How Do I Find a School of Transport Logistics?
Would you like to help maintain the efficient operation of a supply chain? Does coordinating the transportation concepts, sourcing, development and delivery of goods to their final destination sound appealing to you? Consider getting an education in transportation and logistics. Schools offering Global Operations & Supply Chain Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Where Can I Find Transport Logistics Schools?
Transportation and logistics programs exist as specific schools or departments of colleges and universities, such as business, logistics technology or public policy. The American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL) is a professional organization that has an established set of educational standards regarding transportation, logistics and supply chain management. It offers a list of approved undergraduate and graduate programs on its website (www.astl.org).
The National Center for Education Statistics maintains an online searchable database of postsecondary education institutions. A search yields a list of over 150 schools that offer programs in logistics, materials and supply side management (www.nces.ed.gov).
Are There Online Programs?
Some schools offer you the opportunity to fulfill the requirements of various logistics programs online. Courses are often delivered asynchronously, enabling you to access course materials at your convenience. This delivery system allows you to continue working while increasing your knowledge, proficiency and qualifications.
What Kind of Programs Are Available?
You can earn an undergraduate or graduate certificate in transport logistics, as well as associate, bachelor's and master's degrees in the field. A certificate can qualify you for immediate entry into the workforce. At either level, certificates usually take less than a year to earn. Typical courses include logistics and supply chain management, transportation and traffic management, cargo handling, inventory control and business software applications. You could also have the opportunity to gain experience through an internship.
A 2-year associate degree program could offer concentrations in transportation distribution, supply chain management or logistics. In addition to logistics topics, you'll learn business practices, business law, pricing, purchasing, quality management and transportation. Some associate degrees are intended for you to use to transfer to a 4-year program. A bachelor's degree program offers further studies in transportation and logistics strategies, transportation carrier management, inventory systems, transportation economics policy and procurement.
A master's degree program can take you two years to complete. Programs in supply chain management or transportation logistics management teach you management principles, risk assessment, quality control and security management. You might be required to participate in a practicum, internship or research project.
Does Education Qualify Me to Work?
You can find employment in transport logistics and supply chain management directly out of school. However, voluntary certification is awarded by the ASTL that could enhance your employment or advancement prospects. Completion of an ASTL-authorized program directly qualifies you for certification. If you participate in a program not approved by the ASTL, you can still earn a credential by taking a certification examination if you have earned an undergraduate degree or have at least three years of appropriate work experience.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below: