Logistics relates to the distribution of goods and services from supplier to customer, over a variety of industries. Logistics courses are often taken by those who wish to work in product placement and goods distribution. Different program options involving diploma degree and master’s courses are offered through different modules like online classes, classroom training or even distance education. Students explore a paraphernalia of topics ranging from supply chain and inventory control to product distribution, transportation and freight management, product creation , store management and the list is endless. Multitasking is an essence of logistics. There are related fields such as business management, business technology and other careers that attract aspirants. Due to globalization, many courses now involve international business methodologies in their course structure.
Procurement Management

Due to rising competitions and developing markets, procuring material is a herculean task. With multiple vendors and associates, the manager need to effectively balance the reliability of the vendors as well as deal with the clients’ requirements. One’s tendering and analytical skills are developed in this course. It also teaches the difference between in-house vs. outsource hiring. Knowledge of legal structure is built in order to understand the system of contracts and tenders.cost management is another skill that comes handy in this course.
Supply chain and Logistics Strategy

Students of this course study the supply chain through transportation and other mediums to customers and its importance to a business. These lectures are usually kept for the end as they involve intensive case studies and practical hands-on knowledge by studying real business models.
Inventory Management

Inventory management logistics class teaches students how to approach the inventory which is the business’ asset. Detailed study and keen insight is required, along with the skills in market analysis and forecasting to maintain a good inventory. Controlling inventory is imperative to main the firm’s liquidity as well. Students are also taught how to deal with crisis such as shortages or surplus and learn marketing strategies as well.
Advanced Negotiation skills

Negotiation is important to maintain that both parties involved are on a good footing. Impartial negotiations lead to bad blood and also lead to loss of business for a firm. Fair dealings and practicality lead to credibility and long term associations. This course gives students an idea about business dealings and how to negotiate with prospective clients and ensure profitable associations.
International logistics

In this global era, with business deals happening overseas and growing customer penetration, it becomes important to study business within an international framework. The course involves studies about customs, trade zones and rules of different nations. Tariff systems and international hazards are also studied in this course. The classes also shed light on role of government and the business sector in global economy and how one affects the other. Inter dependency, rise in EXIM trade has made this course a coveted field.

For those with a penchant for data analysis and business management, logistics offers an interesting career option.

Mallika Bhagat