Top 25 Online Master's in Supply Chain and Logistics Programs for 2019
With jobs in manufacturing and government shifting to other areas of commerce, there has never been a better time to earn a master's in supply chain management online. Supply chain and logistics managers deal with air cargo, parcel delivery, warehousing, distribution, transportation, and manufacturing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7% job growth by 2024, with the best employment opportunities available to supply chain and logistics graduates with technology or military experience.
Featured Online Schools
What Are The Best Online Master's in Supply Chain & Logistics Programs?
Top 25 Online Masters in Supply Chain and Logistics Programs for 2019
Admissions Rate
18%
Graduation Rate
92%
Online Enrollment
11%
Retention Rate
96%
Default Rate
2%
USC is one of the nation's leading private research universities. Over the years, the school has expanded its online degree offerings to make them more convenient for working professionals who want to change careers or advance in their current career path. USC offers more than 100 online programs across 17 academic schools, including a master's in supply chain management online.
Coursework in this 27-unit supply chain management master's degree online includes both academic and practical applications of supply chain and logistics management concepts. The curriculum provides students with comprehensive knowledge of supply chain management from an international perspective and include two week-long immersive experiences in Los Angeles and Singapore. This program can be completed in 16 months of part-time study. USC is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Visit SiteSponsored
How to Choose an Online Master's in Supply Chain & Logistics Program
When choosing an online supply chain management master's program, look for national or regional accreditation. Cost is another major factor; but the cost of tuition and fees can be offset by financial assistance such as federal aid, grants, loans, and field-specific scholarships. Also consider the program length and any potential on-campus requirements. Generally, accelerated online programs cost less per credit than traditional programs and may include provisions for required on-campus sessions. Online learning is convenient and affordable, and online students may save even more by selecting an in-state program.
Careers for Graduates of Master's in Supply Chain & Logistics Programs
Professionals who have earned a master's in supply chain management online pursue management and executive-level positions in areas such as operations, analysis, and process improvement. An online master's in supply chain management program provides leadership, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills necessary for success in the industry. Below are common careers for professionals with an online supply chain management master's degree.
These professionals oversee general logistics policies and procedures, manage inventory, and promote employee teamwork. Supply chain managers communicate with suppliers to maintain cost-effectiveness and to uphold contractual obligations.
Median Salary: $79,000
Job Outlook and Salary for Graduates of Supply Chain & Logistics Master's Degrees
Although BLS projects only a 2% increase in employment for logisticians from 2014 to 2024, this represents only a fraction of supply chain and logistics workers. Business operations specialists and other related jobs are expected to grow by 7%, with additional employment opportunities available for those with advanced education or technology or military experience. The average salary for supply chain and logistics occupations varies based on position, industry, and geographic location.
| Employment, 2014 | Projected Employment, 2024 |
|---|---|
| 130,400 | 132,900 |
Salary Growth by Experience for Graduates of Supply Chain & Logistics Master's Programs
Advanced degrees and experience lead to increased earning potential. While most jobs in the industry offer relatively high starting salaries, professionals increase their salaries significantly over the course of their careers. Supply chain management is among the most common and the most lucrative occupations in the field; supply chain managers with 20 years of experience earn nearly $30,000 more per year than entry-level managers.
Supply Chain & Logistics Professional Organizations
Occupations in supply chain and logistics require advanced communication and customer service skills, making membership in professional organizations crucial for young professionals. Members attend annual conferences and regional chapter meetings, browse job boards, pursue certifications, and obtain endorsements. Many professional organizations provide comprehensive resources to help members continue their education through webinars, online coursework, and exam preparation assistance. Below are a few of the most prominent professional organizations in the field.
The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) focuses on global business and international supply chain management and logistics corporations. The organization offers business and individual membership options; benefits include an APICS magazine subscription and access to learning opportunities, special events, and webinars.
Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) is dedicated to both industry improvement and the scholarly enrichment of its members, offering networking opportunities and national and regional "roundtables" and educational events. The organization assists members pursuing certification and maintains a mentorship program.
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) promotes procurement and supply specialties within supply chain and logistics operations. Members participate in seminars and global networking events, and they have access to scholarly articles and assistance pursuing certification.
To determine the best master's in supply chain and logistics programs, we looked at the most important factors prospective students, mainly common predictors of future success and a school's commitment to online programs. This boils down to admissions rate, student loan default rate, retention rate, graduation rate, and the percent of students enrolled in online classes. All data points are taken from information provided by colleges and universities to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Each factor is weighted evenly in order to give an objective view and determine the top 25 master's in supply chain and logistics programs. To calculate our rankings, we looked at a school's ranking when organized by a single factor, and then averaged each category's ranking to find an overall score: Admissions Rate (20%) + Default Rate (20%) + Retention Rate (20%) + Graduation Rate (20%) + Percent of Students Enrolled in Online Classes (20%) = Final score.