What Degrees are Available for Administrative Assistants?
Administrative support careers exist in many fields, and a variety of training options are available. Learn about some of the degree programs for those interested in becoming administrative assistants.
Employment as an Administrative Assistant
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), administrative assistants work in a variety of settings, including schools, office buildings, law firms, doctor's offices and government agencies. Individuals interested in these positions can enhance their employability with the appropriate education and training.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutAdministrativeAssistantPrograms">Important Facts About Administrative Assistant Programs</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Online Availability</td><td>Full coursework online</td></tr>
<tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td>High school diploma or equivalent, basic computer/clerical skills</td></tr>
<tr><td>Continuing Education</td><td>Available for administrative skills, but usually not required</td></tr>
<tr><td>Possible Careers</td><td>Office clerk, bookkeeper, paralegal, receptionist</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $39,680 (<i>for secretaries and administrative assistants</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> -8% decline (<i>for secretaries and administrative assistants</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AdministrativeAssistantEducation">Administrative Assistant Education</h3><p>Many administrative assistant positions can be gained without a college degree. High schools and other institutions offer continuing education programs that develop skills used on a daily basis in these jobs. According to the BLS, individuals can gain entry-level employment straight out of high school with proficiency in writing, word processing and using spreadsheets. Other options, such as certificate and degree programs, provide more in-depth training and preparation for a career as an administrative assistant.
</p><h3 id="section---AdministrativeAssistantCertificatePrograms">Administrative Assistant Certificate Programs</h3><p>Administrative assistant certificates can usually be earned in five months to a year. These often cover basic clerical skills, computer literacy and some financial concepts. Certificate programs, both traditional and online, are available at many community colleges and business schools.
</p><h3 id="section---AssociateDegreesInAdministrativeAssistance">Associate Degrees in Administrative Assistance</h3><p>An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in administrative assistance usually requires one to two years of study. The coverage of administrative skills, procedures and concepts are more thorough than that found in certificate programs. Additionally, an AAS degree includes general education coursework in English and mathematics, which are highly valuable to some employers.
</p><h3 id="section---AdministrativeAssistantSpecializations">Administrative Assistant Specializations</h3><p>Both certificates and associate degrees are available in medical and legal specializations. These normally take no longer than general administrative assistant programs but address some of the terminology and practices specific to the medical or legal fields.
</p><h3 id="section---CertificationsForAdministrativeAssistants">Certifications for Administrative Assistants</h3><p>Certifications are usually achieved through multiple examinations. The Microsoft Office Specialist certification is well-known and may be part of a degree program. The International Association of Administrative Professionals offers its own professional certifications, training programs and workshops.</p>