Essential Information
Associate's degree programs that teach secretarial science offer students opportunities to develop the knowledge of office management tools and procedures necessary for employment as secretaries and office administrators. Some programs may offer the option of specializing in areas such as medical or legal office assisting. Good interpersonal and organizational skills and the ability to work independently are helpful in this field.
Students must have a high school diploma or GED in order to pursue an associate's degree in secretarial science.
Associate's Degrees in Secretarial Science
Students may complete general education coursework with an emphasis on introductory business courses like public speaking, basic math and bookkeeping. To keep current with advancements in office technology, courses may incorporate Internet and web applications. Courses typically include:
- Keyboarding and Word processing
- Spreadsheets
- Desktop publishing
- Records management and Data entry
- Office procedures
- Office automation
Popular Career Choices
Secretaries and office administrators are needed in a wide variety of office environments. A few examples of potential careers include:
- Administrative assistant
- Medical office secretary
- Bookkeeping clerk
- Executive secretary
- Data entry clerk
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the employment of secretaries and administrative assistants will decrease by 9% from 2019 to 2029. In May of 2020, the BLS estimated the average annual salary of these administrative professionals to be $40,420.
Continuing Education Information
Proficiency in basic office skills, such as writing correspondence and managing spreadsheets, as well as continued demonstration of technical competence, can assist in career advancement. Graduates desiring greater managerial career opportunities can pursue an advanced degree, such as a bachelor's degree in office administration and technology. Voluntary certification for proficiency in office skills, as well as in specialty fields, is available through many professional organizations, including the International Association of Administrative Professionals and the National Association of Legal Secretaries.
An associate's degree in secretarial science provides aspiring administrative professionals with the required knowledge to begin work in a wide range of environments. The degree can also be used to earn voluntary certification or pursue a 4-year degree.
