Overview of Associate Degree in Business: General Business
Majors Overview April 30, 2013Training in the fundamentals of marketing, small business management and economics is imparted to students who are enrolled in a general business associate degree program. An Associate of Business and an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in general Business are common degree programs offered by schools. Those who graduate from these programs can seek entry level business positions in various industries.
Associate Degree in General Business
Students enrolled in an associate degree program in general business are provided with a foundation in the basics of finance, business communication, marketing and management. Students are taught about the application of professionalism, problem-solving, organization, and critical thinking skills in running a business. By analyzing practice business models, students can explore problem-solving modes arising in a corporate setting. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Typically, the associate degree program requires sixty semester units and takes approximately two years to complete, if students are enrolled full-time. Most colleges and universities require students to take basic educational coursework, such as courses in sociology, psychology, natural science, math, history, and English. Depending on the schools, some may offer internships experience as part of the business curriculum, giving students real-world practice that may lead to future employment opportunities. Business program course topics may include the following:
•Human resources
•Marketing
•Communications
•Finance
•Statistics
•Accounting
•Business law
•Microeconomics
Career Options
Students are usually qualified for entry-level employment in various industries through departments such as advertising and marketing, finance, human resources, or accounting upon completion of an associate degree program in general business. Individuals may also seek general employment in accounting, small business, retail sales, insurance, and banking. They may obtain the following job titles:
•Entrepreneur
•Assistant manager
•Small business consultant
•Accounting assistant
•Human resource clerk
•Customer service supervisor
Continuing Education
Individuals should consider pursuing a bachelor degree program in business, if they are interested in higher-level employment opportunities. Popular business programs at the bachelor degree level include business administration or business management. Several business programs offer specializations in international business, human resources, and marketing.
