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Customer Service Specialist

Customer service is a rapid-growth industry that provides exciting new career opportunities. Today, three out of every five Georgians are employed in some type of customer service position and the need is increasing.

Designed by service-training professionals, the Certified Customer Service Specialist (CCSS) program helps provide an available, skilled work force for Georgia's service, hospitality, retail and other service industries in which customer contact is a vital operation.

The Certified Customer Service Specialist program will train and certify you in communications, customer service, computer, and the essential business skills necessary to provide world-class customer service. Upon successful completion of the program, you will become a Certified Customer Service Specialist and be guaranteed an employment interview with one of our business partners.

These companies offer:

  • Competitive salaries
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Additional benefits which may include:
    • Health, life & dental plans
    • Stock options and 401(K) plans
    • Tuition reimbursements
    • Child care options

These companies are seeking applicants with:

  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • PC/computer and basic math skills
  • Strong commitment to a career in Georgia's expanding service industry
  • High school diploma/GED

CCSS is a comprehensive program that provides a strong foundation of the skills and knowledge it requires to succeed in the customer service industry. If you have basic keyboarding knowledge, a positive attitude and a strong work ethic, this may be the class for you.

Students learn the following, and more:

  • Customer service face-to-face and over the telephone.
  • Communication and listening skills.
  • Managing difficult customers.
  • Team building skills.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • Computer basics such as Windows, MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access.
  • Personal and career-enhancing skills such as time and stress management.

For more curriculum details, view the list of individual courses and course objectives.

Frequently-Asked Questions

What is the program all about?
The goal of the program is to equip individuals with the foundational and advanced skills necessary to deliver excellent service in a broad range of positions. The CCSS program consists of 154 hours of training. Students earn 15 credit hours and a Technical Certificate of Credit.
What classes do I take?
The curriculum consists of five courses (Click on Course Number for description):
  • Service Industry Business Environment ( MKT161 )
  • Customer Contact Skills ( MKT162 )
  • Computer Skills ( MKT163 )
  • Business Skills ( MKT164 )
  • Personal Effectiveness Skills ( MKT165 )
When are the courses offered?
CCSS programs begin every quarter. Classes are offered on a part-time and a full-time schedule. Certification for the part-time evening program is 17 weeks and certification for the full-time day program is 8 weeks. The evening program is specifically designed to target individuals working full-time who have the desire to make a career change.
The part-time program meets 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Monday - Friday for 10 weeks; 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Tuesday - Thursday for 17 weeks.
What kind of person does it take to be successful as a Customer Service Representative?
People with the following characteristics make the best CSR:
  • Computer literate.
  • Able to multi-task.
  • Enjoy talking to people.
  • Enjoy solving problems.
  • Able to manage time and stress.
What types of jobs will I be qualified for by successfully completing the program?
The program prepares students for entry-level positions in a broad range of positions. Some of the jobs might include:
  • Customer Service Representative (CSR)
  • Contact Management Representative (CMR)
  • Customer Relationship Manager (CRM)
Who would consider me for employment?
The Certified Customer Service Specialist program is partnered with local and area businesses. These partners will guarantee an interview to students completing the program with an 80% grade on all coursework.
The Certified Customer Service Specialist program and its business partners cannot guarantee employment. Graduates considered for employment must still complete each company's pre-employment process, which may include drug screening, credit report and background checks.
How do I start?
A Columbus Technical College application and successful completion of the COMPASS Exam is required prior to entry into the CCSS program.
Are there any costs involved in applying?
You must pay a one-time, non-refundable $15.00 application fee. The fee must be paid before you can be scheduled to take the COMPASS Exam.
Where and when can I take the test?
The COMPASS Exam is given in the Columbus Technical College Testing Center located in Room 203 of the Administration Building. The exam is offered by appointment after completion of the Admission Application. The exam will take approximately two hours to complete and will be scored immediately. Please visit the Testing Center to schedule a testing date and time.
What type of score is required?
To be admitted into the CCSS program, you must score the following on the COMPASS Exam:
  • Math - 26
  • Reading - 70
  • Writing - 23
What do I do after I am accepted and pass the test?
You must register with the program advisor for the date you elect to attend. The office is located in Room 606 of the Library Building.
How much does it cost?
The CCSS program cost is $645 for tuition ($43 per credit hour) and $100 for books. The program is eligible for the HOPE Grant. Please check with Financial Aid to see if you qualify. Other fees include an Activity Fee ($15) a Registration Fee, ($26) and a Technology & Instructional Support fee ($35). Please check with the Business Office for further Information on these fees.
Who do I contact for more information?
(706) 649-1454