It’s an exciting time for modern manufacturing. With advanced technology bringing us cutting-edge methods and faster-than-ever production rates, we are seeing a boom in this creative and evolving field. In fact, the Connecticut Department of Labor expects to see continued growth in the manufacturing industry over the next several years.
If you are considering a production management degree, you could be on the path to great success. Industrial Production Managers earned a median salary of $103,380 per year as of 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These management professionals are the ones responsible for overseeing the daily operations of manufacturing facilities, and ensuring that the production of goods stays on schedule, within budget, and meets compliance or quality standards.
The question is, how do you get started in this career? Read on, as we break down the basics of pursuing a manufacturing and production management degree, as well as the potential outcomes.
A manufacturing management degree, sometimes called a production management degree, is the best step forward in this growing field. It is a wise investment for those looking to reach the top of the career ladder, through management and executive positions.
A manufacturing degree with a specialization in management can position you for many advanced careers, including an Industrial Production Manager, as well as a Facilities Supervisor, Manufacturing Supervisor, Production Planner, and Production Controller (among others). The BLS recommends that aspiring Production Managers have a bachelor’s degree in hand. This is because bachelor’s degree programs cover a greater scope of coursework relating to business management than typical manufacturing programs, in addition to production techniques. For example, students of Goodwin’s manufacturing management program take courses in:
- Manufacturing accounting
- Organizational supervision and administration
- Team dynamics and individual skills
- Operations management
- Organizational communication
- Quality management
- Industrial safety
However, this is just the start of what students tackle in the manufacturing and production management degree program. If you are a hands-on learner, get excited. Goodwin offers a range of career-focused, practical courses that cover both production skills and management. Forget the boring, 500-person lecture halls that would have you falling asleep on your notebook. Our state-of-the-art facilities – which are run by professors who have experience in the manufacturing field – offer students the chance to learn as they go.
When you graduate, you are ready to hit the ground running, putting your degree to good use in the manufacturing industry. Some of our other, hands-on courses – available in the manufacturing management program, and the manufacturing and production program – are:
- Key Principles of Manufacturing
- Technology in Advanced Manufacturing
- Green Manufacturing
CNC machining, lean manufacturing, manufacturing logistics, and other tactical courses are also available to take as part of your career-focused coursework. Curriculums (and class formats) can be customized to meet your individual needs and career goals.
Our manufacturing and production management programs are taught with a combination of hands-on practice (on state-of-the-art technology), virtual computer simulation, group exercises, and lectures.
Once you have completed your coursework, you will have the opportunity to gain nationally-recognized credentials in the manufacturing field, including the:
• Certified Production Technician (CPT) credential
• Green Manufacturing credential
• Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)
• Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) credential
After all this, you will have the highly specialized skills that employers today are looking for in production management degree graduates. In order to be seen as a valued Production Manager within the field of manufacturing, it is not enough to simply have the degree and be able to run a machine. Computers can run some of these machines. In order to stand out – and succeed – you will need to showcase strong:
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Management skills
- Teamwork
- Attention-to-detail
- Leadership skills
These are just a few of the valuable skills you will acquire with a production management degree. By the time you reach graduation, you will also have the confidence to succeed in this competitive industry.
If you are interested in production management, there are two pathways you can take at Goodwin University. You can pursue your bachelor’s in Manufacturing Management, which is offered at both a standard and accelerated pace. Or, you can kick-off your career through our 18-credit Manufacturing and Production program. Being shorter in length, this program enables students to get started in an entry-level position quickly. When they are ready, they can put their 18 credits toward continued education, in one of our advanced manufacturing programs.
As you considering pursuing your production management degree, you may also be considering your work-school-life balance. For many students – especially those who are a few years out from high school – finding the time to pursue an advanced degree can be tough. You have bills to pay. You may have a family to support. How can you juggle it all? When can you fit in time to study and work? These are all completely normal – and reasonable – concerns. Fortunately, the manufacturing programs offered at Goodwin University come with some serious flexibility, making it easier to earn that degree while keeping up with your day job and the other demands of your busy life. Unlike some other manufacturing schools, Goodwin makes it convenient. Classes are offered days and nights. These classes are offered on campus with an online component to each class, making it easier to get your studying in on your timeline.
Learn more about the manufacturing and production management degree at Goodwin University, how you can jumpstart your career today. Call 1-800-889-3282 or visit us online to request more information.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.