To find the best office administration program, you should consider what jobs you want to become eligible for. There are many aspects to running and operating an office environment, and some of them may require specialized training in addition to programs which teach basic office duties. Such jobs may include things like accountant or bookkeeper, website maintenance, and software management. In order to find the best program for your needs, determine your ultimate career goals and seek courses in that area.
Most programs will require you to learn things like working with a word processor, spreadsheet, and other basic office software. To further your career, you will need an office administration program that is directed toward the jobs you are most interested in. These may include courses in accounting, programming, sales, or design. Most of these types of courses can be found at community or technical colleges, as well as more traditional four-year universities.
Career fields which require extensive computer knowledge, such as programming or website maintenance, may require you to obtain a four-year degree. This type of office administration program will require to study fields like computer science. Others may only require a certification program in bookkeeping or accounting, although each employer may have various preferences.
Visit local schools to discuss any programs they may offer in your chosen field. Tell the school administrator what career you would like to enter, or what classes you think you would like to take. He or she can then better guide you in making a decision about which program would be best for you. You should also ask plenty of questions regarding each school's tuition, class schedule, and any special programs they offer such as online classes.
Check the tuition costs for any office administration program, and discuss any payment arrangements with the school officials. There may be payment plans, tuition assistance, or other options available to you. Find out if you are eligible for any grants or scholarships, and stick only to schools who are able to accept the tuition assistance you are awarded.
To follow up with any information you are given, you should also speak with former students, teachers, and professionals in your chosen field to ask about schools they've attended, what to expect from classes, and what the employment outlook is like for the job you wish to obtain. By doing this, you will be better prepared not only to choose a school, but also to choose the right major.