Studying Supply Chain Logistics: Degrees at a Glance
Supply chain logistics involves the purchasing of goods and supplies for companies. Professionals who work in this field must be able to coordinate and collaborate with suppliers, customers and third party providers. Entry-level careers are available in a variety of areas related to business, including inventory management, exports/imports, operations management and materials controls. While positions may be available to those with an associate's degree, companies are more likely to hire individuals with a bachelor's degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers for purchasing agents and buyers were projected to increase only seven percent from 2010-2020, which was slower than average for all occupations.
| Associate's | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Individuals who want entry-level careers in supply chain logistics | Those who want to pursue advancement opportunities |
| Common Career Paths (with approximate mean annual salary) | -Purchasing agent ($61,000) * -Buyer ($57,000) * | -Purchasing manager ($103,000) * -Supply chain manager ($94,000) ** |
| Time to Completion | 2 years, full-time | 4 years, full-time |
| Common Graduation Requirements | -About 20-24 courses | -About 40-48 courses |
| Prerequisites | -High school diploma | -High school diploma |
| Online Availability | Yes | Yes |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures), **Salary.com (May 2012 figures).
Associate's in Supply Chain Logistics
An associate's degree in supply chain logistics provides you with an opportunity to learn about the role inventory control and management plays within a company. Students in the program will learn about supply chain management terminology, bar-coding systems, delivery processes, storage and inventory techniques. Opportunities will also be available to learn about warehouse operations and distribution facilities. It's also important for you to understand contract negotiations and how laws affect distribution. With an associate's degree, you may need several years of experience before earning a management position.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Opportunity to work in a variety of industry and commerce fields
- Get to work in a comfortable environment
- Will compete for entry-level jobs after graduation
Cons
- A decrease in management will have a negative effect on employment*
- May need several years of experience to earn a decision-making position
- Some professionals in the field work over 40 hours per week
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures).
Courses and Requirements
You'll begin the program by taking introductory business courses in marketing principles, logistics and accounting. The program will also require that you complete general education requirements, such as English, speech, algebra and humanities courses. Core courses at the associate's degree level include strategic procurement, information technology, warehouse management, inventory control and negotiation. Some programs may require students to complete a practicum or internship as well.
Online Course Options
Students can find numerous associate's degree programs related to business online; however, programs involving supply chain are rare. Before enrolling, students should make sure that any prospective program is accredited and that they will be prepared for entry-level careers following graduation.
How to Stand Out
With an associate's degree, it's important to gain experience in the field; this could be through a part-time job or internship. Staying up-to-date in the latest developments in technology will also help you stand out. For example, new software programs may help you track inventory better or let you know when you are running out of supplies.
Bachelor's in Supply Chain Logistics
A bachelor's degree program in supply chain logistics will provide you with advanced knowledge and skills in the field, teaching you about supply management, procurement, inventory control and distribution. The program will also offer you an opportunity to obtain creative and leadership skills. To work in a management position, you will need to understand how to handle employee situations and solve business problems, in addition to having customer service skills. While you will have an advantage over associate's degree graduates for jobs, experience will play an important role in the hiring process.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Will obtain additional skills and knowledge in the field
- A bachelor's degree will provide you with advanced courses
- Internship opportunities may be available
Cons
- Overtime is common in this field
- Travel outside U.S. may be necessary
- Experience may be valued over education
Courses and Requirements
Like an associate's degree program, students will take basic courses in accounting, finance, marketing and statistics. However, students will also need to take various courses that will educate them about supply chain logistics and management. These courses will teach you to apply technical and management principles in supply chain logistics. Core courses include transportation and distribution management, material and inventory management, contract management, quality management, contract pricing and negotiation.
Online Course Options
Online degree program in supply chain logistics are available at the bachelor's degree level. This program may be ideal if you are currently working full-time and want to improve your employment prospects. Courses are taught by the same faculty members and cover the same topics as their on-campus counterparts.
How to Stand Out
While a bachelor's degree may help you get your foot in the door, you can stand out in this field by obtaining certification. The Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) designation is available to those with a bachelor's degree and who have three years of experience in the field.
