masters in supply chain management rankingsIn this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable master’s in supply chain management online programs of 2021.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a favorable job outlook for supply chain managers and logisticians over the next several years. In fact, a projected employment growth of five percent should occur through 2028. Overall job opportunities will be good, as replacement for retiring supply chain managers and logisticians will take place. To qualify for these jobs, a master’s in supply chain management online degree will help.

30 Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs Methodology

We reviewed approximately 77 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources that offered online master’s in supply chain management programs or closely related degrees. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (regional and/or national), institution and/or program rankings with at least one major publication, such as U.S. News and World Report, and affordability. We selected schools with a combined graduate tuition cost and fees of less than $28,000 per year and listed the top 30 programs according to raw affordability.

Below are the resulting selections of our top 30 most affordable master’s in supply chain management online programs of 2021.

#30 – University of San Diego

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

San Diego, California

Website

University of San Diego - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
University of San Diego’s online master’s in supply chain management ranks with U.S. News.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $27,762

University of San Diego’s master’s in supply chain management online degree program offers a flexible format that allows students to work at their own pace. The format also provides the ability for students to work during traditional hours while attending school. Through case-based curriculum, students improve their existing skills in cost management, negotiations, and sustainability. While classes are web-based, students still receive face-to-face time with professors and classmates during on-campus interactive sessions that take place five times throughout the program. University of San Diego, along with many of its online master’s programs, ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #91 in best national universities.

#29 – Florida Institute of Technology

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Melbourne, Florida

Website

Florida Institute of Technology - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Part-time options available! Florida Tech’s master’s in supply chain management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,588

Florida Institute of Technology’s online master’s in supply chain management is a flexible program designed so that working professionals can continue to earn an income while also studying part-time. The graduate degree can be earned entirely online by taking classes that cover topics like global supply change management, managerial statistics, strategic planning, and supply chain management and marketing. Upon graduation, students often advance in their current position or seek leadership roles in any industry or organization. Florida Tech is an accredited institution that is also ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Florida Tech’s recent rankings include #202 in best national universities and #297 in top performers on social mobility.

#28 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Penn State’s online supply chain management programs include a 20-month master’s degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,186

The Penn State World Campus offers online supply chain management programs, such as the master’s in supply chain management. This fully online graduate degree program consists of 30 credits and can be completed on a part-time basis in as little as 20 months. Courses offered throughout the program cover various topics in supply chain management. These courses include operations management and demand fulfillment, supply chain analysis, supply chain design and strategy, and supply chain performance metrics and financial analysis. An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.00 GPA is required. Penn State ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 57th best national university.

#27 – Marquette University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Website

Marquette University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
22 months for the online master’s in supply chain management at Marquette University.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,060

Marquette University’s master’s in supply chain management online program consists of 22 months of online study with residential workshops. The 30-credit program covers curriculum that is industry driven. Courses include topics like additive manufacturing, business analytics, industry and supply chain management, sourcing in the digital supply chain, and supply chain foundations. Both part-time and full-time online options are available. Marquette University is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 84th best national university. Also, several online graduate programs are also ranked among the top 20 and top 50 in the country.

#26 – Rutgers University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Newark, New Jersey

Website

Rutgers University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
100 percent online courses! Rutgers University’s online master’s in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,967

Rutgers University offers an accredited and affordable online master’s in supply chain management program. With 100 percent online courses, the program can be completed in one year. However, students have the option of stretching out the time, as long as they complete degree requirements within eight years. There are ten courses required to complete the program. Courses cover topics like global logistics management, global procurement and supply management, operations analysis, risk and disruption management, and supply chain management strategies. In addition to offering quality online programs, Rutgers ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 62nd best national university and 157th best value school.

#25 – Loyola University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Chicago, Illinois

Website

Loyola University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Loyola University’s online master’s in supply chain management is available for under 20K per year.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,498

Loyola University’s online supply chain management master’s degree (MSSCM) is designed to help graduates become leaders in the industry. The program focuses on the major areas of supply chain management, including distribution, logistics, purchasing, transportation, and warehousing. There is a total of 12 courses required, which cover topics like business analytics, database systems, forecasting and demand management, global logistics, purchasing management, and supply chain analytics. Loyola is a fully accredited and top-ranked institution. In fact, the school ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 104th best national university in the country. For less than $20,000 per year, one can earn an online graduate degree from Loyola.

#24 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online MBA in Supply Chain Management

Manchester, New Hampshire

Website

Southern New Hampshire University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
15 months for the online MBA in supply chain management at SNHU.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire University’s master’s in supply chain management online program consists of 36 credits and allows up to 12 transfer credits. The program is rigorous and moves at a fast pace. In fact, students have the option of earning their degree in just 15 months. Not only do students cover advanced topics in supply chain management, but they also earn an MBA by taking extensive business courses. These courses include operations and supply chain management, quantitative analysis for decision making, and supply chain management. SNHU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 92nd best regional university in the North and #1 most innovative school.

#23 – Oregon State University

Online MBA in Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Corvallis, Oregon

Website

Oregon State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
OSU offers an online MBA in supply chain and logistics management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,802

Oregon State University’s online supply chain management master’s degree is an MBA with special studies in supply chain and logistics management. All coursework is delivered online. Classes are taught by OSU’s esteemed faculty. In fact, the same professors who instruct on campus also deliver online courses. These courses cover topics like business legal environment, creating value in exchange, managerial decision tools, markets and valuation, and operation management. The supply chain and logistics management option requires a total of 60 credit hours of coursework. OSU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent school rankings include #139 in best national universities and #123 in best online MBA programs.

#22 – University of Maryland

Online MBA in Supply Chain Management

College Park, Maryland

Website

University of Maryland - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
AACSB-accredited and fully online – University of Maryland’s online MBA in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,793

Some of the most affordable online supply chain management programs may be found at University of Maryland. In fact, at UM, graduates may earn an online MBA in supply chain management. While enrolled in the program, students learn how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risk while utilizing cutting-edge supply chain technology. Students enjoy flexibility and convenience while taking online courses taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. Also, since the program is AACSB-accredited, students acquire an MBA that is competitive when applying for post-graduation jobs. UM ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 64th best national university and 144th best value school in the country.

#21 – Fontbonne University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Saint Louis, Missouri

Website

Fontbonne University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Ranked and affordable! Fontbonne University’s master’s in supply chain management online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,400

Fontbonne University offers an accredited and affordable online supply chain management master’s degree. The program is ACBSP-accredited and can be earned entirely online. To qualify for admission, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. While courses are delivered online, they are taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. In fact, the online program mirrors the on-campus program. Courses you will likely take include business components assessment, project cost and schedule control, project management, and project simulation. In addition to being accredited, Fontbonne ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 53rd best regional university in the Midwest.

#20 – Colorado Technical University

Online MBA in Operations Supply Chain Management

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Website

Colorado Technical University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Colorado Tech’s online MBA in operations supply chain management takes 12 months to complete.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,321

Colorado Technical University’s online master’s in supply chain management is an MBA degree with specialization in operations supply chain management. This fully online and ACBSP-accredited program can be completed in as little as 12 months. Courses cover topics like applied managerial economics, applied managerial marketing, logistics and SCM inventory and distribution, operations management, and operations strategy. Most the online courses at Colorado Tech integrate intellipath, a proprietary learning application, which customizes coursework to align with a student’s knowledge level. In addition to being fully accredited, CTU’s online MBA programs rank with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #213 (out of more than 1,200 surveyed) in best online MBA programs.

#19 – Wright State University

Online Master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Dayton, Ohio

Website

Wright State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Wright State University’s online master’s in supply chain management is rigorous yet flexible.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,298

Wright State University offers an accredited online supply chain management master’s degree designed to enhance a leadership career in the field of logistics and supply chain management. The program is considered rigorous, as it moves at a quick pace. In fact, the flexible program is designed to finish in just one year. In addition to online coursework, students spend four weekends in on-campus residencies. Some of the online courses you will take cover topics like foundations of supply chain management, global logistics and trade, and performance measurement and supply chain transformation. Wright State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#18 – University of Colorado

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Boulder, Colorado

Website

University of Colorado - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
10-month online supply chain management program! University of Colorado!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,556

The University of Colorado offers an accredited online master’s in supply chain management degree program through the Leeds School of Business. This full-time, 10-month program can be completed either on-campus or online. With the online option, students have the flexibility of enrolling part-time. This option is ideal for working students who want to move at their own pace. However, there is no difference between the online and on-campus programs. In fact, they are the same degree with the same courses and requirements. University of Colorado is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school ranks #104 in best national universities and #170 in best value institutions.

#17 – The University of Tennessee

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Knoxville, Tennessee

Website

The University of Tennessee - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
The master’s in supply chain management online degree at UT takes 18-24 months.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,380

The master’s in supply chain management online program at The University of Tennessee consists of 30 credits and takes 18-24 months to complete. Full- and part-time options are available and a three-day immersion session must be completed. Courses you will likely encounter while enrolled as a graduate student in supply chain management at UT cover a number of topics relevant to the field. Courses include global supply chain management, integrated supply chain management, strategic supply and cost management, and supply chain planning and analysis. University of Tennessee ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 104th best national university and 123rd best value school.

#16 – Kettering University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Flint, Michigan

Website

Kettering University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
No GMAT or GRE requirement! Kettering University – master’s in supply chain management online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,332

With no GRE or GMAT required, the online supply chain management programs at Kettering University are a top choice for those seeking graduate school options. The master’s in supply chain management offers 100% online courses and is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The degree can be customized with graduate certificates available in global leadership, healthcare management, or operations management. Some of the courses you will likely take cover topics like collaboration in supply chain management, customer relationship management, and procurement and risk management. Kettering ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 13th best regional university in the Midwest and 57th best value school.

#15 – Portland State University

Online Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management

Portland, Oregon

Website

Portland State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
18 months! PSU’s online master’s in supply chain management is a fast-paced graduate program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,218

Portland State University’s online supply chain management master’s degree is an ISM-approved program designed to equip students for leadership roles with organizations of every size. Graduates of the PSU online master’s in global supply chain management have gone on to secure roles as logistics directors, manufacturing and operations directors, and supply chain managers. Courses are delivered online and cover topics in advanced leadership, global sourcing, and global trade and logistics. The program takes 18 months to complete and requires 45 credits. PSU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#14 – University of Alaska

Online Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management

Anchorage, Alaska

Website

University of Alaska - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Ranked & accredited! University of Alaska’s online master’s in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,760

The University of Alaska offers an online master’s in supply chain management that takes five semesters or twenty months to complete. The program emphasizes the most current trends in global supply chain management and logistics and can be completed entirely online. Small class sizes of up to 25 students and rigorous instruction are just some of the benefits of the online program at Alaska. Courses cover topics like leadership principles and management skills for global supply chain managers, logistics and global supply chain management, and supply chain technology and systems. The institution ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 62nd best regional university in the West. Also, the supply chain management program is AACSB-accredited.

#13 – Arizona State University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Arizona State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
ASU’s master’s in supply chain management online program offers classes that run 7.5 weeks in length.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,608

Arizona State University’s master’s in supply chain management online program consists of 10 classes and 30 total credit hours. Each class moves at a rigorous pace, lasting just 7.5 weeks. Courses cover a variety of logistics and supply chain management topics that are relevant to today’s industry. These courses include case studies in global supply chain and logistics, decision models for supply chain, and strategic procurement. Admission to ASU’s supply chain management program is competitive. Applicants must have a minimum 3.00 GPA , official transcripts, and one professional letter of recommendation. In addition to the school’s stringent admissions, ASU is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.

#12 – University of Alabama

Online Master’s in Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Huntsville, Alabama

Website

University of Alabama - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Less than 12K per year. University of Alabama’s online master’s in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,458

One of the most affordable online supply chain management programs on our list is offered by University of Alabama. The MS in supply chain and logistics management is a flexibly designed program created for working professionals. Coursework is delivered entirely online and taught by the same university professors who instruct on the Alabama campus. These courses cover topics like decision modeling, foundations accounting for managers, introduction to contract management, and transportation and logistics. Up to 12 semester hours of graduate credits may be transferred in if the credits were acquired at another AACSB-accredited institution. In addition to offering rigor and accreditation, the school ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 153rd best national university.

#11 – Indiana University

Online Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management

Bloomington, Indiana

Website

Indiana University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
The online master’s in global supply chain management at Indiana University takes 15 months!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,873

The Kelley School of Business at Indiana University offers an affordable online master’s in supply chain management program. While currently undergoing curricular redesign, the program continues to rank among the top global supply chain programs in the country. Through the completion of 30 credit hours, students earn their master’s degree in 15 months. However, students may take up to three years to earn their advanced degree. Currently, courses cover topics in accounting, distribution and inventory management, material sourcing, operations management, and supply chain. IU and its business school are recognized among the top in the country. In fact, IU ranks #79 in best national universities and #140 in best value schools.

#10 – University of South Florida

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Tampa, Florida

Website

University of South Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Supply Chain Management Online Programs
32-credit hybrid program! University of South Florida!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,428

The Muma College of Business at University of South Florida offers accredited online supply chain management programs for individuals seeking a graduate degree. The 32-credit online (hybrid) master’s in supply chain management degree is designed for professionals currently working in the industry. Courses run in a hybrid format that allows students to continue their full-time employment while earning the degree. While most of the coursework is online, students are on campus for one week at the beginning of each semester. During this time, students meet with fellow classmates and with their professors. USF ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 104th best national university.

#9 – Ohio University

Online MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management

Athens, Ohio

Website

Ohio University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Ohio University’s online MBA in operations and supply chain management costs less than 10K per year.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,720

Ohio University’s master’s in supply chain management online degree program consists of an MBA with a concentration in operations and SCM. 100% online coursework, no GMAT requirement, and quick completion time make the program ideal for those seeking a flexible online degree in supply chain management. Focused curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills needed to advance in their current careers. Courses cover topics like management of lean six sigma programs, project management, and supply chain risk management. Ohio University is fully accredited and ranked with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, current rankings include #185 in best national universities, #122 in best value schools, and #77 in most innovative schools.

#8 – The University of West Florida

Online MBA in Supply Chain Logistics Management

Pensacola, Florida

Website

University of West Florida - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
GMAT or GRE waivers available! University of West Florida’s online master’s in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,062

The University of West Florida’s online supply chain management master’s degree is an MBA with concentration in supply chain logistics management. Admission to the online MBA requires an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and an undergraduate GPA of 3.00 (lower accepted with relevant work experience). The GMAT or GRE may be waived if an applicant’s undergraduate GPA is above 3.25. Online courses for the MBA in supply chain management typically run seven weeks. These courses cover topics like business process integration, information resources and industry analysis, and strategic management and policy formulation. UWF ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 34th best regional university in the South.

#7 – University of Wisconsin

Online Master’s in Operations and Supply Management

Menomonie, Wisconsin

Website

University of Wisconsin - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Study operations and supply management online at University of Wisconsin!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,520

University of Wisconsin’s online master’s in supply chain management program offers several different concentrations that allow students to tailor their degree to fit with career goals. These concentrations include engineering technology management, industry occupation safety and hygiene, operations management, project management, and quality management. The program is ACBSP-accredited and affordable. In fact, the graduate tuition is approximately $8,500 per year. University of Wisconsin ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 72nd best regional university in the Midwest. Other rankings include #46 in best colleges for veterans and #88 in top performers on social mobility.

#6 – Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Online Master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Daytona Beach, Florida

Website

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Ranked by U.S. News! Embry-Riddle’s online master’s in logistics and supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,268

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers an accredited master’s in supply chain management online degree program designed to equip graduates with the tools and knowledge needed to manage a supply chain. The program covers sourcing and procurement, logistics management, and conversion activities that are relevant to the industry. The program also prepares graduates for certification as a Certified Supply Chain Professional, as well as others. By completing the 30 required credits, students earn their master’s in logistics and SCM. Embry-Riddle, a fully accredited institution, ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 11th best regional university in the South.

#5 – University of North Texas

Online MBA in Supply Chain Management

Denton, Texas

Website

University of North Texas - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
UNT’s online MBA in supply chain management consists of 12 classes!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,788

University of North Texas (UNT) offers online supply chain management programs that are both affordable and accredited. The online MBA in supply chain management consists of 12 classes and 36 credits, which may be taken and earned entirely online through the UNT G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Classes typically run eight weeks in length through the fall and spring semesters. During the summer, classes are cut shorter and run five weeks in length. Online courses cover topics like advanced supply chain management problems, industrial distribution and logistics management, operations management, and strategic supply management. UNT ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 281st best national university and 140th top public school.

#4 – Georgia College & State University

Online Master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Milledgeville, Georgia

Website

Georgia College & State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Accredited and affordable! Georgia College and State University – online master’s in supply chain management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,314

Georgia College and State University offers online supply chain management programs, such as the online master’s in logistics and supply chain management. Accredited, affordable, and convenient. That’s how the master’s program at Georgia College is described. Students earn a total of 30 credits by taking online courses taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like distribution and inventory control, logistics processes and management, purchasing and materials management, and supply chain management strategy. In addition to offering rigorous online programs, the school ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 20th best regional university in the South.

#3 – Clayton State University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Analytics

Morrow, Georgia

Website

Clayton State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
Clayton State University’s online master’s in supply chain analytics is ranked and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,234

Clayton State University’s College of Business offers an affordable online supply chain management master’s degree. Upon completion of the fully online degree, students earn an MS in Supply Chain Analytics. This 30 credit-hour degree consists of online courses that cover advanced analytics and supply chain management topics. These courses include business data management and intelligence, decision making under uncertainty, foundation of business analytics, and global logistics and supply chain management. Clayton State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South. In fact, these rankings include #96-#122 in best regional universities in the South and #51 in top performers on social mobility.

#2 – American Public University

Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Charles Town, West Virginia

Website

American Public University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
APU’s master’s in supply chain management online degree program costs 7K per year.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,005

The American Public University’s online master’s in supply chain management program is one of the most affordable programs on our list. Core requirements consist of 33 credits, though 36 credits are needed to earn the degree. All courses are delivered online and taught by APU’s esteemed faculty. These courses cover supply chain management topics like case studies in supply chain management, global issues in supply chain management, supply chain analytics, and technology in supply chain management. After completing core requirements, three additional credits are earned through the master’s capstone – e-portfolio. APU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the South.

#1 – University of North Carolina

Online MBA in Supply Chain Management

Pembroke, North Carolina

Website

University of North Carolina - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Supply Chain Management Online Programs 2020
UNC Pembroke offers the most affordable online master’s in supply chain management program on our list.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,770

The most affordable master’s in supply chain management online degree program on our list is offered by the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In as few as 12 months, students may earn an MBA in supply chain management online at UNC Pembroke. This 36-credit hour program is fully accredited by the AACSB. Admission requires applicants hold a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. For applicants with a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, the GMAT or GRE requirement will be waived. Some of the courses offered in the program cover topics like management information systems, operations management, and supply chain management. UNC Pembroke ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 87th best regional university in the South and 19th most innovative school in the country.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with a master’s in supply chain management online degree?

Since supply chains exist in nearly every industry and involve a large number of personnel, individuals with an online master’s in supply chain management degree may be qualified to lead in a variety of roles and divisions. We detailed several jobs you can get with a master’s in supply chain management online degree.

Logisticians: A logistician analyzes and coordinates an organization’s supply chain. They manage the entire life cycle of a product, from start to finish, which includes how the product is acquired and delivered.

Operations managers: An operations manager oversees activities related to the production of goods. Often, they have a hand in various activities, such as manufacturing, purchasing, and warehousing. It is not uncommon for an operations manager to work with budgets and, in some cases, set sales and profits goals.

Purchasing managers: A purchasing manager approves projects, negotiates contracts, and oversees an organization’s or department’s budget. They often work directly with vendors and clients.

Supply chain analysts: A supply chain analyst works with information technology and SQL analysis tools to identify problems and provide solutions for the different stages of production and operation.

Supply chain managers: Supply chain managers work to promote the collaboration between sales and customer service teams. They also develop and implement policies that are favorable to logistics, focusing on current inventory that reflects demand. The role of the supply chain manager also emphasizes communication with various teams and personnel.

How much money can I earn with a master’s in supply chain management online degree?

With a master’s in supply chain management online degree, your earnings potential is favorable. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for logisticians, as of May 2019, was nearly $75,000 per year. Accompanied with a favorable job outlook, a career as a supply chain manager or logistician pays off.

BLS reports the lowest 10 percent of earners in the field of logistics and supply chain management earned less than $44,020 per year, while the highest ten percent of earners made over $120,000. However, there are several factors that impact earnings.

In May of 2019, the median annual wage for supply chain managers and logisticians in the top five industries were as follows:

Federal government: $85,450
Manufacturing: $76,480
Management of companies and enterprises: $75,010
Professional, scientific, and technical services: $72,340
Wholesale trade: $65,820

Federal government was the highest paying industry for logisticians, while wholesale trade was the lowest industry of the five listed above. The majority of supply chain managers and logisticians in these industries work full-time and often work overtime hours. It is not uncommon for supply chain managers to work long hours to ensure operations meet deadlines and stay on schedule.

What is the job outlook for individuals with a master’s in supply chain management online degree?

The job outlook for individuals with a master’s in supply chain management online degree is favorable and steady over the next several years. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a projected growth of five percent in employment for logisticians through 2028.

What is causing the job growth, which is about as fast as the average for all occupation, is an increase in demand in the transportation of goods across a global economy. BLS states that as the performance of the supply chain process factors into a company’s profitability, companies will rely on logisticians and supply chain managers to oversee the movement of products and supplies. The employment for these roles is expected to grow as companies need to move products more efficiently.

While the job growth for logisticians and supply chain managers is favorable, growth may be limited by mergers of certain companies within certain industries. But overall, job opportunities should be favorable due to employment growth and the need to replace retiring logisticians.

For individuals with advanced degrees in supply chain management, such as the online master’s in supply chain management, job prospects should also be favorable. Those with experience using logistical software or who have done logistical work in certain industries, such as the military, will also have the best job prospects.

What are the admission requirements for a master’s in supply chain management online degree?

Admission requirements for a master’s in supply chain management online program vary by institution. However, many of the programs on our list call for similar criteria. For example, all graduate programs ask for an earned bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s degree should be from a regionally accredited institution, but not all graduate programs make this stipulation. In fact, some online master’s in supply chain management programs ask only that the undergraduate degree be accredited. This means earning the degree from a nationally accredited institution will suffice.

In addition to the accreditation and bachelor’s degree requirements for most online master’s in supply chain management programs, other admission requirements exist. In fact, some programs specifically ask that the earned bachelor’s degree be in certain disciplines. Business or supply chain management disciplines are the most common. However, not all graduate programs require applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in these disciplines and will accept four-year degrees in other disciplines.

Additional admission requirements often include letters of recommendation and statement of goals or purpose. Also, many programs ask for GRE or GMAT test scores. However, some programs may offer test score waivers if an applicant’s undergraduate GPA meets criteria. In some cases, an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better may qualify for a waiver.

What are the professional associations I can join while earning a master’s in supply chain management online degree?

While earning a master’s in supply chain management online degree, there are several professional organizations you can join. For students, membership to a professional association can serve as a valuable resource. Professional organizations offer online libraries of journals and publications, provide career counseling, and extend networking events and conferences. Also, students can join at a discounted rate. Below are several professional associations that are beneficial to students earning an online master’s in supply chain management.

APICS: APICS has been in operation since the 1950s and has grown to represent over 45,000 members throughout the world. Recognized as one of the most prominent supply chain organizations, APICS allows members to pursue three professional certifications. These certifications include certified supply chain professionals, logistics, transportation, and distribution certification, and production and inventory management certification.

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals: The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) offers membership discounts for students who want to join the organization. CSCMP also offers SCPro certification, a training program that focuses on virtual learning technology and industry intelligence.

Institute for Supply Management: The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) holds an annual conference that hosts in-person events and online seminars. ISM members can also pursue two different certifications and receive advanced training in specialty areas of supply chain management.

BCO Staff
August 2020

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This concludes our list of the 30 most affordable master’s in supply chain management online programs of 2021.