By David E. Hubler
Contributor, Online Learning Tips

Whether you have a doctorate or a two-year associate degree, education is a lifelong process. In the rapidly changing world of technology and communication, one of the more popular paths to professional advancement is by successfully completing certificate programs in concentrated specialties.

American Public University, through its Extension School, is now accepting applications for the 12-week online Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) course that starts in September.

Why Earning a CLTD Designation Is Significant for Transportation and Logistics Students

Companies worldwide count on logistics experts to get their products to customers on time and on budget. By earning the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CLTD designation, participants learn how to implement innovative logistics strategies and concepts that can reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction. In addition, employees with the CLTD designation help businesses align their global logistics activities to streamline systems and drive profits.

Launched in 2016, the CLTD program addresses the market’s need for additional training, knowledge and expertise in the expanding field of logistics and transportation. The certification sets the global standard for logistics best practices. In addition, students have convenient 24/7 online access to the study tools from any mobile device, tablet or computer.

How the Designation Benefits You

A CLTD designation will help you:

• Master essential logistics, transportation and distribution knowledge to elevate performance
• Expand your outlook on the logistics field and enable you to bring new ideas to your organization
• Keep current with global logistics trends and developments
• Apply knowledge to reduce costs and positively impact operations
• Demonstrate and recognize subject matter expertise

We build on the APICS CLTD Learning Center and deliver a full-course experience that consists of 12 sections, with a concluding exam that covers critical areas in logistics, transportation and distribution to improve the roles and responsibilities of logistics managers.

The exam is delivered via computer-based testing (CBT) and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Certificate candidates have 3.5 hours to complete the exam.

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to manage logistics as a cohesive system, move goods and services throughout a firm’s supply chain, maintain inventory levels to align with the business strategy and goals, and develop a comprehensive reverse logistics strategy, among other skills.