Best Online Associate in Logistics Programs
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An associate in logistics prepares students to pursue work as logistics associates and supply chain analysts. Logistics students learn to process incoming and outgoing shipments, monitor inventory, and communicate clearly with customers and freight vendors.
Many community colleges offer associate degrees, which take full-time students around two years to complete. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which can expedite graduation. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition and fees at a two-year school during the 2018-19 academic year was about $3,560.
According to PayScale, as of November 2021, the average salary for someone with an associate in logistics was about $53,000 per year. Common job titles for someone with this degree are operations manager and warehouse manager. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for logisticians will increase by 30% from 2020-30, which would create an additional 56,400 jobs.
Popular Online Business and Logistics Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Logistics Program?
Logisticians need strong communication, organizational, and customer service skills. These same skills will serve you well in an online associate in logistics program. You'll also need strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
This type of program typically takes two years of full-time study to complete and requires about 60 college credits. Occasionally, students may be able to specialize their studies by pursuing a concentration, such as global logistics technology or trucking operations management.
Before enrolling in an online program, you should check to see if there are any in-person requirements. Some schools require students to attend orientation, labs, or practica on campus.
Most associate in logistics programs award associate of applied science (AAS) degrees. However, students can sometimes earn an associate of science (AS). AAS degrees typically prepare students to enter the workforce directly after graduation. In contrast, AS degrees can help prepare students to continue on to a four-year school to pursue their bachelor's degrees.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
Best Accredited Online Associate in Logistics Programs
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Best Online Associate in Logistics Programs
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Southwest Wisconsin Technical CollegeLocation
Fennimore, WI
Tuition$9295
Graduation Rate61%
Southwest Tech in Fennimore offers an online associate degree in supply chain management. The program caters to professionals looking to hone their skills or launch a new career. Online learning uses a convenient asynchronous format and courses begin every four weeks.
The 60-credit program typically takes four semesters to complete, but students may reduce the length by substituting coursework with qualifying experience or education. The curriculum includes classes like the foundations of inventory, lean principles, project management, and conflict resolution. Students must also complete an internship, and they can pursue pathway certificates in planning, purchasing, and logistics.
Southwest Tech holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and transfer agreements with several area colleges and universities. Applicants must submit official transcripts and ACT or ACCUPLACER test scores. They must also complete a meeting with members of the admissions office.
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Vance-Granville Community CollegeLocation
Henderson, NC
Tuition$3836
Graduation Rate43%
VGCC — based in Henderson, North Carolina — caters to students looking to earn diplomas, certificates, and associate degrees. Among these offerings is an online associate in supply chain management with a focus in global logistics technology. Distance learning uses an asynchronous format, giving students the ability to complete coursework online at any time of day.
The 67-68-credit program typically takes two years to complete. Participants receive a comprehensive overview of current terminology, trends, and technology. The curriculum includes classes in distribution management, transportation logistics, and human resource management. Students may elect to complete a work-based learning experience as an elective.
Qualifying applicants must possess a high school or GED diploma. If prospective students do not possess these credentials, they may need to complete testing to qualify.
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Palo Alto CollegeLocation
San Antonio, TX
Tuition$3897
Graduation Rate34%
Located in San Antonio, Texas, PAC offers several remote degree programs, including an online associate of applied science in logistics and supply chain management. Online programs cater to working professionals and use an asynchronous format that allows students to complete coursework at any time of day.
This 60-credit associate in logistics prepares students for management careers. The curriculum includes courses in team building, domestic and international transportation management, the principles of quality management, and contemporary logistics issues. Students must also complete an internship to graduate.
PAC is part of the Alamo Colleges District and offers over 30 scholarship opportunities through the Alamo Colleges Foundation. Prospective students must possess a high school or GED diploma.
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Fox Valley Technical CollegeLocation
Appleton, WI
Tuition$9969
Graduation Rate51%
FVTC — located in Appleton, Wisconsin — offers several online degree programs, including an associate of applied science in supply chain management. The program uses an asynchronous format that gives busy professionals the ability to complete coursework at their convenience.
The 61-credit program explores business and supply chain fundamentals. The curriculum includes classes in business ethics, lean tools, cost controls and budgeting, and principles of managing operations. Students must also complete a supply chain management capstone.
FVTC holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and boasts a 70% retention rate for first-time students. Applicants must possess a high school diploma with a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA or have a GED score of 165 or higher. Students may also submit ACT, SAT, ACCUPLACER, Companion, or Compass test results.
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Lakeshore Technical CollegeLocation
Cleveland, WI
Tuition$9337
Graduation Rate41%
LTC in Cleveland, Wisconsin, offers an online associate degree in supply chain management. Online learning uses an asynchronous format, giving students 24/7 access to their digital classrooms.
Most students complete this 60-credit program over four terms. The curriculum teaches basic business skills along with supply chain management principles. Courses include purchasing, written communication, global supply chain management, and accounting for professionals. Graduates prepare to work in roles like logistics engineer and shipping clerk.
LTC holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and offers two start dates in the fall and spring. Applicants must submit official high school or college transcripts. Prospective students may need to take the ACCUPLACER or ACT prior to enrolling, although this varies depending on a student's academic and professional history.
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West Kentucky Community and Technical CollegeLocation
Paducah, KY
Tuition$5440
Graduation Rate45%
Paducah's WKCTC offers an online associate degree in logistics and operations management. Faculty deliver courses using an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework remotely at their convenience. WKCTC holds a transfer agreement with Murray State University, giving graduates the opportunity to go on and earn a bachelor's degree.
This program comprises 61-66 credits. The curriculum contains basic education and core technical courses, such as financial accounting, international business, transportation, and lean for logistics. Graduates qualify to sit for the certified logistics associate or certified logistics technician certification exams.
WKCTC holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The college offers a free application process. Applicants must submit their high school or GED transcripts along with ACT, SAT, or other placement test scores.
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Colorado Christian UniversityLocation
Lakewood, CO
Tuition$25031
Graduation Rate52%
CCU is a Christian university in Lakewood. The college holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and offers an online associate degree in logistics and supply chain management. Students typically take one course at a time over five-week sessions and complete the entire program within two years.
The 60-credit program includes coursework in management information systems, purchasing and inbound logistics, and introduction to transportation management. The curriculum also includes a biblical studies course, electives, and general education classes. Online learning uses an asynchronous format.
Prospective students must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate. Applicants must submit their transcripts and a copy of their driver's license or identification card.
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Shoreline Community CollegeLocation
Shoreline, WA
Tuition$6733
Graduation Rate35%
SCC offers over 100 academic programs, including an online associate of applied arts and sciences in purchasing and supply chain management. This program is certified by Quality Matters. Online learning at SCC uses an asynchronous format.
This 93-quarter-credit program is unique in that it uses a committee consisting of local employers to help shape its curriculum. Sample courses include contract management, purchasing and supply, business law, and e-procurement. Graduates may qualify to pursue relevant certifications.
SCC offers affordable tuition rates for online students no matter where they live, although employees of certain manufacturing companies may qualify for additional tuition assistance. Applicants should submit proof of a high school diploma or GED certificate and must be at least 16 years old.
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Arkansas Tech UniversityLocation
Russellville, AR
Tuition$11674
Graduation Rate41%
ATU's main campus is located in Russellville. The university offers a variety of online degree programs, including an associate in logistics management. This program is available entirely online and uses asynchronous delivery. Interested students can also seamlessly transfer their associate credits to pursue a bachelor of applied science at ATU.
This 60-credit associate program provides an introduction to current logistics management theories, techniques, and tools. Graduates may qualify for entry-level positions or continue their education.
ATU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Applicants must submit proof of a high school diploma or GED certificate. The admissions office encourages applicants to submit applicable standardized test scores, but it does not typically require them.
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Northeast Wisconsin Technical CollegeLocation
Green Bay, WI
Tuition$9452
Graduation Rate43%
NWTC is based in Green Bay and offers over 200 degree programs, including an online associate degree in supply chain management. Online learning incorporates an asynchronous format. The college uses an eight-week course format and limits students to 11 credits per session.
The 63-credit program includes coursework in global business management, lean logistics, global marketing, and project management fundamentals. Students must also complete a supply chain simulation course and a hands-on career experience.
NWTC's supply chain management program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Applicants must possess a high school diploma and a minimum 2.6 GPA or satisfactory scores on an academic skills assessment.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Associate in Logistics Program?
Purchasing
In this course, students learn the procedures for bringing goods and services into their companies. They also learn how to build strong relationships with suppliers.
Inventory Management
This course teaches students how to manage inventory in order to provide better service to their company's customers. Students also learn how to avoid having excessive inventory. They may cover topics like supply chains, purchasing, and inventory policies.
Technology in the Supply Chain
Students enrolled in this course learn about the digital technologies that impact supply chain management. Participants explore the role of information technology in managing, scheduling, forecasting, and planning supply chains.
Global Supply Chain Management
In this course, students learn how global supply chain executives can improve performance and increase sales through effective supply chain management. Students learn how to coordinate market channels, operations, purchasing, and logistics strategies.
Logistics
This course provides an introduction to logistics. Students learn how goods are stored and moved between locations. They also study global logistics, material handling, inventory control, warehousing, and traffic management.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Logistics Program?
The road to college starts by filling out an application. You may be able to save time and apply to multiple colleges at once using the Common App. Most schools have an application fee, but some offer fee waivers.
You'll also need to submit your official high school or GED transcripts if you're applying to school as a first-time student. Many schools require official test scores from college entrance exams such as the ACT or SAT.
You may need to provide the school with letters of recommendation, which often come from previous teachers or work supervisors. Some schools also require a college application essay. The school may give you a specific topic to write about or you may be able to choose your own.
Some schools that cater to older students or working professionals offer credit for work and life experiences. This can help reduce the time it takes to get your degree.
What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Logistics Degree?
Career Outlook
The BLS projects a 30% growth rate for logisticians from 2020-30, which is about four times faster than the average projected growth rate for all jobs (8%). In November 2021, a search for "logistics" on Indeed returned over 134,000 job openings — there is definitely some demand in this field.
As of November 2021, PayScale reported that graduates with an associate in logistics earned an average of roughly $53,000 per year. This is slightly lower than the average of $56,000 per year for graduates with any associate degree. Related degrees include an associate of business administration ($52,000) and an associate of supply chain management ($85,000).
Graduates with an associate in logistics often work in manufacturing, for the federal government, or in professional and technical services. They may also work in management or in the wholesale trade. Although workers can qualify for some logistics jobs with an associate degree, many top-paying jobs in this field require a bachelor's.
See where an associate in logistics can take you. Learn more about logistics careers.
Career Paths
Operations Manager
An operations manager makes sure their company's production operations run smoothly. They oversee warehousing, purchasing, and manufacturing to ensure that their employees have everything they need to keep producing goods and services. Operations managers may need a bachelor's degree, and they also need to have strong communication, interpersonal, leadership, and managerial skills.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $103,650
Warehouse Manager
Warehouse managers must comply with local, state, and federal regulations to keep their warehouse running safely and effectively. They manage the data storage system, physically count inventory, safeguard the warehouse, enforce policies, and control inventory levels. They also manage the schedules of other employees working in the warehouse.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $55,220
Logistician
A logistician coordinates their company's supply chains. They oversee the life of products, from collecting raw materials to delivering finished goods to the customer. Logisticians allocate resources and develop relationships with clients and suppliers. They may also propose ways to reduce costs and increase productivity. Depending on the size of the company, this role may require a bachelor's degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $76,270
Supply Chain Analyst
Supply chain analysts look at data and determine ways to improve the efficiency of the supply chain. Then, they work with other employees to put new supply chain methods into practice and test them. Supply chain analysts convert business problems into IT problems and use technology to find solutions. They also build relationships with carriers and suppliers.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $61,440
Purchasing Agents
Purchasing agents purchase products and services for their companies to use or resell. They build relationships with vendors, review product quality, negotiate contracts, and evaluate suppliers. They make purchasing decisions on the basis of quality, price, and speed of delivery. They may visit their suppliers' plants to learn how products are made and meet with vendors to discuss problems. Many of these roles require a bachelor's degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2020): $72,270
Logistics Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Many learners who graduate with an associate in logistics opt to continue their education to the bachelor's level or even higher. Popular choices four-year degree choices include a bachelor's in logistics, bachelor's in supply chain management, or bachelor's in business administration.
- Bachelor's in logistics: This program gives students a deeper look at the logistics of getting raw materials to the factory and finished products to customers. Graduates can pursue roles like transportation specialist and operations manager.
- Bachelor's in supply chain management: Students in this program learn how the supply chain functions and how to manage logistics in today's business environment. They also learn how government policies impact global logistics.
- Bachelor's in business administration: A bachelor's in business administration helps prepare students for leadership roles in various business settings. Participants develop their critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.
How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Logistics Program?
Cost
For many students, cost is a deciding factor in where they go to school. Although in-state tuition is usually much cheaper than out-of-state tuition, some online colleges offer in-state tuition rates to all online students, making their rates competitive with local community colleges. Be sure to consider the full cost of college, including living expenses, transportation, books, and fees.
Program Format
Online programs can be either synchronous or asynchronous. Synchronous classes have set times when students must log in, but asynchronous classes do not. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which allow you to graduate faster. This can be a good option if you are able to dedicate a lot of time to your schoolwork. If you're working while attending school, a part-time program may be a better option.
Location
When deciding whether to take an in-person or online associate in logistics, keep in mind that some schools may have occasional in-person requirements for their online programs. They may require you to attend orientation or labs in person, for instance. In that case, location can matter a lot. Check to see if there are any in-person requirements before enrolling.
Accreditation
Accreditation is very important for colleges and universities. During this process, a third party verifies that a school's programs meet specific academic standards. Top schools hold regional accreditation, which makes it easier for students to transfer credits. Additionally, employers may not recognize a degree from a school that is not appropriately accredited.
Student Support
Many schools offer various forms of student services. For example, your school might have a program that pairs you up with a mentor to help you navigate your college journey. Even if you're attending school as a distance learner, you'll likely have access to some online student services. These services may include alumni networking events, internship assistance, academic advising, and tutoring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Logistics Programs
Is an associate degree in logistics worth it?
To determine whether this online degree is worth it, you need to consider the total cost of the program, along with your current salary and the salary you expect to earn after graduation. However, because many logistics jobs are in demand, this degree can help prepare you to enter a growing field.
How fast can I get an associate in logistics degree online?
Although the typical associate degree takes about two years to earn, some schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed more quickly. For example, some programs can be completed in just 16 months.
Another way to accelerate your education is to attend college year round. Many schools plan their programs so that you take classes in the spring and fall but take the summer off. If scheduling allows, you may be able to cut some time off the length of your program By taking classes in the summer, too.
Is an online associate degree in logistics credible?
If the school you are attending is regionally accredited, your degree will be credible. Consider the reputation of the school and check to make sure it is appropriately accredited.
An associate in logistics from a reputable school can help you land a job in logistics. Some supply chain analyst, logistician, and warehouse manager jobs do not list a bachelor's degree as a requirement at all, and many more list it as "preferred," but not mandatory.
How much money can I make with an associate in logistics?
A worker's salary can depend on many factors, such as their industry, location, experience, and level of education. However, supply chain analysts and warehouse managers often make $50,000-$60,000 annually.
If you want to increase your income as a logistics professional, consider continuing your education after earning your associate degree. Having a bachelor's degree may open up better-paying job opportunities.
Is an associate degree in logistics in demand?
According to the BLS, jobs for logisticians are projected to increase 30% from 2020-30. An associate in logistics can prepare you for many of those jobs. Available roles include purchasing clerk, associate logistics specialist, and entry-level operations managers.
