The ever-expanding global economy is driving the need for rapid and efficient transportation of goods. This is creating jobs right here at home. Employment of logisticians and supply chain managers will increase by 5% in the coming years.
Logisticians work in the field of supply chain management (SCM) and handle many responsibilities related to transporting goods, including purchasing, quality assurance, inventory control, and more.
Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in logistics earn an average of $63,000 per year. Comparatively, the average annual salary for individuals with a master’s degree is $79,000.
We reviewed a range of programs for this list, including certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The type of job you want and your current level of education will inform your decision about which program to pursue at this time.
This list consists only of programs that can be completed online. Be sure to carefully review the program’s curriculum in case there are any in-person requirements for internships or residencies.
All programs are offered by schools with regional accreditation. Many also have programmatic accreditation through organizations like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
We evaluated each program on the basis of reputation, faculty, flexibility, cost, and course strength. We then gave each program an Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
For most SCM jobs, a bachelor’s degree in logistics is a sufficient level of education. However, an associate’s degree or certificate, combined with professional experience, may also qualify you for entry-level jobs.
At the graduate level, individuals can choose between a master’s degree or a graduate certificate. A full master’s degree takes longer and costs more to complete than a graduate certificate, but the earning potential and job opportunities may increase more with a master’s. Additionally, some certificate programs can only be completed in conjunction with a full degree program. When reviewing programs, you should consider your career trajectory and timeline to choose the program that best suits your needs.
As in many industries, automation and outsourcing are affecting the supply chain management industry, particularly jobs for buyers and purchasing agents. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these jobs will decline 6 percent by 2028. This is another factor to consider when planning your studies.
Organizations like the Association for Supply Chain Management and the International Society of Logistics offer credentials to logistics professionals, which can increase your employability. To earn these credentials, you must meet the education and experience requirements, take an exam, and pay application fees.
Here are some questions to ask when researching logistics programs:
Admissions requirements vary by school and type of program. For example, a master’s degree likely has stricter eligibility requirements than a certificate or associate’s degree program. Make sure you review the application procedures and deadlines so that your application and enrollment process goes smoothly.
Financing your education is another important consideration. Research federal financial aid options as well as scholarships, assistantships, and tuition benefits from your employer if you are currently working.