Associate of Office Administration: Degree Overview
Individuals interested in preparing for a career in office administration may complete an Associate of Occupational Studies, Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science in Office Administration. In an office administration program, students can learn skills and technical knowledge that will help them to prepare for entry-level careers in various office settings.
Associate Degree in Office Administration
Students in associate degree programs in office administration can learn skills in word processing, data management, computer operations, office communications and administration. A program enables students to communicate effectively in an office environment, use office equipment to complete business tasks and maintain organization of an office. In some programs, elective courses can allow students to focus on office administration in legal or medical environments, which could include elective courses in more specific skillsets, organizational techniques and terminology. Some programs allow students to focus on computer-related skills to enable them to be office software specialists. Programs usually only require a high school diploma or equivalent for entrance into a program.
Course Topics
Office administration programs typically cover core competencies required for work in an office. Students may also have the chance to get hands-on experience through an externship or internship. Courses in a program may cover topics that include:
- Computer technology
- Accounting
- Data management
- Transcription
- Word processing
- Office procedures
- Business communications
- Business law
- Customer service
Popular Career Options
Graduates of an office administration program may seek entry-level positions in business offices in a variety of industries. If students specialize in legal or medical office administration, they may find work with law firms or healthcare facilities. Students with general studies in office administration may consider careers, such as:
- Administrative assistant
- Office manager
- Legal secretary
- Secretary
- Medical office assistant
Continuing Education Information
Graduates of a program may seek voluntary professional certification through professional organizations, such as the International Association of Administrative Professionals. If individuals are interested in advancement, continuing their education in a bachelor's degree program in a business-related area may be beneficial. Many administrative management positions in larger companies require at least a bachelor's degree, and individuals with bachelor's degrees may have better employment opportunities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS (www.bls.gov).
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