Best Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Programs
Learn what it takes to earn an administrative assistant associate degree. Discover the salary and career outlook for graduates.
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Nearly every industry needs qualified administrative assistants. These professionals perform front-facing and behind-the-scenes tasks. Without their help, organizations would fail to run smoothly. Thanks to convenient online learning options, anyone can pursue this career. In fact, online business programs tend to cost less than in-person programs.
Most administrative assistants work in offices, but many professionals work remotely. The need for virtual assistants is rising, especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there may be fewer open positions available for some roles in this industry.
In this guide, we discuss the career outlook and salary information using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Discover what it takes to earn an online administrative assistant associate degree. Keep reading to also learn what to consider when choosing a program, such as cost and location.
Popular Online Associate Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Administrative Assistant Associate Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Northwood Technical College
Shell Lake, WI2 yearOnline
$4,303
$6,881
N/A
71%
Founded in 1912 and located in Shell Lake, Northwood Technical College (formerly Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College) offers an administrative coordinator associate degree that focuses on preparing students for administrative work in a variety of industries. For example, learners who graduate from this online program can pursue jobs in nonprofit, education, and healthcare settings.
The curriculum covers software/hardware knowledge, as well as interpersonal communication skills. Coursework also focuses on event planning, troubleshooting technology needs, and serving as a successful virtual assistant. Interested applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate to apply.
Northwood Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Coordinator (Administrative Professional) Associate Degree
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $163 per credit (in-state); $232 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
77%
2,677
Public
Yes
$4,303
$6,881
Shell Lake, WI2 yearOnline
$4,303
$6,881
N/A
71%
N/A
N/A
77%
2,677
Public
Yes
Founded in 1912 and located in Shell Lake, Northwood Technical College (formerly Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College) offers an administrative coordinator associate degree that focuses on preparing students for administrative work in a variety of industries. For example, learners who graduate from this online program can pursue jobs in nonprofit, education, and healthcare settings.
The curriculum covers software/hardware knowledge, as well as interpersonal communication skills. Coursework also focuses on event planning, troubleshooting technology needs, and serving as a successful virtual assistant. Interested applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate to apply.
Northwood Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Coordinator (Administrative Professional) Associate Degree
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $163 per credit (in-state); $232 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Northeast Community College
Norfolk, NE2 yearCampus + Online
$3,240
$4,530
N/A
39%
Located in Norfolk, Nebraska, Northeast Community College offers over 130 academic programs. The administrative professional degrees offered by the college focus on developing strong technical skills.
Students can pursue a 64-credit AAS or a 60-credit AS. Coursework in both programs covers topics like accounting, records management, data processing, and keyboarding. Students in the AAS track also complete an internship, gaining important on-the-job-experience.
The International Association of Administrative Professionals supports students in this program with networking events and other opportunities. All applicants need a high school diploma or a GED certificate to apply. Northeast Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Professional - Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Arts
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $105 per credit (in-state); $147 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 or 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT required
N/A
N/A
68%
5,583
Public
Yes
$3,240
$4,530
Norfolk, NE2 yearCampus + Online
$3,240
$4,530
N/A
39%
N/A
N/A
68%
5,583
Public
Yes
Located in Norfolk, Nebraska, Northeast Community College offers over 130 academic programs. The administrative professional degrees offered by the college focus on developing strong technical skills.
Students can pursue a 64-credit AAS or a 60-credit AS. Coursework in both programs covers topics like accounting, records management, data processing, and keyboarding. Students in the AAS track also complete an internship, gaining important on-the-job-experience.
The International Association of Administrative Professionals supports students in this program with networking events and other opportunities. All applicants need a high school diploma or a GED certificate to apply. Northeast Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Professional - Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Arts
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $105 per credit (in-state); $147 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 or 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT required
McHenry County College
Crystal Lake, IL2 yearCampus + Online
$11,091
$14,368
100%
36%
Founded in 1967 and located in Crystal Lake, Illinois, McHenry County College's online administrative office management program focuses on topics like human relations, communication, and the latest technology procedures.
Graduates can pursue work as office managers, medical office assistants, and office support specialists. To improve their employment prospects, individuals can also take national certification exams offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals upon graduation.
Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to graduate, and applicants should have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. McHenry County College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Office Management - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: In-district: $169 per credit (in-district, in-state); $427 per credit (out-of-district, in-state); $522 pre credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 64 weeks
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT scores used for placement
N/A
N/A
70%
8,874
Public
Yes
$11,091
$14,368
Crystal Lake, IL2 yearCampus + Online
$11,091
$14,368
100%
36%
N/A
N/A
70%
8,874
Public
Yes
Founded in 1967 and located in Crystal Lake, Illinois, McHenry County College's online administrative office management program focuses on topics like human relations, communication, and the latest technology procedures.
Graduates can pursue work as office managers, medical office assistants, and office support specialists. To improve their employment prospects, individuals can also take national certification exams offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals upon graduation.
Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to graduate, and applicants should have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. McHenry County College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Office Management - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: In-district: $169 per credit (in-district, in-state); $427 per credit (out-of-district, in-state); $522 pre credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 64 weeks
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT scores used for placement
Minnesota West Community and Technical College
Granite Falls, MN2 yearCampus + Online
$5,848
$11,300
N/A
48%
Based in Worthington, Minnesota West Community and Technical College delivers online classes as well as on-campus options in multiple locations throughout the state, including Canby, Granite Falls, Jackson, and Pipestone.
The school's online administrative assistant associate program awards an AAS and features coursework that provides students with essential knowledge in word processing, data entry, business communications, public relations, and more. Students also go over records management and proper filling systems. Interested applicants need a high school diploma to apply. Minnesota West Community and Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Assistant - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $194 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
60%
3,352
Public
Yes
$5,848
$11,300
Granite Falls, MN2 yearCampus + Online
$5,848
$11,300
N/A
48%
N/A
N/A
60%
3,352
Public
Yes
Based in Worthington, Minnesota West Community and Technical College delivers online classes as well as on-campus options in multiple locations throughout the state, including Canby, Granite Falls, Jackson, and Pipestone.
The school's online administrative assistant associate program awards an AAS and features coursework that provides students with essential knowledge in word processing, data entry, business communications, public relations, and more. Students also go over records management and proper filling systems. Interested applicants need a high school diploma to apply. Minnesota West Community and Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Assistant - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $194 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Vincennes University
Vincennes, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$6,116
$15,201
N/A
15%
Vincennes University — based in southwest Indiana — enrolls over 17,000 students across multiple campuses and online. The school's online associate of science in information technology program offers a concentration in business office management technology. Graduates can pursue entry-level employment in the field or transfer to a four-year institution.
Students in this program learn about using communication tools in a professional office environment. Specific courses include business documents and presentations, web page design, and information and data security. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED. Vincennes University is regionally accredited by the HLC.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Associate of Science in Information Technology With a Business Office Management Technology Concentration
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $220 per credit (in-state); $275 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
67%
16,773
Public
Yes
$6,116
$15,201
Vincennes, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$6,116
$15,201
N/A
15%
N/A
N/A
67%
16,773
Public
Yes
Vincennes University — based in southwest Indiana — enrolls over 17,000 students across multiple campuses and online. The school's online associate of science in information technology program offers a concentration in business office management technology. Graduates can pursue entry-level employment in the field or transfer to a four-year institution.
Students in this program learn about using communication tools in a professional office environment. Specific courses include business documents and presentations, web page design, and information and data security. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED. Vincennes University is regionally accredited by the HLC.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Associate of Science in Information Technology With a Business Office Management Technology Concentration
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $220 per credit (in-state); $275 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Barton County Community College
Great Bend, KS2 yearCampus + Online
$2,880
$3,528
100%
59%
Founded in 1969, Barton County Community College now enrolls over 15,000 students annually. The school's online associate of applied science in business administrative technology program prepares students for high-level administrative support roles. Participants learn to prepare statistical reports, handle information requests, conduct research, and perform clerical functions.
Graduates conduct a job search project at the end of the program and perform mock interviews in order to prepare for employment. This degree is intended to prepare graduates for entry-level careers, and it may not be suitable for students interested in transferring to a four-year school after graduation. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED to enroll.
Barton County Community College is regionally accredited by the HLC.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Associate of Applied Science in Business Administrative Technology
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $150 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum required
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
50%
4,269
Public
Yes
$2,880
$3,528
Great Bend, KS2 yearCampus + Online
$2,880
$3,528
100%
59%
N/A
N/A
50%
4,269
Public
Yes
Founded in 1969, Barton County Community College now enrolls over 15,000 students annually. The school's online associate of applied science in business administrative technology program prepares students for high-level administrative support roles. Participants learn to prepare statistical reports, handle information requests, conduct research, and perform clerical functions.
Graduates conduct a job search project at the end of the program and perform mock interviews in order to prepare for employment. This degree is intended to prepare graduates for entry-level careers, and it may not be suitable for students interested in transferring to a four-year school after graduation. Applicants need a high school diploma or GED to enroll.
Barton County Community College is regionally accredited by the HLC.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Associate of Applied Science in Business Administrative Technology
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $150 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 64 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum required
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Eau Claire, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,304
$6,455
N/A
40%
Founded in 1912, Chippewa Valley Technical College has campuses in multiple locations across the state. The college also offers a variety of online programs, including an associate-level executive assistant degree that prepares students to work in the legal or medical field with two different concentrations.
Coursework helps participants develop strong communication and computer skills. Students also learn to coordinate events, prepare presentations, support business leaders, and manage projects. The program offers several internship opportunities so students can gain real-world experience. Upon graduation, students may take the customer service representative or human resources administration certificate exam.
Applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate to enroll. Chippewa Valley Technical College is regionally accredited by the HLC, and its executive assistant program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Executive Assistant - Associate Degree
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $149 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: No requirements specified
N/A
N/A
61%
8,364
Public
Yes
$4,304
$6,455
Eau Claire, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,304
$6,455
N/A
40%
N/A
N/A
61%
8,364
Public
Yes
Founded in 1912, Chippewa Valley Technical College has campuses in multiple locations across the state. The college also offers a variety of online programs, including an associate-level executive assistant degree that prepares students to work in the legal or medical field with two different concentrations.
Coursework helps participants develop strong communication and computer skills. Students also learn to coordinate events, prepare presentations, support business leaders, and manage projects. The program offers several internship opportunities so students can gain real-world experience. Upon graduation, students may take the customer service representative or human resources administration certificate exam.
Applicants need a high school diploma or GED certificate to enroll. Chippewa Valley Technical College is regionally accredited by the HLC, and its executive assistant program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Executive Assistant - Associate Degree
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $149 per credit
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: No requirements specified
Jamestown Community College
Jamestown, NY2 yearCampus + Online
$5,440
$10,880
100%
36%
Located in southwest New York, Jamestown Community College enrolls a little over 2,000 students every year. The college offers an online administrative professional degree that teaches students important communication, management, and organization skills.
Coursework in this associate of applied science program focuses on using industry-standard technology and filing within an organization. The curriculum also helps develop necessary soft skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making. Individuals need a high school diploma or a GED certificate to be eligible for enrollment. Jamestown Community College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Professional - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $217 per credit hour (in-state); $434 per credit hour (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT scores used for placement
N/A
N/A
53%
3,756
Public
Yes
$5,440
$10,880
Jamestown, NY2 yearCampus + Online
$5,440
$10,880
100%
36%
N/A
N/A
53%
3,756
Public
Yes
Located in southwest New York, Jamestown Community College enrolls a little over 2,000 students every year. The college offers an online administrative professional degree that teaches students important communication, management, and organization skills.
Coursework in this associate of applied science program focuses on using industry-standard technology and filing within an organization. The curriculum also helps develop necessary soft skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making. Individuals need a high school diploma or a GED certificate to be eligible for enrollment. Jamestown Community College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Professional - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $217 per credit hour (in-state); $434 per credit hour (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT scores used for placement
Palo Alto College
San Antonio, TX2 yearCampus + Online
$6,450
$13,980
100%
64%
With a main campus located in San Antonio, Texas, Palo Alto College offers in-person classes to students at multiple Texas locations. The school also oversees online programs, including an administrative assistant associate of applied science program that covers organization, management, and industry technology. Graduates of the program leave prepared to work in a variety of administrative settings.
To customize their study, students can work towards a variety of certificates while enrolled in the program. These include general office, secretarial assistant, administrative assistance, and bill and account collector credentials. A milestone course on information and data entry is also required. Palo Alto College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Assistant - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $86 per credit (in-district, in-state); $215 per credit (out-of-district, in-state); $466 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirements
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
62%
10,641
Public
Yes
$6,450
$13,980
San Antonio, TX2 yearCampus + Online
$6,450
$13,980
100%
64%
N/A
N/A
62%
10,641
Public
Yes
With a main campus located in San Antonio, Texas, Palo Alto College offers in-person classes to students at multiple Texas locations. The school also oversees online programs, including an administrative assistant associate of applied science program that covers organization, management, and industry technology. Graduates of the program leave prepared to work in a variety of administrative settings.
To customize their study, students can work towards a variety of certificates while enrolled in the program. These include general office, secretarial assistant, administrative assistance, and bill and account collector credentials. A milestone course on information and data entry is also required. Palo Alto College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Administrative Assistant - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $86 per credit (in-district, in-state); $215 per credit (out-of-district, in-state); $466 per credit (out-of-state)
- Credit Requirements: 60 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirements
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Chemeketa Community College
Salem, OR2 yearCampus + Online
$4,896
$11,052
N/A
60%
Located in Salem, Oregon, Chemeketa Community College boasts small class sizes throughout its multiple campus locations. The school also offers online programs, including a suite of offerings for aspiring administrative assistant. Learners can choose from online AAS degrees for aspiring accounting administrative assistants, medical administrative assistants, administrative office professionals, and virtual office assistants.
Coursework focuses on coordinating field-specific processes and producing documents in various professional office environments. Interested applicants need a high school diploma or a GED to enroll. Chemeketa Community College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Office Administration and Technology - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $126 per quarter credit
- Credit Requirements: 92-101 quarter credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
N/A
N/A
61%
7,642
Public
Yes
$4,896
$11,052
Salem, OR2 yearCampus + Online
$4,896
$11,052
N/A
60%
N/A
N/A
61%
7,642
Public
Yes
Located in Salem, Oregon, Chemeketa Community College boasts small class sizes throughout its multiple campus locations. The school also offers online programs, including a suite of offerings for aspiring administrative assistant. Learners can choose from online AAS degrees for aspiring accounting administrative assistants, medical administrative assistants, administrative office professionals, and virtual office assistants.
Coursework focuses on coordinating field-specific processes and producing documents in various professional office environments. Interested applicants need a high school diploma or a GED to enroll. Chemeketa Community College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Program Snapshot
- Program Name: Office Administration and Technology - Associate of Applied Science
- School Status: Public
- Tuition: $126 per quarter credit
- Credit Requirements: 92-101 quarter credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum specified
- Standardized Tests: Not required
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Program?
During their studies, aspiring administrative assistants hone communication and technical skills. An online associate in administrative assistant program features lectures and class discussions. Some courses may also require live video discussion calls. Others feature discussion forums where students type responses based on prompts. Some professors give lectures and answer questions in real-time. Others pre-record their lectures.
Online exams are usually timed, and students are forbidden from opening new tabs to research answers. Certain virtual programs may require learners to take proctored exams at test sites. As in most degree programs, students can expect tests with multiple-choice and essay questions.
An associate in administrative assistant program usually takes full-time learners two years to finish. Students complete the required 60 credits by taking about 15 credits per semester. Some virtual programs may require learners to participate in internships, as well. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin suggest that students should study 2-3 hours per week, per credit.
Many programs also allow learners to pick a concentration. Common concentrations include medical administrative assisting and legal administrative assisting.
Most schools pair students with academic advisers. These university professionals work as mentors. They can help learners select the best courses for their career goals and schedules. Graduates also often receive support through an alumni network.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Program?
Interpersonal Communication
In this class, students examine interpersonal communication theories and how they influence daily interactions. Learners also examine nonverbal communication cues. Students work on a group project to test their interpersonal communication skills.
Administrative Software
In this course, students practice using data entry and record-keeping software. The class also covers general software, like Microsoft Excel, using free software trials. However, some courses may require students to purchase some software.
Accounting Foundations
An accounting foundation class covers financial management from an assistant perspective. Students learn how to record and implement budgets. This class also covers auditing and interest rate calculation.
Record Keeping
In a class about record-keeping, students learn how to maintain and protect company records. The course highlights record-keeping methods for client information and inventory. Students also learn how to create a distribution management system.
Office Procedures
In an office procedures course, students learn about common business structures. Students also learn how to make travel arrangements and schedule appointments. This class covers telephone and office etiquette.
Additional Courses in an Administrative Assistant Associate Program
Coursework in an administrative assistant associate program differs from school to school. The list of sample courses below are just a few examples of classes that you might take during your program.
Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Program?
Most applications require students to answer basic demographic questions and submit official transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters. Schools also often require applicants to answer short essay questions or submit an application essay.
Transcripts must be delivered to all institutions a student applies to by their previous schools and arrive sealed. Recommendation letters should be written by a student’s former employer, teacher, or mentor. Most colleges also request that students fill out the FAFSA. They use this to determine scholarship allocation.
To gain admission to any college, individuals must possess a high school degree. Some schools accept an equivalent like the GED diploma. Most colleges and universities also set minimum GPA, and SAT or ACT score requirements. However, community colleges usually allow anyone to enroll. Associate programs rarely require application interviews. Applicants receive admittance confirmation or denial through an email or letter.
What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Degree?
Career Outlook
Some careers in this field are rising and others are declining. The BLS projects that the need for receptionists should is at a steady rate between 2022 and 2032. However, the need for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks is projected to decrease by 6% during the same period. The BLS also projects positions for customer service representatives will decrease by 5%. For context, the average projected growth rate across all occupations is 3%.
As more jobs become remote and self-employment rates rise, the need for virtual assistants may increase. Virtual assistants may find work through an agency, or work with their own clients.
Salary also varies greatly by career type. In the next section, we highlight jobs graduates often pursue with this degree. Learn more about where an associate in administrative assistant can take you.
Career Paths
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
These professionals assist companies with organization efforts, answer phone calls, and coordinate meetings. Some secretaries and administrative assistants support one senior professional, like a CEO or executive director. Others provide help for entire departments. Around half of all assistants work in healthcare, education, and professional services.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $46,010
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
These clerks organize financial records for the companies they work for. They must possess strong math skills and use specific software and databases. They produce balance sheets and reports and verify the accuracy of financial records. Some bookkeepers and clerks work part-time for one office. Others work full-time for multiple clients.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $47,440
General Office Clerks
Nearly every industry hires general office clerks. These professionals answer phones, create documents, and organize records. Many people working in these roles help digitize records and distribute incoming mail. They must know how to use basic computer software, like Microsoft Office. Some companies require these clerks to complete additional tasks, like helping to plan internal company events.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $40,480
Receptionists
Receptionists typically work at front desks in offices. They greet customers and clients who visit in person. They also answer phone calls and stock office supplies. The healthcare and social assistance industries hire the most receptionists. However, receptionists work in nearly every field.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $35,840
Customer Service Representatives
These employees work one-on-one with customers to ensure satisfaction. They field customer complaints and solve issues. Customer service representatives must possess strong knowledge of the company they represent and communication skills. Customer service representatives can work in offices or remotely.
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $39,680
Administrative Assistant Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Earning an administrative assistant associate degree can prepare you to eventually transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program. A bachelor’s degree often provides higher salary opportunities than just an associate degree alone, making it a great option to advance in your career or even pursue other career options. Students with an administrative assistant associate degree could benefit from pursuing one of the bachelor’s degrees listed below.
Administrative assistants do not need continuing education to fulfill any licensure requirements. Yet, administrative assistants may improve their job prospects by pursuing additional education. Continuing education may also help assistants earn raises in their current roles. Professionals who go on to earn bachelor’s degrees may also make more money.
Professional organizations often offer continuing education through webinars and conferences. The American Society of Administrative Professionals, for example, offers a Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence.
Businesses like Microsoft also provide certifications for many software programs, including Excel. Reading industry newsletters and journals can also help assistants stay up-to-date on industry knowledge.
Keep in mind that continuing education opportunities often cost money. You should check with your employer to see if they reimburse employees for professional development expenses.
Bachelor of Arts in Business
A BA in business builds upon many of the same basic skills in an associate program, like management, communication, and using software to facilitate business. You may also take courses in mathematics, ethics, logic and reasoning, and entrepreneurship.
Bachelor of Arts in Accounting
The BA in accounting features courses in different areas of mathematics, for which an associate degree offers good preparation. This degree also emphasizes using computers and software for accounting, auditing, and taxes.
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts
A liberal arts degree is a great option for students who may wish to explore multiple areas of study housed under a single degree. These degrees allows students to customize their coursework, giving them an opportunity to take courses in different departments and obtain a broader education.
How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Administrative Assistant Program?
Cost
Cost is likely a primary factor students consider when choosing a program. In addition to tuition, learners should assess the true cost of college by factoring in extra expenses. These include textbooks, activity fees, and room and board. Keep in mind that out-of-state and on-campus programs often cost more than in-state or online options. However, financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans, can impact a college’s affordability, too.
Program Format
A program’s format can influence learners’ success. People who want to graduate more quickly should consider accelerated programs. Alternatively, people who work may prefer a part-time option. Synchronous programs offer more accountability with scheduled class times. While learners who want flexibility often thrive in asynchronous programs.
Location
Even aspiring virtual learners should consider the program’s location. Many online programs feature some in-person requirements. Students should double check whether the programs they’re interested in mandate any campus visits and decide whether that would be feasible. Also, living within driving distance to your school can be beneficial, regardless. Online students are often allowed to use campus facilities, like the library or recreation center, and can seek guidance from their professors in person.
Accreditation
When it comes to determining a program’s quality, pay attention to college accreditation. The Department of Education oversees third-party accrediting agencies that grant accreditation based on assessments. Schools may earn regional or national accreditation. Colleges and universities must take steps to maintain accreditation each year.
Student Support
Before enrolling in an associate in administrative assistant program, research thestudent services each school offers. Some colleges coordinate internship and mentorship programs, for example. Many also have alumni networks and career centers to help students and graduates find employment. Certain schools provide online student services, as well, including online tutoring services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Administrative Assistant Programs
Many graduates find earning an online administrative assistant associate degree worth it. Administrative assistants typically only need a high school or GED diploma. However, workers with an associate degree may earn more.
People who possess an associate degree also leave open the option to earn a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree program only takes two years to complete. Also, many schools offer affordable online options. As a result, the time and financial investment are low compared to the potential reward.
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