Logistics supports supply chain management in nearly every industry, and logistics degree programs help students develop the skills, knowledge, and training that qualify them for a variety of in-demand jobs. For instance, logisticians earn a median wage of $77,520, and the industry is projected to grow by 18% as e-commerce and global economics shift and require further support.
Students can access logistics programs at undergraduate and graduate levels, which span about four or two years. Undergraduate programs average $14,688 per year for tuition and fees, and graduate programs have an average tuition of $20,513 yearly.
How to Choose a Logistics Program
Choose your area of study
Logistics is a key component of supply chain management that directs the transportation and storage of consumer products. Schools typically offer logistics programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in the science or business administration departments.
Consider the focus, specialization, and other program aspects as you choose your area of study. It’s essential that your chosen program aligns with your career goals and personal interests, as some programs may better prepare you for specific or specialized roles.
Common logistics degree programs include:
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in logistics: BS programs focus on technical and analytical skills within a business context. They can sometimes overlap with applied science or engineering logistics degrees, as they all develop data analysis and strategy with hands-on application. Graduates often move on to management and consulting roles in global logistics, procurement analysis, and transportation.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in logistics: BBA logistics degrees develop overall business foundations comprehension with attention to theory, management, and directly transferable career skills. Students are prepared for direct entry into the workforce and are suited to many logistics roles, including supply chain management, operations management, and distribution center management.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) in logistics and supply chain management: An MBA is ideal for students looking to develop broad and versatile business knowledge and leadership skills in logistics and supply chain management. MBA graduates can pursue many of the same roles as BBA graduates, but some industries or organizations may prefer job candidates with advanced education credentials.
- Master of Science (MS) in logistics and supply chain management: Compared to an MBA, an MS degree provides a more profound and specialized understanding of logistics and supply chain management. Graduates can pursue senior and executive roles in logistics but may be most qualified for technical and analysis roles.
Some undergraduate and graduate programs in other fields, such as supply chain management or business administration, offer logistics as a minor or concentration. Logistics-specific degrees may offer various specializations, such as inventory management, transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and e-commerce.
Research schools and programs
Focus your research on schools and programs with regional accreditation. Accreditation ensures that programs meet the standards of the Department of Education, which is essential for a quality postsecondary experience, federal financial aid access, and credit transfer to other schools. Some employers prefer candidates with accredited education. You can verify accreditation status with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
Research each school’s website for an overview of your options, and speak to admissions counselors and program representatives for additional details and insight. You can also sign up for virtual or in-person campus tours, information sessions, open houses, and other prospective student events.
Prepare for tests and applications
Admission requirements for new and transfer students vary, but logistics degrees typically adhere to institutional requirements. These include:
- Application form and fees
- High school or in-progress post-secondary transcript
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Personal essay or statement
- Resume or CV
- SAT or ACT scores for undergraduates
- GRE or GMAT scores for graduates
- TOEFL scores (for students educated in a non-English language)
Programs may require a minimum GPA in addition to test scores, and undergraduate students may have to complete general studies or core courses before declaring a logistics major. Graduate student applicants typically must hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, but some schools may accept equivalent work experience.
Select your program
The logistics and features of institutions and programs vary, and each factor can make a big difference in student satisfaction and success. Here are some factors to consider:
- Cost
- Curriculum
- Concentrations or minors
- Location
- Financial aid
- Work opportunities
- Course delivery method
- Institutional prestige
- Recreation and amenities
The importance of each factor depends on your unique circumstances. For example, flexibility in course delivery and options for full-time, part-time, in-person, or online studies may outweigh other factors if you’re employed or have other obligations. Likewise, cost may be more or less crucial depending on the available financial resources.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Eligible students should apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — regardless of financial situation, the FAFSA assesses students for need-based federal assistance. Whether scholarships, grants, loans, or other support, most students qualify for some form of financial aid. Students in need of additional federal aid may apply for PLUS federal loans and other programs.
Schools, businesses, foundations, and other private organizations sometimes offer grants and scholarships to support students based on merit or workforce development. Depending on eligibility, students can also consider state aid, military student benefits, or tuition assistance benefits from their employers.
Best 50 Accredited Logistics Degree Programs
How we rank schools
Our list of logistics, supply chain, transportation, and related programs includes Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees, associate degrees, and certificates. These programs may be offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid environment that combines remote and in-person methods.
All of the institutions featured on this list are approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Many of these options also have programmatic accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The largest alliance of business educators globally, AACSB has accredited more than 840 schools in 50-plus countries.We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Logistics Program?
Logistics degree programs prepare students to work in various industries and roles that manage the circulation of goods, information, and money to and from an organization. A crucial part of supply chain management and product life cycles, logistics requires an understanding of business and operations foundations. Through a blend of theoretical and hands-on coursework, students develop the technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills necessary to support supply chain management on domestic and global scales. Most undergraduate logistics programs take about four years of full-time study.
Graduate programs typically span about two years, depending on respective graduation requirements. They focus on deepening analytical skills and knowledge gained during prior educational or professional experiences. Programs typically include a mix of core courses and seminars, and students may also complete capstone projects and work co-ops.
Potential courses you’ll take in a logistics program
- Macroeconomics: This course provides an overview of macroeconomic concepts and models and explores issues such as unemployment, inflation, and interest rates. Topics may include fiscal policies, public debt, and global economic problems.
- Transportation Principles: Students develop strategic, management, and operations knowledge while examining the fundamentals necessary for planning transportation. Topics include an overview of transportation modes and global strategies.
- Logistics Technology: This course applies quantitative models to logistics and operations through information technology such as databases and software systems such as EDI, ERP, and TMS. Topics include sales and operations analysis, forecasting, capacity planning, and manufacturing control.
- Operations Management: Students learn decision-making strategies and operational models, developing problem-solving skills to optimize supply chain efficiency. Concepts include forecasting, workflow processes, and project management.
Logistics Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a logistics degree program?
Most institutions have a web-based admissions portal that can guide you through creating and submitting your application. General admission requirements include transcripts, a personal statement, SAT or ACT scores, and other documentation. The application process should indicate program-specific requirements, but it’s best to verify with the program page’s listed requirements or an admissions counselor.
An admissions counselor can also provide insight and recommendations to optimize your application. Confirm deadlines to ensure you have your documentation and fees organized on time.
How much does a logistics degree cost?
On average, tuition and fees for bachelor’s degrees cost about $14,688 per year, and room and board can increase expenses to $27,673 per year. Graduate students pay approximately $20,513 for tuition and fees.
These figures don’t necessarily reflect how much students actually pay — variables such as private vs. public institutions, full or part-time attendance, local cost of living, and other factors can affect your total costs. Create a budget that adds your total educational and living costs and weigh them against your financial aid amounts to estimate your upfront and ongoing costs.
How long does it take to earn a logistics degree?
Undergraduate logistics programs require between 120 and 180 credits, spanning three to five years, depending on part-time, full-time, or accelerated study. Graduate students typically must complete about 30 credits in core and elective courses and seminars to graduate, but project or thesis requirements, self-pacing options, and other factors may affect degree timelines.