Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Programs
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If you are a logistical thinker who enjoys problem solving and management, you might consider pursuing graduate study in supply chain management. An MBA in supply chain management combines general courses in business administration with more focused classes in areas of procurement, transportation, global supply chains, and supply chain sustainability.
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The BLS projects 11% job growth for management analysts.
The total tuition required to earn an MBA in supply chain management varies widely, with most students paying $35,000-$85,000. Private schools usually cost more than public schools, and students eligible for in-state tuition typically pay less.
Most online MBA in supply chain management programs require 36-45 credits and take two years to complete. Some schools offer accelerated online MBA programs, which can help you earn your degree in less time.
Earning an MBA in supply chain management can prepare you for a career as a supply chain manager, logistician, management analyst, or purchasing manager, among other roles. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the number of logistician jobs could grow by 4% between 2019 and 2029. During the same period, the BLS projects 11% job growth for management analysts.
Still unsure about your MBA college choice? Check out our overall Best Online MBA Programs.
Related Supply Chain Management Programs for You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
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What Is an MBA in Supply Chain Management?
Students earning an MBA in supply chain management take courses, such as strategic transportation management, supply chain logistics, and logistics systems and analytics. MBA students also learn about general business administration and finance.
Many programs provide students with work experience through internships. Several programs maintain strong industry ties, which may help students find work after graduating. Some MBA in supply chain management programs incorporate case studies, requiring students to think analytically about professional challenges in supply chain management.
When reviewing applications, admissions departments consider prospective students' work experience, undergraduate coursework, and other application materials. These materials may include GMAT or GRE scores, statements of purpose, and letters of recommendation from former employers, colleagues, or educators.
What Can I Expect From an Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Program?
Students pursuing an online MBA in supply chain management develop logistical, managerial, and critical thinking skills. Many programs offer a concentration in supply chain management but require that students also take general business administration and finance courses, which prepare students for diverse roles.
An online MBA program may offer you greater flexibility than attending classes on campus. However, before enrolling, consider the pros and cons of pursuing an online degree. Some MBA in supply chain management programs charge distance learners slightly higher tuition than those who attend classes on campus. However, many online MBAs cost as much or less than on-campus programs.
Example MBA in Supply Chain Management Courses
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Supply Chain Logistics -
Strategic Transportation Management -
Logistics Systems and Analytics -
Global Logistics Management -
Management and Organizational Behavior
What are Admission Requirements for an MBA in Supply Chain Management Program?
Test Scores
Most online MBA programs in supply chain management require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores. However, several programs offer standardized test waivers to students with sufficient work experience or learners with a minimum 3.5 undergraduate GPA.
Some programs require minimum GMAT or GRE scores. From 2017-2019, the average GMAT score among all test takers was 564.84. Between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2019, the average GRE score among those pursuing graduate study in business was 151 in verbal reasoning and 155 in qualitative reasoning, with an average score of 3.6 in analytical writing.
To perform your best on either the GMAT or GRE, study and prepare before test day. Students can access GMAT prep guides and learn more about the GRE online and through books and other resources at colleges and libraries.
Letters of Recommendation
Most MBA in supply chain management programs require students to submit letters of recommendation when applying. Consider asking college instructors, advisors, employers, or work colleagues for recommendation letters. A good recommender is someone who knows you in a professional capacity and can speak to your knowledge, abilities, and potential.
Resume
Many MBA in supply chain management programs expect applicants to have some professional experience in the field. Some programs specify that prospective students must have worked in supply chain management or a related industry for at least two years. Some schools waive standardized test requirements for students with five or more years of relevant work experience.
Essays
Graduate programs often require prospective students to submit an essay or statement of purpose. In your MBA application essay, consider discussing your career goals, what you hope to gain by earning your degree, and how you would contribute to the program if admitted.
Like an undergraduate application essay, an MBA application essay is an opportunity to demonstrate your writing ability and critical thinking skills. However, unlike a college application essay, an MBA application essay should provide detailed information about your work experience and specify your career goals.
Official Transcripts
Applicants must typically submit official college transcripts to prove their eligibility for graduate study. Prospective students can usually obtain these through their college or university registrar's office. Some programs only consider students with a certain undergraduate GPA.
In some instances, you may be able to transfer credits earned as an undergrad toward your MBA. Check your program's requirements to determine if any of your college credits are eligible for transfer.
What Can I Do With an MBA in Supply Chain Management Degree?
According to PayScale, the average salary for professionals with an MBA in supply chain management is $86,760. Directors of supply chain management are among the highest earners with this degree, making an average of $126,650 a year.
Earning an MBA in supply chain management can prepare you for careers in logistics, management, and purchasing. The BLS projects that the logistics profession could add 8,200 jobs between 2019 and 2029, a 4% increase. Management analysts are also in high demand, with a projected job growth rate of 11%.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers oversee all aspects of a supply chain, including the purchasing of raw materials, production of goods, and distribution of products to customers.
Median Annual Salary: $83,970
Logistician
Logisticians analyze supply chains and coordinate the movement of goods from supplier to consumer. Many supply chain professionals work in the broader field of logistics.
Median Annual Salary: $76,270
Management Analyst
Management analysts review an organization's operating systems to make them more efficient. Management analysts with an MBA in supply chain management might focus on inventory control or another facet of the supply chain.
Median Annual Salary: $85,260
Purchasing Manager
Purchasing managers oversee buyers and purchasing agents who procure goods for organizations to use or resell. Purchasing managers also develop policies and procedures for securing goods.
Median Annual Salary: $72,270
Demand Planner
Demand planners anticipate an organization's supply needs and ensure the organization stocks an adequate inventory of goods to meet customer demand.
Median Annual Salary: $68,020
Supply Chain Management Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Is an MBA in Supply Chain Management Worth It?
Although pursuing an MBA in supply chain management is a significant commitment, it may be worth the time, effort, and cost if it helps you advance in a career that is both profitable and fulfilling.
Supply chain professionals may want to earn their MBA to secure a pay raise or apply for senior industry roles. Earning an MBA can sometimes help project managers advance to supply chain management positions.
However, an MBA in supply chain management may not be the best choice for everyone. Some professionals may only need a basic understanding of how supply chains work to help them better understand its impact on their jobs and industry. In this case, earning a certificate in supply chain management may be sufficient.
Why Get an MBA in Supply Chain Management Instead of a Master's in Supply Chain Management?
Some schools offer master of science (MS) degrees in supply chain management, while others grant master of engineering (MEng) or master of applied science (MAS) degrees.
Earning an online MBA in supply chain management may be a good option for students who want to gain a broad understanding of business administration and finance while also developing expertise in managing supply chains. In contrast, an MS, MAS, or MEng in supply chain management may be a better option for those seeking training in data-driven management practices and data analysis.
You may be able to combine your MBA with another degree, such as an MS degree. Earning a dual degree can enhance your expertise and make you more competitive in the job market. Doing so may also save you time and tuition money, as credits earned in coursework could count toward both degrees.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
How Do I Choose an MBA in Supply Chain Management Program?
Cost
Enrolling in an MBA program can be expensive, but it may be a worthwhile investment. According to The Wall Street Journal, 75% of MBA graduates switch careers, sometimes doubling their salary in the process. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for professionals with an MBA in supply chain management was about $86,000, as of August 2021.
Although many schools provide information on tuition and fees, the true cost of earning your MBA online depends on several factors. These factors include whether you are eligible for in-state tuition, the cost of textbooks and technology, and whether you need to work less to fit coursework into your schedule.
Program Format
When choosing an online MBA in supply chain management program, consider whether you prefer synchronous or asynchronous online learning.
Synchronous programs require students to log in to classes at a specific time and tend to provide a more structured learning experience. Asynchronous programs allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule as long as they meet certain deadlines. Many programs offer a mix of synchronous and asynchronous delivery.
Students can also enroll in an online MBA in supply chain management program full time or part time.
There are several differences between full-time and part-time MBA programs. Earning your MBA full time can help you graduate sooner; however, working professionals may find it challenging to balance jobs and coursework. Attending school part time can offer greater flexibility, but it may extend your time to degree completion.
Location
Online MBA programs allow you to earn your degree remotely; however, some supply chain management programs require students to visit campus for orientation or to fulfill other requirements.
Also, some programs allow state residents to pay in-state tuition, even if they attend classes online. As such, you may want to choose an online MBA program at a school near you, even if you plan to do most of your learning at a distance.
Career Opportunities
Many online MBA in supply chain management programs track graduate job placement rates Some programs place over 80-90% of students in jobs within a year of graduation. Others claim that many of their alumni receive raises or promotions. Several programs provide students with job-hunting resources, such as career guides and job search software.
Programmatic Accreditation
When choosing an MBA in supply chain management program, make sure the school and program are accredited. Accreditation signals that a college or university has met standards for academic rigor. The top 5% of the world's business schools are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. However, other agencies offer programmatic, regional, and national accreditation.
2023 Best Online Supply Chain MBA Programs
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Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Programs
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University of Maryland - College ParkLocation
College Park, MD
UMD offers a 100% online MBA in supply chain management. Designed for working business professionals, this program challenges students to hone their leadership skills while developing a robust analytical toolkit. MBA coursework blends live Zoom classes with asynchronous multimedia and collaborative online work.
Supply chain management coursework focuses on risk mitigation and efficiency while also introducing learners to new technologies. Graduates of this program have access to resources like career services, along with a network of roughly 66,000 alumni.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,644
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 54 credit hours
- Program Length: 24 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Maryland, College Park is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
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Pennsylvania State UniversityLocation
University Park, PA
Recognized as offering some of the best online programs in the nation, Penn State World Campus is home to a flexible online MBA program. Business students can choose to pursue a nine-credit concentration in supply chain management. While most coursework can be completed entirely online, students must attend a three-day residency on campus towards the beginning of their program. This experience provides a formal introduction to both faculty and the distance learning methods used throughout the program.
In addition to core MBA coursework, such as classes in team performance and global strategic management, students round out their degree with supply chain courses covering topics like financial analysis, operations management, and demand fulfillment.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation:
- Cost-per-credit: $1,236
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
Penn State World Campus is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
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The University of Texas at DallasLocation
Richardson, TX
UT Dallas offers a 100% online MBA in supply chain management. Designed to accommodate the busy schedule of working professionals, this flexible degree requires 32 credits of core coursework and 21 credits of electives. The supply chain management concentration includes classes like project execution, operations management, and statistics and data analysis.
Prospective students must complete an online application and submit a professional letter of recommendation, a personal essay, and a resume. While GRE/GMAT scores are typically required, experienced professionals may request a standardized test waiver.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 53 semester hours
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
The University of Texas at Dallas is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Liberty UniversityLocation
Lynchburg, VA
Comprising 45 credits of coursework, the online MBA with a specialization in supply chain management and logistics at Liberty typically takes two years to complete. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Supply chain management coursework focuses on topics like business research methods and logistics.
Applicants to this online MBA program must submit a complete application alongside official college transcripts. Liberty — based in Lynchburg, Virginia — does not require applicants to its MBA program to submit standardized test scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $565
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credit hours
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Liberty University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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University of DallasLocation
Irving, TX
UT Dallas offers an MBA that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students can complete coursework online, on campus, or through a hybrid option. Learners complete a 30-credit MBA core as well as four specialized supply chain management classes covering topics such as global logistics, purchasing management, and supply chain analytics.
The program features a flexible, asynchronous delivery format, and students can complete coursework largely at their convenience. Participants can graduate in 2-3 years.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,250
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credit hours
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Private
University of Dallas is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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University of La VerneLocation
La Verne, CA
Located about 30 miles east of Los Angeles, La Verne is home to an online professional MBA in supply chain management program. Students complete core classes that cover topics such as corporate finance, marketing management, and organizational behavior. Learners also take electives and supply chain management courses like project management and compliance issues in supply chains.
In addition to a completed application, prospective students must submit a resume, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. Depending on their GPA, applicants may also need to submit GRE or GMAT test scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $910
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 33 semester hours
- Program Length: 1-3 years
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
University of La Verne is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
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University of Nebraska - LincolnLocation
Lincoln, NE
Offering both fully online and hybrid coursework, UNL is home to a flexible MBA in supply chain management program. Alongside traditional business coursework, students pursuing a supply chain management specialization learn about topics such as advanced enterprise systems, project management, and global supply chain management.
Interested students must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement along with their application. Depending on their experience, applicants may also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $650
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Public
University of Nebraska-Lincoln is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
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University of Wisconsin - WhitewaterLocation
Whitewater, WI
Through an approach that highlights global, ethical, and strategic leadership, UW-Whitewater's 36-credit online MBA program seeks to expand the expertise of working professionals while honing their leadership skills. Students selecting the supply chain management concentration focus on inventory control, facility layout, and quality management.
UW-Whitewater prefers applicants with military service, proven academic success, and/or professional experience in a business setting. Prospective students unable to satisfy any one of these criteria must submit GMAT scores.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $652
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
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Bethel UniversityLocation
Saint Paul, MN
Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel plays home to an online MBA program designed for professionals looking to hone management skills and augment career opportunities. Bethel's supply chain management concentration offers learners end-to-end knowledge of the field and focuses on topics like organizational diagnostics, data analytics, and supply chain technology.
In addition to coursework, degree-seekers complete an integrative team capstone project. Students often complete this MBA program in 24 months.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $650
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 42 credits
- Program Length: 18-24 months
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Private
Bethel University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
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Oregon State UniversityLocation
Corvallis, OR
Combining flexible online coursework with limited in-person requirements, OSU provides students with an MBA in supply chain and logistics management. Participants can graduate in 24 months. The online curriculum integrates core MBA classes with concentration coursework that covers supply chain analytics, global logistics management, and service operations.
Prospective students with an undergraduate degree in business may be eligible for admission into the school's accelerated MBA track. OSU's business programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $868
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45-60 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Public
Oregon State University is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
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Norwich UniversityLocation
Northfield, VT
Situated in central Vermont near the New Hampshire border, Norwich has a 200-year history of graduating future business leaders. Students complete Norwich's MBA in supply chain management almost entirely online, and participants can graduate in 18 months. Before graduation, MBA students must complete a one-week residency that serves as a culminating experience.
Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this 36-credit program is broken into 11-week sections. Supply chain management coursework covers topics like logistics, technology management, and planning and operations.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $808
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credits
- Program Length: 18-24 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Norwich University is accredited by New England Commission on Higher Education.
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Ohio UniversityLocation
Athens, OH
OU offers a 100% online MBA program with a concentration in operations and supply chain management. Students tackle core MBA coursework covering topics such as descriptive analytics, strategic marketing, and managerial finance. Alongside core classes, students also complete three supply chain management courses to satisfy concentration requirements.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and provide official transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants also need to submit a current resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,028 for in-state students; $1,047 for out-of-state students
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 35 semester credit hours
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Both
- School Status: Public
Ohio University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
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University of North TexasLocation
Denton, TX
UNT offers a 36-credit online MBA program with a concentration in supply chain management. Administered through a flexible online format, students complete 24 credits of core coursework alongside 12 credits of supply chain management classes. Supply chain courses cover topics such as industrial distribution, strategic supply management, and operations management.
Interested students must demonstrate an academic background in areas like economics, accounting, and business law. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation, a professional resume, and a personal statement.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $350
- Program Length: 18 months - 2 years
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
University of North Texas is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Citadel Military College of South CarolinaLocation
Charleston, SC
The Citadel seeks to shape the next generation of business leaders by providing military service members and working professionals a convenient path towards an MBA. The school's 100% online MBA in supply chain management utilizes Blackboard as its main platform, and students must complete 36 credits. Core courses include accounting for executives, managing innovation, and strategic marketing.
In addition to core MBA requirements, degree-seekers take supply chain-focused electives that cover topics like resource acquisition, inventory placement, and logistics planning.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Both
- School Status: Public
Citadel Military College of South Carolina is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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Anderson UniversityLocation
Anderson, SC
Situated in northwest South Carolina, Anderson is home to an MBA program where students can complete coursework online, on campus, or through a combination of the two. Anderson's asynchronous learning format may appeal to working students. In addition to core MBA classes, students can complete a supply chain management concentration by taking three courses.
Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA. In addition to submitting three letters of recommendation, applicants must also demonstrate relevant work experience.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $525
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12-24 months
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Anderson University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA in Supply Chain Management Programs
Is an MBA in supply chain management program hard to get into?
Some MBA in supply chain management programs maintain more extensive admission requirements than others. In fall 2019, the acceptance rate for prospective students applying to full-time MBA programs was 55.4%; however, this figure includes students not pursuing a concentration in supply chain management.
Are supply chain managers in demand?
Supply chain managers work in fields, such as logistics, management analysis, and purchasing. The BLS projects that jobs in purchasing could decline 7% between 2019 and 2029. However, during the same period, the BLS projects 4% growth for logistics jobs and 11% job growth for management analysts.
How long does it take to get an MBA in supply chain management?
Most MBA in supply chain management programs require students to complete 36-45 credits, though some require 54 credits. Full-time students typically graduate within two years.
Is supply chain management a good career?
If you enjoy planning, organizing, and overseeing complex operations, you may find a rewarding career in supply chain management. Most professionals working in supply chain management earn a high annual income, and some roles are in high demand.
What are the highest-paying jobs I can get with an MBA in supply chain management?
One of the highest paying jobs in the supply chain management field is director of supply chain management. According to PayScale, professionals in this role earn an average salary of $126,650 per year. Supply chain managers earn an average annual salary of $83,970.
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Reviewed by:
Krystal Covington, MBA
Krystal Covington, MBA, is a business growth strategist with 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations. Her company, Go Lead Consulting, provides clients foundational tools to build new client and customer relationships.
Covington founded Women of Denver, one of the largest privately held membership organizations in Denver, Colorado. Her program helps women increase their business acumen, sharpen leadership skills and connect with other high-achieving women. Covington received her MBA from Western Governors University in 2012.
