Those interested in the technical skills for warehouse inventory distribution and storage, or those building up a current career, can acquire them in either an associate's degree program or a bachelor's degree program.
The degrees relevant to warehouse inventory distribution and storage 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. 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 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.
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.
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 degree programs 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.
According to predictions by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), transportation, storage and distribution managers, including warehouse managers, should see a 2% increase in jobs from 2014-2024, which is slower than the national average of 7% for all job sectors. As of May 2015, the median annual salary for this field was $86,630, per BLS reports.
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.