Online Logistics Degree
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Busy professionals can find it challenging to pursue higher education or make a career change to a potentially more lucrative field. However, many education institutions are catering to students who are already in the workforce and providing flexible means to obtain degrees. An online logistics degree can open many doors. There are specific skills, aptitudes and experience that students may have that make this degree a good choice.
What Is Logistics?
Logistics deals with the details of making a business or industry work. In most cases, those with an online logistics degree work closely with a marketing team. Their main job is to track, regulate and control materials, supplies and inventory as it travels in and out of the business system. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, logistics jobs start from the bottom up with entry-level stock clerks, truckers and packagers. However, these jobs do not generally require a logistics degree. The most common jobs that a graduate would be working would be in various logistics managerial roles, including transportation and general managers and wholesale stock buyers. The average wage listed by the Department of Labor for logistics managerial positions ranges from $15 to $45 per hour.
Skills, Aptitude and Experience
Having previous experience in any logistics oriented job gives a student a leg up when pursuing an online logistics degree. Stocking shelves, acting as a cashier or doing any type of bookwork are valuable skills and will provide basic skills that are easily built on. It also helps to be good with numbers in general, as moving materials and tracking expenses closely makes for a successful logistics professional.
Logistics Degrees
The exact degree that will be issued by any online education establishment varies. Each institution has its own way of designating the area of expertise. For example, you may see the option for an Associate of Applied Science in Logistics degree, which is a two-year program. It's also common to find a Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Management degree. Classes for either degree may include subjects such as Customs and Importing, Distribution Economics, Warehouse Management, Business Negotiation, Supply Chain and Transportation to name just a few possibilities. Of course, these are all above and beyond any general education requirements, which will need to be completed as well.
Jobs
There are numerous jobs that can be obtained by having an online logistics degree. Management positions are common. Because most industries and businesses that rely on logistics move goods around frequently, managing the trucking fleet is a lucrative and reliable logistics position. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that management, scientific and technical consulting is a stable career choice, with strong growth and lucrative income potential.