An online supply chain management degree provides learners a foundational understanding of the flow of goods and services within business operations. Students learn to effectively and efficiently ensure the delivery of products to the consumer. Supply, chain management—or SCM—is an overarching concept that focuses on boosting efficiency, producing value for the end consumer, and achieving competitive advantage. A capable supply chain drives business success, economic growth, and development overall. According to an executive survey by accounting firm Deloitte, 79% of organizations with superior supply chain capabilities achieve significantly above average revenue growth. Conversely, only about 8% of organizations with lower-performing supply chains expect that rate of growth.
Companies are continuously working to gain an edge in the marketplace, and that often means locating the right talent to manage their supply chains. Professionals who can deal with new SCM factors, such as advanced technologies and globalization, are among the most desirable and well–compensated individuals in the field. In fact, SCM careers like logisticians, purchasing managers, and distribution managers are among the higher–paying jobs in the US.
In order to qualify for most SCM positions, individuals must possess at least a bachelor’s degree. Earning a supply chain management degree online awards students the same degree as their on–campus counterparts, and it can provide working professionals the flexibility to complete coursework while balancing personal or professional responsibilities. Read on for more information about this online degree, as well as some of the most common career possibilities.
See our Interview With Applied Science Degree Program Expert, David Batts
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David Batts is an Associate Professor in the Department of Technology Systems and the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology (BSIT) Program Coordinator at East Carolina University’s (ECU) College of Engineering and Technology. His research interests include workforce development, degree completion programs, distance education, and online instruction.
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Online Bachelor’s in Supply Chain & Logistics Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected these degree programs based on their quality and range of courses provided as well as their awards, rankings, and reputation.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Supply Chain & Logistics Degree Programs
School List
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
University of Massachusetts-Amherst |
Amherst, MA | ||
| 2 |
Athens State University |
Athens, AL | ||
| 3 |
Murray State University |
Murray, KY | ||
| 4 |
Northern Arizona University |
Flagstaff, AZ | ||
| 5 |
Saint Leo University |
Saint Leo, FL | ||
| 6 |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide |
Daytona Beach, FL | ||
| 7 |
Bellevue University |
Bellevue, NE | ||
| 8 |
Florida State College at Jacksonville |
Jacksonville, FL | ||
| 9 |
Park University |
Parkville, MO | ||
| 10 |
Ohio Christian University |
Circleville, OH |
End of list, bravo!
The Advantages of a Supply Chain Management and Logistics Education
Most careers in SCM require a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree may qualify a candidate for entry–level logistician roles, such as a supply, customer service, or logistics clerk. However, given the complexity of today’s logistics and supply chains, most companies prefer hiring candidates with a bachelor’s degree or higher. For example, a logistician manages the movement, storage, and flow of goods and services for an organization, and most companies expect applicants to this position to hold at least a four–year degree.
An online supply chain management degree opens doors to senior positions within SCM and with that, the potential for higher pay. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn a mean annual wage of nearly $98,000. Meanwhile, the highest 10% of logisticians earn above $120,000 a year. By pursuing a logistics and supply chain management degree online, students can also continue their career, and build real–world experience to boost their resume once their job search commences.
Supply Chain Management and Logistics Degree Salary Information
The job requirements for supply chain management and logistics professionals vary depending on the industry and the specific career track. However, the foundational expertise required to oversee such operations is similar for each. An online supply chain management degree prepares graduates to be skilled in SCM, logistical principles, and best practices in order to manage the creation and delivery of goods and services. Professionals in SCM and logistics are effective problem–solvers, organized, and able to apply critical and analytical thinking.
- Logistician
- Logisticians oversee the movement, storage, and flow of goods, services, and information for an organization. Logistics managers handle both inbound and outbound logistics, and a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $50,000
- Mid-Career: $62,000
- Experienced: $69,000
- Late Career: $77,000
- Supply Chain Manager
- Supply chain managers direct the SCM process and determine the most effective and efficient way to run operations. The supply chain manager must collaborate with every group tasked with keeping a supply chain running optimally.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $65,000
- Mid-Career: $83,000
- Experienced: $92,000
- Late Career: $93,000
- Operations Manager
- An operations manager is responsible for an organization’s overall operations, which includes the production, pricing, sales, and distribution of products. As a manager, they evaluate performance and determine ways to improve productivity, reduce costs, and maintain quality.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $50,000
- Mid-Career: $61,000
- Experienced: $68,000
- Late Career: $77,000
- Procurement Analyst
- Also called purchasing analysts, agents, or managers, procurement analysts deal with suppliers, wholesale distributors, and manufacturers. They vet vendors based on price, quality, and the promise of delivery; negotiate contracts; and present any potential deals to those who make decisions.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $55,000
- Mid-Career: $66,000
- Experienced: $70,000
- Late Career: $77,000
- Distribution Manager
- Earning a supply chain degree online or on campus prepares graduates to work as a storage or distribution manager. This position directs a warehouse’s operations, hiring, safety, and security.
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Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $51,000
- Mid-Career: $64,000
- Experienced: $74,000
- Late Career: $79,000
Source: PayScale
Choosing an Online Supply Chain Management and Logistics Degree Program
Although supply chain and logistics programs vary in their specific requirements, they share many similarities. Most programs consist of 120 credits and can usually be completed within four years of full–time study. The curriculum includes several general core courses designed to reinforce the analytical thinking, communication, and language skills applicable to any field. Logistics programs also explore global business principles, economics, management, and aviation’s impact on the global supply chain.
As you consider which program fits your personal and professional goals, it’s important to consider some key differences. This includes the number of available electives, and whether you would like to earn a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science. Some supply chain logistics management programs also require students to take logistics–related electives, while others allow for electives from any discipline. If there are non–logistics–related areas that you hope to explore during your college career, the latter may be a better choice. Also consider whether you prefer an education that emphasizes hands–on study or academic concepts; for example, bachelor of science programs often end with a hands–on capstone project.
Accreditation for Online Supply Chain Management and Logistics Degrees
When researching online supply chain management degrees, it’s important to review a school or program’s accreditation. There are two primary types of accreditation you should look for: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation means a university is accredited by one of the primary accrediting bodies recognized by the Department of Education (ED). Conversely, programmatic accreditation is granted to specific departments or programs within an institution.
Applying for accreditation is a voluntary, yet rigorous, process. Accreditors only review schools that request it, and a school’s accreditation status comes under review again within a set number of years. For example, schools with national accreditation must allow a review every 3–5 years.
The ED recognizes six regional accrediting bodies and numerous national accrediting organizations. To confirm your prospective school’s institutional or programmatic accreditation, you can search the accreditation database from the ED’s Office of Postsecondary Education.
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) also lists accredited schools recognized by either CHEA or ED. The list includes more than 8,500 accredited institutions and 25,000 programs. At a minimum, students should ensure their school or program appears in one or both databases. Note that eligibility for federal financial aid depends on a school’s accreditation status; to qualify, students must attend a school or enroll in a program listed in the ED database. Also, many schools will only accept transfer credit if the student completes courses at a regionally accredited institution.
Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations
Program concentrations or specializations allow students to focus their online supply chain management degree to better prepare for specific career paths. Since there are numerous parts to a supply chain, there are nearly as many areas of focus to choose from. Not only does a concentration demonstrate one’s expertise, it can also make them more competitive in the job market.
- Global Logistics
- Students learn to navigate international business, including building partnerships, forging business agreements, and handling complex negotiations. The concentration takes the principles and best practices of SCM and applies them to the international market, which presents new challenges to purchasing, inventory, storage, shipment, and distribution. Students learn about trade regulations, business ethics, and international trade management.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations: Logistician, supply chain manager, purchasing manager
- Transportation
- In the transportation concentration of a supply chain management bachelor’s degree online program, students focus on the principles, policies, and trends of transportation today, including air, maritime, and ground. This concentration also introduces global supply chains and work in various industries like business, the military, and government.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations: Distribution manager, transportation coordinator, logistics analyst
- Project Management
- In the project management concentration of supply chain management online degree programs, students learn to design and operate the complex management systems used in SCM and logistics. Learners acquire management skills to develop and lead projects, manage critical components of a supply chain, and coordinate procurement and delivery systems.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations: Purchasing manager, procurement buyer
- Warehouse
- With a warehouse concentration, students strengthen their business skills and gain technical skills to manage the distribution and storage of warehouse inventory. Students explore topics like customer service, inventory forecasts, material handling, cost negotiations, and logistics and analysis.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations: Warehouse manager, logistics manager, inventory control specialist
- Production
- Students learn the fundamental techniques of production and operations management. Production managers plan, coordinate, and control the manufacturing process. Topics include resource allocation, workloads, creating schedules, and production flow, and typical courses include quality management, materials resource planning, and production activity control.
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics Concentrations: Production manager, operations manager
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Supply Chain Management and Logistics?
An online supply chain management degree typically requires a minimum of 120 credits to complete. Students on a full–time schedule can usually finish all degree requirements in four years, while part–time students take, on average, an additional two years.
Several factors influence the pace of a student’s degree. In addition to either a part– or full–time course load, the learning format also makes a difference. A self–paced program allows students to progress as quickly or as slowly as they like, while a cohort model keeps students together as they proceed through coursework. Cohort learning fosters collaboration and peer–support, but the format also prevents students from accelerating through a program and finishing requirements more quickly.
Transfer credit and the number of terms per year also factor into program length. Some programs allow students to transfer up to 90 credits into a four–year program, which can reduce the time needed to complete the remaining credits to one year. Some schools also offer four, five, or six start dates per year, allowing students to take more classes overall and ultimately finish their degree sooner.
Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Program
- Supply Chain Fundamentals
- This course covers the basic SCM principles and introduces the methods used to examine and analyze logistics systems. Students analyze topics like inventory management, warehousing and distribution, and facility location. This core course also touches upon all aspects of SCM, including sourcing, operations, and project management.
- Supply Chain Strategy
- A course on supply chain strategy teaches the best practices for improving supply chain performance. Students explore supply chain and e-business integration, strategic partnering, outsourcing, and the latest trends in supply chain strategy.
- Principles of Purchasing
- This course introduces topics like inventory control, vendor selection, and price determination. Students review the role of procurement professionals, as well as their responsibilities for any product or service in a supply chain, including how to minimize cost and create sustainable competitive advantages.
- Lean Inbound Logistics
- Inbound logistics relates to activities that obtain materials and handle, store, and transport them for manufacturing. This advanced course introduces lean principles into the process, with the objective of balancing inventory and transportation costs and designing a better network. Students learn about strategic supplier management and the benefit of better synchronization between transportation, suppliers, and materials.
- International Supply Chain Management
- In this course, learners apply SCM concepts and principles to the international arena. In addition to studying SCM models and SCM practical applications, students take a closer look at cultural differences among international carriers and transport intermediaries. Topics include global sourcing and distribution, taxes, duties, quotas, trade agreements, and the offshore procurement process.
Supply Chain Management and Logistics Membership Associations
The benefits of joining a professional organization include networking, career services, and the opportunity for continued professional development and growth. Professional organizations are also reliable ways to access the latest news and resources to stay up–to–date with trends, laws, and regulations that impact the SCM field and profession.
- Association for Supply Chain Management
- In January 2019, ASCM took over the 60-year mission of APICS to represent supply-chain professionals around the world. ASCM serves over 45,000 supply-chain professionals, and provides learning and development, career resources such as a job board and mentor center, local networking, and learning from peers.
- Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals
- Formed in 1963, CSCMP provides networking, career development, and educational opportunities to logistics and SCM professionals. Benefits for the more than 6,000 members include access to industry leaders and subject matter experts, hands-on learning through local chapters, the annual EDGE conference, and professional development and training.
- International Warehouse Logistics Association
- In 1997, the Canadian Association of Warehousing and Distribution Services merged with the American Warehouse Association to create the IWLA. This organization provides members a host of products and services, including a career center, eLearning, ISO certification, and legal, office, and staffing services.
- Institute for Supply Management
- ISM supports the supply management and purchasing profession through education, certification, leadership development, and research. ISM also hosts an annual conference; specialty conferences focused on topics like trends, research, diversity, and strategy; and seminars around the country.
- Material Handling Industry of America
- With nearly 1,000 members, MHI is the nation’s largest material handling association. MHI offers education, networking, and solution sourcing for members; sponsors two trade expos; and organizes membership meetings and executive conferences. The learning center covers careers, industry standards, and resources.
