Students who complete an online program to earn their master’s degree in supply chain management will learn much more about this highly technical field. They will also be able to obtain a more senior-level supply chain management job, such as logistician, where they can expect to earn an average salary of $77,520 per year.
Such programs require 30-60 credit hours; most full-time students can complete the required coursework in two years. Accelerated programs may allow students to complete all their courses in only one year. According to U.S. News & World Report, an online master’s degree in supply chain management usually costs between $12,000 to $50,000.
We’ve enlisted Michelle Pickett, director of Northern Illinois University’s Academic Advising Center, for advice on preparing for an online degree program, creating a standout application, and exploring career options.
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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Supply chain Management degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 34 Accredited Online Master's in Supply Chain Management Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Portland State University
Intelligent Score: 97.99In-state: $7,907
Out-of-state: $25,536
In-state: $14,652
Out-of-state: $14,652
SAT: 1000-1190
ACT: 17-24
Resident: $663
Non-Resident: $804
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
45
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Intelligent Score: 96.2In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $30,250
In-state: $10,780
Out-of-state: $10,780
SAT: 1070-1330
ACT: 23-31
$545
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Marquette University
Intelligent Score: 95.92In-state: $44,970
Out-of-state: $44,970
In-state: $21,690
Out-of-state: $21,690
SAT: 1160-1340
ACT: 25-30
$1,295
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
31
Florida Tech
Intelligent Score: 95.56In-state: $42,346
Out-of-state: $42,346
In-state: $22,338
Out-of-state: $22,338
SAT: 1130-1330
ACT: 23-30
$800
Online, On Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Georgia College & State University
Intelligent Score: 95.19In-state: $7,508
Out-of-state: $26,688
In-state: $5,292
Out-of-state: $5,292
SAT: 1100-1245
ACT: 23-27
$467
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Kettering University
Intelligent Score: 91.34In-state: $42,906
Out-of-state: $42,906
In-state: $15,252
Out-of-state: $15,252
SAT: 1180-1360
ACT: 25-30
$949
Online
Higher Learning Commission
40
University of Washington
Intelligent Score: 90.47In-state: $10,629
Out-of-state: $37,998
In-state: $16,278
Out-of-state: $16,278
SAT: 1200-1453
ACT: 27-33
$1,035
Online
Higher Learning Commission
43
Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University
Intelligent Score: 90.30In-state: $36,456
Out-of-state: $36,456
In-state: $18,228
Out-of-state: $18,228
SAT: 1140-1320
ACT: 23-29
$836
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
30
Georgetown University
Intelligent Score: 89.28In-state: $57,384
Out-of-state: $57,384
In-state: $53,136
Out-of-state: $53,136
SAT: 1380-1550
ACT: 31-35
$1,573
Online, On Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education,
33
University of Wisconsin - Platteville
Intelligent Score: 88.2In-state: $9,273
Out-of-state: $37,161
In-state: $10,728
Out-of-state: $10,728
SAT: 1260-1460
ACT: 27-32
$750
Online
Higher Learning Commission
33
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Intelligent Score: 87.62In-state: $12,230
Out-of-state: $29,012
In-state: $17,736
Out-of-state: $17,736
SAT: 1180-1410
ACT: 25-32
Resident: $1,248
Non-Resident: $2,167
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
University of Southern California
Intelligent Score: 85.71In-state: $59,260
Out-of-state: $59,260
In-state: $47,880
Out-of-state: $47,880
SAT: 1340-1530
ACT: 30-34
$2,244
Online, On Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
University of Colorado Boulder
Intelligent Score: 85.54In-state: $33,466
Out-of-state: $60,716
In-state: $59,883
Out-of-state: $59,883
SAT: 1160-1390
ACT: 26-32
Resident: $1, 121
Non-Resident: $1,568
Online, On Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
33
Syracuse University Whitman School of Management
Intelligent Score: 83.48In-state: $53,432
Out-of-state: $53,432
In-state: $40,392
Out-of-state: $40,392
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,872
Online, On Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Charleston Southern University
Intelligent Score: 83.14In-state: $27,800
Out-of-state: $27,800
In-state: $7,800
Out-of-state: $7,800
SAT: 990-1170
ACT: 19-24
$650
Online
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
30
University of Arkansas
Intelligent Score: 83.04In-state: $7,568
Out-of-state: $24,056
In-state: $7,752
Out-of-state: $7,752
SAT: 1090-1280
ACT: 23-29
$437
Online, On Campus, Blended
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Auburn University
Intelligent Score: 82.80In-state: $10,080
Out-of-state: $30,240
In-state: $10,080
Out-of-state: $10,080
SAT: 1160-1320
ACT: 25-31
$950
Online, On Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
30
Boston University
Intelligent Score: 82.55In-state: $56,854
Out-of-state: $56,854
In-state: $56,854
Out-of-state: $56,854
SAT: 1310-1500
ACT: 30-34
$535 - $955
Online, On Campus, Blended
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
40
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Program
Choose your area of study
Some schools offer a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in supply chain management, while others offer a Master of Science (MS) in supply chain management. MBA in supply chain management programs cover a broad range of business topics, while MS in supply chain management programs focus more on data analysis and other math-related subjects.
Many programs will also allow you to choose a specialized area of study. The exact concentrations available may vary by school, but students can typically choose from global business, quantitative approaches, logistics management, logistics and transportation, and logistics and operations.
These concentrations are related to supply chain management, but different concentrations prepare students for more specialized careers after graduation. Because of this, students are encouraged to carefully consider their ideal post-graduation career before selecting the area they will specialize in.
“One helpful resource is the Bureau of Labor Statistics’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, which provides a wealth of career information, including the career outlook and educational preparation needed for different occupations,” Pickett says. “Researching the growth opportunities for a career is important. Understanding this information is just one factor individuals can use to make a well-informed decision about their career path.”
Research schools and programs
There is no shortage of universities offering an online master’s in supply chain management, so students need to develop their criteria to help them narrow down this extensive list of programs to a much smaller list of prospective schools.
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your master’s in supply chain management program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These organizations have particularly high standards for business education.
Additionally, students should rule out schools that are too expensive for their budget and schools that don’t offer a learning format that aligns with their learning preferences and needs. To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit their website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Most online programs for a master’s degree in supply chain management require students to submit GRE or GMAT scores. If a student has never taken one of these required tests, it’s important to know that it may take up to three months to study for the test and up to three weeks to receive test results. The time requirement may affect whether the student can meet specific application deadlines.
Each school and program have different application requirements. In addition to test scores, you may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and other materials.
“In your personal statement, address why you’re interested in the institution and your selected area of study, and discuss your personal or professional goals for the future,” Pickett advises. “A personal statement can also allow students who may not meet all admissions criteria to provide details about their circumstances.”
Before submitting an application, always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
With the list of schools now narrowed down, students must next decide on the online programs they plan to apply to.
Before making your final decision, you should review your needs and goals again (especially any logistical concerns). Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Are you only interested in 100% online programs, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a few in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer?
“It’s essential for individuals pursuing online degree programs to understand their learning styles and to have access to adequate technology resources to take their classes,” says Pickett. “Adequate technology includes high-speed internet access and a laptop or computer with current software. Having a quiet place in your home is also important to focus on your classes.”
Cost should also be a consideration: students can mitigate or avoid taking on student debt by focusing on more affordable programs. Students who can’t pay for their tuition outright should focus on schools that offer enough financial aid to meet their needs. Finally, students may wish to focus on schools that provide a high degree of support (including tutoring services and online cohorts) necessary for remote learners to thrive.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
It’s always advisable for those pursuing an online master’s in supply chain management to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. Filling out this form qualifies students to receive federal student loans, and a completed FAFSA may be required for any grants, scholarships, or assistantships the student may earn. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
Students who need additional aid or want to explore their options should contact the financial aid office of each prospective school to inquire about special assistance that may be available through either the school or the state.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Program?
An online master’s in supply chain management program is designed to build upon students’ knowledge of planning, logistics, and management while teaching additional skills, such as interpersonal and international communication.
As with most graduate degrees, the area of study chosen affects the coursework. For example, someone specializing in global business will learn more about topics such as international trade and multinational finance. Meanwhile, someone specializing in logistics and transportation will learn about business laws and theories and practical skills such as making the delivery of various goods faster and more efficient.
Most of the time, an online program to earn a master’s degree in supply chain management can be completed in two years by students attending full-time. Full-time students can also take accelerated programs that allow them to complete their coursework in as little as one year, while part-time students should expect their coursework to take three years or longer to complete.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in supply chain management degree program
- Advanced Supply Chain Planning and Control: This course builds on students’ existing supply chain management knowledge by providing more detail about converting raw materials into finished goods for consumers. As part of this class, students will learn in-depth about the different aspects of the supply chain, from scheduling to inventory management.
- Case Studies in Global Supply Chain and Logistics: This class teaches students about applying supply chain theories to various real-world scenarios. While this course emphasizes global logistics, its fundamentals can also help students address domestic supply chain issues.
- Decision Models for Supply Chain: When it comes to supply chain management, there are many theories and modeling approaches to managing the chain more effectively. This course provides an overview of decision models used in supply chain management and how these models can help create the most optimal approach.
- Project Management: This course prepares students for every step of the project management process, including manufacturing, R&D, resource management, construction, and more. Students will be ready to take the lead on any project related to the supply chain.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management?
Career outlook
Supply chain management is critical to the success of many businesses in today’s global marketplace. With the increasing need for efficient and cost-effective supply chains, there is strong demand for a variety of occupations related to this field.
Indeed, earning an online master’s degree in supply chain management becomes a gateway to many compelling career paths. Supply chain professionals play a pivotal role in optimizing processes, minimizing costs, and ensuring seamless operations from production to delivery. Here are some job options that can be undertaken by someone with a master’s in supply chain management:
- Logistician — Manage an organization’s supply chain, overseeing activities such as product acquisition, inventory, and warehousing.
- Median annual salary: $77,520
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 18%
- New job openings projected: 21,800 annually
- Wholesale or manufacturing sales representative — Identify prospective clients and supply bulk goods to corporations, government agencies, and other organizations.
- Median annual salary: $67,750
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 1%
- New job openings projected: 148,000 annually
- Purchasing agent, buyer, or purchasing manager — Purchasing managers supervise the work of purchasing agents and buyers, who are responsible for evaluating suppliers and negotiating contracts on behalf of their employer.
- Median annual salary: $75,120
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): -6%
- New job openings projected: 45,000 annually
Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master's in supply chain management degree program?
To apply for an online master’s in supply chain management, students must first navigate to the university website. There, students can apply directly online or through an application portal. Either way, filling out the required fields and hitting “send” shouldn’t take too long. Still, it’s important to review the application for any required attachments, including test scores, transcripts, a cover letter, and letters of recommendation.
Students with questions about the application or application process should contact the school’s admissions office. There, they can get the answers they need and confirm that their submitted application is complete.
How much does an online master's in supply chain management degree program cost?
According to U.S. News & World Report, an online master’s in supply chain management typically costs between $12,000 and $50,000. Private schools are often much more expensive than public schools. Also, public schools tend to charge out-of-state students much more than in-state students. Those who put in the time to research all their options may able to achieve significant savings.
How long does it take to earn an online master's in supply chain management degree?
An online program for a master’s degree in supply chain management can typically be completed within two years by full-time students.
Those who enroll in an accelerated program will be able to complete all their coursework in only one year, while those who attend part-time may need three years or more. Ultimately, the most important thing for remote learners to do is to find an online program that offers coursework related to their career goals with the learning format and remote support necessary for academic success.
Is an online master's in supply chain management worth it?
Earning an online master’s in supply chain management may be worth it for many individuals. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is growing, opening up numerous opportunities for career advancement. This can be a lucrative field as well, with supply chain management positions often offering six-figure salaries.
Online programs offer flexibility, allowing individuals to pursue advanced education without disrupting their careers. This flexibility is crucial for working professionals seeking to enhance their skills and qualifications while balancing work and personal commitments. Online master’s programs often incorporate real-world case studies and collaborative projects, providing practical insights and networking opportunities that can directly impact one’s career.
For those considering a career change or seeking to move into managerial roles within the supply chain field, an online master’s degree offers a convenient and effective pathway. The flexibility to study from anywhere, coupled with the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and industry experts, makes online education a valuable investment for anyone aspiring to excel in the dynamic and critical field of supply chain management.
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