Degree Overview: Associate of Secretarial Science
Majors Overview June 13, 2013Schools do not offer associate degree programs covering secretarial science directly, but usually as associate degree programs in administrative assistance, office administration or office systems technology. Students who seek proficiency in general office skills and office management tools will benefit from these programs.
Associate Degree Programs Covering Secretarial Science
The associate degree programs usually take two years to complete, if students are enrolled full-time and offer students practical skills needed to work as office administrators and secretaries. Students will gain experience with current office and computer applications, general administrative job requirements, and business office procedures. The majority of programs require students to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma. Depending on the program, some will offer the option of specializing in areas such as legal or medical office assistants. Excellent organizational skills, the ability to work independently, and good interpersonal skills are helpful in this field.
Program Coursework
Students may take basic educational coursework with an emphasis on introductory business courses such as bookkeeping, basic math, and public speaking. To stay current with advancements in office technology, courses will incorporate web applications and internet. Program course topics may include the following:
•Office automation
•Project management
•Computer technology
•Office procedures
•Data entry
•Records management
•Desktop publishing
•Spreadsheets
•Word processing
•Keyboarding
Career Options
Office administrators and secretaries are needed in various office settings. Individuals may obtain the following career titles:
•Data entry clerk
•Executive secretary
•Bookkeeping clerk
•Medical office secretary
•Administrative assistant
Information on Continuing Education
Proficiency in general office skills, including managing spreadsheets and writing correspondence, as well as continued demonstration of technical competence will assist individuals in career advancement. Associate degree program graduates who desire greater managerial career opportunities should consider pursuing an advanced degree like a bachelor degree in office technology and administration. Voluntary certification for proficiency in office skills, along with specialty fields is available through different professional organizations, such as the National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS – www.nals.org) and the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP – www.iaap-hq.org).
