EVERETT — Entrepreneurs who want to create and run online service businesses can learn how to do it this fall at a new program at Everett Community College.

The college’s 27-credit virtual assistant certificate will teach students how to become independent contractors who work remotely, offering skills and services online.

Lynne Munoz, director of the college’s School of Business Design, said the program should be especially attractive to people who want or need to work from home.

The certificate program, which is itself offered online, will show students how to develop a business plan, determine what services to offer, market those services and launch the business.

“The possibilities are limitless and can be customized for each person’s skills and life,” Munoz said. “You don’t have to leave the house to earn extra money.”

Pat Sisneros, dean of the EvCC Business and Technology Division, noted that the virtual assistant concept should be a pretty low cost way to start a business, especially for people who already have a computer.

“You can start small, build a client base and go from there,” he said. “Startup costs are minimum to none.”

Sisneros said about 15 people have already signed up for the program. He noted he’d like to see about that many people completing the program on a regular basis. Classes start Sept. 24.

Munoz noted the program is very hands-on. “Every assignment is about putting (a student’s business) together,” she said. “The whole class is about getting them ready to go.”

The program spans two college quarters. During the first one, students explore the virtual assistant idea, create marketing and business plans and learn how to conduct business online. In second quarter, students are provided Web space to develop their site, launch a business and begin daily operations with faculty support.

People who are interested in the program can call instructor Kathryn Willestoft at 425-388-9242 or visit www.everettcc.edu and search for “virtual assistant certificate.”

Herald writer Mike Benbow: 425-339-3459 or benbow@heraldnet.com.