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According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2022, approximately 41.9% of Americans aged 25 and older hold at least an associate’s degree—a noticeable increase from 40% in 2015.  Benjamin Franklin famously said, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest,” yet many Americans still question if pursuing an associate’s degree is worth the investment.

If you’re unsure that pursuing an associate’s degree is worth the investment, it may be worth looking into what careers are available when you have one.

Here’s a list of 9 of the most desirable careers you can obtain with an associate’s degree in business.

1. Project Manager

Are you a stickler for an organization? Are you great at meeting deadlines and juggling multiple tasks at once? With an associate’s degree in business, you can put these skills to great use as a project manager.

Project managers are in charge of completing a project from beginning to end. They manage all the moving parts and keep track of budgets, deadlines, and everyone working on the project.

Project managers create a plan, assemble a team, and make sure everything needed is in place. It’s no simple task, but it’s a satisfying career for those with the right skills.

2. Administrative Assistant

If communications and planning are your strengths, an administrative assistant could be a great career fit with a business associate’s degree. Administrative assistants handle just about everything for their employers. 

They create schedules, manage calendars, handle travel plans, host meetings, work on projects, and often write internal communications. 

If you enjoy being a vital asset to your work team, then becoming an administrative assistant as a career can be a good fit.

3. Accountant

An associate’s degree can open doors to entry-level accounting positions. Accountants handle financial records, prepare reports, and assist in budgeting and auditing processes.

4. Sales Manager

Have a knack for sales? With an associate’s degree in business, you can work as a sales manager. This role can potentially be highly lucrative.

Sales managers lead sales teams, set sales goals, analyze market trends, and strategize to enhance company revenue. They also conduct training sessions and performance evaluations.

5. Office Manager

You can work as an office manager with your associate’s degree in business. This rewarding role will have you doing everything from interviewing new employees to organizing team-building activities.

Office managers ensure smooth operational procedures, manage office staff, coordinate administrative duties, and often oversee financial tasks such as payroll.

You oversee payroll runs, coordinate office events, and more.

6. Specialist in Human Resources

Do you enjoy working with people? As a human resources specialist, you can spend your entire career helping organizations with onboarding, hiring, and training.

You’ll learn how to recruit and select the right new hires. You’re also responsible for continuing employee training as a human resources specialist.

You teach people what their new job entails and ensure they continue to learn as they progress.

7. Supervisor

There are many different kinds of business supervisor positions out there. The general title is broad, but the role can vary greatly depending on where you work.

Still, your role will have some of the same basic responsibilities wherever you work.

Business supervisors oversee employee activities, enforce company policies, manage workflows, and ensure organizational objectives are achieved. Supervisors are essential in maintaining effective employee-management relationships.

8. Customer Service Supervisor

Excellent customer service means turning the other cheek, keeping cool, and understanding people. If you enjoy working with others and meeting the needs of those around you, then a customer service supervisor is right up your alley.

You are not only in charge of ensuring that your customer base is happy and treated well, but you are also training others to do the same.

You manage your team of customer service providers and act as the go-between with management. Your role is also essential in setting goals with management that keep customers happy.

9. Civil Engineering

Civil engineering technicians support civil engineers by preparing detailed plans, conducting tests, and overseeing construction projects related to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges. It’s an engaging career path for those interested in urban development and infrastructure projects.

Get Your Associate’s Degree in Business Today

If you’re still wondering whether investing time and money in obtaining an associate’s degree is worth it, the answer is: yes!

The job options and salaries for those with an associate’s degree are far more significant. 

Investing in an associate’s degree in business offers significant career opportunities and potential for personal and professional growth. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career, explore business programs and enroll today.