Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Office Administration Degree
Majors Overview May 12, 2013Students who want to be prepared for administrative roles that require organizational and business skills should enroll in office administration degree programs. An Associate of Applied Science in Office Administration program will offer specialization options in legal or medical office administration, and may help graduates earn entry-level employment in different settings.
A.A.S. in Office Administration Degree
Through the enrollment in Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Office Administration programs, students are provided with technical and business skills needed to manage an office. They become adept at designing business plans devised to help capitalize on diverse opportunities in the industry; they also hone the skills needed in performing essential front office functions in a business setting, including day-to-day secretarial functions, such as transcription of business correspondence, filing of documents, handling of mails and creation of correspondence. In order for students to complete the program, they are required to have work experience and participate in an internship program.
Some schools offer online programs where students can complete courses within a convenient time-frame. These associate degree programs are mainly offered at community colleges and technical schools. Admission criteria usually require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Students may take different classes in subjects such as communication, computer operations, and keyboarding, in addition to basic educational courses. Students in specialized tracks can take courses that are specific to their field, including medical terminology or legal writing. Office administration core course topics may include the following:
•Accounting
•Database management
•Business law
•Business communication
•Office software
•Records management
•Office technology
Career Options
Students who have earned their associate degree will be able to obtain entry-level employment in a number of business-based industries. Individuals may obtain the following entry-level jobs:
•Legal secretary
•Medical secretary
•Administrative assistant
•Office manager
•Administrative services manager
Certification and Continuing Education Information
Administrators and office managers who want to advance professionally are usually required to switch career paths. For instance, legal secretaries who seek professional advancement can leverage work experience or education to become paralegals. Some schools allow graduates from an associate degree program in legal office administration to transfer to a four-year bachelor degree program in legal studies.
Numerous organizations, including the International Association of Administrative Professionals and the National Association of Legal Secretaries certify administrative assistants and secretaries. Professionals can use certification to showcase their competency in their area of expertise.
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