Online Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management: Courses, Careers & Payment

If you're interested in managing global supply chains, a bachelor's degree in supply chain management could be your ideal path. This page provides an in-depth look at what you can expect from an online supply chain management degree, including the curriculum, types of degrees, specializations, and career opportunities.

Additionally, you'll find guidance on choosing the right program, understanding financial aid options, and learning about the skills you'll gain. Whether you're starting or advancing your career, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

What Is an Online Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management?

A supply chain management degree prepares students for careers in managing and optimizing the flow of goods, services, and information from suppliers to consumers. This degree covers various aspects of supply chain management, including procurement, logistics, operations, and the use of technology to streamline processes.

The program typically includes courses in logistics management, supply chain strategy, inventory control, and transportation systems. Students also learn about the role of information systems in supply chain management, which includes understanding how to use software and technology to monitor and manage supply chain activities.

One of the primary benefits of earning a supply chain management degree online is the flexibility it offers. Online programs are structured to allow students to complete coursework at their own pace, making it easier to balance education with work or other commitments.

Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for roles such as supply chain analysts, logistics managers, and procurement specialists in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.

Online Supply Chain Management Degree Core Curriculum

The core curriculum of online supply chain management degrees prepares you to manage supply chains effectively. We've listed typical course topics below.

• Introduction to supply chain management: an overview of supply chain principles, including the management of goods and services from supplier to consumer
• Logistics and transportation management: focuses on the planning, implementation, and control of the efficient movement of goods
• Inventory management: teaches methods for maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing costs
• Procurement and sourcing: covers strategies for acquiring goods and services that meet organizational needs while ensuring cost-effectiveness
• Supply chain strategy: explores the development and implementation of strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chains
• Information systems for supply chain management: examines the role of technology in monitoring and managing supply chain activities, including the use of software and data analytics

Types of Online Supply Chain Management Degrees

You can find supply chain management degrees online under several different degree titles. The differences among them are explained below.

• Bachelor of Science in supply chain management: focuses on the technical aspects of supply chain management, including logistics, operations, and data analysis
• Bachelor of Science in project and supply chain management: trains students to be supply chain managers along with project and program managers
• Bachelor of Science in supply chain and operations management: combined supply chain management skills with understanding operations and using data to support decisions
• Bachelor of Science in supply chain and logistics management: focuses on the planning and management of the movement and storage of goods
• Bachelor's degree with a specialization in global supply chain management: earning a business administration or technical management degree that focuses on managing supply chains in a global context, including cross-border logistics and international trade regulations
• Bachelor of Science in business with a supply chain management and analytics emphasis: specializes in the use of data analysis and software tools to improve supply chain decision-making

Learn more: Is a Supply Chain Management Degree Right for You?

Earning Your Supply Chain Management Degree Online

To earn your supply chain management degree online, follow the steps we've outlined below.

Choose the Best Program

Figuring out which program aligns with your career goals is crucial. When you explore each program's page online, request more information from the university so that you can be in touch with admissions counselors and ask questions you may have.

The top online supply chain management programs will also adhere to the following guidelines:

• accredited
• comprehensive curriculum
• flexible
• experience faculty
• plenty of student support services
• affordable tuition
• proven career success for graduates

Apply to the Program

Once you found the program that is best for you, complete the application process before the deadline. You will most likely need to submit high school transcripts, personal statements, and test scores.

Secure Financial Aid

Then you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form will determine what financial aid you are eligible for.

If you have great financial need, you could qualify for the Pell Grant or the Federal Supplemental Educational Grant (FSEOG). The federal government will also allow you to take out a student loan with low interest rates.

You could also research scholarship opportunities. The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Scholarships are available for students in supply chain and logistics programs, making them an excellent option for you.

Scholarships for underrepresented groups in supply chain management, such as women or minority students, are available from organizations like APICS (now part of the Association for Supply Chain Management).

Enroll in Courses

Once your payments are set up and the program gives you credentials to log in to their site, you are ready to register for classes. Follow your degree completion plan to ensure you graduate on time. It should take you around four years to complete your degree as a full-time student.

Gain Practical Experience

If your program allows you to participate in an internship for credit, do it. This opportunity will give you real-world experience and help you build connections with people who may offer you a job post-graduation.

Career Opportunities for an Online Supply Chain Management Major

Earning an online degree in supply chain management opens up a variety of career opportunities in various industries. Graduates are equipped with the skills to manage and optimize supply chains, leading to roles such as:

• Supply chain analyst: analyzes supply chain performance and develops strategies to improve efficiency
• Logistics manager: oversees the storage and transportation of goods within an organization
• Procurement specialist: manages the acquisition of materials and services needed by an organization
• Operations manager: ensures that business operations are efficient and effective, managing resources and processes
• Inventory control specialist: manages inventory levels to meet customer demand while minimizing costs
• Supply chain consultant: provides expert advice to organizations on optimizing their supply chain operations

FAQs About Earning an Online Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management

Learn more about earning your bachelor's degree in supply chain management by reviewing the commonly asked questions below.

Is an Online Degree in Supply Chain Management Worth It?

Yes, a degree in supply chain management is worth it if you're interested in a career that involves managing and optimizing supply chains. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this career field will grow by 18% over the next decade.

Is an Online Supply Chain Management Major Hard?

The difficulty of an online supply chain management major depends on your background and aptitude for business and logistics. While the program can be challenging, especially in areas like logistics management or supply chain strategy, the flexibility of online learning can help you manage the workload effectively.

How Much Does an Online Supply Chain Management Degree Cost?

According to U.S. News, the cost of tuition for an online supply chain management degree averages between $300 to $500 per credit. Therefore, total tuition is between $36,000 and $64,000.

Are There Any Free or Affordable Supply Chain Management Degree Programs Online?

Even though you cannot earn this degree for free, you can find affordable online supply chain management programs. Public colleges offer more affordable tuition rates to in-state students. Research these programs first to see if the costs are more affordable for you before researching private and out-of-state universities.

What Skills Will I Gain in an Online Supply Chain Management Degree Program?

In an online supply chain management degree program, you will gain the following skills:

• analytical thinking
• effective communication
• team collaboration
• ethical decision-making
• data analysis and visualization
• business analytics and trend analysis
• project management and quality assurance

These skills prepare you to effectively manage the flow of goods and services in various industries.