Beginning fall 2025, MiraCosta College will offer two new Certificates of Achievement, Executive Administrative Professional and Computer Applications, designed to meet the dynamic needs of today’s technology-driven workforce. These programs are part of MiraCosta’s strategic effort to provide students with accessible pathways to high-demand, well-paying careers that support the region’s economic vitality.
“These certificates reflect the reality that the modern workforce requires more than just digital literacy. It requires digital fluency, adaptability, and leadership,” said Denée Pescarmona, Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Instruction MiraCosta College. “MiraCosta is committed to developing programs that align with industry needs while empowering our students to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy. Through this work, we are not only preparing individuals for meaningful careers, we are strengthening our region's economic and social fabric.”
Executive Administrative Professional Certificate: Redefining Modern Office Leadership
Today’s executive administrative professionals are expected to be more than support staff; they are strategic coordinators, technology experts, and project leaders. MiraCosta’s new certificate emphasizes project management, artificial intelligence, digital office systems, and data-driven decision-making skills, preparing students to succeed in roles such as Executive Assistant, Operations Specialist, and Project Coordinator.
According to the Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research - San Diego/Imperial Region, highlights include:
- Project Management Specialists: $49.25/hr median wage; 948 annual openings
- Administrative Services Managers: $45.03/hr median wage; 301 annual openings
- Executive Assistants and Supervisory Support Roles: Over 2,000 combined annual openings
With built-in preparation for certifications like the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), this program helps graduates demonstrate their expertise and stand out in a competitive job market.
Computer Applications Certificate: The Core Skillset of the Digital Workplace
MiraCosta’s Computer Applications certificate program equips students with professional-level skills in business software, cloud-based collaboration tools, artificial intelligence, and digital publishing. Students gain hands-on experience with tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Google Workspace, and Adobe Creative Suite, while developing the critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities that today’s employers demand.
Key workforce outcomes in the region include:
- Computer User Support Specialists – $30.32/hr median wage; 542 annual openings
- Computer Systems Analysts – $51.53/hr median wage; 443 annual openings
- Business Intelligence Analysts – $50.24/hr median wage; 722 annual openings
- Office Clerks and Administrative Support Roles – Over 3,000 annual openings
Depending on electives, students are prepared to earn MOS and Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) credentials, strengthening their career readiness across healthcare, business services, education, and technology.
The curriculum for both programs was developed using comprehensive labor market research from the Center of Excellence for Labor Market Research (COE) and approved through MiraCosta’s academic planning processes and regional consortia. Advisory board feedback from employers confirmed a growing need for professionals who are not only technologically competent but also adaptive, analytical, and ready to lead.
“These certificates reflect the reality that the modern workforce requires more than just digital literacy; it requires digital fluency and leadership,” said Steve Isachsen, chair of the computer studies and information technology department at MiraCosta College. “We are proud to offer programs that meet students where they are and prepare them to thrive in an ever-evolving job market.”
Enrollment in the Executive Administrative Professional and Computer Applications certificates is now open. Each program consists of 25 units, with tuition priced at just $46 per unit for California residents. Ample financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to support students, including the MiraCosta Promise, which offers free tuition and textbook support for eligible first-time college students. To begin your application or to learn more, visit miracosta.edu/apply or speak with a counselor at 760.757.2121 ext. 6890. MiraCosta College is here to support you every step of the way.
