Computer Science

Computer Proficiency Exam

This exam tests computer literacy and skill.   The fee for taking the test is $20 payable at the time of registration.  The fee is non-refundable even if you don't pass the exam.

You should not take the exam if you are a computer science or business major or if you want to take a higher level computer science course at RCC.  If you wish to take a higher level computer course please see an advisor in the computer science department and they can waive the prerequisite if appropriate. 

Advisor appointments: 541-956-7127
Email: [email protected]

Steps to taking the exam:

1. Find out if computer proficiency is required for your major or degree
2. Register online and pay $20 for the exam.  The fee is non-refundable.
3. The exam is located in Blackboard. Your computer must meet the following requirements to take the exam:
   1. Windows 10
   2. Office 2016/2019
   3. Google Chrome
   4. Web Camera

The exam is secured by Proctorio During the exam, your web camera will be recording video and audio to ensure you are working alone on the exam.   The only website allowed during the exam is Blackboard. All other websites are prohibited.

What's on the exam:

• File management
• Word processing (Word)
• Spreadsheets (Excel)
• Internet browser basics
• Operating Systems navigation and understanding
• General computer concepts
• Computer components and common peripheral use and features
• Technical specifications of internal components that impact performance
• Internet concepts 
• System security and protection

A passing score on the exam

• 100% on the file management portion
• 70% on the multiple choice portion (35 short-answer, True/False or multiple-choice questions)
• 70% average on remaining hands-on sections, with no single-section score below 60%
• The grade will be pass/no pass
• This is a single attempt exam. Retakes are not offered at this time.

What could I do if I wanted to study before taking the exam?

On the general concepts portion, many introductory computer concepts books would cover the majority of the material on the exam.  

For the hands on portion, you need to be able to locate and retrieve files, save files, name files and attach files to messages.  You may be asked to locate files on network drives.  In working with files, you'll need to be able to do basic formatting in Word and demonstrate you are proficient in creating simple document types. In Excel, you will be asked to write basic formulas and work with sets of numbers.

For the concepts portion, you will be asked about standard computer terminology and components.

A study guide is available here that outlines major concepts included on the exam.