Online degree programs in office
administration prepare students for a versatile career since office
administrators are needed in many job sectors, including education,
business, government, law and healthcare. Programs are found under
various titles, such as administrative office management and office
systems technology. Depending on the school, graduates earn an Associate
in Business, Associate in Applied Science or Associate in Science
degree.
Office administrators coordinate diverse aspects of business
operations, such as scheduling meetings, processing mail and maintaining
files. Multitasking is an important aspect to the job, as well as
having leadership skills to implement office operations. An online
associate's degree in office administration trains students in these
areas and more, including decision-making, information technology and
systems, organization, project management, communications and human
resources. Some online degree programs are geared toward a particular
profession; the most common specialty program is
medical office administration, but law office administration is also available.
Many office administration programs can be taken completely online
and completed within two years. Courses may be taught via telecourse,
videoconferencing or online. Some programs require the tests be taken
in-person at a local library or college. Programs are open to
entry-level and experienced office workers alike. A basic familiarity
with computers and keyboarding is expected of students, although classes
in both are part of the curriculum.
Students need access to a computer with Internet, e-mail and a
CD-RW/DVD combo drive. Adobe Acrobat Reader may be necessary, along with
downloadable software such as RealPlayer or Windows Media Player. Many
schools use a course management system like Blackboard or a
distance-learning software, and they allow students to communicate with
their instructors and access course materials.
Common Online Office Administration Courses
Students access classes online and gain hands-on training with office
software and technology. Required courses may also include general
education, such as math, art and social science.
Keyboard Skills Course
Students learn the touch system and focus on increasing accuracy and
speed. Online tests and exercises help identify and correct areas of
difficulty.
Topics of study in this class include computer hardware and software,
electronic records, multimedia and the Internet. Students learn how to
purchase and use equipment and troubleshoot problems.
Records Management Course
Security and accessibility of records is a key component in today's
office environment. Methods of organization for various forms of
recordkeeping media are covered, along with set-up, protection and
maintenance of files.
Professional Development Course
Students explore the human relations aspects of administration. An
image of professionalism is examined through the lens of etiquette,
appearance, multicultural awareness and interpersonal skills. Students
also learn how to support the professional growth of employees.
Office Management Course
The course covers the direction of procedures involved in office
management. Travel planning, scheduling, telephone practices and
protocols, ergonomic safety and event planning are some of the topics
included.
Jobs in office administration were expected to increase, according to
the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), at a rate of about 11%
between 2008 and 2018 (
www.bls.gov). Job titles include, but
aren't limited to, clerical supervisor, data administrator, office
manager and administrative assistant. Individuals with excellent
communication and leadership skills, as well as the ability to stay
current on advances in technology, have the competitive edge needed to
succeed in this career. The BLS reported that the median wage for office
administrators in May 2008 was $45,790.
Continuing Education
Many office administration certificates are available, particularly
in specialized areas, such as medical transcription, legal receptionist
and office software specialist. Certificate programs can be found online
and on campus. The International Association of Administrative
Professionals is one of many organizations that provides certification
and testing in office-skills proficiency.
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