Career roadmap
How to Become an Administrative Services Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an administrative services manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an administrative services manager: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) work in administration, (3) supervise staff, (4) learn records and vendors, (5) become a manager. Most people need about Several years of experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an administrative services manager
Earn a bachelor’s
Business or related.
Work in administration
Assistant roles.
Supervise staff
Lead a team.
Learn records and vendors
Expand skills.
Become a manager
Run services.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree is typical, plus experience in administrative work.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Several years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Administrative Professional: IAAP credential.
- Certified Records Manager: Records specialty.
- Facility Management Professional: IFMA credential.
- Project management training: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with office operations, records management, and vendor management, and practice organization and leadership. Learning the administrative services manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Administrative Assistant: Support role.
- Office Supervisor: Lead staff.
- Administrative Services Manager: Run services.
- Director of Administration: Lead divisions.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Administrative Services Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Is a degree required?
Usually a bachelor’s.
How long does it take to become an administrative services manager?
Most people need about Several years of experience of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical, plus experience in administrative work.
Do you need a degree to be an administrative services manager?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for administrative services managers?
Common credentials include Certified Administrative Professional, Certified Records Manager, Facility Management Professional, and Project management training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-3012 (Administrative services managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Administrative services managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.