If you are using a data validation list you can just use a vlookup

Vlookup(A1,CreateYourLookupArray,2,FALSE)

If it is a combo box drop down, then you have to use the cell link mixed
with offset and vlookup formulas.

"dspitler" wrote:

What I am trying to do is create a drop down list where the department is
shown in the list (Art, Style, Photography) but once the name is selected,
the department number shows up. For example, if someone chose Art, I want
the department number to show up in the cell (1000).
Art 1000
Style 1001
Photo 1002
Please help! Thanks so much.