Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Sana Ihmoud
With an Online Supply Chain Management Degree, master supply chains and optimize logistics, procurement, and operations for business success in today’s interconnected world.
A supply chain management degree takes a cross-functional approach that includes learning about aspects of the internal process of materials into the movement of raw materials or finished goods from the organization to the client. A supply chain management degree online helps students understand the complex systems of organizing, creating, and delivering products and working closely with manufacturers and suppliers. Through the curriculum of this degree, students are aware of the exact nature of the supply chain management profession, depending on the specific industry, and develop a solid understanding of supply chain principles and ethics. Undergraduates of the online supply chain management degree are prepared to pursue different professional opportunities in business, government, manufacturing industries, etc.
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Find the Best Online Supply Chain Management Programs
Factors like available courses, program length, tuition fees, and career opportunities are essential when choosing the best online universities for a bachelor’s in supply chain management. Leading institutions offer customized courses to suit different student needs. The teams at FBD have carefully evaluated supply chain management programs, looking at curriculum quality, learning outcomes, costs, and alignment with specific field areas. Here is the list of the best supply chain management programs.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Portland State University | 724 SW Harrison St., Portland, Oregon 97201 | $11,238 | 53% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Supply Chain Management Degree Program
A logistics and supply chain management degree online program takes around 120 credit hours and can be finished in an average of four years. Most colleges providing this degree give different learning modes, like online, offline, and hybrid classes, that help students balance their work, family, and other responsibilities. It provides an understanding of complex processes involved in supply chain management, including moving and storing supplies, finished goods, transportation and distribution, and more. Students also learn about operations management theory, logistic theories and tools, communication and problem-solving, operations management decision-making, etc. The supply chain degree classwork gives students much practical knowledge in terms of projects derived from functional and relevant case studies, internships, and capstone projects. Undergraduates of this program are prepared to pursue roles including logistician, operations manager, buyer or purchasing agent, purchasing manager, supply chain manager, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
An online degree in supply chain management provides fundamental knowledge in supply chain management and application principles for applying across industries worldwide. The curriculum of this program examines the necessary steps to integrate factories, suppliers, warehouses, stores, and more that help students understand how products are distributed to customers at the right time and in the required quantity.
Students explore areas including reverse logistics, logistics management, transportation management, and integration in supply chain management. Most colleges help students in this degree program learn about the real-world application of logistics and transportation topics. They also analyze business case studies, devise and manage spreadsheets, and use advanced software and tools to enhance the consistency of delivery.
Different colleges provide differently designed curricula. However, there are some standard courses students can find across all universities, including
Global Supply Chain Management
The course helps students learn about increased offshore sourcing and globalization and the importance of global supply chain management in terms of businesses. Individuals also understand the underlying factors in traditional supply chain management, like reducing procurement costs, decreasing risks related to purchasing activities, and more.
Logistics Management
This course offers comprehensive training in coordinating the movement of goods and services. Students learn about transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. This course equips graduates with skills to ensure efficient and cost-effective logistics operations in various industries.
Supply Management
This course provides students with in-depth knowledge of procurement, sourcing, and supplier management. The course covers contract negotiation, vendor selection, and supply chain optimization topics. Graduates are equipped to strategically manage the flow of goods and services to meet organizational objectives efficiently and effectively.
Supply Chain Strategy
This course delves into developing effective strategies for optimizing supply chain performance. Students learn about supply chain design, risk management, sustainability, and global integration. Graduates gain the expertise to align supply chain processes with organizational goals and drive competitive advantage in dynamic markets.
Planning and Control Systems for Supply Chain Management
This course covers the fundamental topics needed to learn how to direct the flow of the resources required to produce services and goods. Students may learn to use Microsoft Excel for supporting analysis, including processes, financial, and technology impact, to manage inventory, forecast, determine resources needed for production, perform master scheduling, etc.
Some more common courses that students can find across the supply chain management curriculums include
- Quality Management
- Purchasing Management
- Supply Chain Analytics
- Warehouse Analytics and Technologies
- Global Sourcing and Technologies
- Service and Sustainable Operations
- Agile Project Management
- Enterprise Systems and Business Process Integration
- Logistics and Production Systems
The bachelor’s program often culminates in a capstone project or internship, allowing students to apply the principles to real-world situations being learned. To understand more about online degrees in supply chain management, prospective students can refer to the guide to bachelor’s programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The field of supply chain management is expanding, and a bachelor’s program helps students prepare for evolving areas of employment shaped by international competition, technology, and other worldwide factors. This program teaches students about overseeing complex systems organizations need to deliver and create products. By the end of the program, students of a bachelor of supply chain management online will be able to demonstrate several skills, including:
- Project management, governance, financial implications, and corporate social responsibility.
- Knowledge of supply chain functions, metrics, and drivers within integrated systems.
- Professional capability to deliver promises to stakeholders judiciously using resources like materials, equipment, and services.
- Devising frameworks and tools to analyze different supply conditions, such as spend analysis, category analysis, demand analysis, or market analysis.
- Developing strategies to ensure the highest and adequate value resource supply into the future.
- Professional competence to work closely with manufacturers and suppliers, administering storage and transportation, and implementing new ways of moving information and goods.
- Understanding various global operating supply chain issues, including managing economic, technological, political, and sociocultural challenges.
Types of Degrees Supply Chain Management Students Can Obtain
Students pursuing an online bachelor degree in supply chain management develop the necessary knowledge and skills required to efficiently and effectively manage the storage, transportation, acquisition, and delivery of services and products. There are two types of bachelor’s degrees in supply chain management: a Bachelor of Arts or BA in Supply Chain Management and a Bachelor of Science or BS in Supply Chain Management.
Bachelor of Arts or BA in Supply Chain Management
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Supply Chain Management equips students with essential knowledge and skills in procurement, logistics, and operations management within the global supply chain. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the dynamic field of supply chain management.
Bachelor of Science or BS in Supply Chain Management
A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Supply Chain Management offers comprehensive training in logistics, procurement, and operations management. This program emphasizes quantitative analysis, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning to optimize supply chain processes. Graduates are prepared for analytical roles in various industries, driving efficiency and innovation in supply chain operations.
Areas of Specialization for Supply Chain Management Students
Specializations in Supply Chain Management allow students to focus on specific areas such as logistics, procurement, or operations management. By specializing, students deepen their expertise in a particular aspect of the field, making them more competitive in the job market and better equipped to tackle industry challenges. Specializations also allow students to tailor their education to align with their career aspirations. Some specializations students pursuing a supply chain management online degree can consider include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Logistics and Transportation Management | This specialization focuses on optimizing the movement of goods from suppliers to customers. Students learn about distribution networks, transportation modes, inventory control, and warehouse management, preparing them for roles in logistics operations, transportation planning, and supply chain optimization. | • Logistics Coordinator • Transportation Planner • Warehouse Operations Manager • Freight Broker |
| Procurement and Strategic Sourcing | This specialization emphasizes acquiring goods and services efficiently. Students learn to negotiate contracts, manage supplier relationships, assess supplier performance, and analyze market trends. This specialization prepares graduates for careers in purchasing, supply chain strategy, and supplier management roles. | • Procurement Specialist • Strategic Sourcing Manager • Contract Negotiation Analyst • Supplier Relationship Manager |
| Operations Planning and Management | This specialization focuses on optimizing production processes. Students learn about capacity planning, production scheduling, quality management, and lean manufacturing principles. This specialization prepares graduates for roles in operations management, production planning, and process improvement within supply chain operations. | • Production Scheduler • Operations Manager • Inventory Control Specialist • Lean Manufacturing Engineer |
| Sustainable Supply Chain Management | This specialization emphasizes environmentally and socially responsible practices throughout the supply chain. Students learn to integrate sustainability principles into procurement, production, logistics, and distribution processes, preparing them for roles focused on sustainable sourcing, green logistics, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. | • Sustainability Analyst • Green Logistics Coordinator • Corporate Social Responsibility Manager • Environmental Compliance Specialist |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
A bachelor’s degree timeline depends on different factors, including a student’s status, whether they have previous credits, and whether they are taking up a full course load. The time it takes to earn an online supply chain management bachelor degree could depend on whether a student can attend classes full-time or part-time. Full-timers dedicate more time to completing their studies and can finish the coursework in four years. Part-timers save considerably less time finishing their curriculum and take around five to six years to finish the course requirements. Those taking up the program online can finish the courses at their convenience and, therefore, may be able to complete all requirements sooner.
Accelerated Supply Chain Management Programs
Some individuals working or looking to increase their career options sooner may opt for accelerated degrees. An accelerated supply chain management program can be the quickest and most convenient option to gain course requirements in a shorter timeframe. Such accelerated degrees also cost less as compared to traditional programs. Such accelerated curriculums can be finished in less than four years. Some colleges providing an accelerated supply chain management degree online include
Requirements for Getting into an Online Supply Chain Management Degree Program
Generally, candidates must complete at least 120 credit hours of upper-level major coursework and lower-level general education. To gain entry into the program, students must have a minimum cumulative GPA, a personal statement, a resume, and more. The requirements for earning a bachelor’s program can differ from institution to institution. However, there are some standard supply chain management degree online admission requirements, including
- Application form and fee
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 or 3.0, or more may be generally required
- High school diploma or GED scores
- All previous academic transcripts like academic records, mark sheets from high school, grade cards, etc
- ACT and SAT may be required
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Personal essays to explain why candidates are interested in a specific degree
- Professional resume
How to Ensure an Online Supply Chain Management Degree Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that educational programs meet quality standards, enhancing students’ confidence in the value and rigor of their education. It validates the credibility and transferability of degrees, facilitating career advancement and further educational pursuits. Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business[3] or AACSB is generally seen as a standard accreditation requirement for a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management [4]. Studying for an accredited supply chain management degree online is essential to transfer credits earned from accredited schools.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Supply Chain Management Bachelor’s Students
Free online courses for Supply Chain Management bachelor’s students can be found across various platforms. These courses, while valuable for learning, are typically not accredited. Students should verify course content and relevance to their academic needs and career goals. Additionally, they can supplement their studies with resources provided by universities, professional associations, and industry publications. Prospective undergraduates can explore the following free supply chain management courses:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Supply Chain Management and Capacity Planning[4] | This free online certificate course provides essential insights into the procurement of raw materials and distribution of finished goods. It offers a valuable understanding of their significance and roles within the supply chain process, empowering learners to enhance their knowledge and skills in this critical field. | Alison |
| Introduction To Supply Chain Management[5] | This free online course provides fundamental knowledge on the flow of goods and services from suppliers to end-users. Crucial for global business success, it equips learners with skills to excel in supply chain management, becoming indispensable assets to any organization striving for excellence in this field. | edX |
| Supply Chain Management Specialization[6] | The free course on supply chain management helps individuals understand the daily challenges of the domain better and learn how the flow of information, finances, and products links the global economy. They gain knowledge of logistics, planning, sourcing, and operations. | Coursera |
Ways to Pay for an Online Supply Chain Management Degree
Tuition costs for online Supply Chain Management degrees are steadily rising each year, contributing to the accumulation of student debt. Students often burden themselves with loans to cover their studies as educational expenses increase. Managing these financial obligations is crucial for individuals seeking to pursue higher education while navigating the challenges of rising tuition fees. Here are a few ways students can fund their bachelor’s in supply chain management programs:
Scholarships offer financial assistance to students based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria. These awards help alleviate the financial burden of education by covering tuition, fees, and other expenses, enabling students to pursue their academic goals without accumulating significant debt.
Grants provide financial aid to students based on financial need, academic achievement, or specific circumstances. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making them valuable resources for covering educational expenses such as tuition, fees, and living costs, helping students pursue higher education without accumulating debt.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer graduate students opportunities to gain valuable professional experience while pursuing their studies. These positions often involve working with faculty on research projects, teaching undergraduate classes, or providing administrative support. In exchange, students typically receive a stipend and tuition remission, and sometimes benefits like health insurance, helping to offset the costs of their education.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form students complete annually to determine eligibility for federal financial aid programs such as grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. It collects information about the students and their family’s finances to assess their need for financial assistance in funding higher education expenses.
Scholarships for Online Supply Chain Management Degree Students
Scholarships for online Supply Chain Management degree students provide financial assistance and recognition for academic achievement and potential. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing education in supply chain management, covering tuition costs, textbooks, and other expenses. Universities, professional associations, corporations, and philanthropic organizations offer them to help students pursue their educational goals and excel in the field. Here are a couple of supply chain management degree online scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRF Foundation Ray Greenly Scholarship[7] | The Ray Greenly Scholarship provides financial support to undergraduates pursuing a domain most relevant to digital retail, like computer science, marketing, e-commerce, business, supply chain, and more. The scholarship includes monetary benefits, free travel, and hotel accommodation to attend the annual NRF Foundation Student program. | Varies | Varies |
| John Galt Solutions Scholarship for Future Supply Chain Leaders[8] | Two scholarships are awarded annually to individuals seeking undergraduate supply chain management and business forecasting education. Candidates for this scholarship must be current undergraduates at accredited institutes in the United States. | $10,000 | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
After graduating, individuals in Supply Chain Management can explore diverse career paths with competitive salaries. Opportunities span various industries, offering roles in procurement, logistics, operations, and many more. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and sector, with potential for growth and advancement within the field. Graduates with a supply chain management degree online can get professional roles in the following areas:
- Demand Planning
- Distribution Planning
- Inventory Management
- Logistics Management
- Network Design Planning
- Production Planning
- Raw Material Sourcing
- Supply Chain Analytics
Here are a few more occupations explained:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logisticians[9] | Communication, critical thinking, customer service, organizational, and problem-solving skills. | $77,520 | 18% (much faster than average) | Logisticians typically manage the life cycle of a product from design to disposal and direct the allocation of supplies, products, and materials. They also develop business relationships with clients and suppliers, understand how clients’ needs differ, and develop strategies to meet them. |
| Cost Estimators[10] | Analytical, detail-oriented, math, time-management, and writing skills. | $71,200 | -2% (decline) | Cost estimators typically identify factors that affect costs, like production time, labor, and materials, in collaboration with other professionals like engineers, architects, contractors, etc. They read blueprints and technical documents to prepare estimates and recommend various ways to cut costs. |
| Manager Supply Chain and Logistics [11] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills. | $124,400 | No Data Available | The Manager of Supply Chain and Logistics collaborates with cross-functional managers to design and implement distribution center processes. They oversee supply chain and logistics operations to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This role typically requires a bachelor’s degree and involves managing vendor qualifications and performance to meet company standards. |
| Fleet Manager[12] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, interpersonal, math, and problem-solving skills. | $104,075 | No Data Available | A Fleet Manager oversees the acquisition, operations, and maintenance of an organization’s motor vehicle fleet. They manage scheduling, dispatch operations, vehicle procurement, and disposal. They also cultivate relationships with vendors for fuel, maintenance, and other services. Their role ensures efficient and effective management of the organization’s transportation resources. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Supply Chain Management Degree Graduates
Certifications and licensing are not typically mandatory for online bachelor’s students in Supply Chain Management in the USA. However, obtaining relevant certifications can significantly enhance students’ marketability and credibility in the field. These certifications validate expertise and skills, providing students with a competitive edge in the job market and potentially leading to better career opportunities and salary prospects. Some professional certifications that online degree in supply chain management students can gain include:
APICS CSCP – Supply Chain Management Certification[13]
This certification helps individuals learn various skills to overcome disruption, manage and evaluate risks, and implement modern supply chain technologies. They understand key topics like supply chain demand forecasting management, global supply chain networks, internal operations and inventory, and supply chain relationships.
CPSD™ Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity[14]
This certification, provided by the Institute for Supply Management, includes knowledge and training to show organizations how supplier diversities can meet current requirements and accelerate innovation through learning. Individuals also understand how to leverage various suppliers to support organizational outcomes and goals.
Certified Professional Contract Manager™[15]
This certification is a crucial milestone in professional development in supply chain management. Students gain various resources that provide essential information about the procedures and policies on actions that impact buyers and sellers and other relevant details in contract management.
Additional Resources for Online Supply Chain Management Degree Graduates
Bachelor’s students pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management can benefit from additional resources offered by professional associations and memberships in relevant organizations. These resources often provide valuable networking opportunities, access to industry events, career development resources, and specialized publications. Engaging with such associations can enrich students’ learning experiences and enhance their understanding of current trends and practices within the field. Some organizations with a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management online students explore include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| APICS – The Association for Operations Management | The Association for Supply Chain Management is dedicated to advancing supply chains’ global domain, keeping the public updated on industry insights, and leading organizations to further supply chain operations. They provide certifications that increase the worldwide standard of professional development and learning. |
| Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) | WERC, part of MHI, is the sole professional body dedicated to warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment’s role in the supply chain. Established in 1977, WERC offers resources like educational events, operational metrics, research, and peer networking to help professionals, suppliers, educators, and students thrive in this dynamic field. |
| Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals | CSCMP aims to connect supply chain professionals to improve, collaborate with supply chain leaders, and support career development. The organization also identifies and conducts research, adding to the supply chain practice and theoretical knowledge base. |
| Production and Operations Management Society | POMS, or the Production and Operations Management Society, is a global professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of production and operations management. It aims to enhance knowledge and practices in POM, disseminate information to various stakeholders, and improve POM and its teaching worldwide in both manufacturing and service sectors. |
FAQs About Online Supply Chain Management Degree Programs
Can you get a supply chain management degree online?
An online supply chain management degree can be accessed through different geographical locations and typically costs less than a regular program. Such online degrees can benefit individuals as much as a traditional degree, and they must complete the same curriculum.
What can you do with an online supply chain management degree?
What kind of supply chain management jobs can students pursue?
Is an online degree in supply chain management worth it?
Can I work while pursuing an online bachelor’s in supply chain management?
How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s degree in supply chain management?
Citations:
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Supply Chain Management and Capacity Planning- Alison
Introduction To Supply Chain Management- Alison
Supply Chain Management Specialization- Coursera
NRF Foundation Ray Greenly Scholarship
John Galt Solutions Scholarship for Future Supply Chain Leaders
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Logisticians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Cost Estimators
Salary.com Manager Supply Chain and Logistics
APICS CSCP – Supply Chain Management Certification
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.