Transportation Schools and Training Programs
Transportation jobs can involve truck driving, logistics or dispatch. Find out how to choose a training school, see job outlook and salary projections and get information on what you'll learn as you prepare for a career in transportation.
What You Need to Know
Transportation is a diverse field; you can find schools with programs in truck driving, transportation logistics and transportation dispatching. Many of these programs are offered by vocational schools and junior colleges. You can also learn the tools of the trade at a 4-year college. Look for schools located near rail hubs, port cities or industrial centers, since program requirements often include hands-on training experiences.
| Programs | Trucking driving, transportation logistics and transportation dispatching |
| Training | Training programs prepare you for a commercial driver's license (CDL) |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $48,310 per year (heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Will I Learn in These Training Programs?
Truck driving training programs prepare you to obtain your commercial driver's license (CDL). In lab sessions, you'll learn how to maneuver a vehicle, perform pre-trip inspections and drive on public highways. These programs can be completed in 5-12 weeks. Some topics you might be studying are listed as follows:
- Rules and regulations of over-the-road transportation
- Map reading
- Trip planning
- Communication systems
- Gear patterns
- Shifting on tankers
- Multiple-trailer units
- Combination vehicles
These schools offer transportation training programs:
- Central Piedmont Community College (Matthews, NC)
- Tarrant County College (Fort Worth, TX)
- Sacramento City College (CA)
- Harper College (Palatine, IL)
- Florida State College at Jacksonville (FL)
- Colorado Christian University (Lakewood)
What Will I Learn in a Degree Program?
Transportation logistics programs are commonly available as 1-year certificate programs, although bachelor's and master's degrees are available to those interested in management positions. Coursework often includes topics in the following areas:
- Supply chain management
- Transportation law
- Cargo security
- Air and surface freight procedures
- Movement of cargo between suppliers and consumers
What About Certificate Programs?
If you're interested in transportation dispatch, consider a certificate program. You can train to dispatch public safety and emergency service units, airplanes and trains. In addition to the day-to-day operations of your particular area of interest, you'll learn about some of the following topics:
- Traffic control
- Radio equipment
- Meteorology
- Communications
- Crisis management
- Map reading
Are Any Programs Offered Online?
Due to the hands-on nature of truck driving or dispatcher training, you will probably not be able to complete these programs through distance education. However, online transportation logistics training programs may be available. You'll need a computer with an Internet connection to access program coursework. Other technical requirements may include a DVD player, speakers or a webcam.
What Are My Job Prospects?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual salary of $48,310 per year for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers, as of May 2021. The BLS also noted that for 2021-2031, these workers had a projected job growth of 4%.