Online Associate Degree In Business Administration

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Updated August 31, 2022

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Online Associate Degree In Business Administration

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The Most Affordable Paths & Career Potential in Business Administration

An associate degree can lead to higher earning potential and more job opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with an associate degree earn a median $836 per week, $124 more than the median weekly earnings for individuals with a high school diploma or GED. Many graduates of associate programs pursue a bachelor's degree, which can further increase career opportunities.

Earning a business administration associate degree online prepares students for entry-level careers in a variety of industries. Coursework strengthens skills in marketable areas like mathematics and communication. This guide includes information about typical curricula for business administration associate degree programs and career prospects for graduates.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Quiz: Is An Online Business Administration Associate Program Right for Me?

If you are considering pursuing an associate degree in business administration or a related field, this quiz can help you understand the unique details of business administration programs.

Q: Are you interested in developing business fundamentals related to planning, organization, marketing, communication techniques, and human resources, rather than focusing exclusively on financial elements of business?

A: An associate degree in business administration can help you learn the ins and outs of business, including general management practices and operational fundamentals. These programs provide a broad introduction to large and small business structures.

Those who prefer a more specialized education can pursue programs with a narrower focus. For example, learners interested in bookkeeping practices can pursue an online associate degree in accounting, while students planning to launch a small business may earn an online associate degree in entrepreneurship.

Q: Does a two-year degree program feel like the right study timeline?

A: While curricula vary, associate degree programs in business administration typically require 60-64 credits, which most full-time students can complete in two years.

Online programs generally offer more flexibility than on-campus options. Most distance learning programs offer part-time enrollment options, which can help busy students balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. Learners who want to graduate more quickly can often take more courses per semester to earn their degree at an accelerated pace.

Q: Do you have prior credits to transfer?

A: Associate programs typically accept previous credits from dual-enrollment courses or an accredited college or university. Many schools also award credit for work and life experience. Students may receive credit for military service and training and professional experience in the industry. Contact your school's admissions office to learn how to earn credit for previous coursework and experience.

Q: Are you interested in eventually earning a bachelor's degree?

A: If you do not plan to pursue a four-year program, an associate degree in business administration can lead to many career options. An associate degree provides the knowledge necessary to secure various roles in businesses.

If you do plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in business administration, you may be able to apply credits from your associate degree program and earn your bachelor's in two additional years. Contact your department advisor for details.

What Will You Learn in an Online Associate Business Administration Program?

Associate programs often emphasize general education and include coursework in a variety of subject areas. Students earning their business administration associate degree online typically complete approximately 60 credits, about half of the credit requirements for a bachelor's degree. General education coursework often includes classes in math, composition, and social sciences.

Business administration majors also take courses in areas like accounting, management, and computer science. An associate degree in the field prepares students to pursue entry-level business positions in a variety of industries.

Common Classes and Coursework

Learners earning their business administration associate degree online often take courses similar to those listed below. However, specific course offerings and titles vary by program and school.

Skills You Will Gain

An associate degree in business administration helps students gain skills necessary for a variety of jobs in the field. Associate programs also prepare students to pursue further education. Students earning a business administration associate degree online gain basic skills in management, finance, and marketing, along with interdisciplinary skills from general education coursework.

Average Degree Length

A variety of factors can impact the amount of time necessary to earn an associate degree in business administration online. Degree completion time depends on factors like enrollment status, degree requirements, and program format.

Career Opportunities with an Associate Degree in Business Administration

Professionals with an associate degree typically have more options for business administration jobs than individuals with no college experience. Associate programs provide learners with the skills necessary to succeed in a variety of careers and job fields, in business administration and other areas. This section introduces potential careers for business administration associate degree-holders and details earning potential for professionals in various positions.

Potential Careers and Salaries

Professionals with an education in business administration can pursue careers in a variety of job fields. Graduates often pursue roles in banking, management, customer service, sales, and corporate business. Business administration professionals may work in the corporate, nonprofit, educational, or private sectors. Many careers for graduates include strong potential for job growth and advancement, especially for individuals who pursue further education.

For professionals with an associate degree in business administration, salary depends on factors like position and employer. The table below includes common careers for graduates with an associate in business administration and the median salary for each position.

Customer Service Representatives

Customer service representatives work for businesses and corporations. These professionals interact with customers to resolve issues, receive and respond to feedback, and provide guidance related to products and services. Median Annual Salary: $33,750

Bank Tellers

Bank tellers work for financial institutions, assisting bank customers in making transactions. They generally work at banking buildings, help desks, and drive-through bank windows. Median Annual Salary: $40,240

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

Bookkeeping and accounting clerks use software to maintain financial records for businesses and organizations. These professionals record transactions, payments, and other financial reports. They may also assist with tax filings. Median Annual Salary: $38,880

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants

Administrative assistants work in various settings, handling clerical duties. These assistants answer phones, schedule appointments, and maintain filing systems. Professional responsibilities vary based on work environment. Median Annual Salary:

Legal Assistants

Paralegals and legal assistants help practicing lawyers prepare for cases. These assistants gather facts, organize documents, and research cases. Paralegals need at least an associate degree. Median Annual Salary: $50,940

Five Business Administration Scholarships to Apply For

Earning a business administration associate degree online can lead to a variety of career and educational opportunities. Scholarships are a great way to fund a degree. Students pursuing their associate degree in business administration online can apply for the scholarships listed below.

Toptal Scholarships for Women

Who Can Apply: Women over the age of 16 can apply for this scholarship. Winners receive a monetary award to fund their education and a year-long mentorship with a professional in their field. Amount: $10,000 Apply for Scholarship

Karin Carton Gallery Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Any student enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year college may apply, with preference given to art and business students. Applicants must submit a personal essay and demonstrate an interest in art. Amount: $300 Apply for Scholarship

Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship

Who Can Apply: This award supports students pursuing a degree or certification at a trade school. Applicants should be majoring in an area related to construction, such as business. Amount: $5,000 Apply for Scholarship

Paul S. Mills Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Applicants should be in pursuit of an undergraduate degree in a financial field, such as business administration. Applicants must demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Amount: $1,000 Apply for Scholarship

RentDeals.com Dreamer Scholarship

Who Can Apply: This scholarship is reserved for students enrolled in a regionally accredited postsecondary institution who are pursuing a degree in business or science. Applicants must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit a letter of recommendation. Amount: $1,000 Apply for Scholarship

Educational Advancement in Business Administration

Many graduates of online business administration associate degree programs pursue further education. Although an associate degree often leads to more job opportunities and higher earning potential than a high school diploma, a bachelor's degree often results in an even higher annual salary, according to data from PayScale. This section details the process of earning a four-year degree, along with degree options for business administration students.

Should You Transfer to a Four-Year Degree Program?

An associate degree in business administration provides a good foundation for bachelor's studies in the field. Before transferring to a four-year program, students should consider program options and research transfer policies. Contact an academic advisor at each prospective school to discuss your options before transferring. Associate students who plan to pursue a four-year degree should begin considering transfer options before graduation.

What Degree Paths Should You Consider?

Students with an associate degree in business administration can pursue bachelor's degrees in various majors and fields. Below are a few examples of educational paths for individuals with an associate in business administration.BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BUSINESSThis degree provides a broad business foundation and prepares students for careers in various business settings. Some schools offer concentrations to tailor the degree to a specific career field.BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTINGThis degree builds on skills gained during associate studies, preparing students to sit for certification exams in accounting and to become licensed accountants.BACHELOR'S IN LIBERAL ARTSThis degree offers a broad, interdisciplinary education that incorporates courses in a variety of subjects and fields. Graduates can pursue careers in many different industries.

Professional Organizations and Resources

Professional organizations provide students in online business administration programs with resources and networking opportunities. Business administration students can benefit from the organizations and resources below.

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