The Best Online Master's in Supply Chain Management Programs
Jul 14, 2020
TBS Staff
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Supply chain management remains an integral component of business operations, organizational success, and customer satisfaction.
Earning a master's in supply chain management prepares graduates to decrease purchasing, production, and total supply chain costs, which allows businesses to run efficiently.
This field provides international travel opportunities, multiple specialization areas, and transferable skills. A supply chain management online MBA leads to multiple career opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% increase in job outlook through 2028 for logisticians. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $74,750.
While supply chain management jobs require a bachelor's degree at minimum, candidates with an advanced degree gain a competitive advantage in the job market and may qualify for higher salaries. Professionals may also want to examine earning potential by geographic location and industry, as some offer higher salaries than others.
The following ranking provides a list of schools that offer an online master's in supply chain management.
Top 10 Online Supply Chain Management Programs 2020
Established in 1880, USC is the oldest private university in Los Angeles. Over 25% of USC's 48,500 annual students are from countries outside of the United States, making it a comfortable environment for international students.
Students at USC can earn an online master's in supply chain management that gives graduates a competitive advantage in the job market and helps them maximize value for their organizations and customers. The 30-credit, part-time program typically takes 16 months to complete. Courses include enterprise-wide information systems, management in international settings, communication for management, and logistics management.
While students complete most coursework online, USC requires on-campus attendance once a month. Distance learners access coursework through the Blackboard learning management system. Courses typically feature an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance educational, professional, and personal responsibilities.
Assignments may include group projects, online readings, recorded lectures, and exams. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation. USC welcomes transfer students from accredited schools.
BU is a private liberal arts university that hosts 35,400 undergraduate and graduate students annually. Students benefit from small class sizes that typically do not surpass a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
BU offers over 300 programs, including an online master's in supply chain management that ranks among the top 10 online graduate business programs and prepares graduates to successfully navigate logistics and international trading. The program emphasizes global supply chain coordination, fundamentals of lean production, mitigation risk, and strategic management. Students can choose from three concentrations: global business, logistics management, and quantitative approaches.
The 40-credit program includes courses like operations management, multinational finance and trade, mathematics and statistics in management, and global supply chains. Students typically graduate in 18-24 months.
Most courses follow an asynchronous format, allowing students to access coursework when their schedules permit. Online professors also teach on campus and often record lectures for students to watch. Assignments may include essays, exams, and supplemental readings.
UW is a public research institution that prioritizes academic excellence, global citizenship, and innovation. UW offers over 600 programs, including nearly 20 top-ranked graduate programs. The school's online master's in supply chain management requires 43 credits and takes about two years to complete.
While students complete most coursework online, they must also complete a one-week, on-campus residency. Learners study topics like IT systems and supply chain integration, external supply chain transportation risks, collaboration across the supply chain, and freight transport.
Students access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. This program uses a synchronous, cohort model that allows distance learners to build meaningful relationships with their peers throughout the program. Assignments may include essays, exams, and projects.
UW admits a cohort of 30 students each year. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a minimum 3.0 GPA, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Founded in 1855, MSU values include immersive learning, research, innovation, and academic excellence. The school hosts nearly 40,000 undergraduate students and over 10,600 graduate students, including students from every state and 138 countries.
The 31-credit, hybrid master's in supply chain management program emphasizes the relationship between the innovation process, information technology, and supply chain management. Learners take courses on topics like total quality management and lean enterprise, technology and product innovation management, analysis of supply markets and supplies, and strategic sourcing.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school, a minimum 3.0 GPA, two years of professional supply chain experience, and GMAT or GRE scores. Applicants should also provide three letters of recommendation; at least one letter must come from a supervisor, though the admissions department prefers two.
The state's flagship university, UMD ranks among the top public research institutions in the nation. The school hosts over 41,000 students annually from 50 states and nearly 120 countries, providing a diverse learning experience.
The Robert H. Smith School of Business offers an online master's in supply chain management that prepares students to advance their careers. The 30-credit program includes courses like global transportation management, assessing and managing supply chain risk, and data-driven decision-making.
Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, one letter of recommendation, GMAT or GRE scores, and an essay. Applicants also need to provide a video submission and proof of professional experience.
One of the largest public universities nationwide, Arizona State University hosts more than 50,000 students annually. The school's core values include social responsibility, research, and discovery.
The 30-credit, online master's in supply chain management includes courses on decision models for supply chains, supplier management and negotiation, case studies in global supply chain and logistics, and strategic procurement. Online learners gain access to resources and support services such as 24/7 technical assistance, academic advising, and digital databases.
The program features seven-week classes and six start dates per year. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a minimum 3.0 GPA, one recommendation letter, and 80% or higher in the MITx MicroMasters Supply Chain Management Program.
Founded in 1820, IU hosts nearly 33,000 students annually from 139 countries. Students can choose from more than 550 programs, including an online master's in supply chain management.
The 30-credit, fully online program examines topics like managing accounting information for decision-making, enterprise operations and planning, project management and process, and financial management. IU also offers a dual-degree option, allowing students to add an MBA to their course of study.
Distance learners can access multiple support tools, including technical assistance, career services, online proctoring services, and academic advising. Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, and an interview.
Established in 1946, PSU hosts over 20,000 students from all 50 states and nearly 80 countries. Learners can choose from more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs, including a top-ranked, online master's in supply chain management.
The program is one of only three programs approved by the Institute for Supply Management and one of two programs accredited by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply. It also holds programmatic accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Students complete 45 credits of coursework on topics like global leadership and ethics in supply chain management, global contract negotiation, digital technology, and business analytics. Distance learners have access to online tutoring, technical assistance, and academic advising.
Admission requires an accredited bachelor's degree, a professional resume, two professional references, and official transcripts.
NDSU is a public research university that emphasizes academic excellence, ethics, and accountability. The school hosts 13,100 students annually from 47 states and 74 countries.
NDSU's College of Business offers an online master's in supply chain management that uses an interdisciplinary approach, examining change management in turbulent environments, international logistic systems, crisis analysis, and efficient logistical response.
The 30-credit program includes courses like logistics systems, crisis analysis and homeland security, ERP configuration, and practical data analytics. Students access coursework through the Blackboard learning management system. Distance learners gain access to resources and support services like digital databases, academic advising, technical support, and career services.
Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE or GMAT scores, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a letter of intent.
Founded in 1919, Kettering is a private university that focuses on STEM programs. The school's core values include diversity and partnerships, flexibility and innovation, and academic excellence. In addition to on-campus programs, Kettering offers five fully online programs, including a master's in supply chain management.
The 40-credit program prepares graduates for leadership roles in logistics management, manufacturing and transport, and imports and exports. Students take courses in foundations of supply chain management, customer relationship management, supply chain logistics, and financial management.
The program holds accreditation through the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Students take asynchronous courses, allowing them to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Assignments include interactive discussion threads, group projects, essays, and exams. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Georgia College ranks among the best regional universities in the South and top public regional schools. The school offers a fully online master's in supply chain management that comprises 30 credits and prepares graduates for career advancement in a growing industry.
Learners take courses on logistics, quantitative methods, distribution and inventory control, information technology, project management, and enterprise systems. Courses use an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, GMAT or GRE scores, and official transcripts. Students with extensive professional experience may qualify for a GMAT/GRE waiver.
Florida Tech is a private, STEM-focused university that hosts nearly 8,000 students annually, with students from over 100 countries. Nontraditional learners considering online programs can earn a master's in supply chain management at Florida Tech.
The 30-credit, fully online program includes classes in managerial accounting, advanced techniques in supply chain management, global supply chain management and international logistics, and material acquisition management. This program also includes an applied management capstone course. Distance learners access coursework through Florida Tech's online learning management system.
The program uses asynchronous courses, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, GRE or GMAT scores, and official transcripts. Florida Tech prefers candidates with professional experience.
UAH is a public institution and a member of the University of Alabama System. The school hosts around 10,000 students annually, offering a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs.
The UAH College of Business offers an online master's in supply chain management that does not require any in-person attendance. The 30-credit program typically takes one year of full-time study to complete. Courses cover topics like decision modeling, supply chain strategy and practice, introduction to contract management, and quantitative methods.
Students may complete an optional thesis, which requires six elective credits. Distance learners gain access to librarian research support, technical assistance, and online tutoring through the Student Success Center.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree, transcripts, and GMAT scores. UAH waives the GMAT requirement for applicants who have a master's degree from an accredited school, at least five years of professional work experience, or a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program accepts up to 12 transfer credits from accredited schools.
Fontbonne is a private, Christian university that offers rigorous coursework through a faith-based lens. School values include diversity, social justice, service, and faith. Students benefit from small class sizes that typically do not exceed a 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, creating opportunities for immersive learning and collaboration.
The Business Administration Department offers an online master's in supply chain management that prepares graduates to address modern challenges in the field and reduce costs for organizations. The program is regionally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
The 30-credit program takes about one year to complete. Courses include lean principles in the supply chain, materials management, risk management, and logistics in the supply chain. Students can tailor the degree to their goals and interests through an optional concentration in project management. Students access assignments through Schoology.
Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, a personal statement, and a resume. Fontbonne participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, allowing out-of-state learners from participating states to apply.
Founded in 1766, Rutgers is a public research institution that hosts over 71,000 students from 50 states and over 125 countries. The Rutgers Business School offers a top-ranked, online, 30-credit master's in supply chain management.
Students can choose from two program formats: a lockstep, one-year program and a flexible pathway that allows students to complete coursework at their own pace. Required courses include demand management, operations analysis, supply chain law and governance, and lean six sigma. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
Distance learners access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Courses typically use an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
MMA is a small, public, postsecondary institution that serves under 950 students annually. The school's programs focus on management, engineering, transportation, and science. The 36-credit, online master's in international business and logistics takes less than two years to complete.
Required courses in this program include integrated international logistics, port and terminal operations, accounting and finance, and strategic marketing. Graduates can pursue maritime port manager certification. Distance learners access coursework through the Canvas learning management system. Online assignments may include essays, discussion posts, group projects, and exams.
MMA provides specialized resources for online students, including a writing center, academic counseling, and technical support. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, GRE or GMAT scores, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
Wright State is a public university that values discovery, social justice, and academic excellence. The school hosts over 13,000 students annually and offers nearly 300 degrees, including an online master's in supply chain management that focuses on problem solving.
The 33-credit program takes about one year of full-time study to complete. Courses include global logistics and trade, performance management and supply chain transformation, total quality management and lean supply processes, and strategic sourcing. Students culminate the degree with a capstone course.
Wright State uses a cohort model, which allows students to build meaningful relationships with peers throughout the program. This blended program uses 15-week semesters, and students complete one five-week course at a time. Each course requires a one-day, on-campus residency.
Admission to the program requires at least three years of professional experience in logistics, operations management, supply chain management, or information technology. Other requirements include a bachelor's degree, three professional references, and a detailed resume.
UW-Platteville is a public institution and member of the University of Wisconsin System. The school prioritizes immersive learning and global citizenship. Students can access over 40 degrees spread across three colleges, including an online master's in supply chain management.
This program prepares graduates to organize and execute plans for integrated supply chain networks. Course topics include import and export, warehousing and distribution management, customer relationship management, reverse logistics, and outsourcing.
The 30-credit program allows students to tailor the degree to their interests through concentrations in analysis, management, purchasing, operations, logistics, and customer relations. Regardless of concentration, all students culminate the degree with a capstone course, seminar research paper, or thesis. Courses use a mix of synchronous and asynchronous formats.
Admission requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, and official transcripts. UW-Platteville does not require GRE or GMAT scores.
USF is a Christian university that prioritizes service, leadership, and practical learning. With just over 3,700 students every year, USF offers an intimate college experience; average class sizes typically do not exceed a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
USF offers a supply chain management online MBA that requires 36 credits and takes 12-18 months to complete. Courses include managerial finance, management and organizational behavior, supply chain logistics strategy, and international logistics management.
Courses use an asynchronous format, allowing students to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Assignments may include exams, essays, and projects. Online learners gain access to 24/7 technical assistance, academic advising, digital databases, and librarian support.
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Admission requires two years of professional experience or military service and a bachelor's degree in business, economics, or a related field from an accredited school.
Charleston Southern offers rigorous programs that focus on faith in learning, leadership, and service. The school hosts around 3,400 students annually and offers classes that do not exceed a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with professors and peers.
Charleston Southern's online master's in supply chain management uses seven-week, accelerated courses with an asynchronous format. The 36-credit program includes classes in ethical management, managerial innovation strategies, supply chain information technology, and strategic procurement. Assignments often include essays, projects, and discussion board posts.
Distance learners can access multiple support services, including online tutoring, technical assistance, and career counseling. Charleston Southern also matches students with an academic advisor who guides them throughout the program. Admission requires official transcripts, a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, professional experience, and a resume.
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
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Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
What Is an Online Master's in Supply Chain Management Degree?
A master's in supply chain management explores topics like lean production, supply chain coordination, logistics management, and risk mitigation. The goal is for graduates to understand how to create business strategies that use integrated approaches to solve supply chain issues.
Programs that offer a supply chain management MBA online also emphasize broader business concepts, like finance and accounting. Students also develop skills that are useful in any field, including effective decision-making, data analysis, process optimization, and leadership.
The best candidates for an online master's in supply chain management already have professional experience. Some programs even require 2-3 years of work experience as a prerequisite. Applicants typically hold a related bachelor's degree from an accredited school.
Choosing an Online Program
Schools develop their own curricula, which means that requirements and course formats vary. An online master's in supply chain management may require in-person residencies, internships, or synchronous sessions. However, some programs may not require any in-person or live attendance.
The link below provides more information about how to select an online program.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program?
An online master's in supply chain management may offer multiple specializations and elective courses. Nevertheless, most programs cover the same fundamental topics, including the following sample courses.
Supply Chain Management Curriculum
Supply Chain Analytics
This course explores ways to increase operational effectiveness and efficiency using strategic, data-driven methods. Students examine modern issues using case studies about major organizations. Students learn to use data analytics to create strategies that improve cost efficiency.
Transportation and Logistics
In this course, students learn about key areas and activities needed to move products through a supply chain. Topics may include modal characteristics, transportation risk management, and third-party providers. Learning outcomes include method evaluation, identifying issues that impact profitability and security, evaluating international alternatives, and creating strategic recommendations.
Sourcing and Procurement
This course explores quality assurance, selection, supplier evaluation, and global sourcing. Course objectives include describing the way procurement fits within an organization, identifying associated risks, and learning how to formulate make-or-buy analyses to uncover the best solutions for organizations.
Supply Chain Management Professional Organizations
Students who earn a master's in supply chain management enter a fast-paced, competitive field. Professional organizations can help emerging professionals build their networks and learn about changes within the field.
ALA has over 100 years of experience offering research, sales information, and advice for selling to military grocery stores. ALA strives to enhance members' ability to sell products, build market opportunities, and improve business processes.
ASCM specializes in developing supply chain talent and improving supply chain performance. This organization includes over 45,000 members spread across 100 countries. ASCM offers APICS certifications for supply chain professionals, and other membership benefits include webinars, workshops, and conferences. ASCM also provides career coaching, mentorship, and job boards.
Established in 1963, CSCMP serves over 9,000 members, nearly 70% of whom are executives with their organizations. Membership benefits include networking opportunities, access to the EDGE Supply Chain Conference, and online resources.
Supply Chain Management Careers
The supply chain management process requires excellent planning and understanding of consumer demand. A master's degree in supply chain management prepares graduates to manage the behind-the-scenes needs of organizations in nearly every industry.
Some supply chain positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with professional experience. Certain jobs may also require specific certifications. The following list explores three potential careers for online master's in supply chain management graduates.
Purchasing Managers
Purchasing managers buy services and products that organizations need for operations or plan to resell. This role requires evaluating the quality of suppliers, being aware of what vendors and suppliers offer, analyzing proposals, and negotiating contracts.
Most purchasing managers work in manufacturing. However, wholesale trade and the federal government also offer opportunities.
This position typically requires at least a bachelor's degree. However, candidates with an advanced degree and professional experience have a competitive advantage in the job market. Students may want to consider acquiring relevant certifications to further distinguish themselves.
Logisticians oversee the entire supply chain cycle of a product. Duties include allocating materials, developing professional relationships with suppliers and customers, understanding consumer demand, and reviewing logistic functions for areas of improvement.
The best candidates have excellent critical thinking, active listening, and coordination skills. Candidates can find entry-level positions with an associate degree and professional experience, but most employers require a bachelor's degree.
Students who earn a master's in supply chain management can become distribution managers. These professionals work in nearly every industry, monitoring large quantities of inventory. Duties include managing warehouse employees, collaborating with warehouse supervisors, maintaining product quality, and ensuring on-time delivery.
The best candidates have excellent organizational, communication, problem-solving, and time management skills. Other relevant skills include knowledge of analytical or inventory management software. Employers typically prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree and experience in warehouse management.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program?
While program length varies, full-time students typically earn their degrees in 12-24 months.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Supply Chain Management?
A master's in supply chain management qualifies graduates for careers as project managers, transportation directors, and warehousing managers.
How Much Do You Make in Supply Chain Management?
Supply chain management careers can be in multiple industries, and salaries vary by industry. For example, the highest paying industry for distribution managers — telecommunications — offers a median annual salary of nearly $150,000.
What Is Supply Chain Management?
Supply chain management is the control of goods and services, which includes all processes that convert raw materials into distributable products.
What Is a Master's in Supply Chain Management?
A master's in supply chain management is an advanced degree that provides students with the expertise required to manage supply chains on a global scale across multiple industries.
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