What You Should Know About This Degree
When you’re comparing programs, it’s important to pay attention to degree type. All the programs on our list are associate degrees, but the concentration may differ. For example, an Associate of Science in Medical Office Assistant is going to focus more on the healthcare field and HIPAA privacy laws than an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration, which is going to focus more on paperwork and processes you may find in the business world.
You should also keep in mind that, in general, regional accreditors such as SACSCOC are considered more reputable than national accreditors.
The job growth outlook for office administrative positions is declining for those in lower-level positions, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pursue it as a career. What it does mean is that the competition for open positions could be strong, and an associate degree can help you stand out from other applicants.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in office administration programs:
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? The options on our list require about 60 to 73 credits to graduate. If you’re able to attend full-time, you should be able to graduate in two years.
- Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? Most associate in office administration programs offer coursework asynchronously, which means you’re able to work at your own pace.
After you’ve chosen a program and are ready to start the application process, it’s important to keep track of all the required documentation and deadlines for both admissions and financial aid. Grants, scholarships, and loan opportunities may be available to you, but these programs often have very strict deadlines — the financial aid office at your school can give you more information.