Is a Supply Chain Management Degree Right for Me?

If you like working in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment, then a role in supply chain management could be the right degree program for you.

The world of business relies on supply chains for everything from office supplies to production materials. The professionals who are responsible for keeping these supply chains running are called supply chain managers, and this specialized career path can be appealing to many college students.

If you like working with multiple vendors, streamlining supply chain processes, and maximizing sustainability, then a supply chain management degree might be right for you.

What Is a Supply Chain Management Degree?

A supply chain management (SCM) degree is an undergraduate degree program that focuses on the decision-making processes around streamlining and the optimization of logistics and supply chains. Within the main degree, multiple specializations focus on different aspects of supply chain management, such as strategy and global supply chains.

There are supply chain management degree programs at both the bachelor's and master's degree levels, although most employers have a preference for the master's degree version for non-entry-level roles.

In addition to traditional supply chain management degrees, some graduates with business degrees can make the transition to supply chain management as many components of international business relate directly to supply chains.

Supply Chain Certifications

In addition to a degree, multiple supply chain-related certifications can advance your career with additional training. Although these certifications might support your career advancement, they won't serve as a replacement or substitute for an accredited degree program.

Some popular certifications include:

APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM)
ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

What Does a Supply Chain Management Major Study?

Supply chain management majors study a variety of subjects related to the entire supply chain. Understanding fundamental aspects like procurement of raw materials and forecasting inventory needs will be primary focuses, but there will also be coursework on budget and data analysis and distribution management.

SCM degrees also cover some of the soft skills associated with supply chain management jobs. Communication, written and verbal, is essential to sourcing materials and supplies locally and globally. Supply chain managers will also work on problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that will be essential to working in SCM positions.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Supply Chain Management

Within the world of business administration, many specializations can appeal to different people. Supply chain management is often right for people who like maintaining large-scale systems and project management, but there are other reasons to consider a supply chain job.

In-Demand Field With High Growth Opportunities

As supply chains continue to be impacted by globalization, the need for skilled supply chain managers will not only remain high but actually grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some supply chain management positions will increase by up to 18% by 2032, over six times the national average projection.

When so many careers are subject to disruptions from AI, global crises, and more having a career with stability and a positive growth outlook is essential.

Good Salaries

Although pay will vary from company and company, and even within different specializations, the average pay for most supply chain management positions exceeds the national average for salaries. Supply chain management professionals also have room for growth in their industry, which can lead to even higher salaries.

Fast Paced Environment

The world of logistics and supply chains moves at a fast pace, which might be a draw to some people. Each day can be different and even working within a limited industry, the role of different vendors and changes in demand can make work exciting and engaging. International supply routes can often change at a moment's notice and even the best plans can fall apart quickly. Being able to work fast and quickly solve problems is a vital skill.

Local Work Done Internationally

Regardless of where your job is located, the work of a supply chain manager is almost always a global effort. Procuring supplies and sourcing materials involves understanding international laws, tariffs, and customs procedures to make sure that supplies arrive when they are needed for production.

Work-Based Travel

Even though much of ordering and supply chain management is done over the internet or through phone calls, there will be times when trips to supplier facilities will be required when looking for new vendors or quality control. If you're interested in a career that could include international travel, a supply chain management role could be perfect for you.

Transferrable Skill Set

The skill set that comes with supply chain management is highly transferrable to other forms of project management. In the work experience you'll gain from an SCM role, you'll develop skills like understanding data analytics, maintaining international partnerships, and more which can transfer to other business units, such as finance.

Multiple Career Opportunities

Within the umbrella of supply chain operations, several specializations can help you make the most of your supply chain management career. Whether you want to work as an inventory manager or in more of a supply chain analyst role, there will be multiple positions that will be available to you.

Job Opportunities for Supply Chain Management Degree Majors

Many options within supply chain management can provide a rewarding and well-paying career path. If you're planning to become a supply chain manager, some of the careers you can look for include:

Supply Chain Management Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Because supply chain management is a specialized role, choosing it as a degree or career path might be hard. Before you enroll in a SCM degree program, ask yourself a few questions about supply chain management to determine if it's right for you.

Do I want a fast-paced job environment that includes international work and consistent changes?
Do I like inventory and project management?
Do I want to work with teams inside and outside of my company?
Am I interested in learning about different raw materials and how to properly source them?
Do I like using data analysis for forecasting the needs of my business as well as the availability of supplies?
Am I comfortable using Excel and other computer programs to record data?