Learning Supply Chain Management in Maryland
The term “supply chain” is used to describe the process through which goods and services are designed, packaged, transported and delivered to the end customer. Managing this process requires extensive knowledge of time management, budgeting and other business practices. The people who fill this role are called logisticians. Logisticians work with suppliers and customers to ensure that goods and services reach their destinations in the fastest, most affordable way possible, from the time they are thought up to the time they arrive.
To become a logistician, you should pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related business field, such as management, operations or supply chain management. Certain employers may consider hiring applicants who have an associate’s degree or related experience, but a four-year degree program typically provides students with the depth of knowledge required to fully succeed as a logistician. Some logisticians choose to obtain a master’s degree as well. While this level of education is not required for those seeking entry-level work, the decision can lead to higher-paying and more prestigious jobs in the future.
The following information may be useful in helping you evaluate your options for supply chain management and related programs.
Maryland Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Holding a bachelor’s degree will make you a more competitive applicant for logistician jobs. The following schools offer relevant bachelor’s degree programs:
- Towson University. Towson offers a unique dual degree program that allows students to obtain their bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and master’s in Supply Chain Management within five years. Additional degree programs for undergraduates include Business Systems & Processes and Business Administration.
- University of Maryland. Similar to Towson, students at the University of Maryland can secure two degrees in five years. They can also major in Supply Chain Management for a four-year degree. This program focuses on applying models to improve efficiency.
- Morgan State University. Morgan State’s Business Administration program provides a broad overview of business principles. Students can choose from a range of electives that focus on more specific topics to supplement their major requirements.
Continuing Educational Opportunities
While a master’s degree is not necessary to begin working as a logistician, obtaining this level of education later in your career can qualify you for more advanced opportunities.
- Johns Hopkins University. Renowned for its medical programs, Johns Hopkins offers a world-class Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) degree as well. Students can select part-time, full-time and online program options, which can be completed in two to three years.
- Mount St. Mary’s University. The MBA program at Mount St. Mary’s is designed for working adults who would prefer to take one course at a time. Concentrations include finance, management and marketing, while a certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is also available.
- Loyola University of Maryland. Loyola offers MBA programs created for working professionals, recent college graduates and early-career professionals. Depending on the program selected, students can specialize in management, finance or other areas of business as part of their degree.
Certificates and Associate’s Degree Options
Community colleges throughout Maryland offer associate’s degree programs and other certifications that can help you begin your education in business. At Chesapeake Community College, students can major in Business Management and learn the skills they need to successfully undertake an entry-level role or bachelor’s degree program in business.
Certificate programs provide logisticians with a way to formally demonstrate their knowledge in a specific area of supply chain management. The American Production and Inventory Control Society offers programs resulting in Certified Supply Chain Professional, Certified in Production Inventory Management and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution designations.
Maryland Salary and Employment Expectations
Jobs for logisticians are likely to increase slowly in Maryland. The Projections Managing Partnership estimates growth of 3.8 percent in the market during the 10 years to 2026, roughly half the national average rate of seven percent for this field.
Logisticians’salaries average $43.71 per hour, or $90,910 per year. The highest salaries in the state reach $120,000 or higher.
Working in Supply Chain Management in Maryland
As a logistician, you can find work in a variety of industries, such manufacturing, retail, government contracting, wholesale trade and scientific and technical services. Some logisticians work as part of in-house teams for specific companies, while others manage multiple clients while working at a logistics firm. Both typically require 40-hour workweeks with additional overtime and travel as necessary.
Your customer service, communication and critical thinking skills will be just as important as your technical knowledge when it comes to a successful career in supply chain management. These abilities allow you to effectively manage relationships with suppliers and customers while problem solving to ensure the smooth completion of jobs.
Cities like Baltimore will offer the highest concentration of jobs in supply chain management, though work can be found throughout the state. Jobs in urban areas typically pay the highest salaries to compensate for the increased cost of living.