter in the autumn semester complete the program in four semesters for the Associate of Applied Science degree. Students who enter in the spring semester complete the program in five semesters.

Autumn Entry:

Computer Support Option

This option provides students with a technical background in computer hardware, operating systems, Internet technologies, networking/telecommunications, and application software. In addition to accounting technician training, students selecting this option will be prepared to manage and maintain local area networks and install, maintain and troubleshoot software. They will be trained to configure PC hardware as well as utilize and secure various operating systems.

Autumn Entry:

Human Resources Option

In addition to accounting technician training, students selecting this option will be prepared to aid management in complying with federal and state employment laws, maintaining personnel records, and assisting with pension and other benefit plan administration.

Administrative Management-A.A.S. Degree

The Administrative Management Program allows students to advance the career proficiencies acquired in the Customer Relations certificate program by earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree. The Administrative Management program prepares graduates to meet the administrative and information needs of business and industry. Students gain proficiency in computer, management, and information technologies. They complete an academic component to gain an understanding of professional responsibilities in our global society. Graduates of this program become vital members of executive teams with the ability to assume supervisory, organizational, and communication roles in the coordination of administrative services. An Associate of Applied Science Degree in Administrative Management opens opportunities for graduates in a variety of business settings.

Students may enter autumn semester.

Autumn Entry:

Customer Relations-Certificate

The Customer Relations program provides students with the skills to promote excellent customer relations in business settings. Courses related to the service industry, service-level decisions, formulation of service policies, customer service management, and staff development are included. Students gain knowledge of customer care, effective communication, and the importance of public relations to promote a positive company image. Students develop an understanding of challenges and conflicts while servicing both internal and external customers. Emphasis in business, computers, and psychology provide a solid background for customer relations positions in the current business environment.

A Certificate of Completion is awarded for successful completion of the program. Students may enter autumn semester

Autumn Entry:

Students in Administrative Management may select options in Human Resources or Office Administration as well as having all skills acquired in the Customer Relations program.

Questions concerning these two options may be directed to Vicki Micheletto, Chair, Department of Business Technology.

Human Resources Option

Students selecting the Human Resources option will gain knowledge of employee recruiting, screening, interviewing, and orientation responsibilities. In addition, students become knowledgeable regarding personnel files, employee benefits, and other statutory and regulatory requirements placed on employers relating to personnel.

Office Administration Option

Students in Office Administration are trained to plan, organize, and oversee office tasks in addition to having all skills acquired in the office reception program. Employee supervision, training, and evaluation are included in the course of study.

Culinary Arts-Certificate

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates the hospitality field is America's number one retail employer and predicts its growth will increase 30 percent over the next two years. Students entering the Culinary Arts Certificate program or Food Service Management degree program prepare for careers in the hospitality industry. Students develop skills to seek employment in hotels, restaurants, resorts, casinos, clubs, catering, and corporate dining. Culinary careers encompass hospitality management, sales, product development, or entrepreneurship. To meet the growing demand of the hospitality industry, two program options are available. Students may earn a Culinary Arts Certificate of Completion or a Food Service Management Associate of Applied Science degree.

The Culinary Arts program is two semesters and provides an introduction to the field of culinary arts. Students prepare for an entry-level position in the expanding and challenging food service industry. This program incorporates comprehensive hands-on learning experiences complemented by supportive courses designed to prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities. This program allows a seamless transition into the Food Service Management degree.

Students are awarded a Certificate of Completion after successfully completing the program.

Students may enter the Culinary Arts certificate program autumn semester and early application is encouraged.

Autumn Entry:

Food Service Management-A.A.S. Degree

The Food Service Management program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science Degree. This program combines theory, practical training, and industry experience to prepare students for entry-level and management positions in the diverse and dynamic hospitality industry. The degree program is designed to continue principles taught in the culinary arts certificate program. The spectrum of learning is expanded to include more in-depth professional studies thereby enhancing employment options. Accreditation by the American Culinary Federation ensures graduates = eligibility for certification as an ACF "Certified Culinarian".

Technical subject areas include introduction to the industry, basic baking, patisserie, cost control, dining room service, garde manger, nutritional cooking, fundamental cooking principles, short order cookery, a la carte stations, menu planning, supervised internship, and the recognized sanitation certificate awarded by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.

The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded upon successful completion of the program.

Students may enter the Food Service Management program autumn semester and early application is encouraged.

Autumn Entry :

Legal Support Services-A.A.S. Degree

Students selecting this program gain the specialized skills and knowledge to work as administrative assistants in law firms, governmental agencies, and law-related businesses. Courses in oral and written communications, legal process and transcription, computer applications, and office technology help students develop a professional approach to the office environment. Students become knowledgeable of employers = practices and the need for teamwork, appropriate attitudes, and ethical standards which lead to career success.

Questions concerning this program may be directed to Vicki Micheletto, Chair, Department of Business Technology.

Management-A.A.S. Degree

The Management program provides graduates with the skills required to own and operate their own businesses or become sales representatives and managers of retail organizations.­

Entrepreneurship Option

Students selecting the Entrepreneurship option will focus on venture initiation, constructing business plans, generating financing, and beginning operations. Areas of study focus on the critical factors involved in accounting, sales strategy, advertising and marketing issues complemented with supervisory skills. Students gain knowledge of basic disciplines of business through both classroom and hands-on training. Computer technology and web development are added components to assist students to compete in today's changing business climate. Applications of the elements learned are included where practical. Successful graduates will depart with a comprehensive business plan and presentation skills required to approach financiers.

Sales and Marketing Option

Students selecting the Sales and Marketing option combine the technical sales and promotional related courses as a foundation for seeking middle to advanced positions in the sales and marketing field. Students will be required to complete sales presentations using appropriate techniques applying consultative and negotiation selling skills. Students will study and demonstrate effective sales techniques, plan and implement effective visual displays and presentations, and develop strong record keeping skills and management of accounts. Additional emphasis in computer skills, accounting, and technical writing provide students the needed edge for this competitive career.

An Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded to students successfully completing the program. Students may enter in the autumn or spring semester.

Autumn Entry:

Sales and Marketing-Certificate

Students in the Sales and Marketing program are trained in sales and supportive tasks relating to retail or wholesale organizations. They study the application of the latest counselor selling techniques to assist clients in meeting needs. The curriculum also involves marketing activities, bookkeeping functions, and merchandising skills.

Students are awarded a Certificate of Completion after successfully completing the program.

The Sales and Marketing program satisfies the requirements for the first year of the Management degree, Sales and Marketing option. Students may enter in the autumn or spring semester.

Autumn Entry:

Spring Entry:

Medical Information Technology-A.A.S. Degree

The Medical Information Technology program provides three options for students with the flexibility of choosing a career in health information coding specialty, medical administrative assisting or medical transcription. The course of study includes general as well as administrative duties of a medical facility. These duties involve scheduling appointments, interacting with patients, submitting patient insurance claims using current coding procedures, and maintaining medical and financial records. Additionally, students are exposed to the principles of medical ethics and medical legal issues facing health providers. All Students in the Medical Information Technology degree options acquire work-related skills through internship experiences. Students successfully completing this program are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree. Students may enter autumn or spring semester.

Health Information Coding Specialty Option

Students are trained to analyze health records and to accurately abstract and code procedures and diagnoses utilizing legal and regulatory standards. An understanding of anatomy, medical terminology and disease processes will provide students with the necessary tools to determine correct codes and sequences.

Upon completion of this program, students are eligible to sit for national certification examinations offered through American Health Information management Association.

Autumn Year:

Medical Administrative Assisting Option

Medical administrative assistants are trained to effectively greet patients, supervise office personnel, schedule appointments, post charges and payments, submit insurance claims using current coding procedures, maintain patient records, calculate payroll, create and update the office procedures manual, assist in improving work flow and office efficiencies, and transcribe letters and patient chart notes.

Students successfully completing the program are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree. Students may enter either autumn or spring semester.

Autumn Entry:

Spring Entry:

Medical Transcription Option

Medical transcriptionists are trained to work in a variety of settings utilizing an understanding of medical terminology along with administrative and transcription skills. Preparation includes transcription of medical charts, reports and correspondence as well as administrative office duties for maintaining patient records and complying with legal policies and HIPAA guidelines.

Students successfully completing the program are awarded the Associate of Applied Science degree. Students may enter either autumn or spring semester.

Autumn Entry

Spring Entry:

Medical Reception-Certificate

The Medical Reception curriculum provides students with the skills needed to provide exceptional service to patients in a medical setting. In this role the essential duties performed include scheduling appointments, screening telephone calls, obtaining and entering patient registration information, releasing appropriate medical information, maintaining medical records and managing patient flow. Medical Reception students are instructed in the financial transactions of a practice and will have a clear understanding of all the activities in the billing and collection cycle. Students are provided a broad overview of medical law and the principles of medical ethics as well as the guidelines established by HIPAA.

This training also prepares students for the position of a hospital ward secretary.

Students successfully completing the program are awarded a Certificate of Completion.

Autumn Entry:

Spring Entry:

Paralegal Studies A.A.S. Degree

This program is approved by the American Bar Association.

The Paralegal Studies program prepares students for challenging and diverse careers in private law practices and in the law-related areas of business, industry, and government. The goals of the Paralegal Studies program are to enable students, through theoretical and practical legal education, to understand the function of law, to work as paralegals in the effective delivery of legal services, and to contribute to the legal profession. This program is designed to equip students with skills to analyze legal issues and to perform a variety of activities including drafting legal documents, interviewing clients, conducting legal research, and preparing cases for trial. Students utilize current technology through Internet research and legal and general office software applications. Paralegal studies students receive the necessary legal training to take advantage of new career opportunities in all sectors of the economy. Students are exposed to the principles of legal ethics and are cautioned regarding restrictions against the unauthorized practice of law by laypersons.

The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded upon successful completion of the program. Students may enter the Paralegal Studies program autumn semester and early application is encouraged. Students will attend classes on both the Mountain and East campuses.

Autumn Entry:

Courses

U = for undergraduate credit only. R after the cred­it indicates the course may be repeated for credit to the max­imum indicated after the R. Credits beyond this maximum do not count toward a degree.

Accounting Technology (ACC)

U 131T Essentials of Accounting 4 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Introduction to basic double-entry accounting. Emphasis on analyzing, journalizing, and posting transactions; trial balance, worksheet, financial statements, and adjusting/closing procedures, cash control and completing the accounting cycle.

U 132T Accounting I 4 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Basic double‑entry accounting. Emphasis on analyzing, journalizing, and posting transactions; trial balance, worksheet, financial statements, and adjust­ing/closing procedures, accounting systems, and cash control.

U 133T Accounting II 4 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., ACC 132T with competency test score of 75% or better. Expansion of ACC 132T including receivables, inventories, plant and intangible assets, and expanded liabilities. Includes partnerships, corporations, long‑term liabilities, investments in debt and equity securities, and the statement of cash flow.

U 134T Payroll Topics 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., ACC 132T with competency test score of 75% or greater. Comprehensive payroll course including computation/preparation of paychecks, completing deposits and payroll tax returns, informational returns and issues relating to identification and compensation of independent contractors. Includes state and federal payroll law. Introduction to Monta­na's Department of Labor and Industry, Unemployment Insurance Division, an State Compensation Insurance Fund.

U 195T Special Topics Variable cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 230T Computerized Accounting Systems 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CRT 101 or CRT 103T, ACC 131T or 132T with competency test score of 75% or better. With previous knowledge and skill related to double-entry accounting, payroll taxes and manual preparation of financial reports, students use a common accounting software package to accomplish similar tasks electronically.

U 232T Nonprofit Accounting 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., ACC 132T-133T or ACCT 201, or consent of instr. Continuation of accounting series with a focus on managerial accounting topics. These topics include cost classification, variable and absorption costing, job order costing and standard costing. JIT, total quality management, quality costs and activity-based costing included.

U 234T Managerial Accounting 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., ACC 132T, 133T or ACCT 201 or consent of instr. Continuation of accounting series with a focus on managerial accounting topics. Includes cost classification, variable and absorption costing, job order costing and standard costing. JIT, total quality management, quality costs and activity-based costing also will be addressed. Credit not allowed for both ACC 234T and ACCT 202.

U 236T Income Tax 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., ACC 134T with a “C” grade or better. An introduction to taxation concepts, principles and theory. Extensive tax return preparation emphasizing sole proprietorships and individuals.

U 237T Strategies for Business Entities 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., ACC 132T or consent of instr. Legal, accounting, and tax strategies relating to corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, LLCs and LLPs. Includes tax preparation projects.

U 250T Accounting Capstone 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., ACC 234T, 236T, 237T, or equivs. and consent of instr. Capstone class integrating accounting software, income and payroll tax preparation, financial statement preparation, ratio analysis, financial report writing and presentation.

U 290T Accounting Internship 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., last semester in program, minimum grade of “C” in all ACC courses, and approval of program director. On‑the‑j­ob training in positions related to the accounting field. This experience in­creases students' ski­lls, prepares them for initial employment, and increases occupational awareness and professionalism. Students work a minimum of six hours each week at an approved site and attend scheduled one‑hour seminars.

U 295T Special Topics Variable cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Business (BUS)

U 103S Principles of Business 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Introduction to the world of business. Examines capitalism, the economic environment, the types of business organizations, management, marketing, production, labor, financing, and business/governmental relations. Credit not allowed for both BUS 103S and BADM 100S.

U 106T Records and Information Management 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Introduction to alphabetic filing techniques and electronic database records management. Current technical developments utilizing automated records systems, biometric access control devices, electronic file organization, ergonomics, the Internet, image technology, and integrated security systems.

U 109T Visual Merchandising and Display 3 cr. Offered spring. Introduction to various techniques used by retailers in the merchandising and displaying of goods. Analysis of different approaches and methods for effectiveness in actual retail settings. In­cludes display principles of balance, color, and focal point statements.

U 112T Professional Sales 2 cr. Offered autumn. Includes the steps in opening, presenting, demonstrating, handling objections, and closing the sale. Students gain expertise through role‑playing activities and written presentations.

U 113T Psychology of Selling 3 cr. Offered spring. Development of selling techniques which are used by many of the world's best companies and explanation of why they work. Includes the psychological reasons that prevent a prospect from purchasing a product or service and the techniques to motivate a prospect to buy.

U 120T Transcription and Text Editing 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., COM 115, CRT 108. Techniques of accurate and rapid transcription from taped material. Computers are used as input devices. Includes making formatting and printing decisions with various types of business correspondence. Increases competency in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

U 125T Principles of Marketing 3 cr. Offered autumn. An overview of marketing activities including the consumer buying decision process, distribution channels, the planning process, and new marketing trends. Students learn how to introduce a new product into the marketplace, target mar­kets, and promote products through advertising and package design.

U 135T Business Law 3 cr. Offered spring. An over­view of law as it applies to business transactions­. Topics include the nature and source of law; courts and procedure; contracts, sales, and employ­ment; commercial paper; bailments; prop­erty; business organizations; insurance; wills and estate planning; con­sumer and creditor protection; torts; criminal law; and agency law. Credit not allowed for both BUS 135T and BADM 257.

U 140T Customer Service 4 cr. Offered spring. Designed to prepare employees and managers to meet customers’ expectations. Review of customer service philosophy and techniques. Services marketing, quality issues, service design and delivery, customer interaction systems, complaint handling and service recovery, customer relationships, loyalty management, and operations are addressed.

U 195T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study Variable cr. (R-9) Offered intermittently.

U 224T Advertising and Promotion 3 cr. Offered spring. Exposure to the history and fundamentals of advertising; in‑dep­th exploration of advertising media, budget pla­ns, ad campaign designs, and in‑house promotion designs; and the production of actual radio, television, and print advertising.

U 240T Administrative Support for the Automated Office 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., CRT 108. Overview of the procedures and scope of the administrative assistant’s role in today’s automated office, including traditional and electronic communications, operation of multi-media equipment, and managing office technology.

U 242T Supervision 3 cr. Offered spring. The supervisor's role in management, organizing, staffing, and training of personnel as well as managing problem perfor­mance. Includes motivating employees, improving departmental productivity as well as the legal concerns of supervision.

U 243T Psychology of Management and Supervision 4 cr. Offered autumn. Management theory, research, and the practice of man­agement. Topics covered include leadership styles and techniques, effective communication approaches, time management, decision making, delegation, and the basic functions of supervisory skills.

U 246T Merchandise Planning and Control 3 cr. Offered spring. Emphasis is on a struc­tured inventory control system that will allow for more accurate sales forecasting, improved loss prevention, and more effective store mer­chandising. Includes effective systems for the buying process and purchasing negotiations and procedures.

U 250T Entrepreneurship 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., CRT 101. An overview of the skill areas and business principles needed to start and operate a small business. Includes developing a business plan, identifying sources of capital formation, managing growth, and marketing issues related to new ven­tures.

U 290T Management Internship 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., consent of instr. On‑the‑j­ob training in positions related to each student's career goal in management. This experience increases students' skills, prepares them for initial employment, and increases occupational awareness. Students work a minimum of six hours each week at an approved site and attend a weekly one‑hour seminar.

U 296T Independent Study Variable cr. (R-9) Offered intermittently.

Culinary Arts (CUL)

U 151T Introduction to Food Service Industry 5 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to fundamentals in food handling practice, history, cooking methods, tool and equipment skills, safety and sanitation, recipe and menu development.

U 156T Dining Room Procedures 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T with a “C” or better. Introduction to foundations of dining room service and protocol. Includes tech­niques in dining room service. Personal hygiene, applied math, basic culinary terminology, beverage management, and table side cooking methods are practiced.

U 157T Pantry and Garde‑Manger 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T with a “C” or better. Identification of fresh greens, vegetables, and fruits, general and specific uses, standards of quality, preparation, and presentation. Covers entrée salads, cold sauces, appetizers, finger sandwiches, pâtés, gelatins, mousses, ice carvings, as well as banquet and buffet presentation.

U 158T Short Order Cookery 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T with a “C” or better. Hands‑on experience in all facets of short order cookery. Emphasis on coordination, speed, presentation, and basic food preparation as well as cooking methods.

U 160T Soups, Stocks, and Sauces 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T with a “C” or better. Hands‑on preparation of basic soups, stocks, sauces, glazes, thickening agen­ts, and garnishes.

U 161T Meats and Vegetables 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T with a “C” or better. Hands‑on experience with the fundamental cooking methods for meats, vegetables, grains, legumes, and pastas.

U 165T Baking and Pastry 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CUL 151T, MAT 114T with a “C” or better or consent of instr. Introduction to various ingredients and how they affect the finished product. Covers six basic functions of ingredients and the techniques of scaling, pan preparation, sifting, chocolate, and pastry bag work.

U 195T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

Food Service Management (FSM)

U 180T Nutritional Cooking 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., CUL 151T, MAT 114T or consent of instr. Principles of healthy and nutritious culinary procedures. Adjustment of classic methods to suit preparations designed to extend variety on “lighter” menus.

U 195T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

U 266T Food Service Management Accounting 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., CUL 151T, MAT 114T. Covers costs of doing business, including food, labor, space, and utilities. Includes the preparation of budgets and profit and loss statements.

U 270 Purchasing Procedures and Cost Controls 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., CUL 151T, MAT 114T; or consent of instr. Principles and practices of purchasing foods, supplies, and materials based on the methods of buying, specifications, needs, and availability.

U 271 Menu Layout, Design, and Analysis 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., CUL 151T, coreq., CRT 205T or consent of instr. Techniques to develop menus compatible with various food establishments. Layout includes physical characteristics, merchandising, appearance, promotional value and foundation for facility design. Analysis includes pricing methods and profit potential.

U 275T Patissier 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., CUL 165T, MAT 114T or consent of instr. Advanced principles and techniques in preparing custard sauces, pastry cream, puddings, custards, mousses, Bavarians, soufflés, ices, crepes, fruits, and dessert sauces. Emphasis on presentation of plated desserts.

U 290 Internship 4 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., enrolled in final semester of program, minimum of “C” in all CUL and FSM courses, or recommendation of Culinary Program Director. On-the-job training in position related to each student’s career goal. This experience increases students’ skills, prepares them for initial employment, and increases occupational awareness and professionalism. Students work a minimum of twelve hours each week at an approved site and attend scheduled one-hour seminars.

U 295T Special Topics 1-9 cr. (R-9) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Human Resources (HMR)

U 110T Introduction to Public Relations 3 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to the origin, scope, and nature of public relations activities. Investigation of policies, strategies, and procedures available to an organization in establishing and controlling its communications. Exploration of the impact of public relations and media through case studies and writing exercises.

U 130T Policies and Administration 3 cr. Offered spring. Basic information and understanding of the need for human resource policies in an organization, types of policies, the process of policy formulation, and how policies are used in the decision-making process. Study areas include professional ethics, cultural diversity, and legal responsibilities for the human resource management professional.

U 133T Personnel Records Management 3 cr. Offered spring. Basic information and understanding of the different types of personnel records, employers’ informational needs, and government recordkeeping and reporting requirements.

U 135T Employee and Labor Relations 3 cr. Offered spring. History of labor unions, current labor laws, the current role of labor unions, workers’ compensation laws, and the rights of employees. Includes how to assist in negotiating union contracts and how to develop and administer effective grievance programs for any organization.

U 175T Workplace Issues 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. A comprehensive look at today’s office environment and enhances skills and competencies relevant to students’ success in the business setting. Contemporary workplace issues and office procedures are researched and communicated via written and oral presentations.

U 232T Wage and Benefits Administration 4 cr. Offered spring. Emphasis on human resource law. Topics include compensation and benefits terminology,administration of employee benefits, and compensation programs. Comprehensive project includes job analysis, job descriptions and evaluations, wage surveys, pay structures and creation of compensation system. Also includes performance evaluations and strategic use of benefits/wages.

U 236T Personnel Staffing, Training and Development 4 cr. Offered autumn. In-depth exploration and techniques for assisting in personnel planning and the selection process. Survey of the scope of training and development within business organizations.

U 290T Administrative Management Internship 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., last semester in program, minimum of “C” in program courses, and approval of program director. On the ­job training in positions related to each student's career goal in the administrative assisting field. This experience increases students' skil­ls, prepares them for initial employment and advancement on the job, and in­creases occupational awareness and professionalism. Students work 90 ­hours each week at an ap­proved site and attend a weekly one ho­ur seminar.

U 295T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Legal Studies (LEG)

U 183T Contracts 2 cr. Offered spring. Sources of law affecting the formation, enforceabili­ty, and interpretation of contracts. Includes the necessary elements of a contract, the basic doctrines of contract law, and practical approaches to drafting a contract.

U 184T Legal Ethics 2 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to ethics for the paralegal, including confidentiality, paralegal‑attorney relationship, fee arrangements, Code of Professional Conduct, attorney‑client privilege, fiduciary responsibilities, and public service.

U185T Introduction to Paralegal Studies 3 cr. Offered autumn. Introduction to the paralegal career including ethical and professional standards. Overview of the American legal system, substantive areas of practice, legal analysis and investigation, law office administration and related terminology.

U 186T Introduction to Legal Research 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., acceptance into program or consent of instr. Introduction to legal research focusing on how to find, use, understand, and correctly cite law library resources.

U 187T Legal Research and Writing I 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 186T. Advanced legal research focusing on how to find, use, understand, and correctly cite legal resources. Electronic research methods ­are pre­sented. Application of legal research to writing is introduced.

U 188T Principles of Real Estate 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 185T or consent of instr. The study of property law focusing on the nature and ownership of real property, title insurance, legal descriptions, and the transactional aspects of financing methods involving trust indentures, mortgages, and contracts for deed, with closing and recording procedures.

U 189T Criminal Procedures 3 cr. Offered spring. Criminal prosecution and defense representation with an overview of criminal law principles. Training in criminal procedure involving felonies and misdemeanors in federal, Montana, and municipal courts.

U 195T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

U 196T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.

U 270T Civil Litigation 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., LEG 185T. Introduction to rules governing civil litigation involving the general nature of how lawsuits arise including client interviews and data gathering, pleading and practice from the filing of suit to file preparation for trial, and core considerations of ethics and professionalism.

U 283T Trial Preparation 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 270T. Case and claim analysis, collecting and preserving evidence, locating witnesses, jury selection, trial notebook development, posttrial assistance, and investigative techniques with emphasis on concluding litigation and post-judgment procedures.

U 284T Business Organizations 1 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 185Tor consent of instr. Legal procedures relating to Montana corporations, partnerships, and business entities.

U 285T Family Law 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 185T or consent of instr. Study of Montana law relating to marriage, husband and wife, parent and chil­d, termination of marriage, adoption, joint and sole custody arrange­ments and modifications, child support guidelines, and juvenile issues. Includes preparation of standard family law documents.

U 286T Legal Research and Writing II 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., LEG 187T. Advanced legal research and writing with emphasis on drafting and composing legal memoranda; legal research skills and development of legal writing ability.

U 287T Legal Research and Writing III 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 286T. Continued development of legal research and writing skills including advanced case briefing, legal theory/case law synthesis, and memoranda drafting.

U 288T Estate Administration 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 185T or consent of instr. Study of law relating to wills, trusts, and estates. Topics include estate planning, intestate succession, family protection, probate, and estate taxes.

U 289T Law Office Management 1 cr . Offered spring. Prereq., LEG 185T. Administrative fundamentals including financial considerations, human resources, supervision, marketing, facilities, and ethical responsibilities.

U 290T Paralegal Studies Internship 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., last semester in program, minimum of “C” in LEG courses, and approval of program director. On‑the‑job experience as a paralegal trainee under the supervision of an employer, attorney, or court official. This experience increases students' skil­ls, prepares them for initial employment and advancement on the job, and in­creases occupational awareness and professionalism. Students work a minimum of six hours each week at an ap­proved site and attend a weekly one‑ho­ur seminar.

U 295T Special Topics 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently. Experimental offerings of visiting professors, experimental offerings of new courses, or one-time offerings of current topics.

Medical Assisting (MED)

U 152T Insurance Processing for Coding Specialists 2 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 161T Introduction to insurance claim processing for the major medical insurance programs. Emphasis on completing universal insurance forms to maximize reimbursement as well as troubleshoot denied or underpaid claims.

U 153T Insurance Processing 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq. or coreq., MED 161T or consent of instr. An introduction to insurance claim processing for the major medical insurance programs. Basic knowledge of CPT and ICD-9 procedural and diagnostic coding. Emphasis on completing universal insurance forms to maximize reimbursement as well as trouble shoot denied or underpaid claims.

U 154T Beginning Medical Terminology 2 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Introduction to a medical word building system using Greek and Latin word roots, combining forms, suffixes, and prefixes.

U 155T Medical Software Applications 1 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 153T; prereq. or coreq. MED 161T; or consent of instr. A medical software package is used to enter and update patient data, enter charg­es, payments and adjustments, and generate management reports, insurance forms, and patient statements.

U 161T Medical Administrative Pro­cedures 4 cr. Offered autumn. An introduction to the necessary skills and qualities required to function successfully in the medical arena. Emphasis on medicolegal and ethical responsibilities, records management and financial management of the medical practice, and interpersonal communications to include patient reception, telephone techniques and appointment scheduling.

U 165T Healthcare Data and Content 2 cr. Offered spring. In-depth study of origin, use, content and structure of health records; storage and retrieval systems; numbering and filing systems; documentation requirements; use and structure of health care data sets; and how these components relate to primary and secondary record systems. Additional topics include gathering, compilation and computing of healthcare related statistics, use of research and statistical methods for developing healthcare data into information for various requesters.

U 201T Medical Assisting Clinical Procedures I 4 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., MAT 005, SCN 119N. Skill development necessary to assist health care practitioners in all aspects of patient care in the medical office clinical setting. Includes achieving competency in prepping patients for a physical examination, charting, medication administration, basic medical laboratory skills.

U 202T Medical Assisting Internship I 1 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., consent of instructor. Placement in a medical office for a guided experience providing the student with a practical application of learned medical office administrative skills. Direct supervision will be the responsibility of a designated person at the site. The students will spend six hours per week to total 90 hours in assigned clinical rotations.

U 203T Medical Assisting Clinical Procedures II 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 201T. Continuation of MED 201T. Continued skill development in assisting health care practitioners in all aspects of patient care in the medical office clinical setting. Includes achieving competency in aseptic technique, diagnostic procedure techniques, and patient education.

U 204T Medical Assisting Internship II 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 201T; coreq., MED 203T. Placement in selected physicians' offices and clinics for a guided learning experience providing the student with a practical application of knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom and laboratory setting. The student will be provided the opportunity to perform various clinical procedures under supervision. The students will spend 12 hours per week to total 180 hours in assigned clinical rotations.

U 210T Basic ICD Coding 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., MED 153T, MED 165T or consent of instr. Introductory foundation for utilizing the International Classification of Diseases coding for classification of morbidity and mortality information for statistical purposes and for indexing medical records by disease and operation.

U 216T Terminology for Health Professions I 2 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., MED 154T; prereq. or coreq., SCN 115N or SCN 119N. A system approach to medical word building including pathology of body systems, abbreviations, and special procedures including radiographic, surgical, and laboratory.

U 220T Basic Ambulatory Coding 3 cr. Offered autumn. Prereq., MED 153T, MED 165T or consent of instr. Foundation for utilizing the CPT coding system to increase compatibility and comparability of medical data among users and providers.

U 240T Intermediate ICD Coding 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 210T or consent of instr. Comprehensive foundation for utilizing the International Classification of Diseases coding for classification of morbidity and mortality information for statistical purposes and for indexing medical records by disease and operation.

U 250T Intermediate CPT Coding 3 cr. Offered spring. Prereq., MED 220T or consent of instr. Comprehensive application of the CPT coding system to assign codes for services, supplies and equipment for comparative analysis, research and reimbursement.

U 256T Medical Transcription I 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., CRT 108; prereq. or coreq., MED 216T. An introduction to the transcription of authentic physician-dictated medical reports in a variety of medical specialties. Emphasis on the development of accuracy and speed in interpreting, transcribing and editing medical dictation for content and clarity.

U 257T Medical Transcription II 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., MEDC 256T. Advanced medical transcription of realistic physician-dictated medical reports in a variety of medical specialties. Emphasis on production and increased speed in interpreting, transcribing and editing medical dictation for content and clarity.

U 270T Terminology for Health Professions II 2 cr. A systems approach to medical word building including pathology of body systems, pharmacology, abbreviations, and special procedures including cardiovascular, pulmonary and gastrointestinal.

U 290T Medical Office Internship 3 cr. Offered autumn and spring. Prereq., last semester in program, minimum of “C” in SEC courses, and approval of program director. On‑the‑j­ob training in positions related to each student's career goal in the medical office field. This experience in­creases students' skills, prepares them for initial employment and advancement on the job, and increases occupational awareness and professionalism. Students work a minimum of 135 hours at an approved site and attend a weekly one‑ho­ur seminar.

U 296T Independent Study 1-6 cr. (R-6) Offered intermittently.