Essential Information
In two-year AAS programs in business management, students learn methods such as planning and implementing improvements, analyzing marketing needs and developing business plans. Students may complete team projects to gain real-world experience.
Schools typically require applicants to have a high school diploma or the equivalent, but they may waive this requirement for students who meet certain criteria. Additionally, applicants must usually pass entrance exams that test their skills in math, reading and communications.
Associate's of Applied Science Degree in Business Management
In these programs, students learn about accounting, human resources, computer applications and other subjects that will give them a concrete knowledge of how to manage a business. Students also build the skills they need to effectively manage employees and handle a wide variety of business tasks. Emphasis is placed on coursework involving communications, teamwork and ethics. Possible courses include:
- Technical communication
- Speech fundamentals
- Marketing and accounting
- Human resource management
- Management principles
- Business ethics
- Information technology
Popular Career Options
Graduates have the management knowledge and decision-making skills they need to qualify for entry-level management positions in business settings. Management positions are available in all industries, including manufacturing, banking, trade, government and telecommunications. Some possible career options include:
- Office manager
- Sales manager
- Small business owner
Employment Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that administrative services managers will see a 6% increase in employment from 2019 to 2029. Sales managers are predicted to see a 4% increase during the same period (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported that sales managers earned a median annual salary of $132,290 as of May 2020, while administrative services managers earned a median annual salary of $98,890.
Continuing Education Information
Business management graduates may consider continuing their education to earn a bachelor's degree in business management or a master's degree in business administration in order to seek higher management positions. According to the BLS, top executives usually have at least a bachelor's degree. Some of the credits earned in an associate's degree program may be transferable to bachelor's or master's degree programs.
Aspiring executives who want to hold management positions in any industry can benefit from an AS degree in business management, whether they plan to immediately enter the field or use the degree as a foundation for higher-level studies.
