Best Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Programs of 2023
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- Supply chain management education can position you for leadership roles like director or scheduler.
- The growth trajectory in supply chain management remains strong, and the field offers lucrative careers.
- The average salary for supply chain professionals with graduate degrees is $113,300 as of 2023.
Supply chains deliver everything we need to keep life going. Who's keeping track of all that? Supply chain professionals, that's who, and companies are competing to secure talent.
According to the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), 76% of job seekers in the field found new employment within three months, and these professionals earn a median salary of $98,570. The more education they have, the more money they earn. Professionals with an associate degree pull in an average of $72,000. Those with a bachelor's degree earn an average of $92,147, and people with a master's degree make an average of $113,300.
The ASCM reports that supply chain professionals are not just in demand and well-paid but they're also happy. In fact, 96% of these professionals plan to stay in the field for at least another five years. Use this guide to find out more about how you can get started in this exciting field.
If you're considering an online master's in supply chain management degree, here's what to do next:
- Explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online master's in supply chain management programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from the schools you're interested in.
Is a Master's Degree in Supply Chain Management Worth It?
A master's in supply chain management can definitely pay off. The initial investment may seem hefty, but the chance to earn a high salary after graduation makes it easier to justify your college investment.
Supply chain professionals with graduate degrees earn an average salary of $113,300, according to the ASCM report, a relatively high starting wage.
Why Should You Get a Master's in Supply Chain Management?
On the fence about supply chain management? Here are a few more reasons why you should get a master's in the field, based on research by the ASCM:
-
You'll be sought after
About one-third of supply chain professionals have a graduate degree. Your master's degree will set you apart, place you in a distinct group, and make you more valuable in the eyes of employers. -
You'll have good job security
Only 4% of supply chain professionals reported a layoff to ASCM in 2023, despite an uncertain economy. In addition, 76% of working professionals found a job within three months of starting their search. -
You'll enjoy your work
Job satisfaction is high among supply chain professionals. Most respondents in ASCM's survey were very satisfied with the supply chain field and were likely to recommend it as a career.
Master's in Supply Chain Management Programs to Consider
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Much Money Will You Make With a Master's in Supply Chain Management?
Professionals with a master's in supply chain management can make well over $100,000 per year, depending on their career path. For example, the highest-paid senior operations managers earn over $118,000 annually, according to Payscale 2023 data. For other popular supply chain management jobs, like materials manager and supply chain consultant, the average salaries range between $60,000 and $83,000, also according to Payscale 2023 data.
Median Base Salary
MBA, MA, MS, Supply Chain Emphasis
$113,300
Best Online Master's in Supply Chain Management
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Marquette University
Milwaukee, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,245
Out of State | $1,245
Credits to Graduate
31
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
MU helps you increase your supply chain management salary potential in 12-22 months. The university's supply chain management degree features coursework in sourcing in the digital supply chain, blockchain, and network design. Graduation requirements include three on-campus residential workshops.
Admission requirements include at least a 3.0 GPA and prerequisites in statistics, calculus, and supply chain management. You must also submit GRE scores and two recommendation letters.
Portland State University
Portland, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $902
Out of State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate
45
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
PSU helps you qualify for more supply chain management jobs with a flexible 18-month program. The master's in supply chain management focuses on global sourcing, global trade and logistics, and advanced leadership. A required study abroad opportunity in Asia complements your virtual classroom instruction.
Application materials include a resume, unofficial undergrad transcripts, and three essays. You must pay a fee. The degree lets you explore many new career opportunities, such as supply chain director, logistics director, and industry analyst.
Florida Institute of Technology-Online
Melbourne, FL - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $896
Out of State | $896
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Consider Florida Tech's online master's in supply chain management if you want a flexible, part-time curriculum. Classes include corporate finance, cost and economic analysis, and advanced techniques in supply chain management.
Florida Tech's master's requirements include a bachelor's from an accredited college. The school prefers that you have relevant work experience. The degree may qualify you for a promotion with your current employer or a new position offering a higher supply chain management salary.
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $814
Out of State | $814
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
UAH lets you advance your education and career. The UAH's master's in supply chain management program requires introductory coursework in contract and logistics management. You advance your knowledge and skills by completing assignments in decision modeling and supply chain strategy.
UAH requires GMAT or GRE results and uses a score cutoff for both tests. You may apply for the spring, summer, or fall semester.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,695
Out of State | $1,695
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Embry-Riddle helps you increase your supply chain management salary potential with coursework in procurement for logistics managers and supply chains in the global environment. Embry-Riddle's supply chain management degree also lets you personalize your education with two elective classes.
You apply by submitting official transcripts and completing the FAFSA. You can explore supply chain management jobs in the private and public sectors.
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $500
Out of State | $500
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Georgia College's supply chain management degree requires core classes in supply chain management strategy. You'll also take courses in distribution and inventory control and quantitative methods. You can customize your supply chain management degree by selecting three electives, including introduction to enterprise systems.
You don't need to submit GRE scores if you hold an advanced degree or earned at least a 3.0 undergrad GPA.
University of Alaska Anchorage
Anchorage, AK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $700
Out of State | $700
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Research UAA if you want a more affordable and flexible supply chain management degree. The curriculum features coursework in supply chain technology and systems. You'll also study the role of supply chain management in international trade and leadership principles and management skills.
You may apply for the fall semester. UAA's master's program requires GMAT or GRE scores, two recommendation letters, a personal statement, and official undergraduate transcripts. All fully online students pay in-state tuition.
Athens State University
Athens, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $348
Out of State | $348
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Athens State's supply chain management degree offers three concentrations that include executive leadership, logistics information systems, and artificial intelligence. The curriculum also requires core coursework in supply chain resilience and governance. You'll finish your education with a case studies in logistics capstone class.
Athens State's master's program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA. You might receive conditional admission if you earned a lower GPA. And all online degree-seekers pay in-state tuition.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,313
Out of State | $1,313
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
UT Knoxville's master's in supply chain management offers you classes in supply chain finance, data modeling and analysis, and global supply chain management. The program also features different tracks for full- and part-time learners. Graduation requirements include a three-day on-campus immersion experience and a capstone project.
UT Knoxville's program recommends but does not require standardized test scores. Top-paying careers for graduates include supply chain manager and logistics director.
What Can You Do With a Master's Degree in Supply Chain Management?
Supply chains are a vast enterprise, and there are many jobs to help ensure the flow of goods never stops.
You can apply your master's degree in supply chain management to various business settings. These settings can vary from production and product development to the information systems and analytics needed to manage them.
| Jobs | Average Salary (June 2023) |
|---|---|
| Supply Chain Manager | $86,540 |
| Senior Operations Manager | $102,920 |
| Supply Chain Consultant | $83,290 |
| Senior Supply Chain Analyst | $65,090 |
| Purchasing Manager | $72,730 |
How Much Does an Online Master's in Supply Chain Management Cost?
Tuition data for an online master's in supply chain management is unavailable. But National Center for Education Statistics data shows the average master's degree costs about $12,000 at public schools and about $26,000 at private schools.
Average Annual Cost of a Master's Degree
Public Institution | 2019-2020
$12,394
Private Institution | 2019-2020
$26,621
How Long Does a Master's in Supply Chain Management Take?
A master's degree usually takes 2-3 years to finish, though it can vary by school. Accelerated class formats allow you to graduate in as little as one year.
Online degrees may take longer to finish but are more flexible for working students. Many graduate schools also provide part-time students with asynchronous courses or weekend programs.
Required Course Credits
30-60 credits*
Average Length of Time
2 years*
*Varies depending on your school/program
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Management Programs.
How to Choose a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program
There are many factors to consider when choosing a master's degree in supply chain management, including program length. Master's programs often last two years if students study full time. Students should also review each program's curriculum to determine whether available coursework appeals to their specific career interests.
Sometimes, master's in supply chain management programs require internship or capstone courses, which can provide students professional or research opportunities. Knowing what a school offers is essential to choosing the right degree. Students must also consider cost, including tuition, textbook prices, cost of living, and financial aid. If students choose an online program, for example, they should investigate whether the school charges different tuition rates or additional technology fees.
Accreditation for Master's in Supply Chain Management Programs
Accreditation is very important when choosing a program. There are two types: national and regional. National accreditation, which typically applies to vocational, trade, and for-profit schools, usually does not allow transfer of credits to regionally accredited schools, and is often excluded from tuition reimbursement programs. Regional accreditation, reserved for public and private nonprofit schools, means credits can be transferred between schools. Students are typically eligible for tuition reimbursement and other forms of financial aid.
Master's in Supply Chain Management Program Admissions
Admissions teams create their guidelines to establish standards of excellence for their students and programs. Programs with laxer requirements are more likely to accept applicants. Online admissions are typically more in-depth than on-campus admissions, usually requiring one or more meetings with an admissions counselor prior to applying.
Prerequisites
-
Bachelor's degree=
Before students can earn their master's in supply chain management, they must hold a bachelor's degree, usually in a related field. They will be required to submit their bachelor's transcripts with their application. -
Professional Experience:
Students generally do not need prior professional experience to enroll in a master's in supply chain management program, though some programs may require them to submit their resume with their application. -
Minimum GPA:
Every master's program will have their own minimum GPA requirement, but the average minimum is 3.0.
Admission Materials
-
Application:
Applications require students to fill in personal information, including outlining their educational experience. Some programs may require a personal statement. -
Transcripts:
Along with their application, students must also submit transcripts from their undergraduate program. These can be requested from the school and typically require a fee. -
Letters of Recommendation:
Most programs require several letters of recommendation. Students should get their recommendations from professional and educational references, and ask at least three weeks in advance to ensure recommenders have time to adequately write their letters. -
Test Scores:
Students will be required to submit GRE or GMAT scores to most programs. They will have to meet the minimum score requirement to be considered, a number which varies by school. -
Application Fee:
Application fees must be paid when the student submits their application. Though they can be waived in special circumstances, they typically cost around $50-$75.
What Else Can I Expect From a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program?
Many master's in supply chain management programs will allow students to tailor their degree to their career goals with a a coursework concentration. Concentrations are designed to prepare students for specific career opportunities in their field of study and they connect classes to workplace experiences.
| Concentration | Description | Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Approaches | In the quantitative approaches concentration, students learn to analyze and manage complex supply chains. They will learn about partnerships, domestic and international stakeholders, and decision making in networks of facilities. | Students with a quantitative approaches concentration can pursue careers as cost estimators or operations managers. |
| Global Business | The global business concentration explores issues that arise in global business management structures. Students will learn about multinational finance, international trade, and decision-making techniques. Coursework focuses on political, technological, environmental, social, economic, and marketing aspects of global business. | With a global business concentration, students will be able to begin careers as strategic leaders, business practitioners, and senior professionals. |
| Logistics and Transportation | Logistics and transportation tracks teach students finance, reverse logistics, logistics, and business law. They also review operations management to explore supply chain management, spreadsheets, and efficiency improvement techniques. | Students with a logistics and transportation specialization can find work as logistics managers, transportation managers, and supply chain managers. |
| Logistics Management | In the logistics management concentration, students will study quantitative and qualitative methods used by transportation and logistics managers of global supply chains. They will explore the decision-making process for warehouse and distribution operations managers, logistics network designers, and transportation managers to relate their coursework to careers in supply chain management. | Students who pursue a logistics management concentration will be qualified to work as logistics managers, transportation managers, or logisticians. |
| Logistics and Operations | Logistics and operations concentrations combine the fundamental pieces of supply chain management to teach students about best practices related to logistics. In the program, students will learn about accounting, economics, finance, marketing, and business law. | This concentration prepares students for careers as transportation managers, global logistics managers, and materials planners. |
Courses in a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program
While most programs focus on similar topics, each school offers its own curriculum. The courses in master's in supply chain management programs cover many topics, including project management, logistics, and data management.
Logistics
A fundamental piece of supply chain management, logistics courses teach students to plan, implement, and control the efficient forward and reverse storage and flow of services, goods, and information between the point of consumption and the point of origin. Students will also learn about the management of inventory, transportation, and facilities with regard to network design and integrated logistics strategy.
Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Management
Students interested in strategic sourcing can take a strategic sourcing and procurement management course to learn more about value chains and their function for service of interest. They will study analytics like cost modeling and spend analyses in order to inform business case development about how to negotiate with suppliers using multi-party or market-based mechanisms.
Applied Business Analytics
In an applied business analytics course, students will practice how to make business decisions based on intelligence and data. They will learn to make decisions based on data and models. Students will leave the course prepared to make important business decisions regarding retail revenue management, supply chain and logistics, finance, and risk management.
Project Management
A project management course explores the strategies and tools that students will use to manage non-repetitive business activities like new product development, construction, consulting engagements, market introduction, and organization restructurings. They will focus on the breakdown structure of work, PERT/CPM models and analysis, time and cost models, probabilistic analysis, and network representation.
Big Data Management
The basic foundations of management, acquisition, and visualization of large data sets are some of the key elements students will learn in a big data management course. They learn how to manage, store, and query databases using SQL. They also focus on managing data and efficiently acquiring public data to construct large data sets.
Certifications and Licenses a Master's in Supply Chain Management Prepares For
Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity
To demonstrate their expertise of the supply chain, professionals can become a certified professional in supplier diversity. In the program, they will learn about the importance and impact of supplier diversity. Additionally, they will learn to create long-lasting business relationships. Salary data shows that because supplier diversity is in such high demand, professionals with this certification have higher average salaries than professionals without certification.
Certified Supply Chain Professional
Certified supply chain professionals have verified mastery of supply chain management best practices. In the program, professionals become experts in facilitating supply chain functions, physical logistics, information technology, international trade, and customer relations.
Project Management Professional
The project management professional certification validates a professional's project management acumen in team and project direction. This program teaches professionals to speak and understand the project management language in order to connect effectively to professionals and organizations around the world.
Certificate in Production and Inventory Management
This certification provides professionals with the skills to thrive in the supply chain management industry. Professionals learn to evaluate production activities and inventory within global operations as they focus on master scheduling, supplier relationships, procurement management, quality control, and supplier planning.
Certified Professional in Supply Management
Certified professionals in supply management have credentials to prove their knowledge of contracts, negotiations, sourcing, procurement, and leadership. According to salary data, professionals with this certification earn more annually than professionals with no certification.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Master's in Supply Chain Management
What is supply chain management?
Supply chain management handles the flow of goods and services from suppliers, manufacturers, wholesalers and other parties and delivers them to customers. Companies use supply chains to reduce excess costs and deliver products to consumers faster and more efficiently.
What classes are in a master's in supply chain management program?
A master's in supply chain management includes classes on supply chain, business, communication, and leadership concepts. You'll learn about concepts like strategic procurement, logistics transportation, and how to apply sustainable business practices.
Are supply chain management majors in demand?
Certain careers in supply chain management are in demand. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects logistician careers to grow by 28% from 2021-2031, much faster than the average of 5% for all occupations. Other in-demand careers for supply chain management majors include business operations specialists, management analysts, and operations research analysts.
