How do you choose a school of logistics?
Certain schools have created programs for warehouse workers due to the growing demand for education specifically on logistics. Kathleen Hedland is the director of education and research at the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. She states that businesses want their employees to be aware of how they impact customers, and how actions in one department can affect other departments.
The degrees available vary but they all include fundamental courses that teach basic concepts such as operations and supply chain management, procurement, transportation and distribution networks as well as warehousing and inventory management, and business fundamentals. Some universities also offer specializations like e-commerce and retail logistics, transportation and logistical analysis and global logistics management and many more.
Graduates are prepared to serve in roles as supply chain managers, logisticians buying agents, industrial production managers, and distribution managers. They may also seek certifications such as the Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) or the Certified Public Contract Manager (CPCM) to improve their job prospects.
In addition to the course offerings be sure to consider whether the university is accredited by an institution like the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation which has accreditation for 8,200 institutions and 44,000 programs. Also, look for a school that has an adequate student-to-teacher ratio, since it will ensure that you receive quality instruction.
Some colleges offer hybrid or online courses that offer classroom instruction as well as virtual learning opportunities. This type of program is popular with employees who work on an unstructured schedule and are incapable or unwilling to take traditional classes. Some online courses can offer associate’s degrees or certificates, while other programs offer master’s and bachelor’s degrees.