As finance, fundraising, and marketing continue to thrive with rapid job growth, an online associate in administration and management degree is a strategic gateway to a successful business career. Whether you’re aiming for immediate entry into the workforce or aspire to pursue advanced studies, these programs will give you fundamental skills. Roles such as administrative assistant, accounting clerk, or human resources assistant await graduates, with median salaries ranging from $44,080 to $45,860 annually.
As of the 2021-2022 academic year, these programs had an average tuition of $11,976, meaning it’s possible to get your associate degree at an accessible price. With a typical completion time of two years for full-time students, enrolling in one of these programs can help you quickly enter the business world.
How to Choose an Online Associate in Administration and Management Degree Program
Choose your area of study
When choosing a specialization for your associate in administration and management, aligning your interests with your potential career paths is essential. Consider exploring these in-demand options, each designed for specific strengths and aspirations:
- Human Resources Management: This concentration prepares students for personnel management and recruitment roles. It is ideal for those with strong interpersonal skills.
- Financial Management: In this specialization, students focus on budgeting and economic analysis, making it suitable for individuals interested in the financial aspects of business.
- Marketing: Ideal for those with a knack for creativity, this study area caters to those keen on promoting products or services.
Research schools and programs
After selecting a specialization, it is important to conduct thorough research on the programs that will support your intended career path. Begin by exploring accredited institutions offering your desired specialization. Then, evaluate faculty credentials, student support services, and alumni success stories. Carefully read student reviews from platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit for insights into program satisfaction. Financial considerations, including tuition and available aid, should also guide your decision.
Prepare for tests and applications
To excel in tests and applications for these programs, focus on refining your industry-relevant skills. Brush up on fundamental business concepts, emphasizing areas related to your chosen specialization. Familiarize yourself with standard administrative tools and software, and practice effective time management to navigate any necessary assessments efficiently.
Ultimately, you’ll want to craft a compelling application that illustrates your interest in the field, relevant experiences, and future goals. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or admissions counselors for personalized insights, as they can help you succeed in applying to your top programs.
Select your program
Now that you’ve performed diligent research and preparation, you will likely receive a few acceptance letters. In these situations, strategically selecting the right associate in administration and management program is vital.
Revisit initial criteria from your earlier research — considering faculty expertise, program flexibility, and student support services. Assess the overall cost of attendance, factoring in potential financial aid.
Taking this approach with careful consideration ensures confidence in your choice, preparing you for a rewarding higher education experience.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Navigating the financial aspects of your associate degree can be daunting, especially for first-time post-secondary students. Prioritizing scholarships first is crucial, as they don’t require repayment. Explore grants, similar to scholarships, but based on financial need.
Federal loans offer low-interest options with flexible repayment terms but should be approached cautiously to avoid over-borrowing. Work-study programs provide on-campus employment, offering financial support while gaining valuable experience. If you’re currently employed, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement programs, where employers contribute to educational expenses.
Combining these resources can alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education and make this endeavor more accessible.
Best 50 Accredited Online Associate in Administration and Management Programs
Discover More Options
How We Rank Schools
The different types of associate degrees are associate of arts, associate of science, and associate of applied science. Our list includes all three types; the best degree for you will depend on your educational and career goals.
All of the listed programs have regional accreditation. Attending a regionally accredited school for an associate degree is important if you plan to transfer your credits to a bachelor’s program at a four-year institution. These schools will typically only accept transfer credits from regionally accredited schools.
We also included programs with special business accreditations, such as the AACSB, the ACBSP, and the IACBE.
Once we narrowed our list of programs, we evaluated each of them based on reputation, cost, course strength, and flexibility. We then calculated the Intelligent Score of each degree on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect From an Online Associate in Administration and Management Program
An online associate degree in administration and management offers an all-encompassing introduction to foundational business prospects, preparing students with organizational leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. This program is designed for individuals with no prior post-secondary experience and typically spans two years. Curriculums include coursework covering business ethics, project management, and office technologies — like Quickbooks and Microsoft Excel.
While an associate degree doesn’t replace a bachelor’s, it serves as a valuable stepping stone for those seeking immediate entry into the workforce or planning to pursue advanced studies in the future. Upon graduation, students possess a solid understanding of administrative functions, improving their employability in entry-level positions across several industries.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online associate in administration and management program
- Introduction to Business Administration: A common core component, this course covers fundamental principles of business, introducing students to key concepts such as organizational structure, management styles, and ethical considerations. Participants gain insights into the multifaceted nature of business operations.
- Office Technologies and Software Applications: Focused on practical skills, this course familiarizes students with essential software like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace. They learn to efficiently use word processing, spreadsheet applications, and presentation tools, preparing them for real-world administrative tasks.
- Principles of Management: Exploring managerial roles and responsibilities, this course delves into planning, organizing, and leading within an organization. Students develop a foundational understanding of effective management strategies, communication techniques, and decision-making processes.
- Business Ethics and Social Responsibility: This course examines ethical dilemmas within the business world. Students explore the importance of ethical decision-making, corporate social responsibility, and the impact of business practices on society. It cultivates a sense of ethical awareness crucial for administrative roles.
Online Associate in Administration and Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online associate in administration and management degree program?
The application process for an online associate degree is relatively straightforward. To begin, visit the institution’s website and complete the online application. Common requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and essay responses; some programs may request standardized test scores.
Don’t hesitate to contact an admissions counselor before applying, as they can provide personalized guidance on application specifics, ensuring you meet requirements. They can offer insights into the application process, discuss any additional materials needed, and help overcome potential challenges, improving your chances of a successful application.
How much does an online associate in administration and management degree cost?
For the 2021-2022 academic year, public tuition at two-year institutions averaged $11,619, while private colleges averaged $27,366. Beyond tuition, additional expenses such as textbooks, technology requirements, and virtual learning fees must be considered. Online programs offer flexibility but often entail similar tuition rates, although online students experience potential savings regarding things like commuting and housing.
How long does it take to earn an online associate in administration and management degree?
Earning an online associate degree takes around two years for full-time students, with programs requiring approximately 60 credits. Part-time enrollment may extend the duration, as it often involves taking a lighter course load over a more extended period of time.
It’s also important to note that since online degrees are inherently flexible, some students may progress at an accelerated pace, while others may choose a slower approach. Students can tailor their schedules to balance work and personal commitments, impacting the overall time needed to complete the program successfully.