Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Sana Ihmoud
Transform your career with a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management. Gain advanced skills to lead and innovate in today’s complex global logistics networks.
Supply chain management is a global process that involves vast networks of distribution centers, retailers, transportation companies, and vendors. The online Ph.D. in supply chain management helps combine field knowledge and conduct research in procurement, logistics, and sourcing domains. Doctoral programs help learn about coordinating operations with service and materials providers, distributions and processes, manufacturing and purchasing, and more. There is a strong emphasis on the conduction of problem-driven empirical research. Graduates of a supply chain Ph.D. online can work in supply chain sustainability, operations management, logistics management, health sector supply chain management, supply chain networks, complexity, etc.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Programs
www.findbestdegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Online Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Programs
To find the best online Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management, students should carefully assess factors such as accreditation, faculty expertise, course offerings, concentrations, resources, and laboratory facilities. A quality graduate education can profoundly impact both professional and academic career trajectories. The teams at FBD have meticulously evaluated institutions across the U.S., employing a distinctive proprietary methodology to compile a list of colleges offering the premier online Ph.D. programs in Supply Chain Management.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Liberty University | 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515 | $7,740 | 66% |
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 a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Program
Candidates admitted into an online Ph.D. in supply chain management generally complete 60 credits, including their dissertation requirements. Most applicants take three to five years to finish a Ph.D. online. Universities require their doctorates to complete their degree within seven years before they may be terminated. Individuals can take up this program in various learning modes, like online, offline, and hybrid. Students must finish a comprehensive examination, write a dissertation, and conduct internship and research courses. Students will explore human resource management, financial management, strategy formulation, marketing, etc. Pursuing a doctor of business administration in supply chain management can help professionals find new opportunities leading organizations or provide high-level efficiency in business consulting. Individuals can also switch careers by moving into teaching supply chain management at the postsecondary level and pursuing roles including industrial engineers, management analysts, logisticians, postsecondary education administrators, and more.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
An online Ph.D. supply chain offers advanced training in essential foundational topics in business. Students can explore human resources, business administration, financial management, etc. Doctoral candidates are required to analyze current issues and trends in business administration, business management, and more.
There are some standard requirements that doctoral candidates can find across the curriculum, including:
Coursework
Some courses provided across all universities include supply chain management, logistics, total quality management, operations management, etc. Most colleges specify their requirements for coursework like research, concentration, and core courses to be completed within three years of being admitted into the program. If there are any prerequisite courses, they need to be completed within the first year of being accepted into the program.
Comprehensive Examinations
Doctoral candidates need to pass one or more comprehensive exam that covers all curricula specified in the degree before beginning any dissertation activities; this includes the formation of a committee as well. A comprehensive exam includes oral and written components and can be evaluated on a fall or pass basis. Failure to pass this examination after two attempts (on maximum) can result in the termination of candidature. After completing all necessary comprehensive studies, they will only be considered a doctorate candidate.
Dissertation
After completing their comprehensive exams, applicants formulate their dissertation topics that can produce high-quality research publications. Candidates contact potential committee members to determine their willingness and suitability to serve on the dissertation committee for that research topic. Students must propose a detailed description of the proposed research methodology, value, and objectives. It consists of extensive research, writing, and presenting it to a committee chosen for approval. The completed dissertation should be original and contribute to today’s dissertation knowledge.
Teaching
In some institutions, teaching is an option given to students who haven’t been able to take up Graduate teaching assistantships. This option benefits students who want to work in institutions and college setups. It would help them ease their financial burdens and gain experience in teaching simultaneously.
Final Exam or Dissertation Defense
The final exam or defense is an oral examination that is typically open to the public, during which the student who has written the thesis or dissertation demonstrates their satisfactory command of all aspects of their work presented and other related domains if applicable. Sometimes, there are two parts to the final exam: a well-a public presentation and a closed portion open to faculty members.
Some research topics that students of a supply chain management Ph.D. program include:
Managerial Business Analytics
This course equips students with advanced analytical tools and techniques to make data-driven decisions in supply chain management. Topics include predictive modeling, optimization, data visualization, and strategic decision-making. Students gain practical skills to address complex challenges in modern supply chains.
Managing Information Technology
This course explores IT’s role in optimizing supply chains. Topics include IT infrastructure, data management, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like blockchain and AI. Students learn to leverage IT for efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage in complex supply chain environments.
Logistics Management
This course explores the strategic planning and execution of efficient logistics operations. Topics include transportation, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution network design. Students analyze real-world case studies and employ advanced methodologies to optimize logistics processes and enhance overall supply chain performance.
Green Supply Chain
This course focuses on sustainability principles within logistics and operations. It examines eco-friendly practices like reducing carbon emissions, minimizing waste, and sourcing ethically. Students explore strategies for integrating sustainability into supply chain design, procurement, production, and distribution, addressing environmental concerns while maintaining competitiveness.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Throughout the doctorate in supply chain management online degree, students explore various research methods, complete case studies, and culminate in applied doctoral research projects. By completing the extensive project, students can apply their knowledge to practical and real-world solutions to today’s challenges. After completing the program, individuals would have gained skills such as the ability to:
- Demonstrate comprehension of key domains within supply chain management, including transportation and logistics.
- Exhibit advanced expertise in core areas like marketing, information systems, or operations management, tailored to specific roles within the field.
- Possess advanced skills to effectively develop, manage, and execute applied research projects.
- Display professional and ethical integrity, along with strong decision-making abilities.
- Exhibit knowledge of theory-based research collaboration, risk management, inventory, and customer service strategy.
- Show proficiency in supply chain business operations, including storing and utilizing raw materials and equipment and transporting finished goods to consumers.
- Demonstrate respect for individuals from diverse socioeconomic, educational, professional, and cultural backgrounds.
- Express commitment to enhancing employment opportunities, competitiveness, and economic growth.
- Apply critical thinking skills and make informed decisions in product/service selection while effectively maintaining relationships with customers and suppliers, reflecting the requisite skills of modern supply chain professionals.
Areas of Specialization for Supply Chain Management Ph.D. Students
Supply Chain Management Ph.D. students can specialize in various areas such as logistics, procurement, or sustainability. These specializations provide focused expertise, enabling students to tackle complex challenges in manufacturing and healthcare industries. They equip graduates with the skills needed to drive innovation and efficiency in global supply chains. Some specializations that students with a Ph.D. supply chain management can take up include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Logistics | Through this specialization, students understand the different components of designing and setting up warehouse facilities. They learn about various aspects of developing logistics networks, minimizing costs, and delivering customer service. Students also gain knowledge of several modes of transportation, including express delivery, intermodal, air freight, and motor freight.. | Various roles as Demand Planning Analyst, Procurement Manager, Distribution Centre Supervisor, Supply Chain Consultant, etc. |
| Operations | Students develop extensive business strategy, innovation, consulting, and management knowledge in this concentration. They also gain in-depth knowledge of techniques and processes needed to manage and develop a correct plan in the supply chain. | Various professional roles in Global Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Distribution, Operations, and more. |
Planning | Through this specialization, students review simple forecasting methods, cumulative means, and naïve methods, helping them to create forecasts based on the available data sets. They also understand sophisticated forecasting methods, including exponential smoothing and moving averages. | Various roles as Supply Chain Management Officer, Purchasing Manager, Logistics Manager, and more. |
| Sourcing | This concentration helps students learn about sourcing best practices, supply chain management, procurement, purchasing, and strategic sourcing. They also learn how companies manage supplier relationships and maintain an effective supply chain. | Various roles as Production Planner, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Leader, Consultant, Project Manager, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Ph.D. Programs
On average, completing a Ph.D. in logistics and supply chain management program in the United States could take four to six years. During the first two years of the program, students devote their time to finishing the coursework, and the rest of the time is dedicated to writing a dissertation and defending the dissertation. Time will be the distribution between passing the qualifying exam, oral defense of thesis proposal, written thesis approved by the department, and oral defense of the written dissertation. All of these factors together could determine the length of the program. The program can be completed sooner than four years if conducted in an accelerated format. In part-time mode, it could take up to more than six years to complete.
Accelerated Supply Chain Management Ph.D. Programs
Accelerated supply chain management Ph.D. programs offer rigorous, condensed pathways for aspiring scholars to delve deeply into the intricacies of supply chain dynamics. These programs combine advanced coursework, research, and practical experiences to equip students with specialized expertise in optimizing global supply chains, fostering innovation, and addressing contemporary challenges. Designed for motivated individuals seeking to accelerate their careers in academia or industry leadership, these programs offer transformative educational journeys. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire with the admissions department for information on accelerated program options.
Requirements for Getting into a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Program
Ph.D. programs could be competitive, and since they are advanced, there is much more scrutiny when selecting students to enroll. Therefore, prospective graduates must understand the Ph.D. in supply chain management before applying for the program, which will help them prepare better. A master’s in supply chain management is not mandatory to enroll in the Ph.D. In a program, however, students with master’s will have a competitive edge over other applicants. The requirement for a Ph.D. program varies from institution to institution. However, some of the standard admission requirements for Ph.D. in supply chain management programs include:
- Completed online graduate application form and fee;
- Official transcripts from all previous universities attended, showing grades earned, dates, courses completed, etc.;
- A Master’s degree in supply chain management or related domains may be required;
- A GPA of 3.0 or more is typically required;
- Two to three letters of recommendation, wherein at least one letter should be from a graduate school faculty member;
- Official GRE or GMAT valid scores;
- International applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit TOEFL scores;
- Statement of purpose, including a description of professional goals and rationale to further the student’s career objectives;
- Current resume including academic programs, professional certifications, significant achievements, etc.
No GRE Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Programs
Graduate Record Examination or GRE scores reflect the academic abilities of students pursuing advanced degrees [4]. The GRE scores are central to applying to a doctoral degree program. However, many colleges across the United States have been increasingly waiving off this requirement of GRE scores or making it optional for the students to submit these scores. Some colleges in the United States providing a Ph.D. in supply chain management no gre include:
How to Ensure a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Program is Accredited
Accreditation assures students that educational programs meet certain standards of quality and rigor. It enhances the credibility and value of degrees and certificates, ensuring employers and other institutions recognize them. Students benefit from accredited programs as they can trust the education they receive, leading to better job prospects and further educational opportunities. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs[3], or ACBSP, accredits many Ph.D. supply chain management programs. Students of this degree gain credibility due to the ACBSP, and employers may be more inclined to hire professionals from such accredited programs.
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 Ph.D. Student
Ph.D. students in supply chain management can access many free online courses to enhance their expertise. Numerous universities, professional organizations, and research institutions offer such resources. These courses cover various aspects of supply chain management, including logistics, procurement, operations management, and sustainable supply chains. Prospective doctoral students can explore the following free supply chain management courses:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
Supply Chain Management for E-commerce [4] | Class Central | This course caters to diverse learners interested in comprehending e-commerce supply chains. Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals transitioning into e-commerce will benefit. No prerequisites are required, making it accessible to anyone eager to grasp the dynamics of e-commerce operations and product sourcing efficiency. |
Diploma in Maritime Logistics[5] | Alison | This comprehensive online course covers global trade patterns, intermodal and multimodal transportation, and fundamental shipping markets. Students learn about supply chain management principles, ship operations, cargo vessels, chartering agreements, loading/discharge operations, digitalization’s impact, and modern supply chain management technologies. |
Supply Chain Management Specialization[6] | Coursera | The free course helps students understand supply chain logistics topics, including warehousing, transportation, logistics network design, inventory, etc. They also learn supply chain operation techniques like optimizing flow and focusing specifically on lean practices and Six Sigma quality. |
Ways to Pay for a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Program
The cost of pursuing an online Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management can be substantial in the United States. Affordability may pose challenges, especially for working professionals with additional commitments. To address this, universities and institutes offer more affordable fee structures and alternative payment options to alleviate financial burdens and facilitate access to higher education. Here are a few ways students can fund their Ph.D. in supply chain management programs:
Scholarships offer financial aid for students based on academic achievement, merit, or need. They alleviate the burden of tuition fees, enabling access to education. Scholarships foster talent, empower disadvantaged individuals, and cultivate a diverse, skilled workforce essential for societal progress.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer graduate students opportunities to work within their field of study while pursuing advanced degrees. These positions often provide financial support, valuable professional experience, and opportunities for mentorship and networking, enhancing students’ academic and career development.
Grants provide financial assistance to students for education-related expenses. They support access to higher education for individuals with financial needs, covering tuition, books, and living expenses. Grants alleviate financial barriers, enabling students to pursue academic goals and succeed.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form students complete annually to determine eligibility for financial aid programs such as grants, scholarships, and loans. It assesses a family’s financial situation to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) towards education costs.
Fully Funded Online Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management
Fully funded Ph.D. programs allow students to advance their careers without accumulating more debt. These programs, especially in American universities, are highly competitive and regulated. Funding for Ph.D. studies can include various forms such as graduate assistantships, tuition coverage, research funding, and salaries for teaching assistant positions, offering valuable support beyond just monetary assistance. Some fully funded Ph.D. in supply chain management programs doctoral candidates can take up include:
| University | Description |
|---|---|
| Michigan University- Broad College of Business[7] | Doctoral students receive financial aid from colleges, departments, or other external organizations. Students are admitted to the degree with a fellowship and graduate assistantship. Financial support is assured for the first four years of the degree, and further support is given after students make significant progress in the program. |
| University of Nebraska- Lincoln[8] | Graduate assistantships are provided to those who are enrolled full-time in the program. Students are provided opportunities for a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, doctoral fellowship, or graduate assistantship. Students will also receive a tuition waiver and stipend. |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating with a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management
After graduating, individuals in the field of Supply Chain Management can explore diverse career opportunities with competitive salaries. They can pursue roles across various industries, leveraging their expertise to contribute to organizational success. Graduates can expect rewarding career paths with opportunities for growth and advancement in the dynamic field of Supply Chain Management. Some typical roles in the domain of supply chain management graduates come across include:
- Chief Supply Chain Management Officer
- Facilities Manager
- Global Commodity Manager
- Procurement Manager
- Production Manager
- Purchasing Manager
- Strategic Sourcing Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
Some additional job roles that Ph.D. in supply chain management students can take up at the senior level include:
| 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 manage the life cycle of a product, including how the product will be allocated, delivered, and acquired. They also develop business relationships with clients and suppliers and understand various clients’ needs and how to meet those. |
Cost Estimators[10] | Analytical, detail-oriented, math, time-management, and writing skills. | $71,200 | -3% (decline) | These professionals accurately estimate the costs of manufacturing and construction projects necessary for businesses to survive. Cost estimators provide everyone, especially the managers, with the information needed to submit competitive contract bids and price products appropriately. |
Budget Analysts[11] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, math, and writing skills. | $82,260 | 3% (as fast as average) | Budget Analysts help top managers analyze proposed plans and find alternatives if the projected results could be better. They combine the program and department budgets into one consolidated organizational budget and review the manager’s budget proposals and funding requests for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with the law. |
Management Analysts[12] | Analytical, communication, interpersonal, problem-solving, and time-management skills. | $95,290 | 10% (much faster than average) | Management analysts make recommendations to the management through written reports or presentations and confer with their managers to ensure the changes are working. Such professionals also work with companies and their internal teams to develop solutions and alternative practices that can be implemented. |
Operations Research Analysts[13] | Analytical, communication, critical thinking, interpersonal, math, and problem-solving skills. | $85,720 | 23% (much faster than average) | Operation Research Analyst typically helps managers decide how to develop production schedules, oversee the supply chain, set prices, and allocate resources. They interview clients, collect data, and work parallelly with other stakeholders involved in the business process that is being examined. |
Certifications and Licensing for Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Graduates
Certifications and licensing are typically not mandatory for online Ph.D. students in Supply Chain Management in the USA. However, earning certifications can enhance their expertise and credibility. Certification demonstrates specialized knowledge, potentially boosting job prospects and credibility within academia and industry, providing additional validation of their skills and expertise in the field. Some professional certifications that supply chain management Ph.D. students can obtain include:
APICS CSCP – Supply Chain Management Certification[14]
This certification benefits individuals seeking prioritized content based on knowledge gaps, aiding in progress tracking through quiz activities and scores. It allows focus on smaller content segments, ensuring efficient time use and comprehensive learning. Participants can complete it through a mobile-first design, accessing materials anytime, anywhere, across various devices.
CPSD™ Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity[15]
The Institute of Supply Management helps students gain employment in advanced roles and establish themselves as leaders in the supply management domain. Students are also provided with knowledge and training to demonstrate to organizations how supplier diversities can meet current requirements and accelerate innovation through learning.
Certified Professional Contract Manager™[16]
Those taking up this certification gain different resources that provide them with important information about the procedures and policies on actions that impact buyers and sellers and other relevant details in contract management. It can be taken up by professionals who want to master the Contract Management Body of Knowledge competencies.
Certified Professional Logistician Program[17]
Through this certification, individuals learn about different concepts of logistics and systems, including system hardware and software, system life cycle processes, and phases—the relationship and integration of systems engineering, logistics support functions, and other logistical elements. Examinations to earn this certification are conducted twice annually, in November and May, and are administered by a proctor.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Graduates
Membership in associations and societies offers valuable resources for Ph.D. students in Supply Chain Management. These networks provide access to research, conferences, and professional development opportunities, enriching doctoral studies and facilitating collaboration with industry professionals and scholars in the field. Some organizations a supply chain management doctoral program graduate can consider include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Association for Supply Chain Management | The Association for Supply Chain Management aims to tirelessly help businesses build efficient, economical, and ethical supply chains to impact future generations positively. They want to advance the domain of supply chains worldwide, keep the public updated on industry insights, and lead organizations to further supply chain operations. |
| Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals | The organization provides membership to individuals who either work or support the supply chain and logistics industries in any capacity, including educators, students, and practitioners. It aims to enhance the development of supply chain and logistics management professionals by providing educational and individual opportunities. |
| Council for Supply Chain Management Professionals | CSCMP raises awareness of the significant global supply chains to the economy and business. It also focuses on leadership in the supply chain while sustainably creating value for businesses and customers. |
| International Warehouse Logistics Association | IWLA membership benefits individuals by providing timely information and resources and industry-focused online and in-person education, live and on-demand webinars, and promoting government advocacy on federal and state levels. They aim to promote the general business interests of firms, corporations, and persons engaged in contract and public warehousing and related services. |
| Material Handling Association of America | The organization provides unique learning insights and opportunities for improved business decisions and promotes the safe use of products and solutions. It helps provide information on logistics, material handling, systems manufacturers promoting their solutions, supply chain management equipment, and more. |
FAQs About Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Programs
Why should you do an online Ph.D. in supply chain management?
Students can take up such advanced degrees online and complete them independently. It will help them in the advancement of their careers. This program is most cost-effective for learners and more flexible than classroom courses. Students can complete the program without compromising other responsibilities like personal commitments, professional life, etc.
Is it compulsory to have a master’s in supply chain management before applying to Ph.D. programs?
How long does it take to complete an online Ph.D. in supply chain management?
What can you do with a Ph.D. in supply chain management?
Is a Ph.D. in supply chain management worth it?
Is there a difference between a DBA and a Ph.D. in supply chain management?
Citations:
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Supply Chain Management for E-commerce- Class Central
Diploma in Maritime Logistics- Alison
Supply Chain Management Specialization- Coursera
Michigan University- Broad College of Business
University of Nebraska- Lincoln
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Logisticians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Cost Estimators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Budget Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Operations Research Analysts
APICS CSCP – Supply Chain Management Certification
CPSD™ Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity
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.