With state and global economies increasing in complexity and size, the cost-efficient and profit-generating production and distribution of goods and services have become quite a challenge. This business reality has raised the demand for experts in Supply Chain Management (SCM). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected that job positions in administrative services management will decrease by 6% from 2022 to 2032.
To gain an advantage in the marketplace, businesses are always on the hunt for Supply Chain Management specialists. Professional SCM experts are expected to possess advanced knowledge of modern business technology.
Highly trained SCM workers are logisticians, distribution managers, and purchasing managers—and they are among the highest-paid experts in the fields. To be eligible for Supply Chain Management work positions, you need to have earned at least a bachelor’s degree that can be obtained online.
Online SCM programs offer convenience and flexibility for adult learners who want to pursue a degree without disrupting their professional obligations. Online bachelor’s degrees in SCM allow students to gain fundamental knowledge and understanding of the flow of goods and services within a defined set of business processes and operations.
An online bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management prepares students for jobs associated with the flow of products and services, logistics, leadership, and facilitation of communication and funds involving companies, customers, and suppliers. Students will also learn to guarantee effective product delivery to consumers.
Supply Chain Management puts greater emphasis on increasing efficiency and generating value for the end consumer. An effective supply chain results in economic growth, overall enhancement, and business success.
Page Jumps!
- Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management
- Athens State University
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
- Bellevue University
- Baker College
- California State University-East Bay
- UMass Global
- East Carolina University
- University of Massachusetts-Amherst
- Ball State University
- Azusa Pacific University
- Minnesota State University-Moorhead
- Frequently Asked Questions
METHODOLOGY
In compiling a list of the country’s Best Online Schools for a Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management, we took into account the most important academic factors and features that produce the best professionals in the field. Listed in random order, the following aspects were reviewed, such as:
- The online schools on this list give students a competitive edge by featuring rigorous coursework and comprehensive program curricula,
- The online Supply Chain Management degree programs feature the fundamental concepts in business theory and best practices, as taught by instructors with impressive faculty credentials,
- They assure high-quality online education by delivering courses and holding discussions on top-rated virtual learning platforms,
- When available, all data about the admission, retention, and graduation rates in each school are mentioned,
- All online academic institutions listed are fully accredited.
For a deeper understanding, please see our Methodology page.
Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management
Athens State University
Online BS in Global Logistics & SCM Degree Program
Athens State University in Athens, Alabama offers an online Bachelor of Science in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. This degree puts the emphasis more on business information systems. Students become knowledgeable in terms of the application of information-driven resources for the development of active supply chain networks.
The 124-credit hour program, which can be completed in four years, consists of general education requirements, prerequisites, and major coursework. Classes required include:
- organizational communication,
- logistics and distribution,
- and acquisition & contract management.
Open electives are present for students to be able to customize their training in advanced business topics.
The development of skills is necessary for the procurement of raw materials and the transport of finished products across trade borders. The degree program also requires students to take a capstone course, a senior seminar, where students learn the proper organization of portfolios related to their post-graduation plans. Students are also required to ace a cumulative exam for the demonstration of competency in major concepts and skills.
Delivery of the course is purely online, both in synchronous and asynchronous formats. Tuition is $241 per credit hour. Athens State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC).
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Online BS in Logistics & Supply Chain Management Degree
Located in Daytona Beach, Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide has an online Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. Students earn a wide range of skills and prepare for job positions on the global and local fronts.
Graduates of this degree program work as manufacturers that supply raw materials for the production of food, furniture, and aircraft. Some work in the distribution department and are tasked to ensure that goods and services arrive on time and within the budget.
Classes are often conducted online in an asynchronous format via Canvas. The 120-credit program, which can be completed in four years, includes courses such as:
- Purchasing,
- Logistics,
- Production,
- Transportation Science,
- and Management.
It has 12 business electives and 18 open electives. Students also learn to examine the physical movement of goods through various channels of distribution. They also deal with air cargo and aviation issues, including inventory management, capacity planning, and distribution center coordination.
Students must pass the strategic management comprehensive exam. The university is accredited by SACSCOC.
Bellevue University
Online BS in Supply Chain & Logistics Management Degree Program
Bellevue University in Bellevue offers an online Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Logistics Management degree program that covers the different components of the distribution of goods and services. The 127-credit hour program is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format with courses like:
- Global Business Decision-Making,
- Business Logistics Systems Analysis,
- and Organizational Management.
Students may complete courses in complementary fields such as Accounting, Psychology, and Organizational Psychology. Students also explore the principles of Financing as well as Cash and Capital.
Graduates of this online degree land a variety of jobs including purchasing agents, operations research analysts, and material moving specialists. Bellevue’s cohort format allows students to collaborate with a peer group in a virtual classroom.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Baker College
Online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in SCM Degree Program
Located in Flint, Michigan, Baker College offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management program wherein students explore the many components of the Supply Chain such as raw materials, logistics, and end users. Students emerge with life skills such as cultural diversity awareness.
The 120-credit hour program can be completed in four years and is delivered in an online, asynchronous format. Baker College is accredited by HLC.
California State University-East Bay
Online BS in Business Administration (BSBA)-Operations & SCM Degree Program
Located in Hayward, California, California State University-East Bay has an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration on Operations and Supply Chain Management degree program.
The program was established around a series of core courses enhanced by four concentration areas. Two concentration areas are Supply Chain Management and Operations and Enterprise Resource Management. Classes include:
- Project Management,
- Enterprise Resources Management,
- Supply Chain Management,
- and E-Procurement.
The university is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
UMass Global
Online BBA in SCM & Logistics Degree Program
UMass Global in Irvine, California, offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management and Logistics degree program. Students can possess the core business skills required for the planning and management of stable supply networks. Students may learn the identification of sourcing partners, the development of effective shipping mechanisms, and the management of labor relations.
The 120-credit hour program is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format. The curriculum is composed of general education requirements, core classes, and emphasis coursework in supply chain systems. Core business classes educate students to reinforce their organizational behavior and assist in leading multidisciplinary teams.
Students can take advanced courses in specific topics such as:
- strategies across the supply chain,
- information systems,
- and project management.
They can enroll in complementary courses like Finance and Entrepreneurship.
Graduates often work in freight transportation, data warehousing, manufacturing supply chain, and loss prevention. UMass Global has earned accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
East Carolina University
BS in Business Administration (BSBA)-Operations & SCM Online Degree Program
Located in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University has an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Operations and Supply Chain Management degree program. The degree program aims to educate students on the enhancement of an organization’s production system and supply chain to be able to compete in the marketplace.
The 120-credit hour program emphasizes more on fundamental concepts in professional communications and ethical decision-making. Students must attend six classes in concentration topics like:
- strategic logistics management,
- purchasing & materials management,
- and business & organizational marketing.
The entire program can be completed in four years. The university is accredited by (SACSCOC).
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Online (BBA) Bachelor of Business Administration in Operations & Information Management-Supply Chain Management Degree Program
The University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Operations and Information Management with a concentration on Supply Chain Management degree program. This program handles the preparation of students for careers in enterprise resource planning, product design, quality assurance, and distribution and logistics.
The 120-credit hour program, which is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, consists of major classes such as:
- business data analytics,
- management communications,
- and corporate finance.
Students must enroll in core courses like business intelligence, high-performance organizations, and business processes and enterprise systems. The pursuit of advanced, business-related topics like sports management and finance is possible through three-guided electives. Students can opt to learn foreign languages to become better at understanding the global market.
Graduates may work as departmental managers, retail logistics specialists, and health services consultants. The University of Massachusetts- AACSB has accredited Amherst.
Ball State University
BS or BA in Logistics and SCM Online Degree Program
Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State University has an online Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. The 120-credit hour program, which can be completed online in an asynchronous format, consists of a 39-credit general education core and 13 foundational business classes. Students are required to complete major courses such as:
- Global Logistics,
- Transportation Management; Lean Six Sigma,
- and Quality Management.
Every student’s academic adviser allows them to plan their course schedules and look for other career alternatives. Academic advisers also know how to complete industry internships, and this will enable them to gain more practical experience, which may match the student’s career interests.
Graduates work as inventory planners and transportation solutions analysts. Ball State University is accredited by HLC.
Azusa Pacific University
Online BBA-Logistics & Supply Chain Management Degree Program
Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California, has an online Bachelor of Business Administration-Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. This program focuses more on the practical applications and preparation of students for the development of lean supply networks that efficiently respond to immediately changing global economics.
The 120-credit hour program, which is wholly delivered online in an asynchronous format through Blackboard, consists of classes in:
- financial accounting,
- spreadsheets and information technology,
- marketing principles
- business law
- and organizational behavior.
Advanced major courses educate students on the procurement of materials and delivery of goods while lessening warehouse stock and transportation costs. Topics such as cross-cultural team leadership and global trade regulations are also discussed. Students can also complete an optional internship program in their respective communities and participate in university-sponsored international trips.
Azusa Pacific University has gained accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Minnesota State University-Moorhead
Online BS in Global SCM Degree Program
Located in Moorhead, Minnesota, Minnesota State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Global Supply Chain Management degree program. This program helps students enhance their skills for effective management of the local, national, and global distribution of goods and services. Students need to enroll in 39 credits of major core requirements, including classes in:
- operations management,
- methods of improvement,
- purchasing and sourcing management,
- logistics management and network design,
- and management information systems.
They also need to complete two related course requirements microeconomics and probability and statistics. The university also features a generous transfer policy for credits.
The 120-credit program is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format.
Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management Online Degree Program
Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, Northern Arizona University offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. This program is specifically ideal for students who have been completed or in the process of earning an associate degree from any community college.
Students who were able to complete an associate of applied science from an Arizona community college may transfer up to 75 credit hours to an applied science degree. Courses include:
- principles of management in a global economy,
- green logistics and supply chain management,
- economic analysis and business law,
- supply chain and operational management,
- strategic logistics,
- and supply chain management.
The university is recognized by HLC.
Kennesaw State University
Online Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Logistics Degree Program
Kennesaw State University in Atlanta, Georgia offers an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Logistics degree program. This program is ideal for students who possess an associate of applied science or associate of applied technology degree.
The 120-credit hour program, which is delivered online in a synchronous format, consists of 60 general education and lower division major requirements. The remaining 60 credits are made up of 51 major credits and nine credits of upper-level electives.
The curriculum also involves live online classes every week that both online and on-campus students can attend. Pre-recorded lectures and other course materials can be accessed easily online at any time of the day.
Tuition is $853 per credit hour. The university is accredited by SACS.
Florida International University
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics & SCM Degree Program
Located in Miami, Florida, Florida International University has an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. The central goal of this program is the preparation of students for them to become effective leaders within the global marketplace, along with the implementation of effective and cost-efficient trade systems.
The 120-credit hour program runs on an online asynchronous format and consists of core courses like:
- logistics technology,
- export marketing,
- and decision-making & negotiations.
Business core courses are also required since students learn the application of quantitative methods to operations analysis and financial management. Upper-level business classes comprise the remaining credits of the program. Online classes are held during the fall, spring, or summer. The flexibility of the curriculum enables students to take topics that reinforce their career and academic goals.
Through the Connect4Success initiative, in-state residents who graduate from community colleges may receive admission benefits to the university. Florida International University is accredited by (SACSCOC).
Rasmussen College
Online BS in Supply Chain and Logistics Management Degree
Rasmussen College in Bloomington, Minnesota offers an online Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Logistics Management degree program. This program can be completed online and has been established to align with the Six Sigma and TQM models, ensuring that graduates can effectively pursue jobs in high-paying companies.
The 180-credit hour program can be completed through an internship program in the field or through a capstone project. some of the courses are:
- Supply Chain Risk and Compliance,
- Winning Customer Service Strategies,
- Leading Change,
- and Management of Information Systems.
Tuition is $309 per credit hour. Rasmussen College is accredited by HLC.
Marian University Wisconsin
Online BS in Operations & SCM Degree Program
Located in Fond Du Lac, Marian University Wisconsin features an online Bachelor of Science in Operations and Supply Chain Management degree program. The foundation of the curriculum consists of 30 credits of liberal arts courses, 37 credits of business administration courses, and 35 electives.
Students must complete 18 credits of Operations and Supply Chain Management courses, which include:
- Statistical Applications,
- Process and Quality,
- Purchasing,
- and Operations Management.
The university is accredited by HLC.
Franklin University
Online BS in Operations & Supply Chain Management Degree
Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Operations and Supply Chain Management degree program. The 126-semester hour program is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format. Online students may complete a capstone project to earn a degree. The online coursework, the virtual library, and the bookstore as well as the student services, are accessible anytime.
Franklin University also follows a trimester schedule wherein students can enroll at multiple start dates within every trimester. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Franklin University. The school’s online Supply Chain Management program holds accreditation from the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics & SCM Degree Online
Located in Jacksonville, Florida, Florida State College at Jacksonville has an online Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree program. This program enables students to gain preparation for careers such as operations managers, logistics coordinators, and distribution and transportation managers.
The 120-credit hour curriculum, which is delivered entirely online in an asynchronous format, covers upper-division courses and electives. Students can complete the degree after five semesters of studying full-time. They are also required to take foreign language courses or an American sign language course through the completion of eight semester hours.
Online students of this program meet the same course requirements as those of on-campus classes. Florida State College-Jacksonville is accredited by the SACS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of salary can I expect with an online Bachelor of Supply Chain Management degree?
A bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management presents top-earning career opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the estimated mean annual salary of transportation managers, storage managers, and distribution managers is $75,120.
About 10% of logisticians earn a median yearly wage above $124,050. Through an SCM online degree, students can continue to pursue their careers and obtain real-world experiences that improve their credentials.
An online bachelor’s in SCM enables students to pursue their career objectives. This degree program provides opportunities for skills enhancement through networking, job placement assistance, and internships.
Another advantage of an online SCM degree is that it does not need extensive work experience to land a job. That being said, work experience raises your chances of making it to a premier university to pursue a master’s or doctorate study in the field.
The coursework in the online bachelor’s degree in SCM program is delivered in an asynchronous format. This means students can access their lessons at their own pace or schedule while still meeting assignment, exam, and project deadlines.
What jobs can Supply Chain Management majors have?
Job requirements for SCM workers differ depending on the industry and career track. The program prepares graduates for employment by enhancing their fundamental knowledge of logistical principles and the best practices in the manufacturing sector.
Professionals in this field are competent problem-solvers. They are organized and possess impressive analytical and critical thinking skills.
Through a bachelor’s degree in SCM, online students become qualified for entry-level positions such as sales representatives, financial analysts, cost estimators, and transportation coordinators. Some professionals work for wholesalers and businesses. Through a secure career experience, practitioners may work as freelance consultants and advisers.
Management positions also need professionals to establish their resumes well and earn a master’s degree. Graduate credentials are also required to land a career in international logistics because of the complex background of global transportation and transactions.
Here are some of the careers that one can pursue through a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management:
- Logisticians monitor the transport, storage, and delivery of goods, services, and information for an organization. Logistic managers also deal with both outbound and inbound logistics.
- Supply Chain Managers lead the supply chain management process and identify the most efficient manner to run the day-to-day operations. They ensure that the organization’s sales objectives are met by implementing revenue-boosting strategies. Sales managers also select and train employees, assign boundaries, and establish quotas. They work with financial analysts to assess sales information and determine the profitability of products and services. Candidates need to possess a master’s degree and about five years of significant work experience.
- Operations Managers are in charge of the organization’s overall operations, including production, pricing, sales, and distribution of products. They also assess workforce performance and determine how productivity can be improved, costs reduced, and quality maintained.
- Procurement Analysts are also known as purchasing agents or purchasing managers. They generally handle the deals with wholesale distributors, manufacturers, and suppliers. They also deal with vendors to set reasonable pricing, ensure high product or service quality, and prompt delivery. As reliable decision-makers, they are also tasked to handle contract negotiations.
- Distribution Managers are responsible for handling and leading warehouse operations, safety, security, and hiring.
- Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives work for manufacturers and wholesalers for the selling of goods to government agencies and private companies. Sales representatives handle the identification of prospective clients, notification of current buyers, and negotiation of delivery and prices. They generally specialize in inside sales since they handle cold calls and respond to incoming messages in offices. They may also handle outside sales positions since they travel to job sites and visit several clients to hold negotiations.
- Cost estimators handle the aggregation and assessment of information for the estimation of materials, labor, and time to generate a product or in some cases, deliver a service. They are experts in a specific industry like retail, construction, or manufacturing. They collaborate with contractors, financial analysts, engineers, and architects for the preparation of project bids and estimates.
The median annual salaries of Supply Chain Management range from $45,160 to $122,390.
What are the different Supply Chain Management organizations?
Joining a specific supply chain management (SCM) professional organization enables one to be successful in terms of networking, career services, and a chance for continuous professional enhancement and growth.
Professional organizations are considered valid ways to attain the latest resources and news to be updated with laws, trends, and regulations that have a significant effect on the field of supply chain management. Here are some of these organizations:
- Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) – ASCM has about 45,000 supply-chain professionals and provides development and education, career resources like a mentor center and job board, local networking, and peer learning.
- American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) – This organization is responsible for supporting supply chain professionals in terms of career resources, student scholarships, and mentorship opportunities. The APICS also assists in training workshops and three certification programs, this includes credentials for production and inventory management. The organization also sponsors the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM).
- Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) – This organization is responsible for networking, career development, and educational opportunities for logistics and SCM professionals. There are numerous benefits for about 6,000 members, and this includes access to industry leaders and subject matter experts, hands-on learning through local chapters, the annual EDGE conference, and professional enhancement and training.
- International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) – The goal of this organization is to give members a range of products and services, such as a career center, eLearning, ISO certification, and legal, office, and staffing services.
- Institute for Supply Management (ISM) – This organization is responsible for supporting the supply chain management and purchasing profession through education, certification, leadership enhancement, and research. ISM also has an annual conference aside from specialty conferences, which primarily emphasize topics such as trends, research, diversity, and strategy; and seminars all around the country.
- Material Handling Industry of America (MHI) – The organization is responsible for providing education, networking, and solution sourcing for members, sponsorship of two trade expos, and organization of membership meetings and executive conferences. The learning center also includes careers, industry standards, and resources.
What are the three most essential issues in Supply Chain Management that I should master?
- Inventory Management: Properly managing inventory and keeping it at efficient levels is essential for a successful supply chain. This includes ensuring that the right products are always in the right place at the right time, and at the right cost.
- Risk Management: Managing risks associated with supply chain disruptions is key to having a successful and resilient supply chain. This includes identifying potential risks and having a plan in place to mitigate them.
- Logistics: Effective logistics management is necessary for the smooth flow of goods and services throughout the supply chain. This includes ensuring the timely delivery of the right product to the right place at the right cost.
What qualifications or personality traits do I need to be in Supply Chain Management?
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Materials Management, or related field
- Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) or similar certification
- Knowledge of inventory and warehouse management systems • Working knowledge of financial accounting and budgeting
Personality Traits:
- Detail-Oriented: You need to be organized and pay attention to the small details in order to be successful in supply chain management.
- Business Acumen: You need the ability to define and solve business problems in order to make efficient supply chain decisions.
- Analytical Thinking: You should have the ability to identify trends, and analyze situations and data in order to make informed decisions.
- Strong Negotiator: You need to be able to negotiate and collaborate with multiple parties in order to secure the best deals.
- Good Communicator: You need excellent communication skills to ensure that your team is aligned and stays informed.