MBA Supply Chain Management Online Programs for 2024

Featured Online Programs

Best MBA Supply Chain Management Online Programs

Choosing from many Online MBA in Supply Chain Management programs can be daunting for newcomers. OMC teams have thoroughly researched, making the decision process simpler. The selection of the best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Programs considers factors like academic quality, affordability, accreditation, industry recognition, and more. The rankings highlight programs that excel in fostering leadership in organizational contexts. Here are the best online MBA Supply Chain Management programs:

To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/mba-supply-chain-management-online/">MBA Supply Chain Management Online</a>

Click me to copy

Code copied successfully!

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Northeastern University 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02115	$24,793	89%
#2 Syracuse University 900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, New York 13244	$38,880	83%
#3 University of Texas, Dallas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080	$13,874	70%
#4 University of Arkansas Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701	$7,752	66%
#5 Ball State University 2000 University Ave, Muncie, Indiana 47306	$8,850	67%
#6 Pennsylvania State University 128 Outreach Building, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802-1503	$21,682	71%
#7 Johnson & Wales University 8 Abbott Park Pl, Providence, Rhode Island 02903	$13,734	NA
#8 University of Wisconsin, Whitewater 800 W Main St, Whitewater, Wisconsin 53190	$8,108	62%
#9 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287	$11,720	63%
#10 University of St. Francis 2701 Spring St, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46808	$9,450	55%
#11 Governors State University 1 University Pky, University Park, Illinois 60484	$6,354	NA
#12 Saint Leo University 33701 State Road 52, Saint Leo, Florida 33574	$7,296	49%
#13 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515	$7,980	47%
#14 University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32514	$7,088	46%
#15 University of Houston, Downtown 1 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002-1014	$7,578	29%

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

Understanding an Online MBA in Supply Chain Management

An Online MBA in Supply Chain Management program deeply engages students in global logistics and operations complexities. The curriculum encompasses supply chain strategies, inventory management, transportation, and technology applications. Students investigate effective sourcing, production, and distribution practices. The program emphasizes analytical skills, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making, equipping graduates to enhance supply chains and excel operationally in various industries.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in MBA Supply Chain Management Program

MBA Supply Chain Management courses offer extensive exposure to fundamental Supply Chain Management principles and a robust business foundation. The curriculum instructs on employing analytics to enhance operational efficiency, positioning Supply Chain Management as a competitive advantage. Additionally, it guides students in analyzing supply chain partner interactions from legal and ethical standpoints, assessing individual process impacts, and interpreting the advantages and interrelationships of an effective supply chain. Here are some examples of courses commonly found in MBA in Supply Chain Management programs:

Business Process Integration
A foundational MBA core course requiring students to apply practical skills and disciplined knowledge to solve complex, real-world business challenges. This primary integrating experience propels students into the core MBA curriculum.
Information Resources and Industry Analysis
This course provides the foundation for initiating the MBA Portfolio. It introduces students to available information resources for conducting business problem analyses, guiding them in preparing a comprehensive analysis of their portfolio industry.
Business Analytics
Centered on fostering quantitative and analytical proficiency, this course aims to equip students with the skills needed to model, analyze, interpret, and resolve complex managerial decision-making problems.
Global Logistics Management
Examining logistics and supply chain operations globally, this course explores import and export processes, operations of ports and logistics facilities, movement of raw materials and finished goods across borders, and the utilization of equipment and technology for global logistics.
Logistics Systems and Analytics
This course equips students with enhanced skills in making business logistics and supply chain management decisions, emphasizing practical applications of analytical techniques. Topics include supply chain network analysis, inventory decision-making, equipment management, information systems for logistics decisions, and process enhancements to minimize total logistics costs and enhance service.

An MBA in Supply Chain Management program equips students with the essential knowledge and skills to manage supply chains. Upon completion, students can anticipate acquiring the following skills and achieving specific learning outcomes:

Logistics Management: Proficiency in efficiently coordinating and overseeing the movement of goods within supply chains.
Strategic Sourcing: Ability to strategically procure materials and services for optimized supply chain operations.
Inventory Optimization: Skills in maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet demand while minimizing costs.
Supply Chain Analytics: Capability to use analytics for data-driven decision-making in supply chain processes.
Risk Management: Competence in identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with supply chain operations.
Global Supply Chain Strategies: Understanding and applying strategies for managing supply chains on a global scale.
Process Improvement: Expertise in enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs through process improvement initiatives.
Information Systems: Ability to use technology and information systems to analyze and execute logistics decisions.
Leadership and Collaboration: Development of leadership skills and effective collaboration within supply chain networks.
Ethical Decision-Making: Understanding and application of ethical considerations in supply chain management decisions.

MBA vs. Master’s in Supply Chain Management

An MBA provides a broad business foundation, ideal for versatile roles across industries. In contrast, a Master’s in Supply Chain Management offers specialized expertise in logistics and operations, preparing graduates for roles specific to supply chain challenges. The choice depends on career goals: an MBA for diverse business leadership or a Master’s in Supply Chain Management for focused proficiency in navigating complex supply chains.

Specializations for MBA in Supply Management

Supply Chain Management is a vast field, and pursuing an MBA in this field opens doors to specialized expertise. Specializations like logistics, procurement, and global supply chain strategies empower students to customize their education. These focused pathways provide individuals with comprehensive knowledge, preparing them to navigate the complexities of modern supply management skillfully.

Area of Focus	Description	Possible Careers
Logistics Management	This specialization sharpens expertise in optimizing the movement of goods, ensuring efficiency from production to delivery. Students explore transportation, warehousing, and distribution strategies, mastering the crucial elements of supply chain logistics to drive seamless operations and enhance overall organizational performance.	Logistics Managers Distribution Center Managers Supply Chain Analysts
Operations Management	This specialization focuses on streamlining production processes and resource allocation. Students explore strategies for efficient production, quality control, and risk management, preparing them to optimize operational efficiency and contribute to overall organizational success in the dynamic field of supply chain management.	Operations Managers Plant Managers Business Operations Analysts
Procurement	This specialization centers on strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management. Students acquire skills to optimize procurement processes, mitigate risks, and enhance supply chain resilience. This specialization equips individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring effective resource utilization and fostering supply chain excellence.	Procurement Managers Purchasing Agents Contract Specialists
Inventory Management	This specialization focuses on efficient inventory control and optimization. Students delve into demand forecasting, order fulfillment, and inventory tracking techniques, acquiring skills to minimize costs and enhance supply chain agility, making them valuable assets in navigating the complexities of modern supply management.	Inventory Managers Inventory Analysts Materials Coordinators
Production Management	This specialization emphasizes optimizing manufacturing processes. Students explore lean manufacturing, quality control, and operational efficiency strategies, honing skills to ensure cost-effective and sustainable production. This specialization prepares individuals to drive productivity and innovation in the dynamic supply chain management landscape.	Production Managers Manufacturing Engineers Production Supervisors

Timeline for graduation from MBA Supply Chain Management Online Programs

The MBA in Supply Chain Management typically takes approximately two years to complete. The duration may vary based on whether students choose part-time or full-time enrollment. Part-time students may need more than two years for online completion. Most programs require around 37- 45 credits, with variations. Students can often opt for summer or double credits to accelerate their degree.

Accelerated MBA Supply Chain Management Online Programs

Fast-tracked MBA in Supply Chain Management provides an efficient route to advanced education, typically concluding within 12-18 months. This structure saves time, enabling quicker entry into the workforce. Prospective students can identify institutions offering accelerated programs by researching university websites, contacting admissions offices, and using online platforms dedicated to graduate program searches. Here are examples of colleges that offer accelerated MBA in Supply Chain Management programs:

University of West Florida¹

Governors State University²

MBA Supply Chain Management Online Admission Requirements

Online programs usually have a rigorous admission process as compared to the programs that are on campus. The students who prefer online programs must submit in-depth application documents and materials. This process helps determine if a student can take up all the online study responsibilities. Here are some of the standard admission requirements:

Completed online application form
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Transcripts from previous academic institutions
Résumé detailing work experience
Letters of recommendation
Statement of Purpose outlining career goals
GRE or GMAT scores (if required)
Application fee payment

Online MBA Supply Chain Management No GMAT

Colleges increasingly waive the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) requirement for MBA programs, recognizing diverse skills and experiences. This trend aims to attract a broader range of qualified candidates, emphasizing holistic evaluations of applicants. Waiving the GMAT acknowledges that standardized test scores do not solely determine success in graduate business studies. Here are two examples of online MBA Supply Chain Management no GMAT programs:

Syracuse University³

PennState World Campus⁴

Accreditation for MBA Supply Chain Management Online Programs

Accreditation is one of the essential points to be considered by any aspiring graduate student. The universities and colleges go through a long and in-depth procedure to earn accreditation. The accreditation speaks for the quality of the university and the education standards provided. In the world of business universities, schools, or colleges, the three big international accreditation bodies are:

AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)⁵
ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)⁶
IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)⁷

Universities can also be regionally accredited by one of six regional accrediting agencies in the United States:

Find out more about accreditation in the Accreditation Guide.

Free Online Supply Management Courses

Free online courses offer students a cost-effective way to enhance their skills. Enrolling provides access to valuable resources, industry insights, and networking opportunities. These courses, often from reputable institutions, empower students to supplement their formal education, stay current with industry trends, and gain a competitive career edge. Here are a few free courses for MBA in Supply Management Students can explore:

Course	Description	Provided by
Supply Chain Analytics Specialization ⁸	This free course will teach students to seamlessly merge supply chain management with data analytics. The course comprises six courses that delve into and solve problems within diverse supply chain domains, encompassing sourcing, production, logistics, and sales.	Coursera
Supply Chain of Perishable Products: Inventory Management⁹	In this course, students will learn to manage perishable product supply chains. Upon completion, students gain the ability to efficiently determine the optimal order quantity for any perishable product, regardless of the demand pattern. Additionally, optimal overbooking levels for service businesses will be explored.	Udemy
Supply Chain Management for E-commerce ¹⁰	Accommodating a diverse range of learners interested in e-commerce supply chains, this course is valuable for entrepreneurs optimizing product sourcing, small business owners pursuing growth, and those transitioning into e-commerce. With no specific prerequisites, individuals passionate about understanding e-commerce operations’ driving forces are welcomed.	Class Central

How to Pay for MBA Supply Chain Management Programs

Acquiring an online MBA in Supply Chain Management in the United States comes with a substantial cost, posing challenges for working professionals with other commitments. To address affordability concerns, universities and institutes develop cost-effective fee structures and offer diverse payment alternatives to accommodate the financial needs of students. Here are a few ways students can fund their MBA in Supply Chain Management programs:

Scholarships

Scholarships are financial aid awarded based on academic, extracurricular, or demographic criteria. They alleviate the financial burden of education, making it more accessible. Scholarships recognize and reward students for their achievements, fostering academic excellence and supporting diverse educational pursuits.

Grants

Grants for an MBA in Supply Chain Management alleviate financial burdens, providing essential support. Students should actively seek out grants through universities, industry associations, and government programs, leveraging these opportunities to ease the cost of their education and contribute to their academic success.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Assistantships offer invaluable opportunities for MBA in Supply Chain Management students. In exchange for their academic contributions, students receive financial support, gain professional experience, and build mentorship relationships, enhancing their education and future career prospects.

FAFSA

FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a crucial financial aid application for MBA in Supply Chain Management students. Completing FAFSA determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, helping students secure essential funding for their education.

Student Loans

Student loans provide financial support for MBA in Supply Chain Management students, covering tuition and living expenses. Offered by government and private lenders, they require repayment after graduation. While accessible, students should carefully consider loan terms, interest rates, and repayment plans to make informed financial decisions.

Read the Financial Aid Guide for more information on funding higher education.

Scholarships for MBA Supply Chain Management Students

Scholarships are financial awards that support students in pursuing education by covering tuition, fees, or living expenses. These merit or need-based aids open doors to opportunities, enabling individuals to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute positively to society, regardless of financial constraints. Prospective MBA in Supply Chain Management students can enhance their financial planning by conducting comprehensive research on university websites, scholarship platforms, and industry organizations. This helps identify various funding sources, enabling students to make informed decisions and secure essential support for their academic pursuits. Here are a few MBA in Supply Chain Management scholarships students can explore and apply for.

Supply Management Scholarship & Award: R. Gene and Nancy D. Richter Foundation ¹¹

The R. Gene and Nancy D. Richter Foundation, presented by ISM (Institute for Supply Management), offers the Supply Management Scholarship & Award to support students pursuing education in supply chain management. The foundation recognizes academic excellence and commitment to advancing the field. To be eligible, students must be in their senior year during the academic year 2024-2025 and enrolled full-time in an accredited supply management, supply chain management, or procurement program. Their intention should be to specialize in the field of supply management.
Award: $15,000
Deadline: January, annually

ISM Pharmaceutical Forum Supply Chain Management Scholarship¹²

This scholarship aims to prepare a new generation of business graduates to meet SCM’s challenges in the future. The applicant must be enrolled in partnering institutions like Bowling Green State University, North Carolina State University, Arizona State University, Rutgers University, Northwestern University, or Dartmouth College.
Award/Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

John J. Murphy Supply Chain Scholarships ¹³

The John J. Murphy Supply Chain Scholarships commemorate John Murphy’s commitment to advancing FSA’s values as an influential educational and networking resource, driving industry change. Open to eligible candidates, including children or dependents of current Food Shippers of America members in the food industry, the scholarships aim to support those connected to growers, processors, manufacturers, co-packers, distributors, food service companies, or grocery retailers.
Award/Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

Careers and Salary Outlook for MBA Supply Chain Management Graduates

The MBA supply chain management online program offers a career worth exploring. A career in SCM is not only challenging but is very promising. Depending upon the performance of supply chain management, the productivity and performance of the organization vary. And so, there is a dire need for individuals with expertise and an MBA in supply chain management. The jobs are available in sectors like healthcare, distribution, pharmaceutical, and many more companies. Companies like Google, Amazon, Walmart eCommerce, Intel, Raytheon, Dell, etc., provide many job opportunities for MBA supply chain management online graduate students. Here are a few occupations for reference:

Job Title	Average Annual Salary	Job Growth (2022-2032)	Job Description
Supply Chain Manager¹⁴	$87,668	No Data Available	A Supply Chain Manager oversees the end-to-end processes of product or service delivery. Responsibilities include coordinating logistics, managing inventory, optimizing production, and ensuring timely distribution. They collaborate with suppliers, logistics partners, and internal teams to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain a seamless supply chain for organizational success.
Supply Chain Analyst¹⁵	$65,774	No Data Available	A Supply Chain Analyst evaluates and optimizes various aspects of the supply chain, including inventory levels, production efficiency, and distribution processes. They use data analysis to identify trends, assess performance, and propose improvements. Collaborating with teams, they contribute to strategic decision-making, aiming to enhance overall supply chain effectiveness and efficiency.
Procurement Manager¹⁶	$89,998	No Data Available	A Procurement Manager oversees the sourcing and purchasing of goods and services for an organization. Responsibilities include vendor selection, negotiation of contracts, and ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality. They collaborate with internal stakeholders, manage supplier relationships, and implement strategic procurement processes to meet organizational goals efficiently and economically.
Director, Supply Chain Management¹⁷	$132,759	No Data Available	A Director of Supply Chain Management is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the entire supply chain process. They develop and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure timely delivery. Leading cross-functional teams, they manage logistics, procurement, and distribution to achieve organizational objectives and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Certifications and Licensing for MBA Supply Chain Management Graduates

While certifications are not always mandatory for MBA Supply Chain Management graduates, obtaining them can enhance career prospects. Certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) demonstrate specialized expertise. Even if not mandatory, pursuing relevant certifications showcases commitment and can give graduates a competitive edge in the dynamic field of supply chain management.

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional certification (CSCP) ¹⁸
The APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification validates expertise in supply chain management. Candidates need three years of relevant work experience or a bachelor’s degree to qualify. Maintaining certification requires earning 75 professional development points every five years. Renewal delays result in additional points for each suspended year, ensuring ongoing competency.
SCPro Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) ¹⁹
The SCPro certification by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) offers a unique, three-tiered exam process. Covering fundamentals, application of knowledge, and hands-on project impact, it certifies professionals’ comprehensive supply chain management expertise. Renewal, required every three years, involves 60 hours of professional development activities, ensuring ongoing competency.

Additional Resources for MBA Supply Chain Management Professionals

Accessing additional resources is invaluable for MBA Supply Chain Management professionals. These resources foster connections with peers and industry professionals, creating opportunities to expand knowledge. Networking platforms, webinars, and industry publications provide insights, updates, and collaborative spaces, enabling continuous learning and enhancing expertise in the dynamic field of supply chain management. Here are some additional resources students can tap into:

American Production and Inventory Control Society
APICS is a professional organization for individuals in operations management, covering areas like production, inventory, supply chain, materials management, purchasing, and logistics. It details certification programs like the Certified Supply Chain Professional and resources such as white papers, industry news, a buyer’s guide, and educational opportunities. APICS members gain access to additional information, including best practices, the APICS Dictionary, and a database of enterprise software reviews.
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals
The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) is a global association focusing on advancing supply chain management. Dedicated to education, networking, and industry collaboration, CSCMP provides professionals with valuable resources, events, and insights to enhance their knowledge and navigate the complexities of the evolving supply chain landscape.
Supply Chain Council
The Supply Chain Council (SCC) is an international non-profit organization that aids member organizations in achieving substantial, swift, and enduring enhancements in supply chain performance through its framework, improvement methodology, training, certification, and benchmarking tools. The website details the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model.
International Warehouse Logistics Association
IWLA brings people with similar interests – “goods transportation and efficient warehousing. It is a timely 3PL service provider to approximately 500 of its member companies.
Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC)
Established in 1977, WERC, a division of MHI, is the sole professional organization dedicated to warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment within the supply chain. Over the years, WERC has steadfastly offered resources, including educational events, benchmarking metrics, research, expert insights, and opportunities for peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, benefiting professionals, suppliers, 3PLs, educators, and students alike.

FAQs about MBA Supply Chain Management Education

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an MBA in Supply Chain Management?

An MBA in Supply Chain Management is a graduate-level program focusing on developing expertise in strategic planning, optimizing, and coordinating the end-to-end processes involved in producing and delivering goods and services. It equips professionals with skills to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and manage global supply chains effectively.