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Essential Information
Warehouse inventory distribution and storage is also known as warehouse management. Relevant degrees can be found under the titles of associate of science in logistics and supply chain management and of bachelor of science in operations management technology. It is also possible to obtain a professional warehouse management certification. While exploring topics such as supply chain management principles and cost analysis, students in these programs can also prepare to become distribution or transportation managers. Some programs may be offered online as well as on-campus. There are also voluntary warehouse management certification options offered by corporations and organizations to experienced and otherwise qualified candidates. Passing an examination is necessary to earn a certification credential.
Getting accepted into either an associate's or a bachelor's program requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Some bachelor's programs may accept transfer students who have completed associate's degree programs in the field.
Associate Degree Programs in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
A 2-year degree program in logistics and supply chain management is designed to provide students with an introduction in product control, management, and distribution. Graduates can go on to work in inventory control, warehouse management, and transportation management. Students enrolled in the program study the basic concepts of business and management while also studying more advanced procedures and protocols related to the housing and transportation of inventory.
Associate's degree programs in logistic and supply chain management are offered through community colleges, 4-year universities, technical schools, and for-profit schools. Most associate degree programs focusing on logistics and supply chain management are comprised of classroom lectures that provide students with a practical background in business and warehouse management. Some specific courses might include:
- Principles of supply chain management
- Inventory control
- Warehouse management
- Transportation and traffic management
- Purchasing
- International logistics
Bachelor Degree Programs in Operations Management Technology
Students enrolled in a 4-year degree program in operations management technology learn about the basic principles of management, occupational safety, quality assurance, cost control, and workplace ethics. Some schools offer warehouse degrees to professionals in the logistics, warehousing, and supply chain field who are interested in working their way into managerial roles. Some of these programs will accept working professionals who can complete online management courses in their weekend and evening hours.
Many of the courses found within a bachelor's degree program in operations management focus on management skills, critical thinking skills, and advanced logistics processes. Some specific examples of core courses might include:
- Inventory management
- Business management
- Principles of management
- Cost analysis
- Managerial accounting
- Project management
Warehouse Manager Certification
Warehouse certification is not required in the field of warehouse management, but it can help professionals achieve employment or advanced positions within a company. Professionals can earn certification from the Institute for Supply Chain Management or some for-profit organizations.
Students of logistics and supply chain management or operations management technology are often working professionals seeking advancement. These individuals gain specific and high-level expertise to build upon their current experience, but these programs are also available to those starting out with an interest in logistics.
The American Purchasing Society (APS) offers a Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehousing (CPDW) credential, which can be earned in lieu of or in addition to a warehouse management degree. This warehouse certificate enables individuals to advance their careers and stand out in a competitive job market. Everyone, including those who are not members of the society and those with no experience in the field, is eligible to apply for the CPDW accreditation. To earn this warehouse manager certification, candidates must firstly apply online or by airmail, then attend three online courses, and finally sit an examination, for which the passing grade is set at 75%.
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
According to predictions by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), transportation, storage, and distribution managers, including warehouse managers, should see a 4% increase in jobs from 2019-2029, which is as fast as average. As of May 2020, the median annual salary for this field was $96,390, per BLS reports.
