Being an administrative assistant goes way beyond filing and photocopying. It’s a role that’s at the heart of every business, and with the right administrative assistant training, it can take you places. But finding the right training isn’t easy. You want something that goes beyond the basics and trains you to handle whatever comes your way.
In this article, we’ll walk you through top administrative assistant training programs and certifications. Plus, we’ll help you figure out how to choose the right one for your career goals.
6 Administrative Assistant Training You Should Consider
Here are 6 great administrative assistant training programs to help you get started
1. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Program: International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)
The Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Certification from the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) is a highly respected program designed to boost your skills and career as an administrative assistant.
This course covers various topics to help you excel in your role. The certification is offered online, which makes it easy to access from anywhere and learn at your own pace. The CAP exam covers organizational culture, business communication, and project management, with a mix of 200-225 multiple-choice questions.
After completing this course, you’ll better understand key administrative functions. The program is perfect for new and experienced administrative professionals looking to improve their qualifications.
Skills You Will Learn
- Effective communication skills
- Project management techniques
- Advanced organizational strategies
- Leadership and management basics
- Technology and software skills relevant to administrative work
Learning Options & Course Length
The CAP certification is flexible, with self-paced options to fit learning into your schedule. But the Certification Office Hours are held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month via Zoom.
Cost
- $375 for IAAP members
- $575 for non-members
2. Office Administration Course: Coursera (Google Professional Workspace Administrator Professional Certificate)
The Google Professional Workspace Administrator Professional Certificate on Coursera helps you master Google Workspace tools. It’s a great choice for administrative assistants who want to improve their skills in managing Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar. The 5-course series is fully online, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
With this course, you’ll learn how to set up Google Workspace, manage user accounts, and keep data secure. This program is ideal if you want to become an expert in Google’s popular office tools.
Skills You Will Learn
- Google Workspace setup and configuration
- Managing user accounts and permissions
- Data security and compliance
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving in Google Workspace
- Automation of repetitive tasks
Learning Options & Course Length
This course takes 1 month at 10 hours a week, but it is flexible and self-paced, so you can complete it on your own time.
Cost
- Free for 7 days when you enroll for the course
- After 7 days, Coursera subscription cost $39 per month
- Financial aid is available for those who qualify
3. Executive Assistant Skills: Udemy (Rosemary Parr)
The course is designed for executive assistants with 3+ years of experience. It will help you excel in supporting top-level executives, including CEOs and Chairmen. This course consists of 10 sections and 10 lectures. You’ll dive into topics like strategy and corporate governance at the C-suite level, board meetings, financial awareness, and effective people management.
Designed for office professionals with at least 3 years of experience, this program prepares you for a senior executive assistant role. You’ll get valuable insights from Rosemary Parr, a top executive assistant. Plus, you’ll take a mastery quiz to test your knowledge along the way.
Skills You Will Learn
- Time management and organization
- Professional communication with executives
- Handling sensitive and confidential information
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Building strong relationships with senior management
Learning Options & Course Length
You can access the course on mobile and TV. It is a 3.5-hour on-demand video course that is flexible, so you can complete it at your own pace.
Cost
- One-time fee of $19.99 (coupon also available)
- Includes lifetime access to the course
4. Administrative Assistant Skills Training: Penn Foster Career School
If you’re ready to turn your organizational skills into a rewarding career, the Administrative Assistant Career Diploma Program from Penn Foster could be the perfect fit. This online program helps you build essential business and administrative skills from the comfort of your home. The flexible schedule lets you study when it works best for you.
With 9 courses, 39.5 CEUs, and 26 exams, you’ll learn essential skills at your own pace. The program covers office procedures, management, and business writing to prepare you for entry-level roles in corporate offices, law firms, and hospitals.
Skills You Will Learn
- Office management and procedures
- Business communication
- Microsoft Office and computer skills
- Basic accounting and bookkeeping
- Time management and organization
Learning Options & Course Length
Depending on how much time you dedicate each week, it takes between 6 and 9 months to complete.
Cost
- $59 per month
- One-time payment of $679
5. Professional Administrative Certificate of Excellence (PACE): American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP)
The Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) from the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP) helps you build the in-demand skills to support executives and teams in today’s fast-paced work environment.
There are no prerequisites, so you can enroll instantly and start learning right away. The program is fully online and uses an interactive e-learning platform to guide you through 4 key modules.
Skills You Will Learn
- Effective communication and conflict management
- Time and project management strategies
- Advanced technology and software knowledge
- Leadership and decision-making skills
Learning Options & Course Length
You have up to 1 year to complete the modules and take the certification exam. You get 3 chances to pass the assessment.
Cost
- PACE Enrollment – $475
- PACE+ – $650
- PACE for Teams – Custom pricing
6. Administrative Assistant Training: Alison
The Administrative Assistant Training course on Alison is a free online program that helps you build essential skills for an administrative role. This course covers important topics like time management, office procedures, and communication, giving you a strong foundation to succeed in an office environment.
The course is broken down into 2 modules – training on essential skills and a course assessment. Plus, upon completion, you’ll earn a CPD-accredited certificate to showcase your new skills on your resume. This credential can help you stand out in the job market and impress potential employers.
Skills You Will Learn
- Effective time management
- Office management and procedures
- Business communication techniques
- Organizing files and documents
- Basic computer skills
Learning Options & Course Length
The course takes about 1.5 to 3 hours to complete.
Cost
- Free to access
- Paid certificates are available if you want to receive official accreditation after completing the course.
5 Free & Affordable Administrative Assistant Training Options
Here are 5 free and affordable options to help you gain administrative assistant skills.
I. Administrative Professional Foundations: LinkedIn Learning (Aimee Reese)
The Administrative Professional Foundations course on LinkedIn Learning, taught by Aimee Reese, is a 44-minute program designed for beginner and intermediate learners. It covers the core skills needed for administrative professionals, including managing calendars, handling email, and organizing meetings.
Aimee also shares insights into the interpersonal skills needed to support multiple executives and manage relationships with colleagues. Released in 2018, this course has a 4.7-star rating from over 9,900 learners.
Skills You Will Learn
- Managing mail, email, and calendars
- Setting up and running meetings
- Supporting multiple executives
- Using the latest office technology
Learning Options & Course Length
This is a self-paced course that takes about 44 minutes to complete.
Cost
- Free with a LinkedIn Learning subscription
- 1-month free trial available for new users
II. Microsoft Office Diploma for Administrative Assistants: Institute of Executive Assistants & Administrators
The Microsoft Office Diploma for Administrative Assistants from the Institute of Executive Assistants and Administrators is a flexible online course designed in partnership with a Microsoft Certified Academy. It includes training in Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, and Office365, with assessments after each module.
You can start anytime and complete the program within 6 months, though full-time learners may finish sooner. Upon completion, you’ll receive a Microsoft Office Diploma from the IEAA and a CPD Standards Diploma Certification.
Skills You Will Learn
- Advanced Microsoft Word for document creation
- Excel for data management and analysis
- PowerPoint for creating professional presentations
- Outlook for managing email and calendars
- Teams, SharePoint, and Office365 for remote work
Learning Options & Course Length
This is a flexible course, and you have up to 6 months to complete the training, but you can finish sooner if you are studying full-time.
Cost
- £399 for the full course
III. Business Writing for Administrative Assistants: Alison
The Professional Business Writing Skills course on Alison is a free online program published by the Workforce Academy Partnership. This course is perfect for administrative assistants looking to improve their writing skills for various workplace tasks. You’ll learn how to draft professional emails, proposals, reports, meeting agendas, and letters.
The course is CPD accredited and teaches document structure, proofreading techniques, and collaborative writing skills, which are essential in a fast-paced office environment. It is self-paced, so you can complete it on your own schedule.
Skills You Will Learn
- Writing clear and professional emails, proposals, and reports
- Organizing and structuring business documents
- Proofreading for clarity and accuracy
- Collaborative business writing techniques
Learning Options & Course Length
The course can be completed in 6-10 hours. You can learn at your own pace and revisit lessons as needed.
Cost
- Free to access
- Optional paid certificate available for purchase upon course completion
IV. Virtual Administrative Assistant Certification: Virtual Assistant Academy
The Virtual Administrative Assistant Certification from the Virtual Assistant Academy helps you build essential skills for becoming a successful virtual assistant. This free course covers the basics of virtual assistance, including tasks, tools, and communication techniques, to manage remote administrative work effectively.
Through the program, you’ll learn to manage email, schedule, and use various digital tools. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enter the virtual assistant field or improve their remote work skills.
Skills You Will Learn
- Time management and organization
- Email and calendar management
- Communication and client relations
- Use of digital tools for virtual work
Learning Options & Course Length
The course is self-paced and can be completed in 3 hours. Upon completion, you also get lifetime access and a certificate.
Cost
- Free to access
- Optional paid certificate available for purchase upon course completion
V. Office Administration (Short Course): Oxford Home Study
The Office Administration Course (Short Course) from Oxford Home Study Centre is a free online program to enhance your business administration skills. There are no entry requirements, and all learning materials and tutor support are included.
Oxford Home Study Centre offers this administrative assistant certification with no fees at any stage. You’ll cover key topics like communication, assertiveness, self-management, and dealing with stress.
Skills You Will Learn
- Effective office management and organization
- Administrative task handling
- Business communication and record management
Learning Options & Course Length
The course length is 20 hours. It is self-paced, with no deadlines or time restrictions.
Cost
- Free
How To Pick The Right Administrative Assistant Training To Take
Here’s how you can choose the best administrative assistant training based on your goals and needs.
Step 1: Identify Your Career Goals
Understand your career goals to choose the right training. Ask yourself what type of role you see yourself in—are you looking to stay in general administration, or do you want to specialize in areas like executive assistance or office management?
Here’s how you can narrow it down:
- Define your target role. Do you want to become an Office Manager, an Executive Assistant, or maybe work in HR?
- Choose your industry. Identify if you are interested in corporate, healthcare, education, or legal environments.
- Decide when you want to achieve your goals—whether it’s within a year or 5.
- If you’re aiming for a specific role, like Executive Assistant, focus on courses that teach advanced organizational or leadership skills.
Step 2: Assess The Skills You Need To Develop
Once you’ve defined your career goals, the next step is to figure out which skills you need to improve or learn. This helps you narrow down your options. Plus, tt saves time and helps you progress faster by targeting the right areas for growth.
Here’s how you can assess your skills:
- Look at job listings for the role you want and take note of the skills they require, like project management, advanced Microsoft Office skills, or leadership abilities.
- Compare the required skills with what you already have. Are you proficient in everything, or do you need to improve in areas like communication, software usage, or team management?
- Ask your HR manager or coworkers for feedback on where you could improve or what new skills would benefit your role.
- Consider whether you need training in soft skills like communication and problem-solving or technical skills like mastering new software programs to advance.
Step 3: Research Available Training Options
Start by exploring different options that match what you’re looking for. There are plenty of online courses, certifications, and in-person workshops that can help you develop the skills needed for your desired role. Make sure to compare various programs to find one that fits your learning style and schedule.
Here’s how you can start:
- Check out websites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or edX for courses that focus on administrative skills.
- Find programs that offer recognized certifications, like those from IAAP or other professional organizations.
- Read reviews from people who have taken the courses to get an idea of the quality and effectiveness.
- See if the courses are self-paced or have specific deadlines, so you can choose one that fits your schedule.
Step 4: Compare Course Content & Curriculum
Once you’ve found a few training options, take a closer look at what each course covers. This helps you find courses that match your exact needs so you’re not wasting time on irrelevant topics. A comprehensive course with practical and theoretical knowledge lets you apply what you learn right away while giving you a deeper understanding of the subject.
Here’s what you should do:
- Check the syllabus. Make sure the course covers the key skills you need, like time management, software use, or communication.
- Look at course depth. Is the content basic or more advanced? Choose one that matches your current level and challenges you to grow.
- See if there’s hands-on training. Practical tasks or real-life examples can make learning more effective.
- See if the course has extra materials, like guides, templates, or access to instructors for questions.
Step 5: Check The Credibility Of The Training Provider
Before signing up for any course, you need to make sure the provider is trustworthy. A credible training provider ensures that the course content is high-quality and recognized in your industry. Do a little research to see if they are well-known and respected. This helps ensure that your certification or skills will be taken seriously by employers.
Here’s how to check:
- Check what previous students have said about the course and the provider.
- See if the provider is partnered with well-known companies or professional organizations.
- Make sure the course has accreditation or endorsement from reputable institutions, like IAAP or CIPD.
- Look at the provider’s history. How long have they been offering courses? Established providers have better resources and quality control.
Step 6: Read Reviews & Testimonials
Before you commit to any training, check what others are saying about it. Reviews and testimonials can give you real insight into the course quality, how helpful it is, and if it’s worth your time. Plus, hearing from people who’ve already completed the course can help you make a better decision.
Here’s what you should do:
- Look for honest feedback on course content and overall experience. This is always available on the course website.
- Look for patterns. Check if most reviews on the website are positive or if there are consistent complaints about certain aspects.
- Don’t just rely on one site; check several platforms like LinkedIn, your work group, Facebook, etc, for reviews to get a balanced view.
Step 7: Evaluate The Certification & Its Value
Before choosing a course, think about how valuable its certification will be for your career. You want a certification that employers recognize and one that proves your skills are up to industry standards. The right certification can open doors to better job opportunities and give your resume a boost.
Here’s how to check its value:
- Find out if the certification is from a well-known provider in your field
- Look at job listings to see if employers mention it as a requirement.
- Make sure it showcases the skills you need for the job you want.
- You also need to consider if this certification will stay relevant as your career progresses.
Step 8: Consider The Cost & Your Budget
You need to consider the cost before enrolling in any training. Some courses are free, while others charge for certification or materials. It’s important to weigh the price against the value you’ll get from the course to make sure it’s a good investment in your career.
Here’s how to assess the cost:
- Look at different courses and see if there are free or lower-cost options available.
- Make sure to check if there are additional costs for exams or certifications.
- Verify that any supplementary materials (books, software) are included in the upfront cost to avoid unexpected charges.
- Check if payment plans or scholarships are available.
Step 9: Look For Flexible Learning Options
Choosing a course with flexible learning options can make a big difference in how easily you can complete it. Flexibility means you can fit learning into your life without sacrificing your other responsibilities. Whether you need a self-paced program, evening classes, or the ability to pause when things get hectic, flexibility helps you stay on track and meet your goals.
Here are some important things to consider:
- Look for self-paced courses that let you learn at your own speed, which is ideal if you have a busy or unpredictable schedule.
- Explore part-time or evening classes if you have daytime commitments. This way, you can learn without disrupting your routine.
- Make sure you can access the course from your phone, tablet, or laptop so you can study at your convenience.
- Check if the course provides recorded sessions or live options. Recorded lessons let you catch up at your convenience and keep you on track even if your schedule changes.
- Seek out programs with flexible deadlines. With this, you can complete the course without pressure or time constraints.
Step 10: Make Sure The Course Fits Your Schedule
It’s important you pick a course that works well with your daily life and commitments. No matter how good the training is, if it doesn’t fit your schedule, you’re more likely to fall behind or not complete it. Be honest about how much time you can dedicate each week and choose a course that aligns with that availability.
Here’s how to ensure it fits:
- Check how many hours the course requires each week and compare that to the time you can realistically set aside.
- If you have a changing or busy routine, opt for courses that let you study during evenings, weekends, or at your own pace.
- Consider how the course will impact your work, family, and other responsibilities. Choose one that allows you to balance everything comfortably.
- Make sure the course duration fits within your personal timeline for achieving your career goals.
Conclusion
As you choose your administrative assistant training, find a course that aligns with your career goals and fills the skill gaps you need to address. Make sure every course you consider helps you grow and stand out in your role.
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FAQs
What qualifications do I need to enroll in an administrative assistant training program?
Most administrative assistant training programs do not have strict prerequisites. Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient to enroll. Some advanced programs may require basic computer skills or prior experience in an office environment, but many are designed for beginners and professionals alike.
Is online administrative assistant training as valuable as in-person training?
Yes, online administrative assistant training is as valuable as in-person training, especially if it’s from a recognized provider. Many online courses offer the same content and certifications as traditional in-person programs, providing flexibility while maintaining industry standards.
Can administrative assistant training help me specialize in specific industries?
Yes, many administrative assistant training programs offer specialized tracks or modules tailored to industries like healthcare, legal, or executive support. This lets you focus on the specific skills and knowledge needed for administrative roles in particular fields and gives you an edge in those job markets.
How long does it take to complete an administrative assistant certification?
The duration of a certification program varies depending on the course. Some programs can be completed in as little as 2 weeks, while others might take 6 months. Self-paced courses also let you progress according to your schedule, while structured programs may have set timelines.