Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Supply Chain Management is a subject that deals with sourcing raw materials and components required by companies to manufacture their products. People who work in Logistics focus on improving the supply chain’s overall performance to ensure the fastest possible delivery. This is achieved through efficient planning, which allows enterprises to reduce excess inventory and storage costs. Therefore, it is no surprise that industries with complex supply chains have a tremendous demand for world-class supply chain managers. A Master’s in Supply Chain Management degree equips one to understand all the aspects in-depth and get intensive application knowledge to become a successful professional. To learn about the Supply Chain Management MBA online programs, read about it here.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Masters in Supply Chain Management Online Programs

In the context of a Master’s program, the curriculum presents a thoughtful blend of theory and practical skills. Industry highly values these skills, acquired through online Supply Chain Management courses. Salient areas or subjects covered in the Supply Chain Management courses include:

Upon successfully completing this program, students can expect the following skills and achieve the following learning outcomes:

• Strategic Planning: Develop skills to create effective strategies for optimizing supply chain operations.
• Logistics Management: Learn to efficiently manage the movement of goods, from procurement to delivery.
• Data Analysis: Acquire expertise in analyzing data to make informed decisions and enhance supply chain performance.
• Risk Management: Understand and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions.
• Technology Integration: Explore technology integration, such as IoT and AI, for improved supply chain efficiency.
• Sustainability Practices: Gain insights into implementing sustainable practices within the supply chain.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Develop skills to manage supplier relationships and enhance collaboration.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Learn to collaborate with different departments to align supply chain goals with overall business objectives.
• Project Management: Acquire project management skills to execute supply chain initiatives successfully.
• Continuous Improvement: To enhance supply chain effectiveness, understand and implement continuous improvement processes.

A Master’s in Supply Chain Management can be pursued mainly through an MBA (Master’s in Business Administration) or an MS (Master of Science). While the MBA program deals with the Supply Chain aspects in the business landscape, the MS dives deep into the engineering and technology aspects of the Supply Chain.

Specializations in Supply Chain Masters Programs

Since supply chain management is such a vast area, it has various concentrations available, like Logistics, Operations, International Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Digital Supply Chain Management, and Supply Chain Analytics, to name a few.

Below are a few top concentrations highly regarded and coveted by the industry, covered in detail:

• Masters in Logistics
  The program exposes students to the local and global dimensions of transport, procurement, distribution, logistics, and supply chain management, enabling them to address network design and global logistics issues. Case studies of world-class global organizations such as Apple, Amazon, and Nike help students understand the role of effective logistics in maintaining sustainable competitive success, innovation, and market leadership.
• Masters in Global Supply Chain Management
  A candidate with this specialization will obtain global supply chain skills and knowledge underscored by strong analytical, quantitative, and leadership skills needed to design innovative solutions, predict future trends, and become a leader in the fast-moving business landscapes in the global supply chain system. The Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management is an interdisciplinary program integrating concepts from the supply chain, operation management, analytics, data visualization, industrial engineering, global business, and management.
• Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Degree
  A Supply Chain Professional must source locally and globally, apply the latest digital technologies, increase supply chain risks, and ensure a sustainable supply chain. Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Degree equips a candidate to be a multi-skilled international mover with an understanding of procurement, global sourcing, supply chain strategies, negotiation, and commercial law.  
• Online Masters in Procurement
  The Online Master’s in Procurement students better understand the nature of commercial, international, and government contracts and lay a strong foundation for comprehending federal procurement practices. Procurement management is a broad field of study, and students are exposed to various principles and management techniques. The programs cover everything from the legal framework of contracts to cost and price analysis techniques. Students gain a mastery of important terminology and concepts used in the field of procurement management.  
• MS in Operations and Supply Chain Management
  This program gives a rigorous and comprehensive introduction to the tools, techniques, and frameworks that can be used to increase efficiency in operations and supply chain processes across manufacturing and service industries. Supply chains exist for every product and service that we consume, directly or indirectly. Apart from theoretical frameworks, candidates stand to gain practical aspects through case studies and application-oriented coursework.
• Master’s degree in transportation and logistics management
  This program is designed for students pursuing careers in the transportation and logistics of goods by shipping, aviation, or surface. The program covers laws and regulations related to the global transportation of goods. Other important principles, such as supply chain, logistics management, and inventory control systems, are also covered.

The timeline for completing a Master’s in Supply Chain Management online varies but typically ranges from 18 months to two years. Students progress through courses at their own pace, allowing flexibility for those working professionals with busy schedules. The structure enables timely graduation while accommodating individual learning preferences and professional commitments.

Accelerated Supply Chain Management Masters Programs

Accelerated Supply Chain Management Master’s Programs offer an expedited path to advanced education, often completed in 12-18 months. This format benefits students by saving time and allowing quicker entry into the workforce. To find institutions offering accelerated programs, students should explore university websites, contact admissions offices, and utilize online platforms specializing in graduate program searches. Here are examples of colleges that offer accelerated master’s in supply chain programs:

• Rutgers Business School ¹
• Boston University²

Admission requirements vary from one university to another for a Master’s in Supply Chain Management. Here are some of the common admission requirements.

• Application form and fees
• Graduate and undergraduate courses’ official transcripts 
• Transcripts from undergraduate degrees
• GRE scores/ GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose.
• Work experience

The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test widely used for graduate school admissions in the United States. Universities often waive the GRE, considering factors like a higher GPA, significant work experience, or advanced degrees. Many institutions recognize diverse qualifications beyond standardized test scores, allowing applicants to showcase their potential through alternative means. Each university may have specific criteria for GRE waivers, making it essential for applicants to explore individual requirements. Here are a few universities that offer online supply chain management masters with no GRE programs:

Florida Institute of Technology³

Michigan State University⁴

Wright State University⁵

Accreditation for Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management programs ensures adherence to rigorous quality standards. Students benefit by gaining assurance of a high-quality education recognized by employers and institutions globally. Accreditation validates the program’s relevance, faculty expertise, and delivery methods, enhancing the student’s educational experience and degree’s value in the competitive job market. Here are the six regional accreditation bodies in the United States:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ⁶
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ⁷
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ⁸
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ⁹
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ¹⁰
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)¹¹

Free Online Supply Chain Courses provide foundational knowledge and insights into the field without any financial commitment. Although these courses offer introductory expertise in supply chain management concepts, providing valuable information for informational purposes, they are not accredited, allowing flexibility and accessibility for knowledge enhancement. Here are some free resources for students pursuing a master’s degree in supply chain management: 

Online programs in Master’s programs in Supply Chain Management are bound to propel individuals to the next orbit of a stellar career in the fast-growing Supply Chain Management industry. Currently, the demand-to-supply ratio of jobs to qualified individuals is six to one. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Logisticians ¹⁷ earn $77,520, and the growth predicted between 2022-2032 is 18% which is much faster than average. 

The online Master of Science in Supply Chain Management salary tilts the scales in its favor, and needless to say, it makes a strong case to enroll in a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program right away. Here are a few occupations with their job descriptions, median pay, and job outlook:

Technically speaking, a candidate doesn’t need any certifications. However, having an educational background in Supply Chain Management is not a bad idea. Just like field experience is a “nice to have” and not mandatory for Supply Chain managers, a Supply Chain certification is helpful but not 100% necessary for all job seekers. Not all of them can be called cheap supply chain certification, but they certainly add to the career progression opportunities to a Supply Chain Management degree. Below are a few coveted ones:

• APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional certification (CSCP)²¹ – The Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS) provides three certifications to demonstrate SCM skills. Eligibility for the CSCP exam requires three years of relevant experience, a bachelor’s degree, or its international equivalent. Maintaining certification mandates earning 75 professional development points every five years. Failure to renew within five years leads to expiration before the 10-year mark, necessitating exam retake. Each year of suspension necessitates an extra 15 professional development points.
• SOLE Certified Professional Logistician (CPL)²² – The International Society of Logistics (SOLE) offers a Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) certification in logistics, which is a key element of supply chain management in certain industries such as commerce, defense, federal and local government agencies, and education. The exam takes six hours, with three two-hour sessions; one must pass all three exams before earning their certification.
  
  Qualifying for the CPL exam requires at least nine years of experience in practicing or teaching logistics, including two years in at least two logistics fields. Each year of undergraduate accredited coursework in logistics equates to one year of professional experience, up to four years. Individuals with a master’s or doctoral degree must fulfill an additional four or three years of experience, respectively.
• SCPro Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)²³ – The SCPro certification is unique, with a multi-level education and a three-tiered exam process. At the first level, Cornerstones of Supply Chain Management covers fundamentals and eight SCM elements. The second level, Analysis and Application of Supply Chain Challenges, assesses the ability to apply SCM knowledge in various scenarios. The third level, Initiation of Supply Chain Transformation, certifies the ability to impact an organization through a hands-on project positively. Renewal is required every three years, involving 60 hours of eligible professional development activities, with an annual completion of 20 to 30 hours.

Supply Chain Management professionals can enhance their knowledge and network by engaging with industry associations and resources. Organization membership offers access to exclusive events, publications, and networking opportunities. These platforms provide valuable insights, updates on industry trends, and a collaborative environment, empowering professionals to stay informed, build connections, and continuously advance their expertise in the dynamic field of Supply Chain Management.