An online associate degree in retail management may provide students with a strong foundation on management principles within retail settings. In these two-year programs, students may study direct sales operations, supply chain management, and merchandising. Coursework within these programs may include general education requirement courses alongside elective and major-specific classes, such as business communications, marketing research, and management fundamentals.

Individuals who complete the associate-level program in retail management may pursue entry-level employment in their chosen industry or further their education and enroll in a baccalaureate-level program in retail management. Graduates may find employment options in a variety of businesses, including wholesale, manufacturing, and ecommerce.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 7% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online associate-level program in retail management may combine a handful of general education requirement courses along with major-specific classes. Students may hone their management skills, evaluate work-related issues related to organizational behavior in retail, and determine ethical conduct in these two-year programs. Core retail management courses may include the following:

• Management Fundamentals
• Supply Chain Management
• Economics
• Internet Marketing
• Marketing Research
• Business Communication
• Merchandising

Career Options

Graduates of online associate programs in retail management may seek out employment in several settings, including retail, wholesale, manufacturing, ecommerce, and electronics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those in retail management should increase by 7% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Purchasing Agent
• Retail Merchandiser
• Assistant Buyer
• Assistant Store Manager
• Customer Service Operator

Continuing Education

Graduates of associate-level programs in retail management may further their education and transfer into a bachelor’s degree program. Students enrolled in these four-year programs in retail management may expand upon the skills and training they gained at the associate level, and they may learn how to build brand loyalty and trust with consumer. Employers seek candidates who have at least a high school diploma and on-the-job training, but those who desire careers as managers may need to hold a bachelor’s degree at minimum.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook