Associate of Arts in Business Administration

If you are a working adult interested in pursuing a career in business or transferring to a Bachelor’s Degree in accounting or other business specialization, our AA degree program in Business Administration can be the first step to achieving your dreams.

Empowered to Succeed

As a graduate of the AA in Business Administration degree program*, you will be prepared to:

  1. Identify the accounting standard principles and be able to prepare basic financial statements.
  2. Demonstrate a basic understanding of business organization concepts and theories, and decision-making skills.
  3. Describe the basic macro and microeconomics theories and market structures to describe their implications related to government, business, and individuals.
  4. Complete a business plan demonstrating the application of the basic principles of business organization, operations management theories, and accounting, finance, and marketing concepts.

*The general education core for this degree complies with guidelines of the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI).

Why Choose a Business Administration Associates from St. Augustine College at Lewis University?

Pursuing an Associate of Arts in Business Administration at St. Augustine provides a solid foundation for students aiming to enter the business world or continue their education in a bachelor’s program. Being based in Chicago, one of the nation’s largest business centers, the program is designed to equip students with essential business knowledge and skills, preparing them for various roles in the business sector.

The Associate’s in Business Admin curriculum covers fundamental areas such as accounting, economics, management, marketing, and business law. This comprehensive approach ensures that students develop a well-rounded understanding of business operations and practices. Additionally, the program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are vital for success in any business environment.

One of the unique features of St. Augustine is its commitment to bilingual education. Students have the opportunity to start their studies in Spanish and transition to English, facilitating a smoother learning experience for non-native English speakers. This bilingual approach not only enhances language proficiency but also prepares students to operate effectively in diverse, multicultural business settings.

Furthermore, St. Augustine offers flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, and weekend classes, to accommodate the needs of working adults and nontraditional students. The supportive learning environment, combined with dedicated faculty and staff, ensures that students receive the guidance and resources necessary to achieve their academic and career goals.

Graduates of the Associate of Arts in Business Administration program are well-prepared to pursue entry-level positions in various business fields or to continue their education by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program. The skills and knowledge acquired through this program serve as a strong foundation for future academic and professional endeavors.

Associate of Arts

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A.A, Business Administration Full Course List

List of Classes and Credit Hours for AA Business Administration
Associate of Arts in Business Administration CREDIT HOURS
General Education Requirements48
ENG 160 Composition I4
ENG 162 Composition II4
ENG 165 Speech4
MAT 200 Finite Mathematics OR MAT 225 Introductory Statistics4
BIO 102 Human Biology OR BIO 108 Anatomy and Physiology I4
CHM 115 Basic Chemistry OR PHY 103 Earth Science4
HUM 204 Music Appreciation OR HUM 205 History and Appreciation of Art4
PHI 220 Ethics OR any unduplicated Humanities or Fine Arts course4
SPA 222 The Hispanic-American Experience through Literature or HUM 2024
HIS 105 Survey of U.S. History from 1865 to Present OR HIS 104 Survey of U.S. History to 1865 OR PSC 103 American Government and Politics4
ECO 101 Principles of Macroeconomics OR ECO 102 Principles of Microeconomics4
PSY 101 General Psychology4
Major Requirements12
ACC 101 Principles of Accounting4
ACC 161 Financial Accounting4
BUS 110 Introduction to Business4
CIS 115 Spreadsheets for Business 4
ACC 162 Managerial Accounting 4
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS/COURSES68

Business Administration Faculty

Meet our dedicated Business Administration faculty below.

Business Professor, Dr. Asif Ashiqali
Dr. Asif Ashiqali is a seasoned academic leader and business professional with over 20 years of experience spanning academia, business…
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AA in Business Administration FAQ

How long is the Business Administration Associate’s Program?

The AA in Business Administration at St. Augustine at Lewis University is a 68-credit-hour program that most full-time students complete in two years. With classes designed to work within a busy schedule, the program is built for students who are working full time, raising a family, or both, making it one of the most accessible paths to a business credential in Chicago.

What will I learn in the AA in Business Administration program?

The curriculum covers fundamental areas including accounting, economics, management, marketing, and business law. Beyond content knowledge, the program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that apply across industries and roles. Graduates leave with a well-rounded understanding of how businesses operate — not just in one function, but across the organization.

Is the Business Administration Associate Degree Program offered online or at one of the campuses in Chicago?

The AA in Business Administration program is offered online. Our online model is a real-time livestream of the courses, so students have the flexibility to learn completely online.

What jobs can I get with an Associate's Degree in Business Administration?

An AA in Business Administration prepares graduates for entry-level and mid-level roles in a wide range of industries, including office manager, administrative coordinator, sales associate, operations assistant, human resources assistant, and customer service supervisor. Chicago is one of the nation's largest business centers, giving St. Augustine College graduates direct access to a dense, diverse local job market spanning finance, healthcare, nonprofits, and professional services.

Why get an Associate's Degree in Business Administration instead of going straight to a bachelor's?

For many students, the AA is the smarter first step. It's designed for working adults interested in pursuing a career in business or transferring to a bachelor's degree in accounting or another business specialization, letting students build credentials and enter the workforce faster, at a lower cost, while keeping the door open to continued education. It's a practical path that doesn't require putting the rest of your life on hold.

Can I move with my AA in Business Administration credits to a four-year university?

Yes. St. Augustine’s AA in Business Administration is designed as a transition-friendly program. Students interested in continuing their education can use the AA as a foundation for a bachelor's degree in accounting or other business specializations. Through St. Augustine you can transition to Lewis University with clear articulation pathway to continue into a four-year business program without losing the credits you've already earned.

Who is the AA in Business Administration program designed for?

The program is designed for working adults who want to develop business skills for career advancement, qualify for higher-paying jobs, or lay the groundwork for a bachelor's degree, all without putting family or work on hold. St. Augustine College's bilingual learning environment also makes the program especially accessible for Spanish-speaking students in Chicago who are entering or re-entering higher education.

Additional Resources

Success Stories

As the number one school in Illinois in raising students’ income, and having a second higher graduation rate than comparable institutions in Chicago, we are proud to present a few of our outstanding students below who have stood out and demonstrated St. Augustine’s dedication to success. Learn more here.

Student Success Center

St. Augustine is not just a college, it’s a launchpad for you and your career. Contact our staff to receive assistance related to jobs, interviews, or internships. Learn more here.

Community

Our community is built on inclusivity and diversity. Regardless of someone’s background, they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Learn more here.

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