Overview of Associate Degree Programs in Administrative Office Technology
Majors Overview April 24, 2013Schools offer associate degree programs in administrative office technology where students receive training related to general office administration, common office equipment and business computer applications. The associate degree programs emphasizes on hands-on training, and usually takes approximately two years to complete, if students attend the program full-time.
Associate Degree Program in Administrative Office Technology
Students enrolled in an associate degree program in administrative office technology are trained on how to operate typical office computer applications including the current suite of applications from Microsoft Office. E-mail, databases, spreadsheets, slide presentations and word processing are generally included in specific applications. Web page design and maintenance and desktop publishing are included in some programs. General business skills and concepts are also imparted to students; these include problem solving, communications, marketing and accounting.
Students are specifically prepared for professional certifications through some programs; the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) offers the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certification and Microsoft offer the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification.
Programs are available in on-campus and online formats. Some programs require students to complete an internship at a local business office. Some colleges and universities offer opportunities to specialize in areas such as medical or legal office administrative technology.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Some require students to pass placement examinations in math, writing, and reading.
Program Coursework
Typically, programs include core administrative office technology courses, in addition to broad academic courses. The following are common course topics:
•Office management
•Business ethics
•Professional communications
•Accounting
•Business law
•Project management
•Office computer applications
•English composition
•Math
Career Options
Students who have graduated from the program will obtain the skills needed to operate offices for employers such as government agencies, consulting firms, universities, hospitals, and insurance companies. The following are some job titles individuals may obtain:
•Office manager
•Accounting clerk
•Staff assistant
•Administrative support specialist
•Secretary
Information on Continuing Education
Associate degree program graduates should consider pursuing a bachelor degree program and earn their Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree, if they want to develop their business careers. Individuals with legal office administrative experience should consider expanding their careers by completing a certificate program in paralegal.
