Business administration is a versatile field that can expose you to several career paths. An Associate Degree in Business Administration teaches students to plan strategically so they can master financial principles and create organizational value. Graduates of business administration associate degree programs are also prepared to lead a wide variety of business projects.
To find the best Associate Degree in Business Administration, you must consider several factors, such as learning options, salary prospects, and job growth projections. This article will highlight all you should know about the best business administration associate degrees, where to find them, and how to apply for them.
What Is Business Administration?
Business administration is the fundamental practice and basic principles of owning or managing a business. Management of businesses requires expertise in marketing, finance, accounting, and human resources, as well as knowledge of domestic and international business operations.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Business Administration are typically community colleges. These colleges provide professional training and core programs for business-related subjects to provide students with advanced skills for a variety of jobs across this industry, such as finance or marketing.
Where to get a business administration associate degree will depend on several factors, such as your location and educational plan. For example, some associate degrees in business administration will allow students to transfer their credits toward a business-related bachelor’s degree. This is a must for those who wish to pursue a master’s degree.
Where to get a business administration associate degree may also depend on your financial situation. Continue reading, as we examine admission requirements, credit requirements, and tuition rates for the schools that offer the best business administration associate degrees.
What Schools Offer the Best Business Administration Associate Degrees?
- Allen County Community College
- ASA College
- Lackawanna College
- Northern State University
- Thomas Nelson Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
The admission requirements for Associate Degrees in Business Administration are a high school diploma or the General Education Development (GED) test. No programming languages are required for admission into an Associate of Business Administration. Requirements for an Associate in Business Administration may include a minimum GPA, depending on the school, and you must be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
The best community colleges typically have this minimum GPA requirement. For these top schools, requirements for an associate degree in business administration will also include your school transcripts before you can enroll. For degree completion, most colleges have a 60-credit requirement.
It is recommended that you ask the school’s admissions advisor about any further business administration associate degree requirements during your admissions interview or before submitting an application form. This will ensure your application is not delayed or rejected.
Business Administration Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma. Business administration associate degree applicants must have a high school diploma. Students who did not graduate high school can opt to take the GED test instead. International students may be eligible with an equivalent qualification, but some schools may require all students to pass the GED test to gain admission.
- Age requirements. Applicants must be 18 years old on the first day of class.
- GPA. A minimum grade point average (GPA) may be required by some colleges. If this business administration associate degree admission requirement is needed, students must include their transcripts with their applications.
How to Get an Associate Degree in Business Administration
You can get an Associate Degree in Business Administration by completing the 60-credit requirement. These credits include general education courses and elective courses in business fields like management and accounting. The best way to get a business administration associate degree is to focus solely on completing the required courses.
You should have a good understanding of math and business basics going into college for a business administration associate degree. You should also have some idea of what area of business you are most interested in. This will allow you to focus your studies on that particular area.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
You typically need 60 semester hours of credit for an Associate Degree in Business Administration. This typically takes two years to complete and involves both general education courses and elective courses. Students can expect to take classes that cover principles of business management, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and business communication, to name a few.
Business Administration Degree Requirements
- General Education. Students must complete a certain amount of general education credits to gain an Associate Degree in Business Administration. This is typically broken down into math, social sciences, and English classes. These general education classes usually consist of about half the credit requirements. Some programs require only 24 and others about 36 semester credits. English and math classes will often start as lower-tier classes and move to more advanced, upper-tier classes in the second and third semesters.
- Elective Courses. Elective courses make up the rest of the credit requirements. For a business administration associate degree, students must meet the minimum requirements of these elective courses. However, they may enroll in extra classes if they wish. This can be a great way to explore various sections of the industry to help students identify their career goals.
- Bachelor’s Degree Path. Students may be able to qualify for a credit transfer to a four-year college. Additional credits or classes may be required for this, and if a student does not want an associate degree, they may be able to take fewer elective classes to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. This is ideal for students looking to fast-track their educational journey towards a PhD degree.
Best Business Administration Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Allen County Community College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| ASA College | Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Grantham University | Associate of Arts in Business Administration and Management | Distance Education Accrediting Commission |
| Lackawanna College | Associate Degree in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Northern State University | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Purdue University Global | Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
| Saint Joseph’s University | Associate of Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| State Fair Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, Management Specialization | Higher Learning Commission |
| Thomas Nelson Community College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Western Nebraska Community College | Associate of Science in Business Administration | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Business Administration: Top Business Administration Associate Degree Programs
The best schools with top business administration associate degree programs are colleges that equip students with advanced business skills and management knowledge. This will ensure they get a wide array of career opportunities. Some of the best schools for Associate Degrees in Business Administration are offered on a physical campus.
The best business administration associate programs will train graduates for entry-level positions in business administration or help them prepare for higher degrees. A business administration associate degree is best for those starting in the industry who are happy to work their way up the ladder. However, if you are looking to advance quickly, a business administration bachelor’s degree will be best.
Community colleges will typically offer an associate degree in business administration-related fields. The best schools for business administration associate degrees will have core programs dedicated to business administration. A top business administration associate degree program will help students connect with future employees through partner programs and career events.
What Is a Business Administration Associate Degree?
A business administration associate degree is a two-year business degree program that prepares students for a career in marketing, finance, and other related sectors. In most cases, an Associate Degree in Business Administration provides students with a solid foundation in economic theory, customer service, sales, professional communications, and other leadership and communication skills.
To graduate, students typically need 60 credit hours, which includes general education courses and elective courses in business fields like management and accounting. Some colleges may require students to complete an internship before they can be awarded a degree. Also, some schools allow students to transfer their credits toward a bachelor’s degree program.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
It is very important to have an Associate Degree in Business Administration because you will learn the fundamental technical and soft skills required to break into a variety of roles in this industry. If you wish to transfer to a four-year college, you must obtain an Associate Degree in Business Administration first.
The main reason why a business administration associate degree is important are:
- Cost-effective. Business administration associate degrees are cost-effective, and community colleges typically offer financial aid. This is cheaper than enrolling in a four-year college straight out of high school.
- Minimal requirements. Getting accepted into an Associate Degree in Business Administration program is straightforward. Typically, you only need a high school diploma or GED and the application is done through online forms.
- Fast Employment. You can complete an Associate in Business Administration in about two years and be qualified for entry-level jobs.
- Pathway to Higher Education. A business administration associate will allow you to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college. Some schools will have sister schools or partnership programs for students to easily transfer their credits and gain acceptance into higher education.
- Flexible Learning. An associate in business administration will have plenty of options for elective classes and career paths. This allows students to try a variety of subjects and figure out their career goals. Furthermore, most associate programs are offered online or in-person for flexible learning opportunities.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Business Administration?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for business administration:
- Associate of Science in Business Management
- Associate in Applied Science in Business Management
- Associate of Arts in Business Management
- Associate of Business in Business Management
An associate degree in business administration is a type of business degree. You should get a business administration Associate of Science degree if you want to focus more on math and science and plan on transferring to a four-year program.
The best degree for flexibility within business administration is an Associate of Arts degree, as this is aimed toward general studies. If you don’t intend to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program, an Associate in Applied Science is the best choice as it will prepare you for the workforce straight after graduation.
Is It Better to Get an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree In Business Administration?
It is better to get an Associate Degree in Business Administration because it allows more flexibility. An associate degree has a wide array of elective classes and training for entry-level jobs, and they only take two years to complete.
Students straight out of high school often wonder which is better, an Associate Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. A bachelor’s degree will provide more employment opportunities, but by opting for an associate degree, students can always transfer to a bachelor’s program if they wish to continue with higher education.
The difference between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree is the length of study, the cost, and the type of classes offered. An associate degree is cheaper and quicker and offers more generalized learning options through elective classes.
A bachelor’s degree offers more specialized subjects and more of a focus. While it takes longer to complete and is more expensive, employees will value a bachelor’s degree higher than an associate degree which will open up more and better job opportunities.
What Is the Difference Between a Business Administration Associate Degree and a Business Administration Certificate?
The main difference between an associate degree and a certificate in business administration is that an associate degree is a pathway to higher education. An associate degree also offers more flexibility with elective classes and covers general education such as math, English, and social sciences.
When it comes to length of study with a business administration certificate vs an associate degree, a certificate can usually be completed much faster. Therefore, if you are upskilling or career switching, a business administration certificate is better.
Another difference between a business management certificate and a business management associate degree is that a certificate program prioritizes in-demand and technical skills. Certificate programs are also cheaper than associate degree programs. If you get a certificate, you may also need to get an associate degree to apply for certain jobs.
However, it is better to get an Associate Degree in Business Administration rather than a certificate if you plan on obtaining a bachelor’s degree or you are at the start of your career journey. A certificate will give you the core knowledge in a specific area of business management and may limit your job opportunities if you are not already employed in the industry.
You should get a business administration degree instead of a certificate because it provides more opportunities, offers more flexible learning paths, and will allow you to explore different career interests.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
Business administration associate degrees cost an average of $3,812 per year for public institutions and $18,631 per year for non-profit private colleges. These figures are based on the National Center for Education Statistics’ latest college cost data.
An Associate Degree in Business Administration cost can be subsidized with financial aid or scholarships. Students should speak with the school’s admissions advisor about these options but prospective students will often be required to fill out a free FAFSA form online.
Business Administration Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Business Administration Degree
There are plenty of options when it comes to financial aid for your Associate Degree in Business Administration. Some common options include federal student aid, scholarships, and private loans. Federal loans offer cheaper repayment plans and more forgiving terms than private loans.
Full financial aid for an Associate in Business Administration may be available to lower-income students or underrepresented people. The FAFSA website has an application form if you wish to apply for financial aid. There is also a handy questions section if you are wondering how to pay for Associate in Business Administration degrees. Students can also reach out to the admissions team of their chosen school to talk about further financial options.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Administration Associate Degree?
It typically takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Business Administration. Students are required to complete a set amount of credits to graduate. The Associate in Business Administration length can depend on what electives students take and if they decide to take more credits than the minimum requirement.
Most Associate Degrees in Business Administration have a 60 to 68 credit requirement. There will be core subjects, general education classes, and elective classes. Some programs may also include an internship program, which can increase your length of study.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
An Associate Degree in Business Administration is hard to get, but not as hard as a bachelor’s. While the admission requirements for an associate program are minimal, the coursework for this field can be challenging. Students will not only need a passion for this subject, but strong skills in statistics, logic, communication, and critical thinking.
Getting a business administration associate degree is hard if you lack the commitment and you don’t have the time to commit to a two-year program and put the work in outside of class. Principles of business management and administration can be hard to learn, especially for newcomers, as this is not a subject typically taught in high school.
Furthermore, business administration associate degrees qualify and train students for a wide variety of job roles. Therefore, students will learn a wide range of knowledge and may struggle with certain subjects. Students must also take general education courses in math, English, and social sciences.
Associate Degrees in Business Administration require students to learn and master management skills for future business administration roles. These may be difficult to learn for students who have no prior experience in a leadership role. Being able to motivate staff and have a sense of authority is a difficult skill to teach.
Why Should You Get a Business Administration Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an associate degree in business management are:
- Further Education Pathway. One of the main benefits of an Associate Degree in Business Management is to transfer to a business bachelor’s degree program.
- Foundational Knowledge. An Associate in Business Management will give students the foundational skills needed to start their careers.
- In-Demand Technical Skills. Top business management associate degree programs will teach students in-demand technical skills to help them gain quick employment after graduation. These may include financial literacy, data analysis, current marketing skills, and project management.
- Soft Skills. Further benefits of an Associate Degree in Business Administration include classes for team-building, creative thinking, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.
- Career Flexibility. Business administration associates provide career flexibility and job versatility. Graduates will be qualified for work across various fields including marketing, finance, administration, publishing, teaching, public relations, and multiple management roles.
The benefits of getting a second Associate Degree in Business Administration are to open up further job opportunities and keep you up to date with in-demand skills and technologies. A second associate degree will show your employer you are willing to put the time and effort in to learn new and modern skills. Furthermore, it will work as a refresher for subjects and areas you might not get much practice in.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Business Administration?
The required courses for business management associate degrees are business basics, finance, marketing, project management, and practical skills classes. Associate in Business Management courses may be offered as elective classes or mandatory core classes. Students can often find an Associate in Business Management course list on the program page of the school’s website.
Macroeconomics
Students will learn the fundamental concepts of microeconomics such as supply and demand, inflation, recession, international trade, cost and benefits, and fiscal policy. Students will learn how to apply these key microeconomics concepts to consumer, business, and government decisions.
Accounting
Students will learn how to adapt accounting principles to financial reporting. Students will learn how to analyze and report financial information. Methods of analysis will also be learned to a high extent, which is very important for students who want to get into data-gathering-related jobs.
Project Management
Business administration associate degrees will teach students fundamental management skills such as communication and problem-solving to help them oversee projects from start to finish. Students will learn how to manage a team, identify problems, and achieve the best results possible using analytical skills and research.
Microeconomics
Courses in Associate in Business Administration programs often include microeconomics as part of their curriculum. Students will learn how the actions of consumers affect price and output. Strong knowledge of consumer behavior is vital for aspiring business administrators.
Human Resources
An Associate Degree in Business Administration course list may include human resources. Any aspiring manager should know about the basic concepts of HR such as recruitment, performance management, HR data and analytics, and succession planning.
Continuing Education Paths for Business Administration Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a business management associate degree is a business-related bachelor’s degree program. Some colleges may offer special admission rates to partner or sister schools to graduates who wish to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s program.
While a business degree is the best path after an Associate Degree in Business Administration, students may decide to switch their focus to a related subject. For example, students who enjoyed data analysis subjects and classes may opt for a data science degree.
Alternatively, if they don’t want to seek further education, associate business administration graduates can use their qualifications to get entry-level business administration-related jobs. They will be able to advance their skills and knowledge on the job to work their way up, or they may wish to enroll in a bachelor’s or other higher education program at a later stage, perhaps when they are more financially stable.
Related Business Administration Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Business Administration Associate Degree Programs
The best business administration associate degree programs have a wide variety of elective classes, financial aid options, and career training. You can expect core business and management courses, practical skills training, and student support from a top business administration associate degree program.
You can choose the best business administration associate program by reading school and program reviews, looking up alumni testimonials, or reaching out to the school’s admission team with any questions. A campus tour is also a great option to help you choose the best business administration associate program.
Employment Outcomes
Students who wish to take a business administration associate degree and not transfer to a bachelor’s degree program should research employment outcomes. Some schools may offer detailed employment outcome figures, or you might find this information in school reviews. The school’s LinkedIn page can also help you see where alumni are currently working.
Faculty Credentials
A good faculty is vital for students who wish to get the most out of their learning. You will be able to find detailed information on faculty on the school’s website. You can research instructors for the particular program you are interested in and see what experience and reputation they have. You can also find out more about the student services team and the admissions team.
Cost
Business administration associate degree programs typically take two years to complete. Students must factor in tuition and fees as well as materials cost and cost of living. Earning an associate degree can be expensive and leave students in debt. Choosing a program that fits within your budget or offers low-interest repayment loans is vital.
Flexibility
Today, most colleges offer some sort of online program. This can help students save money and time on transportation. The best business administration associate degrees will have hybrid options, allowing students to study on campus at their leisure, while also giving them the flexibility to learn online when needed.
Reputation of School
Choosing the right school is challenging for most high school graduates. There are plenty of websites that offer school ratings. You might be able to reach out to alumni and get some personal feedback on different schools. If you choose a school with a good reputation, you know you get value for money and receive a high-quality education to ensure you find the best type of job possible.
What Is the Most Affordable Business Administration Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Business Administration are:
- Associate of Science in Business Administration at Western Nebraska Community College
- Associate of Applied Science in Business Management, Business Specialization at State Fair Community College
- Associate of Science in Business Administration at Allen County Community College
Affordable business administration associate programs are ideal for students on a budget or with low-income. However, if you find a program that you love but the cost seems too high, you should contact the admissions advisor to discuss financial aid or scholarship options.
Salary and Job Outlook for Business Administration Associate Degree Graduates
Business administration associate degree jobs cover a wide variety of careers and industries. This makes Associate Degree in Business Administration jobs easy to find for graduates. While a business-related bachelor’s degree will improve your income, Associate in Business Administration salary prospects are still high. Below, we will examine the top business administration jobs associate degree graduates can find.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Business Administration Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with a business administration associate degree. Business administration associate graduates will be knowledgeable in a wide range of subjects which can help them find work in a wide variety of business-related industries and roles. Associate business administration graduates will learn management and personal skills that can be applied to any number of jobs.
For example, more technically minded graduates who may have a background in IT can get into data science or cyber security fields. Graduates who love math and numbers may opt to focus on the marketing and finance industries. Even with only an Associate in Business Administration, graduates will have no problem getting a job.
What’s the Average Business Administration Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an associate degree in business administration is $52,000 per year, according to PayScale. This is the typical median salary for someone with a business administration associate degree. The highest average salary for associates in business administration-related roles is $78,827 per year for an operations manager.
The average salary for Associate Degree in Business Administration graduates will increase as they gain more professional experience and skills or move into a high-paying industry such as tech or finance. Using your associate degree credits and acquiring a business-related bachelor’s degree will also increase the average salary for an Associate in Business Administration.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Business Administration Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a business administration associate degree are typically management, analysis, operations, consultant, or executive roles. Jobs with business administration associate degree requirements are found across a wide variety of industries from marketing to tech to entertainment.
The highest-paying business administration jobs for associate degree holders include human resource manager, sales manager, and medical and health services manager. Good-paying jobs you can get with an Associate Degree in Business Administration are typically manager-level roles or assistant roles such as an IT manager or an insurance claims assistant.
Business Administration Degree Jobs
- Executive assistant
- Store manager
- Human resource manager
- Customer service supervisor
- Data analyst
Potential Careers With an Associate Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Business Administration?
You can make between $26,000 and $80,000 per year with an Associate in Business Administration. A business administration major has the potential to make a six-figure salary in an upper-management role. These jobs require a huge amount of responsibilities and skills, and opportunities for such high-paying jobs will be available to highly trained and experienced candidates.
Highest-Paying Business Administration Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Business Administration Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Human Resource Manager | $81,666 |
| Sales Manager | $69,391 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $64,640 |
| Management Analyst | $62,619 |
| Account Executive | $56,008 |
| Sales Consultant | $50,798 |
| Executive Assistant | $49,074 |
| Relationship Banker | $42,462 |
| Administrative Assistant | $37,849 |
| Customer Service Associate | $32,814 |
Best Jobs for Business Administration Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for business administration associate degree grads are mid-level roles. These jobs allow grads with an Associate Degree in Business Administration to work in fields like human resource, sales, medical, and finance industries. Continue reading, as we examine the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Business Administration.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Business Administration Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Business Administration is worth it if you want to understand the foundational principles of business and its many areas, including sales, marketing, human resources, and business law. A business administration associate degree can lead to a bachelor’s degree or direct entry into the workforce, which makes an associate in business administration worth it.
Furthermore, the variety of jobs a graduate can get makes a business administration associate degree worth it. For example, an associate degree will prepare you to handle record-keeping, data analysis, and customer support.
With this degree, you will have the skills that many employers are looking for. You will fit into a variety of industries and be well on your way to finding work as a business manager or human resources manager. Simply put, a business administration associate degree is the perfect career stepping stone.
Additional Reading About Business Administration
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/business-administration/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/bachelors-in-business-administration/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-online-business-administration-masters-degrees/
Business Administration Associate Degree FAQ
You can work as a human resource manager, medical and health services manager, sales consultant, executive assistant, sales manager, account executive, management analyst, customer service associate, relationship banker, or administrative assistant with an Associate Degree in Business Administration.
Yes, an Associate Degree in Business Administration is worth it if you want to pursue a career in business. You can work in healthcare, finance, retail, and a variety of other sectors. This degree exposes you to a lot of possibilities.
Yes, business administration is a good major because it encompasses business fundamentals and economic principles. You can learn other aspects of business as well, such as law, accounting, and human resources.
According to PayScale, you can expect to earn about $53,000 per year with this degree. This is close to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ estimate of the median salary across all occupations. People with Associate Degrees in Business Management make competitive wages.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
