In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, office managers serve as the backbone of organizational efficiency, coordinating resources, managing administrative functions, and ensuring smooth daily operations. An Associate degree in Office Management provides students with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in this vital role, preparing graduates for immediate employment or advancement in a variety of business settings.
What is an Office Management AA Program Like?
What is an Office Management Associate Degree?
An Office Management Associate degree is a two-year program designed to prepare students for administrative and managerial roles in office environments across industries. These programs typically award either an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Science (A.S.), or Associate in Applied Science degree, depending on the institution.
The degree combines technical skills in modern office technologies with fundamental business concepts, communication strategies, and management principles. Graduates develop proficiency in essential office functions while gaining the leadership abilities necessary to supervise staff and coordinate office operations effectively.
Program Delivery Options
Most colleges offer flexible learning options to accommodate diverse student needs:
- Online Programs: Many institutions like Eastern Florida State College and Bryant & Stratton College offer fully online Office Management degrees, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedule.
- On-Campus Programs: Traditional in-person learning experiences are available at many community colleges and technical schools.
- Hybrid Options: Some programs combine online and in-person components, providing flexibility while maintaining hands-on learning opportunities.
Curriculum and Course Content
Office Management associate degrees typically require 60-65 credit hours of coursework. While specific requirements vary by institution, most programs include a combination of general education courses, core business and office management courses, and electives.
General Education Requirements (15-21 credits)
- English Composition
- Mathematics (typically College Algebra or Mathematical Thinking)
- Humanities
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences (often including American Government or U.S. History)
- Public Speaking or Communication
Core Office Management Courses (30-40 credits)
- Computer Applications: Courses in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), desktop publishing, and other business software
- Office Procedures: Training in filing systems, recordkeeping, scheduling, and office protocols
- Business Communications: Written and verbal communication skills for professional settings
- Document Processing: Advanced keyboarding, formatting, and document creation
- Records Management: Organization and maintenance of physical and digital files
- Office Management: Supervision techniques, resource allocation, and operational management
- Accounting Fundamentals: Basic accounting principles, bookkeeping, and financial record maintenance
- Customer Service: Techniques for effective client and stakeholder interactions
- Business Ethics: Ethical considerations in professional settings
Specialized Courses and Electives
Many programs offer specialized courses or concentrations in areas such as:
- Medical Office Administration
- Legal Office Administration
- Executive Assistance
- Virtual Office Management
- Human Resources Administration
Skills Developed
Office Management associate degree programs focus on developing both technical and soft skills crucial for success in administrative roles:
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
- Database management
- Records management and filing systems
- Bookkeeping and financial tracking
- Document formatting and production
- Digital communication tools
Professional Skills
- Written and verbal communication
- Time management and prioritization
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Team leadership and supervision
- Customer service excellence
- Project management
- Ethical decision-making
Practical Experience Opportunities
Most Office Management programs incorporate hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for real-world employment:
- Internships: Many programs include required internships or cooperative education experiences (typically 96-100 hours) where students gain practical experience in business settings.
- Simulations: Classroom activities that mimic real office scenarios, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge.
- Capstone Projects: Final projects that integrate multiple skills to solve complex office management challenges.
For example, Eastern Florida State College requires students to complete an internship that provides valuable real-world experience and can greatly benefit future career prospects.
Certifications and Industry Credentials
Many Office Management programs prepare students for valuable industry certifications:
- Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): Certifications in individual Microsoft applications or the complete suite
- Certified Administrative Professional (CAP): Offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals
- QuickBooks Certification: For accounting and bookkeeping applications
- Certified Legal Secretary: For those specializing in legal office administration
These certifications enhance employability and may qualify graduates for higher starting salaries. Some institutions, like Broward College, specifically prepare students for QuickBooks certification.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Office Management associate degree programs is generally accessible, with typical requirements including:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of college application
- Placement testing (though many programs have eliminated this requirement)
- Minimum GPA requirements (usually 2.0 or higher)
Some programs offer rolling admissions, allowing students to begin in any term, which enhances flexibility for working adults or those with family obligations.
Program Costs
The cost of an Office Management associate degree varies significantly based on the institution and residency status:
- Community Colleges: Approximately $3,000-$6,500 per year for in-state students
- Technical Colleges: Around $4,500-$8,000 per year
- Private Colleges: $10,000-$20,000 per year
Additional costs may include:
- Textbooks and supplies: $1,000-$1,500 per year
- Technology fees: $200-$500 per year
- Certification exam fees: $100-$300 per certification
For example, at Eastern Florida State College, the estimated costs for the Office Management A.S. degree, including in-state tuition and fees, amount to around $6,240 (not including course materials and lab fees).
Financial Aid Options
Office Management programs typically qualify for various financial aid options:
- Federal Grants: Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG)
- State Grants: Vary by location
- Institutional Scholarships: Many colleges offer program-specific scholarships
- Federal Student Loans: Both subsidized and unsubsidized options
- Work-Study Programs: On-campus employment opportunities
Additionally, many institutions offer payment plans to help spread costs throughout the academic year.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of an Office Management associate degree, graduates typically demonstrate:
- Proficiency in utilizing advanced computer technology applications to improve workplace efficiency
- Ability to employ key financial, managerial, marketing, and ethical business principles in office environments
- Skills in utilizing current office technologies in both traditional and virtual workplaces
- Capability to assess and implement technologies that enhance administrative productivity
- Proficiency in organizing, managing records, and implementing office procedures effectively
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Office Management associate degree programs are prepared for a variety of administrative and supervisory roles:
- Administrative Assistant/Executive Assistant: Supporting executives with correspondence, scheduling, and document preparation
- Office Manager: Overseeing daily operations, supervising staff, and managing resources
- Administrative Coordinator: Organizing workflows and coordinating between departments
- Executive Secretary: Providing high-level support to organization leaders
- Office Supervisor: Managing clerical staff and administrative functions
- Virtual Assistant: Providing remote administrative support
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in administrative support roles is expected to remain steady, with particularly strong demand in healthcare, legal services, and technology sectors.
Advancement Opportunities
An associate degree in Office Management can serve as a foundation for further career growth:
- Transfer to Bachelor’s Programs: Many programs have articulation agreements with four-year institutions, allowing graduates to pursue bachelor’s degrees in business, management, or related fields.
- Career Advancement: The degree can help current office professionals advance to supervisory or management positions.
- Specialization: Graduates can pursue additional certifications in specialized areas to enhance marketability.
For example, Seminole State College notes that their Office Management A.S. graduates can transfer into bachelor’s degree programs at the college, particularly the Bachelor of Applied Science degrees with business track choices in Organizational Management.
Why Choose an Office Management Associate Degree?
This degree offers several distinct advantages:
- Quick Entry to the Workforce: Complete your education and enter the job market in just two years
- Practical Skill Development: Focus on immediately applicable workplace skills
- Flexible Career Options: Qualification for positions across multiple industries and sectors
- Advancement Potential: Foundation for career growth and further education
- Cost-Effective Education: Lower tuition costs compared to four-year programs
Is an Office Management Associate Degree Right for You?
This program may be ideal if you:
- Are organized and detail-oriented
- Enjoy coordinating projects and supporting teams
- Have strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Are interested in business operations
- Want a versatile credential applicable across industries
- Prefer hands-on, practical learning over theoretical study
Top Schools
Choosing the right associate degree program in Office Management can set the foundation for a rewarding career in business administration, operations, or executive support. The following colleges offer standout Associate in Science (AS) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs tailored for students who want to gain practical skills, industry certifications, and hands-on experience that lead directly to employment or further education.
Whether you’re seeking online flexibility, transfer opportunities, or workforce-ready training, these institutions provide a range of affordable and accessible pathways to help you launch or advance your administrative career. Below, we highlight key features of each program to help you compare options and find the right fit for your professional goals.
| College | Location | Degree Offered | Format | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bryant & Stratton College | Albany, NY (Online) | AAS in Office Management | Fully Online | Emphasis on mobile computing & digital tools; seamless transition to bachelor’s degrees |
| Seminole State College of Florida | Sanford, FL | AS in Administrative Office Management | Campus & Online | Low in-state tuition; includes Microsoft Office Specialist & other certifications |
| Montgomery County Community College | Blue Bell, PA | AAS in Office Management | Campus & Online | Strong transfer agreements with Temple, Penn State, and West Chester University |
| Anne Arundel Community College | Arnold, MD | AAS in Business Office Management | Campus & Online | Includes HR, marketing, and experiential learning; affordable for in-county students |
| College of Central Florida | Ocala, FL | AS in Office Administration – Office Management Specialization | Campus & Online | Clear transfer path to BAS in Business & Organizational Management |
| Truckee Meadows Community College | Reno, NV | AAS in Business – Office Management Specialization | Fully Online | Focus on job-ready skills; affordable and designed for direct workforce entry |
| Broward College | Fort Lauderdale, FL | AS in Office Management | Campus & Online | Internship options, QuickBooks certification, credit for prior learning |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) | Jacksonville, FL | AS in Office Administration | Fully Online | Includes 3 embedded certificates; ACBSP accredited |
| Bevill State Community College | Fayette, AL | AAS in Office Administration and Technology | Campus & Online | Specializations in Legal, Medical, and General Office Admin; stackable credentials |
| Santa Fe College | Gainesville, FL | AS in Office Administration | Online, Hybrid, In-Person | Offers Office Support certificate; flexible schedule and financial aid options |
Bryant & Stratton College
www.bryantstratton.edu/degrees/business/aas-office-management
Albany, NY
Online Flexibility with Technology-Focused Curriculum
Bryant & Stratton College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Office Management that can be completed in under two years. Delivered fully online, the program provides flexibility for students balancing education with personal or professional obligations. The curriculum emphasizes mobile computing, virtual technology, and digital communication, preparing graduates to operate in modern, tech-driven office environments. With courses like Word Processing, Office Procedures, Career Development, and Business Principles, students build strong administrative and interpersonal skills essential for workplace success.
Preparation for Immediate Employment or Continued Study
This 60+ credit program is tailored to students seeking a solid foundation in administrative functions while gaining hands-on skills in technology and office applications. Tuition varies depending on the student’s state of residence and financial aid eligibility, but the program is structured to allow a seamless transition into one of Bryant & Stratton’s bachelor’s degree options. Upon graduation, students are equipped to manage communications, support remote teams, and coordinate administrative processes, opening doors to a variety of office-based careers.
Seminole State College of Florida
www.seminolestate.edu/catalog/programs/ostms-as
Sanford, FL
Affordable, Career-Focused Associate in Science Degree
Seminole State College’s Associate in Science in Administrative Office Management is a 60-credit program that provides students with the skills to run office operations efficiently. The curriculum covers business law, office accounting, team leadership, computer applications, records management, and administrative procedures. Students may choose electives that prepare them for specialized fields such as insurance services. Designed for direct-to-career entry, the degree also includes general education courses that meet Florida’s civic literacy and core curriculum standards.
Strong Career Outcomes with Industry Certifications
With in-state tuition of just $3,131, Seminole State offers a low-cost path to a professional career. Graduates are eligible for industry certifications such as Microsoft Office Specialist and Certified Administrative Professional. Students often pursue careers as office managers, administrative assistants, or executive aides. The program is also aligned with several college credit certificate pathways and transfer options for students interested in earning a bachelor’s degree in a related field. The job outlook for administrative professionals is solid, with 12% growth projected and diverse opportunities across industries.
Montgomery County Community College
www.mc3.edu/degrees-and-programs/programs/business/office-management
Blue Bell, PA
Transfer-Ready and Career-Oriented Curriculum
Montgomery County Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Office Management, designed for both new students and working professionals. The program blends theoretical knowledge with practical training in managerial principles, critical thinking, ethics, and communication. Students can take courses on campus or online, offering flexibility to fit various lifestyles. With a focus on preparing students for supervisory and administrative roles, the program equips graduates to manage office operations effectively in a business setting.
Seamless Transition to Four-Year Institutions
Students benefit from established transfer agreements with four-year universities like Temple University, Penn State, and West Chester University, making this a strategic choice for those planning to continue their education. While tuition rates vary based on residency, the college maintains a strong commitment to affordability. Graduates are prepared for immediate entry into administrative roles or further academic advancement, supported by a curriculum grounded in modern business practices and communication.
Anne Arundel Community College
www.aacc.edu/programs-and-courses/credit-and-degree-seekers/business-office-management/
Arnold, MD
Comprehensive Training for Today’s Office Manager
Anne Arundel Community College’s Business Office Management A.A.S. program provides a broad foundation in office management, covering traditional duties as well as modern responsibilities such as HR, employee relations, and marketing. The program includes access to the latest office technology and offers experiential learning through internships and service-based opportunities. Courses are taught by experienced faculty and delivered both on campus and online for maximum accessibility.
Affordable Pathway to Employment or Transfer
With a total cost under $10,000 for in-county students, AACC delivers exceptional value for those seeking immediate workforce entry or a seamless transition to a four-year college. The program prepares students for careers in a range of office and administrative roles, while also supporting transfer to bachelor’s programs. Graduates leave with the skills to manage personnel, workflows, and business operations efficiently, making them valuable assets across a wide range of industries.
College of Central Florida
Practical Curriculum for Office Professionals
The Associate in Science in Office Administration – Office Management Specialization at the College of Central Florida is a two-year program designed to prepare students for administrative roles across diverse business environments. With a curriculum focused on essential business skills such as keyboarding, software applications, business communications, and accounting, the program is suitable for new students as well as current office professionals seeking to update or enhance their expertise. This 60-credit program equips students with the hands-on training needed to efficiently support office operations in today’s fast-paced workplaces.
Clear Pathway to Career or Bachelor’s Degree
Graduates of this program can transition directly into the workforce or continue their education through the College of Central Florida’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Organizational Management program. The degree provides students with practical and transferable skills highly valued by employers. While specific tuition costs are not listed on the program page, the college is known for maintaining affordable rates and financial aid options. Overall, the program serves as both a job-ready credential and a stepping stone toward higher education in business management.
Truckee Meadows Community College
https://catalog.tmcc.edu/degrees-certificates/business-office-management-aas/
Reno, NV
Fully Online and Workforce-Ready
Truckee Meadows Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science in Business with a specialization in Office Management, designed to be completed entirely online. This program emphasizes practical office procedures, technology, communication, customer service, and basic supervision. It includes a balanced curriculum of general education and business-focused courses, preparing students for administrative and management roles in a wide range of industries. A cumulative GPA of 2.0 and completion of at least 15 units at TMCC are required for graduation.
Skill-Based Outcomes for Immediate Application
Intended primarily for students entering the workforce rather than transferring to a four-year institution, this AAS program focuses on real-world job skills. Graduates will demonstrate intermediate proficiency in business software, effective written and oral communication, and the ability to manage daily office functions using professional work habits. While specific tuition is not listed on the catalog page, TMCC is recognized for its affordable in-state rates and online flexibility, making it a practical choice for working adults or those seeking a career shift.
Broward College
https://catalog.broward.edu/programs-study/office-management-as/
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Comprehensive Office Management Curriculum
Broward College offers an Associate of Science in Office Management program that focuses on developing core competencies essential to today’s office support roles, including software applications, business ethics, communications, and leadership. The program requires applicants to have a high school diploma or GED and is offered at multiple Broward College campuses and online. Students benefit from credit for prior learning, internship opportunities after the first year, and eligibility to earn certifications such as QuickBooks. The curriculum prepares students for real-world applications with a strong focus on communication, ethical practices, database management, and leadership.
Tuition, Outcomes, and Flexibility
The program is financial aid eligible and included on the Career Source Broward ITA list, which may provide additional funding options. Graduates of the program are equipped with skills to manage modern offices effectively and are supported by tools like Career Coach for job placement. The emphasis on internship experience and certifications further strengthens job prospects. The program supports accelerated completion options through exams and prior learning assessments, making it flexible for working students or those with previous experience.
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
https://www.fscj.edu/academics/programs/as/2265
Jacksonville, FL
Industry-Driven Skill Development
The Associate in Science in Office Administration at FSCJ is a 60-credit program designed to prepare students for careers in administrative roles through a blend of technical and managerial training. Offered fully online and financial aid eligible, the program covers critical areas like software proficiency, office systems, budgeting, and human resources. It also includes three embedded technical certificates: Office Support, Office Specialist, and Office Management, providing students with stackable credentials along their academic journey.
Accreditation and Learning Outcomes
Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the program ensures high-quality instruction and industry relevance. Students graduate with capabilities in technology use, problem-solving, time management, and effective professional communication. With its online availability and multiple certificate pathways, FSCJ’s program is ideal for students seeking flexible, career-ready education aligned with current administrative demands.
Bevill State Community College
https://www.bscc.edu/programs/career-tech/office-administration-and-technology-oat
Fayette, Alabama
Diverse Specializations and Certifications
Bevill State Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Office Administration and Technology with concentrations in Office Administration, Medical Office Administration, and Legal Office Administration. The program includes 24 general education hours and 40–43 hours of technical business courses, totaling 65–68 credit hours for graduation. Students can also pursue long-term and short-term certificates, making it possible to tailor education toward specific administrative fields.
Career Versatility and Workforce Preparation
The curriculum prepares graduates for careers in a variety of sectors including law, healthcare, banking, and marketing. The program emphasizes broad-based technical and interpersonal skills, helping students become valuable assets across multiple industries. The combination of academic flexibility and hands-on training positions Bevill State graduates for long-term employment success in administrative roles.
Santa Fe College
https://www.sfcollege.edu/academics/programs/3230.html
Gainesville, FL
Balanced Curriculum and Skill Development
Santa Fe College’s Associate in Science in Office Administration is a 60-credit program that can be completed in two years full-time or three to four years part-time. The curriculum includes 15 general education credits and a comprehensive set of courses in management, office procedures, and document production. Students also receive training in popular software applications to ensure technical proficiency. The program includes the option to earn an 18-credit Office Support certificate along the way.
Affordable Education with Financial Aid Options
Estimated tuition costs are $6,406.20 for Florida residents and $22,974 for non-residents, excluding books and fees. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help students manage costs. The program is offered in flexible formats—online, hybrid, and in-person—and requires a grade of C or higher in all coursework for graduation. Graduates are prepared to enter administrative roles with strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills, ready to meet the demands of modern office environments.
How Long to Pay Off Your Degree?
For students pursuing an associate degree in Office Management, the financial investment is generally affordable compared to four-year programs. Based on data from the featured colleges, the average total tuition falls around $7,000, assuming in-state residency and excluding books and fees. Graduates in office management roles can expect an average starting salary of approximately $35,000 per year.
If a graduate were to dedicate a portion of their annual salary to repaying this $7,000 in student loans, the estimated payoff times would look like this:
- 5% of salary ($1,750/year): 4 years
- 10% of salary ($3,500/year): 2 years
- 15% of salary ($5,250/year): 1 year and 4 months
- 20% of salary ($7,000/year): 1 year
These estimates do not account for interest, but they demonstrate that, with modest budgeting, most students could reasonably pay off their educational investment within just a few years after graduation. This makes the associate degree in Office Management not only a practical but also a financially sustainable path to a professional career.