Shipping Manager Degree Program Information

A shipping manager supervises shipping and receiving at corporations, manufacturers, retail firms and wholesalers. People interested in studying shipping management typically enroll in associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs in the field of logistics and supply chain management. Following is an overview of options for pursuing a career as a shipping manager.

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Non-Degree Option

Often, a high school diploma, work experience and in-house training is all that is required to obtain an entry-level shipping manager position. However, a degree in the field of logistics and supply chain management greatly improves the prospects for continued advancement in the field of shipping management, especially at large corporations.

Associate's Degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

An associate's degree program in the field of logistics and supply chain management centers on efficient distribution of supplies and services between businesses and suppliers, business partners and customers. Students learn to maintain and analyze shipping and receiving records and set shipping schedules.

Educational Prerequisites

Applicants to associate's degree programs in logistics and supply chain management must hold a high school diploma or GED. Competency with computers is highly desired.

Program Coursework

Courses in the associate's degree logistics and supply chain management program cover a range of shipping management and business topics. Classes cover the following topics:

  • Purchasing
  • Business
  • Finance
  • Accounting
  • Supply chain transportation
  • Inventory control
  • Management and information systems

Employment Outlook and Salary Info

Increasing automation of shipping procedures will decrease the overall demand for shipping managers, but increase the need for those who are technologically savvy. Employer demand for administrative support workers, which includes shipping managers, is expected to grow by eleven percent, which is about as fast as average, through 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). The median annual salary for shipping managers is $45,790, as of May 2008.

Continuing Education Information

Aspiring shipping managers who earn an associate's degree in logistics and supply chain management may transfer to a 4-year college and pursue a bachelor's degree in the field. Shipping managers, especially those at large corporations, receive periodic training on new shipping technologies. Continuing education classes in logistics and warehousing may help career advancement.

Bachelor's Degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Students who pursue a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management combine courses in the field with business and general education classes. Program curricula emphasize transportation, logistics, inventory control, packaging, warehousing and operations systems. Classes in calculus or algebra may be required. Students usually must complete an internship or project in supply chain management.

Educational Prerequisites

Prospective shipping managers who want to pursue a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management must hold a high school diploma and take the ACT or SAT exam. Experience as an office assistant or shipping clerk provides an advantage.

Program Coursework

Classes in the bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management program focus heavily on supply chain management. Here are examples of common classes:

  • Supply management
  • Cost management
  • Supply chain management strategy
  • Supply chain planning
  • Management theory
  • Supply chain technology applications

Popular Career Options

Students who earn a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management may pursue a range of jobs that involve shipping management. The following are examples:

  • Supply manager
  • Purchasing manager
  • Operations manager
  • Inventory manager
  • Supply chain planning
  • Logistics manager
  • Procurement manager
  • Purchasing agent
  • Industrial traffic manager

Continuing Education Information

After earning a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management, graduates may pursue a master's degree in the same field or related areas. Options include master's degrees in business and finance.

Master's Degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Those who aspire to top shipping management positions may pursue a master's degree in logistics and supply chain management. Through coursework, research and fieldwork, candidates focus on the theory and advanced practice of supply chain and logistics management. Instructors emphasize advanced logistics and supply chain procedures, technology and analysis methods. Some master's-level programs offer separate tracks for logistics, supply chain management and operations management.

Educational Prerequisites

Applicants to master's degree in logistics and supply chain management programs must hold a bachelor's degree. Previous experience in this field is an advantage. Students who lack courses in accounting, math and economics may have to take them upon starting the program.

Program Coursework

The curriculum for the master's degree in logistics and supply chain management includes a variety of advanced courses in the field. Some common courses cover:

  • Global supply chain management
  • Strategic procurement and sourcing
  • Database management systems
  • Supply chain operations
  • Transportation management
  • Warehousing management

Popular Career Options

Graduates of the master's degree program in logistics and supply chain management may pursue top positions in the field with some of the world's largest corporations. These positions include the following:

  • Global distribution manager
  • Global supply chain manager
  • Global logistics manager

Continuing Education Information

Doctoral degree programs in the fields of logistics, supply chain management, sourcing management and operations management are available to those who earn a master's degree in these areas. Graduates may also pursue business and marketing doctoral degrees.

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