Guide to Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Programs

The field of supply chain management and logistics is growing rapidly, and there are many good programs from which to choose. This guide provides information about the master’s degree program in supply chain management and logistics, different programs’ specialties, what they offer, and how to choose the right one for you. Prospective students can learn about the admission requirements of various schools, how to fund their education, and what career opportunities are available to them with a degree in supply chain management and logistics.

What is a Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics?

The Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Program focuses on managing the flow of goods and services from supplier to customer. The program provides students with an understanding of the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of supply chain management and logistics. Students will learn how to plan, organize, direct, and control an organization’s procurement, production, and distribution functions.

Beyond focusing on the technical elements of data and modeling, purchasing and procurement, and logistics, an advanced supply chain and logistics degree will help students develop the skills necessary to manage the flow of products and the processes that generate them. Supply chain management is focused on data-driven changes that help an organization run more efficiently, infuse adaptability throughout the business operation, and often result in more sustainable business practices.

Earning a Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics can prepare students for a variety of careers in many different industries. Graduates of this program often find work in manufacturing, transportation, and retail companies. With a focus on data analysis and business strategy, a Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics can give students the skills they need to make an impact in the world of business.

Types of Master’s in SCM and Logistics Programs

Supply chain management and logistics programs come in many different formats. Each is designed to meet the needs of a specific audience. There are other types of programs such as:

• MS/MA in Supply Chain Management and Logistics: This program is specifically designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers in supply chain management and logistics. The program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of supply chain management and logistics.
• MBA Programs with SCM/Logistics Concentrations: An MBA program in SCM is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to perform leadership roles in various areas of supply chain. In addition to fundamental business skills, the programs provide students with an in-depth understanding of the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of supply chain management and logistics.
• Master’s in Supply Chain/Logistics Analytics: Supply chain analytics programs teach you to turn data into predictive insights. This degree prepares students to make data-driven decisions that help supply chains run more efficiently.
• Facilities Management: A Master’s in Facilities Management will teach students how to manage and operate the physical infrastructure of an organization. The program provides students with an understanding of the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of vendor management, risk management, sustainability, and security.
• Operations Management: This program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in operations management. The program provides students with an understanding of strategic, operational, lean concepts, production planning, and finance.
• Supply Chain Engineering: Supply chain engineering students will learn how to optimize the flow of goods and materials within an organization. The program provides students with an understanding of warehouse design, process mapping, and transportation management. Career options after graduation include transportation coordinator, production planner, consultant, and inventory analyst.

Choosing the right program can be the difference between getting the skills you need and getting the skills you want.

The Master’s in SCM/Logistics Experience

When applying to a master’s in supply chain management and logistics program, universities will look for applicants with a strong academic background and relevant work experience. Admission requirements may vary from school to school, but most programs require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA.

Work experience is also important, and many programs require students to have at least two years of work experience in a related field. An internship experience is also beneficial and may be used to fulfill this requirement.

Admissions Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum 2.5 GPA on all previous coursework
• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
• May require students to submit GMAT or GRE scores
• May require relevant work experience

Supply Chain Management and Logistics Coursework

Coursework in a supply chain management and logistics program will provide students with an in-depth understanding of the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of the field. These programs will focus on transportation, operations, leadership, and logistics.

MBA programs with supply chain management/logistics concentrations are designed for students who want to pursue a career in business operations. The supply chain management and logistics program curriculum should cover all aspects of the field, from purchasing and logistics to business strategy and international trade. The general structure of the program includes coursework and electives designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the field.

Some of the courses that may be offered in a supply chain management/logistics program are:

• Global Supply Chain Management
• Purchasing and Materials Management
• Operations Management
• Lean Six Sigma

While these are some of the most common courses, programs may also offer warehouse design, process mapping, and transportation management courses.

Projects and Student Experiences

Most programs require students to complete a thesis or capstone project as part of the degree requirements. This allows students to apply the skills and knowledge they learned in the classroom to a real-world project. These on-the-job experiences may require the students to travel to another country where they learn and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential in the field.

Many students also have the opportunity to complete an internship during their studies. This can be an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in the field. And students who have previously completed a supply chain internship can sometimes use them to fulfill the work experience required for admission into a master’s program.

Job Opportunities After Earning a Master’s in Supply Chain Management

When pursuing a career in supply chain management or logistics, having a higher degree is seen as an advantage. A Master’s in Supply Chain Management can lead to a variety of jobs in the industry. Some of the most common job titles for those with a Master’s in Supply Chain Management include logistics manager, operations manager, and supply chain manager. These roles have different responsibilities, but they all work together to ensure that the supply chain runs smoothly. The growth of eCommerce, rising labor costs, and the recent supply chain struggles have organizations looking to do things faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost. Supply chain expertise is in high demand as organizations look to address all of these areas.

The following list includes five top job titles for Master’s in Supply Chain Management graduates, as well as a brief overview of what each role entails.

1. Supply Chain and Logistics Manager/Director

Supply chain and logistics leaders are responsible for developing and implementing the logistics plan for a company, maintaining relationships with suppliers, and ensuring that the right supplies are available when needed. They also work to optimize the supply chain network to reduce costs. This includes selecting the right shipping company, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring that orders are delivered on time.

2. Operations Manager/Director

The operations manager is responsible for all of the day-to-day operations of a company. This includes ensuring that the production process is running smoothly, overseeing inventory levels, and making sure that the company’s facilities are up to code.

3. Director of Supply Chain Operations

A supply chain operations director is responsible for developing and implementing the strategy for the supply chain. They work with other departments in the company to make sure that the products being produced are in line with the company’s goals. They also work with suppliers and distributors to make sure that the company has access to the necessary supplies.

4. Procurement Manager

The procurement manager is responsible for acquiring the right supplies and materials for a company. This includes negotiating contracts, evaluating suppliers, and making sure that the company is getting the best deals possible.

5. Transportation Manager

The transportation manager is responsible for arranging the transportation of goods to and from the company. This includes selecting the right mode of transportation, negotiating rates, executing last mile strategies, and ensuring that deliveries arrive on time.

Browse All Master’s in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Programs

It is an exciting time to pursue a supply chain and logistics career. Investing in your education is a great way to jump-start your career in the field of supply chain management and logistics. By furthering your education, you will be well-positioned to make a true impact in the supply chain field. If you’re ready to start exploring supply chain management and logistics programs, look at our program listings below.

Note: This page only lists on-campus offerings. You can find all online Master’s in SCM programs here.