Degree Overview: Associate of Office System Technologist
Majors Overview June 9, 2013In this article, you will learn about associate degree programs in office system technology, as well as receive information on career options, courses, and requirements to make an informed decision about your education.
Associate Degree Program in Office System Technology
Students enrolled in an office systems technology associate degree program will be taught essential office skills and different software programs. Technical schools and community colleges offer this two-year degree program. Students who have graduated from these programs will have general knowledge of business procedures, including business communications, report preparations, basic accounting, as well as proficiency in using business software for the creation of spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and word processing. Some colleges and universities allow students to select fields of emphasis by taking elective courses in legal studies, banking, or medical. Students will be required to work in internship programs along with completing class work before graduation.
Educational requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Some colleges and universities require students to take basic computer and keyboarding classes as prerequisites.
Program Coursework
Some office systems technology associate degree program courses emphasize on communication skills, ethical practices, and human resources knowledge graduates may need in an office setting. However, the majority of classes concentrate on the technical aspects of office work, including creating databases, managing e-mail, word processing, and desktop publishing. Program course topics may include the following:
•Records management
•Transcription
•Office procedures
•Business communications
•Spreadsheets
•Accounting principles
Career Options
Office systems technology associate degree program graduates have several career options, depending on the elective courses they have chosen. Individuals may pursue the following career options:
•Accounting clerk
•Receptionist
•Medical secretary
Continuing Education Information
Office workers should consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration or other specialty areas, if they want to move into management positions. For example, a medical secretary who wants to become a manager in a medical practice should consider pursuing a health services administration degree program.
