Degree Overview: Associate of Office Administration
Majors Overview June 5, 2013Individuals who want to prepare for a career in office administration should consider completing an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Associate of Occupational Studies in Office administration. Students will gain technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare them for entry-level careers in different office environments through the associate degree program in office administration.
Associate Degree Program in Office Administration
Office administration associate degree program students will gain skills in computer operations, data management, word processing, and office administration and communications. The degree program enables students to maintain organization of an office, use office equipment to complete business assignments, and communicate effectively within an office setting. Some associate degree programs, elective courses will allow students to concentrate on office administration in medical or legal environment that can include elective courses in organizational terminology and techniques, along with additional specific skillsets. Depending on the program, some will allow students to concentrate on computer-related skills to enable them to become office software specialists. To gain admission into the associate degree program, students are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Typically, associate degree program in office administration cover core competencies required for work in an office. Students might have the opportunity to receive hands-on training through an internship or externship. The program course topics may include the following:
•Customer service
•Business law
•Business communications
•Office procedures
•Word processing
•Transcription
•Data management
•Accounting
•Computer technology
Career Options
Office administration associate degree program graduates can seek entry-level positions in business offices from various industries. If students specialize in medical or legal office administration, they can find work with healthcare facilities or law firms. Students with general studies in office administration should consider the following careers:
•Medical office assistant
•Secretary
•Legal secretary
•Office manager
•Administrative assistant
Information on Continuing Education
The International Association of Administrative Professionals is one of the professional organizations that offer voluntary certification to graduates who have completed an associate degree program. Individuals who are interested in advancement should consider furthering their education by pursuing a bachelor degree program in a business-related area. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov), most administrative management positions with larger companies require a minimum of a bachelor degree, and individuals who have earned their bachelor degree will have better employment opportunities.
