In order for TCU students to keep up with school and professional work, Microsoft Office is crucial—especially for business students.

Students in the Neeley School of Business are required to be Microsoft certified, which entails passing Excel 1 and 2, PowerPoint, and Word exams.

Each test costs $75, but the time and money business students are putting into Microsoft pays off in the long run, Dr. Homer Erekson, dean of the Neeley School of Business, said.

Erekson said TCU was one of the first to make the certification a requirement for students.

Erekson said future employers and donors are impressed by students who leave the business school already with their certifications.

“I think it really enhances their resume and background,” Erekson said.

Erekson said students need to have knowledge of Microsoft Office for higher learning and better achievement in the business world.

The Microsoft exams are designed to be difficult in order to ensure students’ readiness.

Like many business students, sophomore Kyra DeStephano had to work at the Excel tests.

“You have to pay attention to all the details in all the classes,” DeStephano said. “I had to go talk to my professor after the first test, which really helped.” 

Students do not have to purchase the Microsoft programs for their personal computers. Every lab and library computer on campus has Microsoft Office installed.

Students can also get Microsoft Office on their personal computers at a reduced cost.

Associate Director of IT Support Joshua Tooley said TCU works with varsitybuys.com. The company offers a four-year Office 365 license for students.