Why Choose an Associate of Arts in Business at Bethel University?
The Associate of Arts in Business at Bethel University is an excellent starting point for students who want a solid foundation in core business principles. This two-year program prepares students with essential knowledge in accounting, marketing, management, and economics—skills that are in demand across nearly every industry.
Whether you're planning to enter the workforce right away or continue toward a bachelor’s degree, this program is designed to be flexible, affordable, and career-focused. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who bring real-world business insight into the classroom, and students benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages growth and confidence.
Graduates of Bethel’s associate program are prepared for entry-level roles in business settings or can seamlessly transition into Bethel’s bachelor’s programs in business-related fields. It’s a smart choice for working adults, recent high school graduates, or anyone looking to build a strong business foundation with room to grow.
What You'll Learn
The Associate of Arts in Business at Bethel University is designed to provide a broad foundation in business fundamentals while preparing students for entry-level roles in various industries or further study in a bachelor’s degree program. Offered entirely online, this 60-credit-hour program blends essential general education with core business competencies, helping students develop practical skills in accounting, marketing, finance, and management.
Students in this program will:
Gain foundational knowledge in economics and understand how economic principles apply to real-world business decisions.
Develop essential skills in financial accounting, including reading and preparing basic financial statements.
Explore the principles of management and the roles of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling in organizational settings.
Understand the fundamentals of marketing, including consumer behavior, branding, and promotional strategies.
Acquire a broad perspective on business operations through exposure to key concepts in finance and business strategy.
Learn to navigate online academic and professional environments through a dedicated orientation course focused on success in online learning.
Enhance their communication and digital literacy skills through coursework in communications and computer information systems.
This program equips students with a versatile business toolkit, making it a strong stepping stone for either direct workforce entry or continued academic advancement in business-related fields
Career Possibilities
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers maintain financial records for businesses by recording transactions, updating statements, and checking financial documents for accuracy. They often use accounting software to manage daily financial data.
- Typical Education Requirements: Associate degree in accounting or business
Median Annual Wage (2023): $47,440
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 0% growth
Retail Manager
Retail managers oversee the daily operations of stores or departments, manage staff, monitor inventory, and ensure customer satisfaction. They also implement marketing strategies and analyze sales trends.
Typical Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in business
Median Annual Wage (2023 Estimate): $61,540
Job Outlook (2022–2032): 3% growth
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform a variety of clerical and organizational tasks, including managing schedules, handling correspondence, and supporting office staff. They play a key role in office efficiency.
Typical Education Requirements: Associate degree or postsecondary certificate
Median Annual Wage (2023): $44,080
Job Outlook (2022–2032): -10% decline
Customer Service Representative
Customer service representatives interact with customers to handle complaints, process orders, and answer questions. They are essential to maintaining customer satisfaction across many industries.
Typical Education Requirements: High school diploma or associate degree
Median Annual Wage (2023): $39,420
Job Outlook (2022–2032): -5% decline
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