Logistics and Supply Chain Management Education in Arkansas
Logisticians help manage the supply chain, through which goods and services are designed, created and transferred to their destinations. These business professionals work to complete this process as quickly and affordably as possible, to help both vendors and buyers reach their goals.
To begin working as a logistician, a bachelor’s degree in business, operations management, supply chain management or a similar field is typically required. Some employers may be willing to hire people with an associate’s degree or equivalent work experience and will often assist them in continuing their education. A master’s degree, while not essential, can provide additional job opportunities as you advance in your career.
Available Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Supply chain management (SCM) is a popular career field. The following schools offer four-year programs in Arkansas:
- University of Central Arkansas. This Conway-based school provides a degree in Logistics, Materials and Supply Chain Management. Students at UCA can network and receive executive training from the Arkansas Trucking Association as part of their studies.
- University of Arkansas. The University of Arkansas offers a degree Supply Chain Management with concentrations in Transportation and Logistics or Retail. The school’s onsite Supply Chain Management Research Center provides additional opportunities for hands-on learning.
Master’s Degree Options
Pursuing a master’s degree can help you advance further in your career. The following Arkansas-based programs are available:
- Southern Arkansas University. This master’s degree in Supply Chain Management can be taken online, making it ideal for students with busy schedules. The university is one of the most affordable in the U.S. as well.
- University of Arkansas. The University of Arkansas offers an on-campus or online master’s degree program in Supply Chain Management. Students in this program can also use the school’s research center for their education.
Continuing Education
Various certificates and associate’s degrees are available to logisticians in Arkansas. The University of Arkansas Community College offers associate’s degrees in Logistics, Materials and Supply Chain Management at campuses throughout the state. Southern Arkansas University Tech offers a similar program online.
In addition to formal degree programs, students can receive certifications from the American Production and Inventory Control Society. The society’s certifications include Certified Supply Chain Professional, Certified in Production Inventory Management and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution.
Employment and Salary Outlook
The job market for logisticians is strong, and the Projections Managing Partnership estimates growth of 18.6 percent in the 10 years to 2026 for professionals in Arkansas.
The average salary for a supply chain management logistician in the state is $67,890 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Working in Supply Chain Management in Arkansas
As a logistician, you can find work in a range of industries, including manufacturing, government, retail, trade and scientific services, among others. Both logistical companies and in-house management teams can provide work. Most logisticians work 40-hour weeks, though overtime and additional travel may be required.
Logisticians should have strong communication, customer service and critical thinking skills, which will all help these professionals manage the supply chain and handle problems smoothly and effectively. While jobs can be found throughout the state, there are typically more SCM roles available in larger cities, such as Little Rock. These jobs generally come with high salaries to compensate for the cost of urban living.