Online Education (associates Degree In Officeadministration)

By Author: John Srob
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Other than certificate programs, an associate's degree is the most commonly earned degree that leads to a career in office administration. Students of this two-year degree program learn important skills, such as basic accounting, computer applications, communication skills, document preparation and office procedures and ethics. Coursework and real-world opportunities will focus heavily on computer training and other office technologies, including the commonly used software applications QuickBooks, Microsoft Office and desktop publishing software.
Students seeking employment in a medical or legal office may also choose electives that target skills that are unique to these areas. In preparation for a career as an executive assistant or office manager, students may learn the basics of appointment scheduling, making travel arrangements, proofreading and managing records. It is important that students pursuing a career in office administration are able to keep pace in a busy office environment and adapt to constantly changing technology.
Education Prerequisites
Associate's programs in office administration will ...
... require a high school diploma or GED. Some may also require a minimum GPA, SAT or ACT score. Applicants who do not meet requirements may still be accepted on other merits or may be asked to complete placement testing. Students who have completed certificate programs in related areas may find that certificate courses will transfer to the associate's degree program.
Program Coursework
· Computer applications
· Business ethics
· Managing records
· Accounting
· Business and technical writing
· Word processing
· Business fundamentals
· Modern office procedures
· Proofreading and editing
· Introduction to desktop publishing

Popular Career Options
· Administrative assistant
· Legal or medical assistant
· Executive assistant
· Office assistant
· Receptionist
· Office manager
· Bookkeeper
· Cashier
· Bank teller
Continuing Education
Graduates of an AAS in office administration can begin working in an office environment but may wish to pursue continuing education options in coming years due to rapidly changing office technologies. This continuing education may take the form of certificate programs that train students in new or updated software applications.
he minimum requirement for associate's degree programs in office administration is typically a high school diploma or GED. Some schools may also require you to submit standardized test scores and high school transcripts. If you want to prepare for this program in high school, you might consider taking courses in writing, mathematics, computer science or business. If you plan on enrolling in an online program, expect to have to meet minimum technical requirements.

What Can I Expect From This Program?

This program usually takes about four years to finish. You can enroll in traditional programs, which are found on college campuses, or you could enroll in online programs, which are administered over the Internet. Coursework typically combines training in composition, business principles and applied mathematics. You could also learn about industry-standard administrative software, such as spreadsheet or word processing programs. You may also have the opportunity to complete internships, which can help you get professional experience before entering the job market. The following are examples of classes you might find in the curriculum:

Keyboarding
Document processing
Microcomputer applications
Financial accounting
Business math
Word processing
Basic economics
Office communications
What Can I Do After I Graduate?

With an associate's degree in office administration, you could be eligible for entry-level administrative careers in private corporations, government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Additionally, some associate's degree programs in this field prepare you to work in certain kinds of offices, such as medical or legal offices. Possible job titles include administrative assistant, office manager, clerical supervisor, customer service manager or facilities manager.

Alternatively, you could continue your education at the baccalaureate level. Bachelor's degree programs are 4-year courses of study that might allow you to transfer credit from your associate's degree program. You could pursue a degree in a related field like the following:

Accounting
Business administration
Marketing
Finance

You May Qualify For Financial Aid.