Applied Business programs provide thorough, in-depth, practical training in the skills required by today's business office workers. These programs may be offered at universities, community colleges or career colleges in the USA. Usually applied business programs are 12- to 52-week diplomas and certificates that aim to have graduates job ready, but bachelor's and associate's degrees in applied business may also be available.
Specialties in applied business may include accounting and payroll administration, administrative assisting, business administration, e-commerce management, office administration, specialty office administration (legal, medical, dental), fashion business, tourism management, etc. In fact, employers actively seek out applied business grads, since they have the skills and knowledge of business English and communications, business calculations, office procedures, client relations, and strong keyboarding skills. Current computer software applications are also stressed, and applied business programs generally have strong links to employers in the community.