If you have decent communication, interpersonal, and computer skills, then pursuing an Office Management degree would be a fantastic idea. This article will help you learn about various Office Management degrees that are being taught all across the U.S.
What Is Office Management?
The process of controlling, coordinating, directing, communicating, guiding, organizing, and planning the activities of a group of individuals working to attain business goals economically and efficiently is called Office Management.
In order to excel in this field, individuals need to have strong planning, analytical, administrative, leadership, time-management, and communication skills.
What Can You Do with an Office Management Degree?
After completing an Office Management degree, individuals can start their careers as Executive Secretaries, Receptionists, Front Desk Coordinators, Facilities Managers, and Administrative Assistants.
Now let’s shed some light on the income prospects for some of these positions. The employment figures stated below have been extracted from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019.
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
These professionals provide administrative support by scheduling meetings, arranging conference calls, receiving visitors, preparing correspondence, handling information requests, preparing statistical reports, and conducting research. They also supervise and train junior members of the clerical staff.
Since separate career outlook data for Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants has not been reported by BLS, hence we will use the career outlook data for the broad segment identified as ‘Secretaries and Administrative Assistants.’ The remaining income data is specific to Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $60,890 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | -7% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $62,920 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | New York | 91,240 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | District of Columbia | $73,970 |
Receptionists
These professionals are responsible for answering telephone calls, forwarding calls, maintaining calendars, scheduling meetings, greeting visitors and clients, maintaining electronic or paper documents, and handling outgoing and incoming correspondence.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $30,050 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 5% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $31,250 (Receptionists and Information Clerks) | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | New York | 95,590 |
| State with the Highest Salary Level, 2019 | District of Columbia | $40,050 |
Administrative Services Managers
These professionals are mostly responsible for office upkeep, mail distribution, and recordkeeping. Most of these managers work full-time.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $96,940 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 7% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $106,550 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 41,650 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | New York | $138,190 |
What to Expect from an Office Management Degree?
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Administrative Office Management introduces students to a range of topics such as Office Procedures, Business Communication, Desktop Publishing, English Composition, and Public Speaking. Program participants have to complete around 60 to 62 credit hours in order to get this degree. This degree can be completed within two years.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree with a Major in Office Administration and Technology prepares students for supervisory, supportive, and administrative positions in industrial or business settings, government agencies, public institutions, and professional offices. This degree requires completion of around 120 credits. The coursework incorporates a diverse range of modules such as Computer Technology for the Workplace, Computer Systems, Applied Computer Technology, Project Management, and Office Applications.
An advanced Master’s degree in Office Management is rare, thus individuals can opt for a Master of Science (MS) in Administrative Studies, which can take around two years to complete.
How to Choose an Office Management Degree?
Before deciding which Office Management program you want to enroll in, you should take into account a number of factors, such as the tuition fee, funding opportunities, program length, accreditation status, distance learning opportunities, and placement rates.
Office Management Degree Admission Requirements
The Admissions Office of every college/university provides support to applicants throughout the application process and provides individuals with resources and information regarding the application process, degree requirements, and tuition fees. You can get in touch with these offices to make your admission process as smooth as possible.
In order to get into an Office Management program, you will be required to send your transcripts, application form, reference letter, CV, and personal statement to the admissions office. Different schools have different application procedures and eligibility requirements, so it’s a good idea to check the websites of the educational institutes that you want to apply to.