Associate Degree Programs in Business Management
Find out how an associate's degree in business management can help you develop your leadership skills and the knowledge needed to make sound business decisions. Read about the courses you'd take in this 2-year degree program, and review job options for graduates. Learn about the salary potential and advancement opportunities for those with undergraduate degrees in business management.
What Is an Associate's Degree In Business Management?
An associate's degree in business management is a 2-year degree. You gain skills in such areas as finance, marketing, management, customer satisfaction, advertising, law and accounting. This type of program will also develop leadership and communication skills necessary for coworker interaction and direction. It is also possible to earn your business management associate's degree online. Credit hours earned in a business management program can often be used towards a bachelor's degree in a business-related program.
| Essential Info | Students hone leadership and business communication skills; programs can be completed on-campus or online |
| Common Courses | Accounting, economics, mathematics, ethics, business law |
| Possible Careers | Retail manager, consultant, personal assistant, market researcher, supervisor |
| Advanced Degrees | Bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 14% growth (for all management analysts) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Courses Can I Expect?
You can expect courses on business practice, business law, business ethics, human resource development, international business, managerial accounting, statistics, macroeconomics and mathematics. Courses will focus on developing computer skills, problem solving, proficiency in computer applications and planning skills. A few programs do offer course specializations for specific business sectors, including small business, marketing, general business, sales management, hospitality management and corporate business.
What Jobs Are Available?
You'll most likely find yourself starting in an entry-level management position. Positions that could be available include supervisor, retail manager, market researcher, consultant, assistant business analyst and personal assistant. Your education will also serve as a foundation for becoming an entrepreneur. According to a 2018-2019 report from Payscale.com, the starting median salary for those with undergraduate degrees in business management was $36,800.
Can I Continue My Business Education?
Completing an associate's degree in business management can satisfy the first two years of requirements for a bachelor's degree. A 4-year college might even immediately transfer over your credits to its bachelor's degree program. Potential bachelor's degree programs include those in business administration, business management and international business. If you're interested in continuing your education even further, many colleges offer master's and doctoral degree programs in business.