Best Online Associate Degree in Office Administration Programs
Check out our list of the best online associate degree programs in office administration to find out what makes each program unique.
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An associate in office administration is a two-year degree that can prepare students for positions in business offices. Potential job titles include data entry specialist, documentation specialist, executive assistant, administrative assistant, and bank teller supervisor.
An associate in office administration — a type of business degree — typically takes two years to earn. This is true for students in both online and on-campus programs. However, some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed more quickly.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average total cost of attending a two-year institution was about $12,300 during the 2022-2023 academic year. This includes tuition, fees, and room and board. In-state tuition is usually much lower than out-of-state tuition, but some online schools charge in-state tuition to all online students.
According to PayScale, graduates with an associate in office administration earned an average base salary of $39,000 per year in April 2024. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the demand for secretaries and administrative assistants will fall 10% from 2022 and 2032.
Best Online Associate in Office Administration 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.
Madison Area Technical College
Madison, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,304
$6,455
N/A
68%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $150
Credits to Graduate: 62
Madison College's AAS in office management gives you the skills to oversee business operations for many types of organizations. The program offers fully online and hybrid enrollment options, giving you the flexibility to mix campus and distance learning. You can also choose from full-time or part-time enrollment.
Usually lasting four semesters, the program includes courses such as management techniques, customer contact skills, and accounting principles. After graduation, you can pursue careers such as office manager or administrative supervisor.
$4,230
$6,399
N/A
12,152
Public
Yes
$4,304
$6,455
Madison, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,304
$6,455
N/A
68%
$4,230
$6,399
N/A
12,152
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $150
Credits to Graduate: 62
Madison College's AAS in office management gives you the skills to oversee business operations for many types of organizations. The program offers fully online and hybrid enrollment options, giving you the flexibility to mix campus and distance learning. You can also choose from full-time or part-time enrollment.
Usually lasting four semesters, the program includes courses such as management techniques, customer contact skills, and accounting principles. After graduation, you can pursue careers such as office manager or administrative supervisor.
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
Hudson, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
66%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 65
CCC&TI offers an AAS in office administration that focuses on management, customer service, and office software. Typically lasting five semesters, the program also highlights the legal and financial aspects of office management, preparing you for positions in business and government organizations.
Courses you might take in this program include advanced word processing, introduction to interpersonal communication, and social media for office professionals. The curriculum ends with a capstone course that ties together major program concepts and prepares you for employment after graduation.
N/A
N/A
59%
3,550
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Hudson, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
66%
N/A
N/A
59%
3,550
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 65
CCC&TI offers an AAS in office administration that focuses on management, customer service, and office software. Typically lasting five semesters, the program also highlights the legal and financial aspects of office management, preparing you for positions in business and government organizations.
Courses you might take in this program include advanced word processing, introduction to interpersonal communication, and social media for office professionals. The curriculum ends with a capstone course that ties together major program concepts and prepares you for employment after graduation.
Lenoir Community College
Kinston, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
95%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 65
LCC's AAS in office administration features specialization options in either general office administration or legal assistant. The school offers both program tracks fully online.
The office administration track covers topics including spreadsheets, office ethics, and office computations. The legal assistant track focuses on business law, legal terminology, and legal office procedures. Regardless of your concentration, the program ends with an office administration capstone, which provides strategies for adapting your course learning to real-life office settings.
N/A
N/A
66%
2,348
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Kinston, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
95%
N/A
N/A
66%
2,348
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 65
LCC's AAS in office administration features specialization options in either general office administration or legal assistant. The school offers both program tracks fully online.
The office administration track covers topics including spreadsheets, office ethics, and office computations. The legal assistant track focuses on business law, legal terminology, and legal office procedures. Regardless of your concentration, the program ends with an office administration capstone, which provides strategies for adapting your course learning to real-life office settings.
Fox Valley Technical College
Appleton, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$3,860
$6,977
68%
31%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $224
Credits to Graduate: 60
FVC offers an administrative professional AAS, giving you broad technical skills to manage and coordinate office environments. Highlighting both technical skills and business knowledge, the degree also focuses on communication and collaboration. With rolling admissions, you can begin your studies in either the fall or spring semester.
The program is available in both part-time and full-time formats and includes courses in web technologies, administrative procedures, and critical thinking for business. Common careers for graduates include administrative assistant, executive assistant, and office manager.
N/A
N/A
75%
11,664
Public
Yes
$3,860
$6,977
Appleton, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$3,860
$6,977
68%
31%
N/A
N/A
75%
11,664
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $224
Credits to Graduate: 60
FVC offers an administrative professional AAS, giving you broad technical skills to manage and coordinate office environments. Highlighting both technical skills and business knowledge, the degree also focuses on communication and collaboration. With rolling admissions, you can begin your studies in either the fall or spring semester.
The program is available in both part-time and full-time formats and includes courses in web technologies, administrative procedures, and critical thinking for business. Common careers for graduates include administrative assistant, executive assistant, and office manager.
Pitt Community College
Winterville, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$1,824
$6,432
N/A
77%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 68-69
In PCC's AAS in office administration program, you'll gain skills in records management, virtual office, and customer service. The program prepares you for office jobs in business, government, and other industries. After graduation, you may also be prepared to apply for industry certification exams.
The program usually takes five semesters of full-time enrollment to complete. Common courses include human resources management, office finance solutions, and advanced word processing. The final semester also includes an office administration capstone course, which draws connections between major program topics and post-graduation career paths.
N/A
N/A
62%
7,346
Public
Yes
$1,824
$6,432
Winterville, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$1,824
$6,432
N/A
77%
N/A
N/A
62%
7,346
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 68-69
In PCC's AAS in office administration program, you'll gain skills in records management, virtual office, and customer service. The program prepares you for office jobs in business, government, and other industries. After graduation, you may also be prepared to apply for industry certification exams.
The program usually takes five semesters of full-time enrollment to complete. Common courses include human resources management, office finance solutions, and advanced word processing. The final semester also includes an office administration capstone course, which draws connections between major program topics and post-graduation career paths.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,233
$6,345
N/A
35%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $150
Credits to Graduate: 60
Preparing you for entry-level office manager positions, SWTC's AAS in business management explores topics in operations, marketing, and human resource management. The program offers both fully online and hybrid enrollment options, with start dates available in August and January.
Throughout four semesters, you'll cover topics such as risk management, selling principles, and principles of finance. SWTC also offers credit for prior learning, allowing you to earn credit for material you already know. You can gain prior learning credit by completing exams or demonstrating professional credentials.
N/A
N/A
65%
2,520
Public
Yes
$4,233
$6,345
Fennimore, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,233
$6,345
N/A
35%
N/A
N/A
65%
2,520
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $150
Out-of-State | $150
Credits to Graduate: 60
Preparing you for entry-level office manager positions, SWTC's AAS in business management explores topics in operations, marketing, and human resource management. The program offers both fully online and hybrid enrollment options, with start dates available in August and January.
Throughout four semesters, you'll cover topics such as risk management, selling principles, and principles of finance. SWTC also offers credit for prior learning, allowing you to earn credit for material you already know. You can gain prior learning credit by completing exams or demonstrating professional credentials.
Montgomery Community College
Troy, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
48%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 60
Focusing on the use of technology in the workplace, MCC's AAS in office administration trains you in both technical and managerial skills. In two years of full-time study, you'll take courses such as comprehensive keyboarding, office editing, and principles of financial accounting.
The program ends with a capstone course that highlights office ethics and professional development, preparing you to enter the workforce. After graduation, you can pursue entry-level administrative jobs and also supervisor and middle management positions.
N/A
N/A
50%
712
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Troy, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
48%
N/A
N/A
50%
712
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 60
Focusing on the use of technology in the workplace, MCC's AAS in office administration trains you in both technical and managerial skills. In two years of full-time study, you'll take courses such as comprehensive keyboarding, office editing, and principles of financial accounting.
The program ends with a capstone course that highlights office ethics and professional development, preparing you to enter the workforce. After graduation, you can pursue entry-level administrative jobs and also supervisor and middle management positions.
Miami University-Hamilton
Hamilton, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$5,747
$16,372
N/A
85%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $338
Out-of-State | $350
Credits to Graduate: 62
Miami University Hamilton offers an online associate of applied business in commerce through its E-Campus. The degree highlights business management technology, giving you the skills for administrative and management positions. The program primarily serves students who already have several years of work experience.
The program core builds broad knowledge of management practices through courses such as management of small business operations and introduction to global business. After graduation, you can pursue careers including sales supervisor, project manager, and human resources specialist.
$7,406
$16,633
64%
2,289
Public
Yes
$5,747
$16,372
Hamilton, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$5,747
$16,372
N/A
85%
$7,406
$16,633
64%
2,289
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $338
Out-of-State | $350
Credits to Graduate: 62
Miami University Hamilton offers an online associate of applied business in commerce through its E-Campus. The degree highlights business management technology, giving you the skills for administrative and management positions. The program primarily serves students who already have several years of work experience.
The program core builds broad knowledge of management practices through courses such as management of small business operations and introduction to global business. After graduation, you can pursue careers including sales supervisor, project manager, and human resources specialist.
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$2,048
$8,399
N/A
66%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $104
Out-of-State | $406
Credits to Graduate: 60
EFSC's fully online AS in office management offers two concentration options in general administrative or medical office. The administrative track focuses on computer applications, electronic communications, and business office procedures. The medical track explores medical office terminology, accounts, and keyboarding.
In either track, you'll complete a program core that builds fundamental business and office skills. The program core includes a required internship, which you can complete during your final semester at an approved business or medical location in your community.
N/A
N/A
N/A
12,677
Public
Yes
$2,048
$8,399
Cocoa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$2,048
$8,399
N/A
66%
N/A
N/A
N/A
12,677
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $104
Out-of-State | $406
Credits to Graduate: 60
EFSC's fully online AS in office management offers two concentration options in general administrative or medical office. The administrative track focuses on computer applications, electronic communications, and business office procedures. The medical track explores medical office terminology, accounts, and keyboarding.
In either track, you'll complete a program core that builds fundamental business and office skills. The program core includes a required internship, which you can complete during your final semester at an approved business or medical location in your community.
Southwestern Community College
Sylva, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,392
$7,704
N/A
62%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $86
Out-of-State | $278
Credits to Graduate: 65-68
SCC offers an AAS in office administration available with fully online and in-person enrollment options. The program builds technical and interpersonal skills for office management roles, highlighting topics including customer experience and business communication. Other common courses include leadership development, database concepts, and social media marketing.
After graduation, you may be eligible to test for industry certifications. You'll also be ready for jobs such as office clerk, administrative service manager, and executive secretary.
N/A
N/A
68%
2,504
Public
Yes
$2,392
$7,704
Sylva, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,392
$7,704
N/A
62%
N/A
N/A
68%
2,504
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $86
Out-of-State | $278
Credits to Graduate: 65-68
SCC offers an AAS in office administration available with fully online and in-person enrollment options. The program builds technical and interpersonal skills for office management roles, highlighting topics including customer experience and business communication. Other common courses include leadership development, database concepts, and social media marketing.
After graduation, you may be eligible to test for industry certifications. You'll also be ready for jobs such as office clerk, administrative service manager, and executive secretary.
What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Office Administration Program?
Administrative assistants should be comfortable using technology and possess strong communication skills. They also need to be detail-oriented, organized, and sensitive to deadlines. These qualities can also help a student succeed in an associate in office administration program.
Most associate in office administration programs are about two years long and require students to complete at least 60 credits. Students learn the skills they need to work in all types of offices. They generally learn how to schedule and plan meetings, organize paper and electronic files, and make travel arrangements.
When applying to online associate in office administration programs, students should check with each school to find out if there are any in-person requirements. Some schools require in-person practicums, labs, or orientations.
Most associates in office administration result in either an associate of science (AS) or an associate of applied science (AAS) degree. The AS degree is heavy on science and math and can prepare students to continue their studies at four-year colleges or universities. Programs that award AAS degrees usually focus on giving students the skills they need to enter the workforce directly after graduation.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Associate in Office Administration Program?
Introduction to Business
This course introduces students to many facets of the business world. Students explore topics such as small business, international business, production, marketing, management, and financial accounting.Principles of Accounting
In this course, students explore topics such as reporting financial information, recording transactions, accounting theory, and the accounting cycle. They also learn about generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).Document Production I and II
These two courses reinforce touch typing skills and teach students how to correctly format business documents. In these classes, students work on their proofreading and language arts skills and learn how to manage their workspaces.Introduction to Computer Information Systems
This course introduces students to various aspects of information technology. Students learn about design and development, systems analysis, basic computer information, and business systems. They may also explore how to create simple computer programs.Microcomputer Applications
In this course, students learn how to use productivity suites, internet technologies, and operating system functions. They gain hands-on experience using presentation software, database software, spreadsheets, and word processors.
Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Office Administration Degree Program?
To get into an associate in office administration program, candidates must submit an application along with the application fee. It’s usually a good idea to apply to more than one school. In addition to the application, most schools require students to submit high school transcripts or proof of their GED diploma, along with scores from college entrance exams.
Some schools also require college application essays or letters of recommendation. Institutions may provide topics for your college application essay, or you may be able to choose your own topic. You can request letters of recommendation from your high school teachers if you’ve recently graduated, or from a supervisor at work.
If you’ve been working for a while, you may be able to get college credit for life and work experience. Check with the schools you’re applying to in order to determine if they offer this type of credit.
What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Office Administration Degree?
Career Outlook
People with an associate in office administration earned an average salary of $39,000 per year in April 2024, according to PayScale. The average salary for all associate degree graduates overall was $61,000 per year. PayScale data indicates that professionals with an associate in business administration earned an average salary of $65,000 per year in April 2024.
One common job title for graduates with an associate in office administration is administrative assistant. The BLS projects a 10% decline in jobs for secretaries and administrative assistants between 2022 and 2032.
Even though the field is declining, there are still plenty of jobs for professionals with a background in office administration. Office administration professionals can work in a variety of industries, including healthcare; educational services; scientific, professional, and technical services; government; and religion.
See where an associate in office administration degree can take you. Learn more about business administration careers.
Career Paths
Executive Administrative Assistant
Executive administrative assistants perform administrative tasks for directors and executives within a company. They help manage executives’ time by scheduling meetings and planning itineraries for travel. Executive assistants often screen phone calls, run errands, and draft letters on behalf of executives. They also supervise the work of the administrative support staff.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $70,310
Documentation Specialist
Documentation specialists work for companies that utilize written manuals, records, policy briefs, or other forms of written communications. They ensure that the company’s documentation is properly organized, stored, and maintained. They work in offices, creating new documentation as required. They may work for insurance companies, in legal offices, or for the government.
- Average Annual Salary (April 2023): $55,630
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform office tasks to help organizations run more smoothly. They use computers, copiers, and other office equipment. They must know how to use common office applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Administrative assistants often answer phone calls and take messages. They also set up staff meetings, prepare and send memos, and perform basic bookkeeping operations.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $44,280
Data Entry Keyer
Data entry keyers or clerks enter data into computers. They may enter orders, accounting information, or other data. The work is often repetitive, but entering the data correctly is of utmost importance. Data entry clerks may enter patients’ insurance information, key in product information for retailers, and update patient information for medical offices.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $37,790
Bank Teller
Bank tellers process monetary transactions at a bank. They collect loan payments, deposit money, and cash checks. Tellers typically count the money in their drawers at the beginning of each shift and again at the end of the shift to make sure they have the right amount. A discrepancy indicates that a mistake was made. Accuracy is very important because bank tellers work with money all day.
- Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $44,480
Continuing Education
Although graduates with an associate degree in business administration earn more than those with a degree in office administration, the opposite is true at the baccalaureate level. According to PayScale, people with a bachelor’s in business administration earn an average of $78,000 per year in April 2023, while those with a bachelor’s in office administration earn an average of $69,000 per year in April 2023.
Graduates with a bachelor’s in office administration or business administration may decide to advance their education even further. A master’s in business administration (MBA) is a popular choice. An MBA can prepare learners for high-level leadership positions within a business or organization. A doctorate in business administration is the terminal degree for professionals in this field.
Office Administration Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Office Administration Program?
Cost
According to the NCES, the average total cost of attending a two-year institution was about $12,300 during the 2022-2023 academic year. Calculate the true cost of an associate degree by factoring in additional fees for books, transportation, and other necessary expenses. Tuition at public schools is usually lower for in-state students than for out-of-state students. Online program costs typically are comparable to on-campus programs, but that can vary depending on the school.
Program Format
Synchronous programs require students to log in at specific times, while asynchronous programs allow students to set their own schedules. Check to see whether the school you’re considering offers asynchronous or synchronous programs. Part-time programs give you more flexibility to schedule school around work, while full-time programs and accelerated programs allow you to earn your degree more quickly.
Location
Location is obviously important if you are attending classes in person, but it may be important even for online courses. Some schools have limited in-person requirements for their online programs, and you may need to travel to the school’s location. When deciding whether to attend school online or in-person, make sure you’re able to fulfill any in-person requirements.
Accreditation
Accredited schools have been approved by a third party, which has determined the institutions’ academic programs meet certain standards. There are two kinds of accreditation, regional and national. Regional accreditation is most important. The credits from regionally-accredited institutions are generally transferable to other colleges and universities.
Student Support
Think about the types of student services you might need, and check to see which schools offer them. Many schools offer mentorship services or academic advising. They may also offer tutoring services, including extra help with math and writing. Students studying virtually may be able to take advantage of online student services such as career services, help with internships, and alumni networks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Office Administration Programs
An associate in office administration is likely to be worthwhile if you can earn significantly more than your current salary with the degree. For example, if you earn $30,000 now and expect to earn $44,480 per year as an administrative assistant, pursuing the degree may be worth it. However, if you plan to use that administrative assistant job as a stepping stone to a career as an executive assistant, the degree becomes more worthwhile. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for an executive assistant was $70,310 in May 2023. That makes it well worth the investment to earn a degree in office administration.
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