Manufacturing and shipping a product requires the coordination of inventory, raw materials, production and distribution into a unified system. Known as supply chain management (SCM), the successful execution of this procedure can drastically affect a business's expenditures. As companies are forced to interact with an increasingly globalized economy, managing a business's supply chains has become an art of its own. Many variations, including online master's in supply chain management degrees, have sprung up in recent years to address the growing need for experts in the discipline.
Graduates of online supply chain management master's programs are commonly required to have a minimum amount of professional experience in order to be accepted, meaning the majority of prospective students are already working adults. Online education has given businesses the opportunity to improve their SCM practices by sponsoring full-time employees to get an online degree while continuing in their current role. Additionally, with so much of the work in supply chain management conducted via digital interaction across thousands of miles, students earning their degree online will find they are incredibly well prepared for the likely online work environment.
In the ranked list below, we look at the best online master's in supply chain management programs being offered in 2016, profiling each in great detail. In their own way, every one of the seven programs on this list is breaking new ground in supply chain management education.
Johnson & Wales University
Location: Providence, RI
annually: 18449
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.
School WebsiteNorth Carolina State University at Raleigh
Location: Raleigh, NC
annually: 13442
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.
School WebsiteUniversity of Southern California
Location: CA
annually: 32892
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.
Golden Gate University – San Francisco
Location: CA
annually: 16095
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.
Lehigh University
Location: PA
annually: 26933
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.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide
Location: Daytona Beach, FL
annually: 19622
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.
School WebsiteUniversity of Washington
Location: WA
annually: 9443
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.
University of San Diego
Location: CA
annually: 38592
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.
Boston University
Location: Boston, MA
annually: 33728
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.
University of Maryland – College Park
Location: MD
annually: 17241
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.
Nova Southeastern University
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
annually: 26740
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.
School WebsiteGovernors State University
Location: University Park, IL
annually: 16000
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.
The University of West Florida
Location: Pensacola, FL
annually: 11550
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.
School WebsiteLiberty University
Location: Lynchburg, VA
annually: 26954
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.
The University of Texas at Austin
Location: TX
annually: 14356
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.
Rutgers University
Location: New Brunswick, NJ
annually: 16016
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.
School WebsiteLindenwood University
Location: Saint Charles, MO
annually: 17305
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.
Northeastern University – Global Network
Location: Boston, MA
annually: 30784
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.
School WebsitePennsylvania State University – World Campus
Location: University Park, PA
annually: 18194
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.
School WebsiteGeorgia College and State University
Location: GA
annually: 20055
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.
Bellevue University
Location: Bellevue, NE
annually: 11359
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.
School WebsiteDuquesne University
Location: PA
annually: 30540
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.
Michigan State University
Location: East Lansing, MI
annually: 16684
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.
University of South Dakota
Location: SD
annually: 16647
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.
Syracuse University
Location: Syracuse, NY
annually: 35306
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.
Openings for supply chain managers, also known as logisticians, are growing at a rate of 22%, much faster than average according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Given that the entry-level requirement for this field is a bachelor's degree, holding a master's can set you up to be competitive for top-paying positions. Median salary is $72,780, but with an advanced degree and years of experience, salaries can easily exceed $150,000. Those interested in an SCM position are highly recommended to first have several years of related work experience alongside their undergraduate degree.
Supply chain management graduate programs differ from other degrees, in that they are commonly attended by working adults who are being sponsored by their current employer. If you are sure supply chain management is the field for you, and you haven't finished your undergraduate yet, be sure to at least get a minor in logistics or a related field. If you already hold your bachelor's, it is important to work your way into the professional world of SCM before applying for a master's. The best way to set yourself up for success in the field is to find a company that has an employee education program and apply for a related or lower-level position with solid advancement opportunities.