What type of associates degree is business administration

A.S. in Business completed at Penn State Altoona

The associate degree program in Business Administration provides an introductory foundation to core aspects of the business environment that prepares graduates for future baccalaureate study in business or for direct entry into the workplace. The primary objective of this major is to provide a business-oriented program with sufficient communicative and mathematical skills, socially relevant course work, and specific business specialties to develop a well-rounded and knowledgeable graduate.

Students should work closely with academic advisers to schedule course work required to transition to baccalaureate business programs.

Entrance Requirements: Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA to change to this Associate degree after admission to the University.

For the associate in science degree in Business Administration, a minimum of 60 credits is required.

Scheduling Recommendation by Semester Standing given like (Sem: 1-2)

GENERAL EDUCATION: 21 credits
(9 credits of these 21 credits are included in the REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)
(See description of General Education in the bulletin.)

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR: 48-50 credits
(This includes 3 credits of GQ General Education courses and 6 credits of GWS General Education courses.)

PRESCRIBED COURSES (13 credits)
CAS 100 GWS(3) (Sem: 2-4)
ACCTG 211(4), ENGL 202D GWS(3)[1], MIS 204(3) (Sem: 2-4)

ADDITIONAL COURSES (23-24 credits)
ENGL 15 GWS(3)[1] or ENGL 30 GWS(3)[1] (Sem: 1-2)
MATH 21 GQ(3), MATH 22 GQ(3), or MATH 110 GQ(4) (Sem: 1-2)
BA 243(4) or BA 241(2) and BA 242(2) (Sem: 1-4)
ECON 102 GS(3) or ECON 104 GS(3) (Sem: 1-4)
MGMT 301(3)[1] or MGMT 301W(3)[1] (Sem: 3-4)
MKTG 301(3)[1] or MKTG 301W(3)[1] (Sem: 3-4) 
SCM 200 GQ(4) or STAT 200 GQ(4) (Sem: 3-4)

SUPPORTING COURSES AND RELATED AREAS (12-13)
Select 12-13 credits from: BA 100(3); BA 250(3); BA 364(3); CAS 250(3) or CAS 252(3); CAS 352(3); MATH 22 GQ(3); MATH 110 GQ(4); ACCTG 300 to 399(3); ECON 100 to ECON 399(3); ENTR 100 to 399(3); FIN 100 to 399(3); HPA 100 to 399(3); IB 303 IL(3); LER 100 to 399(3); MGMT 100 to 399(3); MKTG 100 to 399(3); MIS 100 to 399(3); RM 100 to 399(3); or SCM 200 to 399(3) (Sem: 1-4)

[1] A student enrolled in this major must receive a grade of C or better, as specified in Senate Policy 82-44.

Last Revised by the Department: Spring Semester 2017

Whether you're a high school graduate or working professional, starting your higher education is a big decision. If you're eyeing a career in business but don't want to spend four years earning a bachelor's degree, an associate degree in business administration might appeal to you.

This business administration associate degreeguide explores online and traditional programs, course requirements, and hands-on learning opportunities and internships. It also goes over important soft and hard skills for business leaders seeking career advancement. 

What is an associate degree in business administration?

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An associate degree in business administration gives you a broad foundation in business fundamentals. Students may pursue an online or traditional associate degree in business administration. 

Students complete courses in accounting, business fundamentals, and management together with business ethics, principles of finance, and business law. 

Both online and traditional programs also require general education and elective courses.

How long does a business administration associate degree take to complete?

Both full-time online and traditional programs associate degree programs typically require two years. Working professionals studying part-time basis may take up to four years.

How much does this degree cost?

Tuition and fees may range between $6,000 and $26,000. Depending on the college or university, there might be additional technology, textbook, and supplemental course fees. Research business school scholarships and fill out the FAFSA to help offset your costs. 

Some colleges and universities offer free laptops, rentals, and discounts. The cost of the laptop is typically included in the cost of tuition and fees. 

With an associate degree or other higher education, qualified professionals may earn higher salaries and qualify for more senior positions than those who hold only a high school diploma.

Skills taught in a business administration associate degree

During your studies, you'll have the chance to gain practical knowledge and applied experience in business solutions. 

If you aspire to excellence, it is critical to learn and apply hard and people-oriented skills. Below are abilities a successful leader should possess, which you can cultivate during a business administration associate degree.

Hard skills

People (soft) skills

  • Data analysis
  • Project management
  • Marketing skills
  • Financial management
  • Financial literacy
  • Team-building
  • Creative thinking
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Decision-making 

Who is a good fit for a business administration associate degree program?

Are you an aspiring leader in your workplace? Do you possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills? 

Perhaps you are new to the industry and aspire to be a transformative leader. Or after reflecting on your talents and career goals, you might be ready to boost your company's business operations by gaining more detailed knowledge. 

If so, a business administration associate degree might be an excellent fit for you. 

Associate degrees aren't right for everyone, but luckily there are several alternatives.

If you want in-depth knowledge and opportunities to choose interesting electives, research a bachelor's in business administration degrees.

If you want to learn business fundamentals on an even shorter timeline, consider earning a business certificate online. These non-degree credentials typically take less than a year to complete and may help you qualify for entry-level positions.

If you're already experienced in business, hold a bachelor's degree, or are seeking management positions, research in-person and online MBA programs.

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What is an associate degree in business administration like?

Expect courses that build on practical knowledge of business and current trends and consumer and accounting theory. You will learn supply and demand, important math functions, and the legal components of business. 

As the program progresses, you'll participate in research projects, presentations, and team-oriented activities, along with hands-on learning opportunities and internships. Students are expected to actively participate in both oral and written assignments. 

Common courses

  • Introduction to business
  • Business law
  • Accounting 
  • Management concepts
  • Principles of finance

What can you do with an associate degree in business administration?

After earning an associate degree in business administration, graduates may explore careers in business operations and management.

New graduates can pursue entry-level positions such as: 

  • Relationship banker
  • Assistant store manager
  • Sales manager
  • Customer service supervisor
  • Project manager
  • Sales consultant 
  • Account executive
  • Retail sales manager
  • Administrative assistant
  • Project manager

With an associate of arts (AA) degree, students complete courses in general studies, liberal arts, or pre-professional studies. An associate of science (AS) degree offers more specialized courses in finance, marketing, human resources, and other business specializations. 

According to Payscale, the median annual wage for graduates with an associate degree in business administration is about $53,000.

Yes. A business degree can lead to more job prospects, career advancement, and salary increases.

This article was reviewed by Krystal Covington, MBA 

Krystal Covington, MBA, is a business growth strategist with 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations. Her company, Go Lead Consulting, provides clients foundational tools to build new client and customer relationships. 

Covington founded Women of Denver, one of the largest privately held membership organizations in Denver, Colorado. Her program helps women increase their business acumen, sharpen leadership skills and connect with other high-achieving women. Covington received her MBA from Western Governors University in 2012.

Krystal Covington is a paid member of the Red Ventures Education freelance review network. 

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What is a degree in business administration called?

The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) is one of the most marketable and in-demand undergraduate degrees. Nearly every form of employment is related to a business organization, and understanding the field of business can be beneficial to your career.

What field does business administration fall under?

The position may also be known as “business management.” It is a broad field that covers the management of an organization's accounting, finance, marketing, human resources and daily activities. Business administrators plan long-term strategies and projects to accomplish the company's vision.

Is Business Administration a BA or BS?

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (BS-BA), same as the BBA degree, prepares students for a future career in the business world.

How do you list associate degree on resume?

How to list an associate degree on a resume? List it in your regular Education section, mentioning “Associate” in the name of the degree. You might list some relevant coursework on your resume if you don't have a lot of professional experience yet.