Logistics and supply chain management experts play one of the most vital roles in business and are increasingly in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are expected to be thousands of new jobs created within the coming years.
With such promising demand, many are seeking to advance their careers within the industry and considering graduate education to sharpen and expand their skills.
A Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (MSLSCM) is often considered by entry-level and seasoned professionals alike to better prepare for managerial and executive positions within the field in every industry. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration, about 20% of logistic analyst positions require a master’s degree.
What are the benefits of a master’s degree in logistics and supply chain management?
1 – An experiential curriculum that prepares you for leadership roles
The top roles within the logistics and supply chain industry all have “big picture” responsibilities and a leadership component. A graduate education is one of the greatest tools available to professionals to develop both advanced technical and leadership skills.
Today’s logistics environment requires professionals to have a strong data science and global environment foundation. A graduate program will go in-depth on data analytics, processes optimization, logistics strategy, international logistics, and much more. You will also have the opportunity to develop strong communication, collaboration, negotiation, and team management skills – all essential skills for an effective leader.
2 - Improve your job security
A specialized graduate education greatly improves your job security. Recent global events have shown us that even in times of economic uncertainty, the logistics and supply chain industry can prosper. People need to buy food and essential products, even in pandemics and natural disasters. Business professionals in this field have higher chances of having job security because they will always be in demand.
3 – Greater earning potential
Having this competitive edge opens the door to a higher earning potential, especially if pursuing high-level roles. In fact, according to research by Salary.com, Lead Logistics Analysts earn, on average, over $100,000 per year – at least a 150% increase from entry or mid-level positions.
You could also pursue executive, VP, or C-suite level positions that also earn some of the top salaries within a business.
4 – Learn the latest industry technology
One of the most significant advantages of a graduate education is that an MSLSCM program will have a relevant and technology-based curriculum. These programs are designed to provide you with hands-on experience in utilizing the latest technology in the industry, including SAP, Salesforce, Magaya, SPSS, and Excel.
You will learn to utilize modern technology to gather, access, manage, analyze, and use the vast data available in the global transportation and logistics marketplace.
5 – Prepare for certifications
Certifications play an integral role in every business and in every industry. There is a wide variety of certifications available for logistics and supply chain professionals, including:
- Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
- Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
- Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
- Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD)
- SCPro Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
- Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)
The curriculum of a graduate program prepares professionals to successfully participate in logistics and supply chain certification exams.
6 – Create a robust network
The advantage of a specialized logistics and supply chain management program, as opposed to an undergraduate or MBA program, is that your course curriculum will only cover topics based on logistics and supply chain. With that being said, you will have an incredible list of professors with some impressive resumes.
For example, FIU’s MSLSCM program is taught by faculty who have extensive experience in the industry and who have held strategic positions at Microsoft, FedEx, Bacardi, HP, Assurant, Farm Stores, Motorola, AeroThrust, Amazon, etc., and several have owned their own distribution, shipping, and import/export companies.
Along with interacting with faculty, you will be in class with professionals within the industry from a wide range of businesses – making the classroom experience much more enriching and useful.
Pursuing Your Master of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
If you are interested in learning more about earning a graduate degree or have questions about FIU’s MSLSCM in-person or fully online program, attend an information session.