thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 18% growth in healthcare occupations by 2026. Healthcare also offers some of the highest paying occupations -- health services managers earned a median salary of $98,350 in 2017. There is a high demand for skilled health services workers, and earning a health services administration associate degree online increases your chances of obtaining one of these rewarding careers.

Whether you want to work directly with patients or provide support services behind-the-scenes, the health services field offers diverse opportunities for a range of interests and personalities. Entry-level positions in health services are available in hospitals and clinics, human service agencies, pharmacies, and rehabilitation centers. A health and human services associate degree gives you the opportunity to explore your interests while gaining the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue further educational paths and high-paying careers.

Accredited Online Schools

The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Download the Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs Badge
Download this Badge

Online Associate in Health Services Degree Program Ranking Guidelines:
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.


Note: Because numerous types of degrees fall under the umbrella of “Associate in Health Services,” the following sections display top-ranked programs from several related ranking articles on our website. To learn more about these different degrees, follow the link at the end of each section to their corresponding ranking article or jump to a category:


The Best Online Associate in Health Sciences Degree Programs

#1 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Excelsior College

  • Albany, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Excelsior College supports 13 online associate degree programs from its main campus in Albany, New York. Health science students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year college.

While enrolled, health science students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Distance learners benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Eligible students can access scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.

Excelsior College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Albany, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
25,245
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

St. Petersburg College

  • Clearwater, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Clearwater, Florida, St. Petersburg College provides online education across 15 associate degree programs, including its AS in health sciences. Enrollees gain foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the health sciences field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

During their studies, learners can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Attendees can access financial aid opportunities, receiving an average of $8,559 in awards. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 73% receive financial aid, and 25% take out loans.

St. Petersburg College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Clearwater, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,943
Out-of-state
$7,774
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
28,853
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Madisonville Community College

  • Madisonville, KY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Madisonville Community College, located in Kentucky, boasts five online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked human services program. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a health sciences-specific career. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

During their studies, learners can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Typically, students are awarded $5,741 in financial aid. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 97% receive financial aid and 14% receive loans.

Madisonville Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Madisonville, Kentucky

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,176

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,616

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,176
Out-of-state
$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,737
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Shoreline Community College

  • Shoreline, WA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Shoreline Community College, located in Washington, supports nine online associate degree programs, including a health information technology AAS. The program prepares students for the demands of the health sciences field through foundational and advanced coursework. Upon completion, students can apply their credits towards a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. Online students can access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,555. Many students benefit from funding, with 58% of enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Shoreline Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Shoreline, Washington

Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,588

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,351

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,588
Out-of-state
$6,351
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,884
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#5 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Peirce College

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in health services should consider Peirce College. Students in the AS in health information technology program complete courses relevant to the health sciences field, preparing them for their future careers. Students seeking to advance their education can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

A leader in student success, the college provides career services, academic advising, and other resources. The online learning community connects learners with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.

According to the school, 100% of incoming students receive financial aid awards and about 73% receive student loans.

Peirce College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,400

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,896
Out-of-state
$13,896
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,178
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Florida Institute of Technology

  • Melbourne, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Located in Melbourne, Florida Institute of Technology provides online education across nine associate degree programs, including its AA in healthcare management program. Enrollees benefit from a robust course curriculum, preparing them for the demands of the healthcare administration field. Students seeking further education can apply their healthcare management credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, healthcare management students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Distance learners can access virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Students can access scholarships, fellowships, and loans to assist with educational expenses.

Florida Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Melbourne, Florida

Admission Rate: 99%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $12,240

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,240

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,240
Out-of-state
$12,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,128
Out-of-state
$16,128
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,841
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Concordia University, Wisconsin

  • Mequon, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners seeking flexible study in healthcare administration should consider Concordia University, Wisconsin's online associate in healthcare management program. Students can build their knowledge of the healthcare management field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and apply their college credits toward a four-year degree.

Enrollees receive guidance throughout the duration of their studies and can access career services and academic advising. Online students can benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The institution reports that 100% of incoming students receive financial aid awards and about 55% receive student loans.

Concordia University, Wisconsin at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Mequon, Wisconsin

Admission Rate: 64%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $30,060

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $30,060

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,060
Out-of-state
$30,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,052
Out-of-state
$11,052
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
5,777
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Community Care College

  • Tulsa, OK
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Community Care College, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, boasts four online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked associate in healthcare administration program. Healthcare administration students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, healthcare administration students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

About 89% of incoming students receive financial aid awards, and about 75% receive student loans.

Community Care College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, two-year

Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
542
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools

#9 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Keiser University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Keiser University supports 13 online associate degree programs, including its AS in medical assisting science program. Students in the medical assisting program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in health science. Enrollees looking to advance in their education can apply their associate degree credits toward further undergraduate study.

Medical assisting degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and other academic tutoring.

Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 89% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid, and 69% opting for student loans.

Keiser University at a Glance:

Type of school: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808

Transfer Credit Accepted: Accepted

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Alexandria Technical and Community College

  • Alexandria, MN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Minnesota, Alexandria Technical and Community College provides online education across 12 associate degree programs, including its medical administrative specialist program. Enrollees benefit from a robust course curriculum, preparing them for the demands of the health services field. Students can transfer their course credits to a four-year college, in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

Students can access career services, academic advising, and other support services during their program. Institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Typically, enrollees receive $4,446 in financial aid awards. About 85% of incoming students receive financial aid, and about 27% take out student loans.

Alexandria Technical and Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Alexandria, Minnesota

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,963

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,963

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,963
Out-of-state
$4,963
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,591
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Surry Community College

  • Dobson, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Dobson, North Carolina, Surry Community College provides online education across eight associate degree programs, including its medical office administration program. Students in the program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of a health services career. Students seeking to advance their education can apply associate credits towards a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. The institution also provides online enrollees with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources, including writing tutoring.

Medical office administration students can expect to receive an average of $4,527 in financial aid. Eligible students can access scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.

Surry Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Dobson, North Carolina

Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,550

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,694

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,550
Out-of-state
$8,694
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,382
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Southwestern Community College

  • Sylva, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Sylva, North Carolina, Southwestern Community College supports seven online associate degree programs, including a medical office administration degree. Students prepare for a health services career through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking further education can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career services. Other resources available for distance learners include academic tutoring and virtual library services.

The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $6,389. Approximately 77% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 7% receiving student loans.

Southwestern Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Sylva, North Carolina

Student-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,128

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,504

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,128
Out-of-state
$7,504
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,324
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Georgia Military College

  • Milledgeville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Military College supports 25 online associate degree programs from its main campus in Milledgeville, Georgia. Students can build their knowledge of the health services field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates of the allied health associate program can pursue further study, such as in a bachelor's program.

Learners can access career services, academic advising, and other support options during their studies. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Distance learners can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $5,742. The institution reports that 92% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 33% receive student loans.

Georgia Military College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Milledgeville, Georgia

Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,165

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,165

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,165
Out-of-state
$6,165
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Northampton Community College

  • Bethlehem, PA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Northampton Community College, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, boasts 10 online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked AAS in public health. Students in the public health program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Typically, students can apply their associate degree credits toward future educational endeavors, like a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,819. The institution reports that 77% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 26% take out student loans.

Northampton Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,420

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,630

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,420
Out-of-state
$9,630
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,800
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 The Best Online Associate in Health Services Programs

Georgia State University-Perimeter College

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

At Georgia State University-Perimeter College, the AS in health information administration is offered online. Enrollees gain foundational knowledge and skills relevant to the health information administration field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking to advance their education can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average student is awarded $5,300 in financial aid, to offset the costs of education. Typically, 80% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 31% receiving loans.

Georgia State University-Perimeter College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Admission Rate: 69%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,280

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,632

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,280
Out-of-state
$8,632
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
18,573
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Accredited Online Schools


Return to the top

Educational Paths for an Online Associate in Health Services Program

Once you earn your associate degree in health services, transferring to a bachelor's program is a rewarding next step. Earning a bachelor's degree in the field opens up a plethora of rewarding new career paths and can lead to higher earning potential -- bachelor's health administration graduates earn an average of $36,110.

Return to the top

Accredited Online Schools

Careers with an Associate in Health Services Careers

There are a variety of jobs available for those with an associates degree in health and human services. Opportunities in patient care include positions as medical assistants and technicians. If your interests lie in administrative or technical work, careers in transcription or medical records may be of interest. If you have a knack for problem-solving with clients, then a career in human services offers many fulfilling opportunities.

  1. Medical Records Technician:
    Technicians work in healthcare settings to document patient information and medical history and ensure all information is current and accurate. Technicians often work with databases and electronic records and prepare insurance billing. Earning an advanced degree makes you eligible for professional credentials, leading to careers in health information management.
    • Median Annual Salary: $39,180
  2. Pharmacy Technician:
    Pharmacy technicians collect patient information, verify prescriptions, and assist with preparing and dispensing medication. They work in hospitals and pharmacies under the supervision of a pharmacist. Earning a degree in this field ensures you have the skills to work with patients, handle sensitive information, and prepares you for advanced training.
    • Median Annual Salary: $31,750
  3. Human Service Assistants:
    Human service assistants work with clients to assess needs, help them complete paperwork, and coordinate care with other providers. These professionals demonstrate an understanding of social systems and develop skills in client care.
    • Median Annual Salary: $33,120

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Return to the top

Popular with our students.

Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

woman in an office