Online Supply Chain Management Degrees

Every product or service sold is the conclusion of a multi-faceted process, from acquiring raw materials, to manufacturing, to delivering products to consumers. Supply chain management coordinates the flow of goods, services, and resources throughout all stages of this process. Organizations pursue competitive advantages by making the links between stages as efficient and economical as possible.

Working successfully in supply chain management requires you to integrate knowledge from many disciplines, including systems engineering, project management, and information technology. To be successful in the field, you need to be detail-oriented, a strong communicator, and capable of working with people from all backgrounds. Familiarity with an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software package is also crucial.

One of the best ways to obtain these skills is by earning a degree in supply chain management. Read on to learn more about how to start your career in the field.

Meet our expert

Frank GuenzerodtRead More

Frank Guenzerodt Supply Chain Management

“Various skills will be developed…as well as the understanding of global trade.”


Jump to a Section

Degrees

Online Supply Chain Management Degree Overview

Degree Avg Degree Cost Avg Loan Default Rate Time Commitment Early Career Pay Mid-Career Pay Unemployment Rate
Associate $9,381 16.57% 2 years $44,000 $48,454 5.5%
Bachelor's $14,882 10.91% 4 years $54,079 $72,212 N/A
Master's $22,011 6.11% 2 years $68,353 $81,107 N/A
Whether you are new to the field, or looking to advance in your current career, you should weigh the costs and time of getting a new degree against its benefits. There is no one-size-fits-all degree. The best choice for you will depend on your current educational background, financial standing, employment history, and area of interest. For instance, those with no experience may want to consider an associate degree, due to its shorter time commitment and lower cost. If finances are tight for you, then you should prioritize the student loan debt and default categories, as you will want to choose a degree that offers you the best chance of improving your financial standing with minimal risk. If your employer or someone else is paying for your education, then you might want to consider the degree that will offer you the highest salary. All salary information is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and/or PayScale

Many students from indirect backgrounds seek work in supply chain management, such as those who’ve studied engineering or advanced management. Therefore, students with specialized degrees in supply chain management have a leg up, having actively focused on planning, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics throughout their education.

Students interested in supply chain management can pursue an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree. While many people get their start with an associate degree, working primarily in planning or operations, common mid-career positions as logisticians and purchasing managers usually require a bachelor’s-level credential. Higher positions, such as those in global supply management, may require a master’s degree.

Online Supply Chain Management Degrees

/

Online Associate’s Degree in Supply Chain Management

An associate degree in supply chain management will take two years to complete and cost an average of $9,831. There are multiple specialization options in the field, even in entry level positions. Employment opportunities can be grouped into either the planning or operations category, with planning positions based in offices and operations positions in distribution facilities. Many jobs in the field are found in purchasing, customer service, storage, and distribution.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Accounting, Professional Logistics, Inventory Control, Quality Control

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Business Administration, Business Management & Operations, Accounting

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Purchasing Agent, Production Planner, Transportation Specialist

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    The median pay for supply chain management jobs hiring applicants with associate degrees is $28.66 per hour or $59,620 a year.

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for purchasing agents, which will hire applicants with associate degrees, are expected to grow at a 2% annual average, a little slower than other sectors of the economy.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management

An bachelor’s in supply chain management is required for many jobs in the field. Salaries for these jobs range from $54,079 for early career workers to $72,212 for mid-career professionals. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, companies may require relevant work experience in related fields, such as purchasing or project management, which makes pursuing a supply chain management degree online an attractive option. Full-time residential programs may take up to four years to complete.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing Planning and Control, Logistics and Transportation Management

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing, Business Administration

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Materials Scheduler, Supply Chain Systems Manager, Operations Research Analyst

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for Logisticians, a job which hires applicants with bachelor’s degrees, is $35.70/hour or $74,260 a year.

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2% annual growth rate for logistician positions.

Online Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management

Reports suggest that American companies will spend $2.5 billion on supply chain technology through 2022. As more companies invest in and rely on these technologies and applications, there’s a greater need for trained professionals to effectively manage their operations. When you upgrade your skills and training with a master’s degree, you gain access to a variety of positions and industries.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for logisticians to grow 7% through 2026, with the average logistician earning more than $74,000 per year. With an online master’s in supply chain management, you can also pursue nontraditional positions, like management analyst or operations research analyst. Management and operations research analysts each make more than $80,000 per year, with projected job growth rates much higher than the national average.

Graduates can work in diverse settings and industries, such as government, manufacturing organizations, and professional and scientific services. The following ranking outlines some of the best online supply chain management master’s degrees in the country.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Supply Chain Analysis, Logistics Operations Methods, Contract Pricing and Negotiations

  • COMMON MAJORS

    Logistics, Global Supply Management, Operations, Supply Management

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Logistics Manager, Purchasing Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Operations Manager

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    The average mid-career salary for a master’s degree holder in the field is north of $80,000.

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment growth in Logististics is projected at 2%. For upper level positions, your employment prospects may improve with increased specialization.

Supply Chain Management
Get Seal
For the 2016 rankings, OnlineColleges.net has greatly refined its approach to evaluating schools and their respective programs. Our innovative method of assessing schools is what makes our rankings so distinctly authoritative. On the surface, every ranking we produce employs a basic formula: Academic Quality + Online Offerings + Cost and Student Aid = Final Score. This final score determines where a school ends up in our rankings. Of course, there's a lot more than meets the eye. Visit our methodology page to discover the data points that shape our formula and to learn more about our process.

Supply Chain Management Master’s Degree Rankings

/
Rank School Name School Logo City Cost Address & Contact Info School Links Acclaim for Online Programs School Description
1Johnson & Wales UniversityProvidence$$$$$8 Abbott Park Pl
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 598-1000

JWU offers a variety of online programs, including more than 25 at the master's level. During the MBA in operations and supply chain management, students study logistics technologies and strategies while gaining skills in operations management and analysis.

The master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires students to complete 36-42 credits. Courses break down into three categories: foundation, core, and concentration courses. Students also complete a career capstone project at the end of the program. In the concentration, students take courses in strategic sourcing, global logistics, and lean production.

Online classes follow an eight-week schedule, and the program features six annual start dates. Most students earn the degree in 18 months. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 2.41 minimum GPA. Students gain access to online resources like academic support and career services.

2North Carolina State University at RaleighRaleigh$$$$$2101 Hillsborough Street
Raleigh, NC 27695-7001
(919) 515-2011

To accommodate students with busy schedules, NC State designed an online learning system. In the online MBA with an emphasis in supply chain management, students obtain an advanced business foundation and an understanding of global supply chain operations. The program starts every fall and spring.

The 40-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features a core program with three elements: finance, value chain, and management. The supply chain management emphasis comprises six credit hours. NC State allows students up to six years to complete the program, but many students graduate in less than two years. While students primarily complete the degree online through asynchronous classes, the program features two, three-day sessions on the Raleigh campus.

For admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree and strong GRE or GMAT scores. While NC State accepts students from all undergraduate majors, the average student possesses prerequisite courses in business and boasts a 3.3 GPA. All online students pay the same tuition rate.

3University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles$$$$$University Park
Los Angeles, CA 90089
(213) 740-2311

USC offers more than 80 online master's degrees, including an MS in global supply chain management. Designed to accommodate working professionals, the online program teaches students how to operate and incorporate successful global supply chain strategies.

The 30-unit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features eight core courses, covering topics in project management and enterprise-wide information systems. The remaining nine units come from electives, allowing students to tailor the degree to their interests. Students can complete the program part time and finish in less than 16 months.

While online courses run asynchronously, USC requires students to engage in one face-to-face session per month. Furthermore, some tests may require campus visits. Students must also participate in one-week study sessions in Singapore and Los Angeles. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and strong GRE or GMAT scores.

4Golden Gate University - San FranciscoSan Francisco$$$$$536 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-2968
(415) 442-7800

GGU's more than 60 online programs include an online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management. The program teaches students how to apply core business training to the production and global supply of goods and services. Students learn how to use technology and advanced theories to gain an advantage in the field.

The 54-unit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires three foundations courses, 10 core business courses, four courses in the concentration, and one capstone project. The program also includes two electives that allow students to customize the degree to their interests.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree and strong GRE or GMAT scores. Applicants with a 3.5 GPA, more than five years of professional experience, nationally recognized professional licensure, or a master's degree may waive the standardized test requirement.

5Lehigh UniversityBethlehem$$$$$27 Memorial Drive West
Bethlehem, PA 18015
(610) 758-3000

Lehigh offers five certificates and nine degrees online, including an MBA with various concentrations. Students in the online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management learn what factors impact an organization's supply chain and how to bring value to it.

The 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online comprises six core courses, including management courses in finance, people, information, and products and services. The core program also includes an integrative experience course. Students then complete a nine-credit supply chain concentration, which includes courses in supply chain management, supply chain planning, and logistics management. The remaining six credits come from electives.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree, strong GRE or GMAT scores, and two years of professional experience for admission. Candidates also need prerequisites in statistics and financial accounting. Students can start in the spring, summer, or fall and complete the program at their own pace. Most students complete the degree within three years, but full-time students can graduate in one year.

6Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - WorldwideDaytona Beach$$$$$600 S. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3900
(800) 522-6787

ERAU offers a large selection of courses and programs online, including 20 master's degrees. The online MS in logistics and supply chain management trains students in logistics and management while focusing on globalization.

The 30-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires students to complete 24 credits of core courses, covering topics like purchasing, management science, and transportation management. The remaining six credits come from electives. Graduates qualify to sit for a variety of industry certifications. ERAU offers graduate students 10 start dates per year, and each session runs for 9-12 weeks.

Applicants need prerequisite knowledge in business management fundamentals, including finance, accounting, economics, and marketing. ERAU allows candidates to take a business fundamentals course prior to beginning the program if necessary. Transfer students with a 3.0 GPA may receive transfer credits.

7University of WashingtonSeattle$$$$$1400 NE Campus Parkway
Seattle, WA 98195-4550
(206) 543-2100

UW offers 17 online undergraduate and graduate degrees. During the master's degree in supply chain transportation and logistics, students learn how to apply quantitative and analytical skills to business and supply chain management issues.

The 43-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires students to complete nine courses. For the first course in the fall, students attend a one-week residency on campus. From there, learners complete one course during each of the four yearly terms, graduating in two years. Courses cover topics like inventory management, freight transport, and performance management. In the last term, learners complete a practicum.

Online students join a cohort upon enrolling in the program. Classes combine asynchronous and synchronous delivery, with live classes running one night per week during the evening. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, plus statistics or calculus prerequisites.

8University of San DiegoSan Diego$$$$$5998 Alcala Park
San Diego, CA 92110-2492
(619) 260-4600

To meet the demands of working professionals looking to advance their education, USC began offering online programs, such as the online MS in supply chain management. Designed for business professionals, this program provides graduates with the skills needed to improve organizational efficiencies and profitability.

The 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features 13 courses, six of which focus on management principles in areas like finance and project management. The other seven courses cover topics like sustainability, leadership, and law and ethics. The program also includes an advanced integrative project in which students apply their training to a practical setting.

Students work through the program as part of a cohort, taking 22 months to complete the degree. While courses primarily run asynchronously online, students must attend a 2- to 4-day in-person session at the beginning of each semester. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, plus two years of relevant professional experience. Candidates that do not meet these requirements may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores.

9Boston UniversityBoston$$$$$
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 353-2000

Established in 2002, BU's online offerings include more than 40 programs. The online MS in supply chain management teaches students how to design, implement, and operate a global supply chain. Learners develop skills in strategizing, risk evaluation, and analysis.

The 40-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online offers three concentrations: global business, logistics management, and quantitative approaches. Regardless of their concentration, students complete four core courses, two electives, and a capstone project. Core courses cover topics in operations management and finance. Students take three courses in their concentration.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree and three letters of recommendation. Some concentrations may require students to complete prerequisites. The online classes at BU feature a combination of asynchronous and synchronous delivery, and all online students pay the same tuition rate.

10University of Maryland - College ParkCollege Park$$$$$
College Park, MD 20742
(301) 405-1000

The UMD business school offers two online graduate degrees to accommodate working professionals. The online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management gives students a strong business foundation, teaching them how to build relationships and lead an organization. The concentration covers supply chain applications and technology, along with the principles that inform effective supply chains.

Students can complete the 54-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online in two years. The curriculum breaks down into 24 business foundation credits, 24 advanced business credits, four credits in global study, and four credits for residencies. The supply chain management specialization features three courses. Students must attend an on-campus residency at the beginning of the year.

Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.8 GPA, strong GRE or GMAT scores, and two years of professional experience. All online students pay the same tuition rate, and UMD offers three start dates per year.

11Nova Southeastern UniversityFort Lauderdale$$$$$3301 College Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314-7796
(954) 262-7300

NSU hosts courses and programs at its regional campuses and online. The online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management offers students advanced business training with a focus on designing and operating efficient logistics networks. Graduates qualify to sit for a variety of industry certifications.

The master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires 40-49 credits, including 22-31 credits of core business courses. Students also complete 15 credits in the concentration, taking courses like supply chain information systems, project management, and business intelligence. NSU offers five start dates per year, and students can complete the degree in 21 months.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Students with a lower GPA may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. While NSU accepts students from a variety of educational backgrounds, candidates without business foundation prerequisites may need to complete additional classes prior to beginning the program.

12Governors State UniversityUniversity Park$$$$$1 University Pky
University Park, IL 60484
(708) 534-5000

In addition to its more than 200 online courses, GSU offers seven online programs, including three master's degrees. The online MBA in supply chain management prepares managers to work within global markets, giving them the skills they need to operate advanced technology and effective supply chains.

Students can complete the 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online in less than 18 months. Students take 24 credits of business management courses, plus nine credits in the supply chain management specialization. For the final credits, students can complete a capstone project or a thesis. Students without business experience may need to complete additional business foundations courses, along with a calculus and communications course.

For guaranteed admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree and a 3.5 GPA, plus business prerequisite courses. Applicants with a lower GPA may submit GRE or GMAT scores for consideration. Online courses run asynchronously, and all online students pay the same tuition rate.

13The University of West FloridaPensacola$$$$$11000 University Parkway
Pensacola, FL 32514-5750
(850) 474-2000

UWF offers 19 online master's degrees with more than 30 specializations. In the online MBA with an emphasis in supply chain logistics management, students learn how to analyze and strategize supply chains, ensuring they run efficiently. Learners acquire an understanding of the global marketplace, including the policies and regulations that impact it.

The 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features 10 core courses in business fundamentals, plus three courses in the supply chain emphasis. UWF offers students five start dates throughout the year, and students can finish the program in 16 months.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, plus strong GRE or GMAT scores. Candidates with a 2.75 GPA may apply but should possess eight years of professional experience. UWF may waive the standardized test requirements for applicants with a GPA over 3.25.

14Liberty UniversityLynchburg$$$$$1971 University Blvd
Lynchburg, VA 24515
(800) 434-9595

Liberty's online programs feature flexible asynchronous study options and multiple yearly start dates. The online MBA with a specialization in supply chain management and logistics builds on students' business skills, providing advanced management training and specialized skills in logistics and analytics.

The 45-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online comprises 11 courses in core business fundamentals and three courses in supply chain management. For the specialization, students complete courses in logistics and quality management. Each online course runs on an eight-week schedule, and students can complete the program in 2-5 years.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least 15 upper-level undergraduate credits in business. All students pay the same tuition rate.

15The University of Texas at AustinAustin$$$$$110 Inner Campus Drive
Austin, TX 78712
(512) 471-3434

UT Austin's online programs allow students to study at their own pace and during the hours that suit them. The online MBA with a concentration in supply chain and operations management offers core business training and specialized instruction in supply chain operations. The application-oriented concentration equips students to handle an organization's logistics and resources.

During the master's degree in logistics and supply chain management, online students complete a set of core business courses during the first semester. The majority of the remaining courses include electives and concentration courses. In total, students complete 62 semester hours, including 23 semester hours of core courses and 16 semester hours in the concentration. The program also includes an internship.

Learners typically complete the degree in less than two years. For successful admission, applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

16Rutgers UniversityNew Brunswick$$$$$83 Somerset St
New Brunswick, NJ 08901-1281
(732) 932-1766

Rutgers offers more than 15 online programs. The online MS in supply chain management teaches students how to use the latest supply chain management applications and techniques while giving them knowledge of industry best practices.

The 30-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online comprises 10 courses that cover strategizing, global sourcing, production management, logistics, and cross-functional enablers. Online classes run asynchronously, and students benefit from three start dates throughout the year.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, preferably in a business or engineering discipline. While Rutgers does not require GRE or GMAT test scores, students that submit them may receive preference. All online students pay the same tuition. The school also offers a certificate option.

17Lindenwood UniversitySaint Charles$$$$$209 S Kingshighway
Saint Charles, MO 63301-1695
(636) 949-2000

Lindenwood offers more than 100 online courses and 31 online programs. In addition to advanced business training, the online MBA with an emphasis in supply chain management gives students expertise in supply chain practices and applications.

The master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online requires 39-54 credits, including 27 credits of business core courses and 12 credits dedicated to the specialization. Students take courses in logistics, procurement, and operations management. Students without a business background may need to take up to an additional 15 credits of business fundamentals.

Online courses run asynchronously throughout five, eight-week terms. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Students with a lower GPA may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores.

18Northeastern University - Global NetworkBoston$$$$$360 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 373-2000

Northeastern offers more than 80 online degrees. The online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management trains students to build and sustain efficient supply chains within a variety of business environments. Students can customize their concentration by choosing what courses they take.

The 50-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online includes 13 core business courses and five electives. For the supply chain management concentration, students can choose from courses on topics such as strategic sourcing, transportation industries, and operations management. The program features nine start dates per year. Students typically graduate in two years.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and five years of work experience. Candidates with less experience may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. All online students pay the same tuition rate and enjoy access to academic and professional support resources.

19Pennsylvania State University - World CampusUniversity Park$$$$$128 Outreach Building
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 865-5403

Penn State offers more than 150 online programs. The online MPS in supply chain management gives students the skills needed to plan and navigate complex logistics networks, along with the leadership skills needed to manage the people involved.

The 30-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online typically takes part-time students two years to complete. In addition to foundational business courses, students complete courses in demand fulfillment, supply chain analysis, and global manufacturing operations. While all other classes take place online, after year one, students must attend a four-day residency on campus.

Online programs primarily run asynchronously, though some classes may require synchronous sessions. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Candidates may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores as well. The school offers a 12-credit supply chain management certification. All students pay the same tuition rate and can access online resources such as academic support, career services, and the Penn State library.

20Georgia College and State UniversityMilledgeville$$$$$231 W Hancock Street
Milledgeville, GA 31061
(478) 445-2770

Offering the state's oldest logistics program, Georgia College improved access to the program by making it available online. The online master's degree in logistics and supply chain management provides students with advanced business, leadership, distribution, and logistics skills.

Students in the 30-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online enroll in the fall and join a cohort. Learners then complete two courses during each of the five consecutive semesters. The program includes 21 credit hours of core classes and nine credit hours of elective courses. Some students may need to complete a statistics foundation course prior to starting the program.

Online classes primarily run asynchronously, but professors hold synchronous sessions every other week. All online students pay the same tuition rate. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and must submit GRE or GMAT scores.

21Bellevue UniversityBellevue$$$$$1000 Galvin Rd S
Bellevue, NE 68005-3098
(402) 291-8100

BU offers more than 75 online programs. The online MBA with a concentration in supply chain management gives students the skills needed to lead organizations and improve operations while managing global logistics and procurement networks.

The 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online includes 27 credits of core business courses. The remaining nine credits come from three supply chain management courses. Graduates qualify for a variety of certifications, though some require professional experience.

Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Transfer students may receive up to six credits for prior learning. Online students enjoy a standard tuition rate, and courses run asynchronously to allow for maximum schedule flexibility.

22Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh$$$$$Administration Bldg 600 Forbes Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15282
(412) 396-6000

For more than 25 years, Duquesne has offered supply management education to students at its Pittsburgh campus, which then expanded to online offerings. Students in the hybrid MS in supply chain management learn how to implement innovative and effective logistics and production systems for a variety of organizations. Learners can complete the program part time and graduate in less than two years.

The 30-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features 10 courses, including three supply chain foundations courses, five advanced signature courses, and two capstone classes. The hybrid format combines flexible online classes with face-to-face instruction on campus. Graduates qualify for a variety of industry certifications.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree in business and one year of relevant professional experience or a non-business bachelor's degree with three years of experience. Candidates must also submit GRE or GMAT scores. Online students gain access to career and academic support, and all students pay the same tuition rate.

23Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing$$$$$
East Lansing, MI 48824-1046
(517) 355-1855

MSU incorporates more than 150 years of educational experience into all of its programs, including three innovative online graduate programs. In the hybrid MS in supply chain management, students learn how to operate supply chain management technology and applications. Online students primarily study asynchronously and can tailor the course load to their schedule.

The 31-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online features a blend of flexible online classes and three-day weekend residencies. Students complete 14 required courses that cover topics like data analysis, strategic sourcing, and quality management. The curriculum also includes a field study program. Students typically complete the degree in less than two years.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and at least two years of relevant experience. Applicants also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores unless they possess more than three years of experience. All online students pay the same tuition.

24University of South DakotaVermillion$$$$$414 E Clark St
Vermillion, SD 57069-2390
(605) 677-5301

USD offers more than 40 online programs, including an online MBA in operations and supply chain management. In this program, students gain traditional business training and specialized training in strategizing, designing, and operating complex logistics networks. The online program also includes a five-day on-campus session.

The 36-credit master's degree in logistics and supply chain management online includes 27 credits of advanced business classes. The remaining nine credits come from supply chain management courses, including two elective courses that cover topics like lean management, data management, and project management. Students without a business background may need to complete up to an additional 18 credits of business courses.

Online courses run asynchronously, and all online students pay the same tuition rate. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA. They must also submit GRE or GMAT scores. While USD does not require candidates to possess an undergraduate degree in business, those with relevant training may receive preference.

25Syracuse UniversitySyracuse$$$$$900 South Crouse Ave.
Syracuse, NY 13244
(315) 443-1870

Beginning more than 25 years ago, the online programs at Syracuse allow students worldwide to earn a degree from a distance. In the online MBA with a specialization in supply chain management, students acquire management skills and learn how to design and implement operational strategies for global supply chains.

The 36-credit program includes nine credits in the specialization. Specialization courses train students in management science and logistics management. Students can start in the fall or spring and complete the program in less than two years.

Online programs at Syracuse typically combine synchronous and asynchronous course delivery, and some classes may require students to attend in-person classes. Furthermore, students must complete three in-person residencies throughout the program. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and must submit GRE or GMAT scores. Syracuse may grant standardized test waivers for candidates with more than five years of relevant experience.

Online Doctorate Degree in Supply Chain Management

Unlike many disciplines, doctoral programs in Supply Chain Management tend to focus on preparing students for employment in the field, rather than academic research and teaching. Concentrations in Ph.D. level supply chain management programs include industry-specific options, such as information management, or issue-based possibilities, like international logistics. Some elite Ph.D. programs require a full time commitment, and may require you to complete a thesis or capstone.

  • SAMPLE COURSES

    Univariate Statistics, Supply Chain Management Theory, Econometrics

  • COMMON MAJORS

    DBA and PhD

  • POTENTIAL JOBS

    Warehouse Operations Manager, Supply Chain Software Manager, Customer Service Manager

  • AVERAGE INCOME

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for an operations research analyst (a position that commonly requires a doctorate) is $78,630.

  • EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, available jobs for operation research analysts are projected to grow by 30% in the coming years, much faster than other professions.

Online Supply Chain Management Choose Your Career

Average Supply Chain Management Salaries

$59,620
$108,120
$74,260

Buyers and Purchasing Agents

Salary: $59,620
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
2% 443,200 Bachelor's N/A

Buyers and purchasing agents are employees who purchase the products or services other organizations use or resell. Job duties include negotiating prices and examining products for quality. Most positions require a bachelor’s, although some employers will hire applicants with an associate degree. Some level of on-the-job training is also required, and communicating effectively with others is a major part of the job. This career requires job candidates to be well-versed in sales, marketing, and customer service.

Purchasing Managers

Salary: $108,120
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
1% 73,000 Bachelor's N/A

Purchasing managers are responsible for acquiring the supplies, equipment, products, and services that organizations use. They also hire, train, and manage purchasing agents. Work weeks are typically longer than 40 hours, and regular interaction with other employees is part of the job. In addition to a bachelor’s degree, purchasing managers need to have professional experience as buyers. An online supply chain management degree can help you develop the skills needed for the position. In school, students develop the strong communication and negotiation skills required, and they also will become familiar with administration in management, production procedures, and resource planning software.

Logistician

Salary: $74,260
Growth Rate 2014-2024 Number of Jobs: 2014 Degree Certifications
2% 130,400 Bachelor's N/A

A logistician’s job is to study and review the processes linking every stage of a product’s life cycle, from material acquisition to product delivery. Generally, this position requires a bachelor’s degree, though people with significant industry experience may not need one. Strong analytical thinking skills, attention to detail, integrity, familiarity with computers, and dependability are all vital traits in this position.

Online Supply Chain Management Degree in Action

Frank Guenzerodt Supply Chain Management

As President & CEO of DACHSER USA, Frank Guenzerodt oversees the continuing expansion of the company’s U.S. logistics network of branch offices and service offerings. Since joining the corporation in 2004, he has led the company’s strategic growth program to increase its footprint in the USA for greater reach and value for customers.

When and how did you begin pursuing a career in the logistics and supply chain industry?

I joined a freight forwarding and logistics company after college in Hamburg, Germany in 1993. I completed an apprenticeship with a bachelor’s degree in international freight forwarding and logistics. In 1986, I moved to the United States and held several positions at multinational freight forwarders including international sales manager, branch manager and, ultimately, as a management executive. I joined DACHSER in 2004 and expanded the U.S. footprint from 5 to currently 16 offices. Our plan is to further grow our U.S. organization to 25 offices by 2020.

What would you say is the most rewarding aspect of your career?

Working in an ever evolving industry with people from different cultures all across the globe.

What types of skills does a student develop in a logistics/supply chain management degree program?

Various skills will be developed such as organizational, math, geographical, and interpersonal skills as well as the understanding of global trade.

What traits/skills do you look for in new hires?

The most important is a positive attitude. The knowledge of multiple languages and the understanding of different cultures is helpful.

What advice would you give someone who wants to establish a career for themselves in this industry?

They have to be very flexible, able to deal with constant change, willing to travel, and be motivated to work hard. An education in supply chain/logistics or business-related field is also very beneficial.

Online Supply Chain Management Professional Requirements

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

The APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (APICS CSCP) is recognized around the world as the leading education and certification program in supply chain management. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent), three years of related work experience, or be designated CPIM, CFPIM, CIRM, SCOR-P, C.P.M., CSM, or CPSM. The exam features 175 multiple choice questions which cover supply chain design, supply chain planning and execution, and supply chain improvements and best practices. Earning the APICS CSCP designation shows potential employers that you have a thorough knowledge of the field and are qualified to use enterprise resource planning systems to streamline operations. The APICS CSCP designation is not required to work in the field, however, many employers do seek employees who have the credential. More than, 19,000 professionals in 82 countries have been certified through this program since 2006. Most people spend 100 hours preparing for each exam. Candidates are allowed four hours to take the exam.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

4 hours

ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management

Around the world, individuals and employers working in procurement, supply management, and supply chain management regard the ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (ISM CPSM) as a sign of achievement in the field. To be eligible for the CPSM, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and three years professional work experience in supply management, five years professional work experience in supply management, or have passed three CPSM exams. You may take the CPSM exams before you complete all your work experience. The CPSM exams are comprehensive, covering cost and finance, supplier relationship management, logistics, organization/department assessment, leadership, strategic sourcing, and more. The CPSM is not required, but candidates with professional certification commonly receive higher salaries. The program insists on continuing education to maintain certification, which establishes the currency of training for employers. Depending on your schedule and study habits, preparing for and passing the CPSM takes between six and 12 months. The CPSM designation is valid for three years.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

Varies

SCPro Certification

The SCPro certification program helps supply chain management professionals establish and grow their careers, both through the process of preparing for the SCPro exams and in the credibility the certification testifies to their level of expertise. SCPro certification consists of three modules, which build on each other and delve progressively deeper into the complexity of supply chain management. Eligibility requirements change at each level. Level I requires a bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited institution, or four years work experience in supply chain management. Level II requires SCPro Level I certification and a supply chain management degree plus three years of work experience, or seven years work experience without Level I certification. Level III requires SCPro Level II certification and a supply chain management degree plus five year’s work experience, or nine years of work experience. SCPro certification is not required. Professionals pursue the certification to enhance their marketability to employers and demonstrate their ability to enhance organizational operations. Candidates who took the SCPro Level I Certification independently said it required 2-4 hours a week over 2-3 months. Those completing a work-sponsored program took 12-18 months.

Is it required?

No

How long will it take?

Varies