Overview of Associate of Computer Office Assistant Degree
Majors Overview May 22, 2013In this article, students will research associate degree program in computer office assistant, as well as receiving information on salary, career prospects, courses, and program requirements to make an informed decision about their education.
Associate Degree Program in Computer Office Assistant
Students enrolled in a computer office assistant program are prepared for entry-level office management, administrative assistant or secretarial positions. While schools do not offer associate’s degrees specifically aimed at prospective computer office assistants, such individuals may avail programs related to office technology, administrative assistant and computer applications. Business management, accounting, electronic office record management and keyboarding are taught in the program that is devised to make students proficient in the use of computer software and office equipment employed in an office environment.
A wide array of specializations is offered by some programs; these include medical office or professional billing and coding assistant, executive assistant and general office assistant. Admission criteria related to these two-year programs typically require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Computer office assistant associate degree program curriculum provides courses that help students develop their knowledge of IT (information technology) and how it is used in the workplace. Students will have an opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internship programs. Programs may include the following course topics:
•Payroll and computerized accounting
•Transcription
•Administrative document formatting
•Computer presentations
•Word processing
•Spreadsheet analysis
•Internet use
•Business terminology
•Office procedures
Salary and Employment Outlook Information
Job growth of 11% has been projected for administrative assistants and secretaries during the period from 2008 to 2018 (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov)). The best job opportunities are likely to go to those with knowledge in computer applications. In May 2010, administrative assistants and secretaries, other than those in executive, legal and medical positions, took home an average annual salary of $30,830; the average annual salary during that year for secretaries and executive assistants were $43,520.
Information on Continuing Education
Graduates may seek entry level jobs in office assistant-related fields or choose to continue their education. Individuals already employed with companies with work experience and familiarity with the inner workings of the firm may earn a promotion. Secretaries could be promoted to management, data entry trainers or word processors, while administrative assistants could advance to the positions of clerical supervisors, executive secretaries or office managers. They may also want to complete a bachelor’s degree program in business administration or related fields. Apart from work experience and training, professional certification may help office assistants improve their job opportunities. Associations such as the National Association of Legal Secretaries, Legal Secretaries International, Inc. or International Association of Administrative Professionals offers such certification.
