Professional development and training in transport

Postgraduate study, professional qualifications and professional bodies - could they help you progress your career?

Do I need to do postgraduate study?

This depends on the occupation that you are looking to do in the transport and logistics sector.

If you are looking to become an airline pilot you will need to hold an Airline Transport Pilot’s Licence (ATPL), which can be obtained through an integrated course or module training.

However, if you wish to be a logistics and distribution manager you may not require a postgraduate degree, but further training through professional bodies may be of advantage if you are looking to progress your career.

For more information on entry requirements and career development in the transport and logistics sector, see types of jobs.

Should I join a professional body?

The answer really depends on the type of job you are aiming to obtain. 

For some roles you may need a qualification provided - or accredited - by a professional body. This means membership of a professional body is compulsory in order to become qualified to do the job. 

For other jobs, being a member of a professional body is voluntary and can be valuable for developing networks, continued professional development and generally keeping up to date with goings-on in the industry.

For more information about entry requirements for specific positions, see graduate jobs in transport and logistics.

Which professional qualifications are recognised in the transport and logistics sector?

A wide range of professional qualifications are recognised, including:

• British International Freight Association (BIFA)  - represents the international freight services industry and offers training to members in areas of air cargo security, customs procedures, dangerous goods, freight forwarding procedures and health and safety;
• The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK)  (CILT) - an organisation for those working with logistics, supply chains and all transport. It offers a range of tailored courses to every sector within the industry;
• Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS)  - the professional body providing knowledge, training and support to those working in procurement and supply management;
• Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT)  - supports land based transportation activities and awards a transport planning professional qualification with the Transport Planning Society;
• Institute of Export  - an awarding body providing a range of qualifications in importing, exporting and international trade;
• Institute of Transport Administration (IoTA)  - represents those working in the transport industry, encouraging best practice in transport and provides educational programmes to its members;
• Transport Planning Society (TPS)  - supported by the CIHT and the CILT, it awards the transport planning professional qualification, providing professional recognition for transport planners.