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Best Schools for Supply Chain Management

A career in supply chain management can be both challenging and rewarding. This evolution comes as the global market becomes more interconnected and technology continues to advance.

Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management can help professionals excel in their careers and build networks with like-minded individuals.

If you’re considering this path, it’s essential to find a program that not only provides excellent coursework, but also offers experiential learning opportunities and fosters innovative thinking.

supply chain graduate program

Here, we’ll explore some of the best programs for supply chain management and explain what makes them stand out among the rest.

What is a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management?

Have you ever wondered how a product makes its way from its point of manufacture to your doorstep?

That fascinating journey is made possible by efficient supply chain management.

With the increasing complexity of global supply chains, there is a growing demand for professionals skilled in this field. If you’ve ever considered a career in logistics, a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management might be the missing piece of the puzzle.

A supply chain encompasses every step involved in the production and distribution of a product, from raw materials to finished goods.

See Also: 10 Best MBA in Entrepreneurship

What Are the Best Supply Chain Graduate Programs?

Supply chain management is the science and art of strategizing, synchronizing, and optimizing these processes to ensure a smooth and sustainable flow of goods and services to the end customer.

Many elements of a supply chain contribute to this multifaceted discipline, such as:

  • procurement
  • production
  • warehousing
  • transportation
  • inventory management

Why Get a Master’s Degree in Operations Management?

A Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management is a graduate-level program. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in managing supply chains.

The curriculum may include subjects such as:

  • operations management
  • strategic sourcing
  • global logistics
  • transportation and distribution management
  • inventory control
  • project management

Some programs may also offer electives like:

  • data analytics
  • sustainable sourcing
  • computer science for supply chain management
  • supply chain financing

This allows students to specialize in areas of particular interest.

See Also: 20 Best Online MBA in Strategy

How Long Does it Take to Complete a Master’s Degree Operations Management?

Most master’s programs typically take one to two years to complete and may culminate in a capstone project or thesis. This provides the opportunity for students to apply their learnings to real-world situations. You can choose from in state or out of state programs.

Many universities also offer the flexibility of pursuing this degree on a full-time, part-time, or online basis.

What Can You Do After Completing a Best Supply Chain MBA?

By the end of a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management program, you will have acquired both technical and soft skills essential for success in this field.

Some key abilities you can expect to develop include:

  • Analytical and problem-solving skills to assess supply chain processes and identify opportunities for improvement
  • Project management techniques for organizing, planning, and executing supply chain initiatives
  • Knowledge of global logistics, customs regulations, and trade laws
  • Proficiency in using supply chain management software and other technology tools
  • Communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Negotiation and conflict resolution abilities to manage supplier and customer relationships
  • A strategic mindset to align supply chain operations with organizational objectives

See Also: Top 50 Highest Paying Masters Degrees

What Do Top Supply Chain Management Schools Prepare You For?

Graduates of a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management program can explore a variety of career paths in various industries, both in state and out of state.These include:

  • manufacturing
  • retail
  • e-commerce
  • pharmaceuticals
  • energy
  • transportation

Some popular job roles include:

  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Procurement Specialist/Buyer
  • Production Planner
  • Logistics Manager
  • Inventory Control Specialist
  • Distribution Manager
  • Supply Chain Consultant

As you gain experience, you can progress to higher level positions like Director of Supply Chain or Vice President of Operations.

See Also: 10 Best Online Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering

Top Supply Chain Graduate Programs Benefits

Investing your time and resources in a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management can provide you with several professional and personal benefits. These include:

  • A competitive edge over your peers in job applications and promotions
  • Access to a network of fellow students, alumni, and industry professionals
  • Opportunities for personal growth and development through challenging coursework and group projects
  • Improved salary potential, as supply chain professionals with higher credentials are likely to command better pay
  •  An opportunity to make a tangible impact in organizations and the global economy through efficient supply chain operations

How to Find the Best Supply Chain Masters Programs

The heart of any supply chain masters program is its curriculum. This should cover the essential industry knowledge. It should also provide the room for students to explore various aspects and specialize in their area of interest.

Best Masters in Supply Chain Management Courses

As you evaluate potential programs, look for courses that address essential topics. These might include:

  • supply chain strategy
  • logistics management
  • operations research
  • project management
  • analytics

Consider electives that offer exposure to related fields such as:

  • sustainability
  • global business
  • business analytics
  • computer science

This breadth in coursework can equip you with the necessary tools to excel in the ever-evolving supply chain landscape! It doesn’t matter whether you choose a program that’s in state or out of state. These supply chain management programs will help you meet your goals.

A great curriculum is nothing without a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members to guide students through it. As you evaluate supply chain masters programs, research the instructors’ credentials and backgrounds.

What are the best schools for supply chain management?

The best supply chain masters programs will have a mix of faculty with both academic and professional backgrounds. This ensures a well-rounded educational experience. Pay attention to peer assessment surveys, based solely on student input, to get an idea of whether a particular school of business is right for you.

Other top programs in supply chain management can be found at:

  • Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI
  • University of Maryland College Park in College Park, MD
  • Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper School of Business in Pittsburgh, PA)
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers other top programs in business as well)
  • Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN
  • Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ
  • Ohio State University in Columbus, OH
  • University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN

What Are the Best Master’s Programs in Operations and Supply Chain Management?

We know that you have educational goals that you’re itching to pursue. But you may not know where to start. The editors of Master’s Programs Guide utilize a unique ranking methodology. It’s  based on the following three aspects:

  • 40% Potential Salary After Graduation: Average mid-career salary of school alumni
  • 30% Institutional Accreditation: Regional and National Accreditation for the 2019-2020 school year
  • 30% Overall Degree Affordability: Average cost of undergraduate and graduate tuition per school (for both in state and out of state students)

We also look at peer assessment survey sot get an idea of whether certain supply chain management degrees might fit the bill.

At Master’s Programs Guide, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one. We want to help you reach your goals.

Best Schools for Supply Chain Management

#1.Michigan State University

Supply Chain Management MBA

Michigan State

You’ll find one of the best supply chain graduate programs at Michigan State University.

The founder of Michigan State University’s Broad College of Business began teaching bookkeeping back in 1861. From there the university began developing a business curriculum. This led to its modern acclaimed MBA offerings.

One of those is the full-time, 61-credit MBA in supply chain management. This best supply chain MBA takes just 21 months to complete.

Graduates of the program are ready to tackle high-level leadership careers in:

  • procurement
  • operations and logistics
  • demand and supply planning
  • consulting

The curriculum is broken into three parts. There is:

  • the 31-credit hour core
  • the 12-credit hour MBA concentration
  • 18 credit hours of electives

The MBA concentration is one of the best colleges offer in supply chain management. It is top ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its supply chain management degrees. It allows students to select a subject matter focus area outside of supply chain management. That way, they can learn to solve complex and challenging problems across the industry.

This might be in:

  • finance
  • human resource management
  • marketing
  • supply chain management

There is an auxiliary concentration in business analytics. This can be added to any focus area. Concentration class topics include:

  • Logistics Management
  • Strategic Sourcing
  • Manufacturing Design and Analysis
  • Supply Chain Logistics
  • Decision Support Models
  • Total Quality Management
  • Sustainable Supply Chain Management
  • Operations Strategy

Labs and learning centers include the:

  • Team Effectiveness Laboratory
  • Financial Analysis Laboratory
  • IBM On-Demand Supply Chain Laboratory
  • Gast Business Library

Educational opportunities include:

  • international trips
  • exposure to renowned executive speakers
  • getting a chance to work directly with the most current supply chain tech through partnerships with IBM On-Demand Supply Chain Lab
  • informative industry field trips to companies like Amazon and Amway

The Extreme Green series of experiential workshops is another exciting way for Broad MBA students to learn dynamic new practical skills.

Students also have a chance to join the student-led Graduate Supply Chain Management Association. They can participate in various team-building volunteer projects such as Habitat for Humanity ReStore. They also get to put all of their new abilities and knowledge to the test through a variety of real-world case study competitions like:

  • the Fisher Invitational
  • the national Net Impact competition
  • Broad Vs. Broad, the yearly event that gives teams just 24 hours to analyze a case and present findings to a panel of judges. No pressure!

When not immersed in MBA study, MSU attendees enjoy the school’s thriving student life and Spartan Athletics events.

Applicants will submit:

  • transcripts (average applicants hold a 3.3 GPA on the last two years of undergraduate work)
  • a resume listing a recommended two years of relevant work experience
  • GRE or waiverable GMAT scores (no minimum required, however the average GMAT for 2021 admitted applicants was 674)

Two original essays are also required. One must be written and one in video format. An optional third written essay can be included.

Two supervisors should be listed. They may be called for reference checking. Final candidates will be contacted to set up an evaluation interview. This can be completed on-campus or over Skype.

#2. Pennsylvania State University

MBA Supply Chain Management Concentration

Penn State

Pennsylvania State University offers another one of the best masters in supply chain management.

Pennsylvania State University, also known as Penn States, is home to the renowned Smeal College of Business. This school offers graduate students a customizable MBA program. The MBA degree is done with at least one concentration in:

  • finance
  • management consulting
  • marketing
  • supply chain management

Many students opt to take more than one concentration to broaden their knowledge base. After concentrations, students will select up to three options to dive into.

Option coursework includes topics such as:

  • Applied Leadership
  • Capital Markets
  • Corporate Finance
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Product and Brand Management
  • Risk Management
  • Sustainability

Penn State’s MBA with a supply chain management concentration focuses on:

  • strategic procurement practices
  • manufacturing
  • demand fulfillment

The plan of study starts in fall with a week-long orientation. There is a week-long concentration intensive.  There’s also a course on leadership communication skills, and coursework covering business fundamentals. These include:

  • business statistics
  • accounting
  • team processes
  • economics for managers
  • risk management

Spring term jumps into topics like:

  • marketing
  • strategic management
  • supply chain ops
  • global business matters

The second fall and spring terms focus on electives based on the students’ chosen concentration(s) and options. The curriculum is taught by a core faculty of:

  • industry experts
  • executive directors
  • authors
  • institutional fellows

Many of whom have decades of experience.

Admission is competitive. The entire MBA program’s class size for 2020 was just 58 students. They had an average of 62 months of previous work experience.

Application materials include:

  • transcripts
  • a resume
  • a 600-word essay
  • a video application
  • letters of recommendation
  • GMAT or GRE scores

#3. Arizona State University

Supply Chain Management MBA

Arizona State

Arizona State University in Tempe strives to offer the most innovative higher education. They also try to make it as accessible as possible.

ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business features an entire department dedicated to teaching supply chain management to full-time MBA students. Students also have the option to attend the program online if they can’t make it to campus or live outside the area.

ASU realizes that many grad students are working individuals. It even allows for Professional Flex MBA with a part-time evening attendance option. One way or another, ASU wants to empower you to earn your degree!

The core full-time MBA curriculum takes 21 months to finish. It trains students on decision-making using analytics in order to make critical leadership decisions.

Part-time flex MBA attendees have up to four years to complete degree requirements. This enables busy students  to take classes at a pace that fits into their lifestyle.

Courses are taught by the same high-caliber faculty during the evenings. ASU’s online MBA program is also flexible. It has a more regimented structure to keep distance learners on track. This option involves taking one five-week class at a time. Students graduate within two years. There are around 15 online electives available.

Another flexible option for students wanting to bypass the MBA route is ASU’s 30-credit hour online Master of Science in supply chain management. This program, done in conjunction with MITx MicroMasters®, features rolling enrollment. There are ten classes, each of which are 7.5 weeks long.

As a non-MBA degree, this option allows for a fuller exploration of the technical topics pertinent to the field. The curriculum includes everything from data and modeling to logistics and product flow.

On-campus graduate programs have a different application process than ASU Online programs. Both require transcripts showing a 3.0 GPA on the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework.

#4. University of Tennessee

Operations Management Masters Degree

University of Tennessee Knoxville

The University of Tennessee’s mission is to enrich the lives of in state and out of state citizens. It opened its doors in Knoxville in 1794. The university’s mission has now expanded to push the boundaries of human knowledge in order to improve the entire world.

Through the Haslam College of Business, UT Knoxville offers its world-class, full-time MBA program with a concentration in supply chain management. The program of study takes just 16 months. It is ideal for both in state and out of state students.

Students take a business skills course devoted to:

  • improving writing
  • making presentations
  • marketing
  • maximizing networks

There are many opportunities for additional career advancement opportunities. These are ideal for both in state and out of state students. They include:

  • recruiting and network events
  • career counseling
  • mock interviewing
  • a vast alumni network

Most UT Knoxville MBA student bodies consist of ~58 students. It’s split between in state and out of state students. They have an average age of 27 and work background of under five years.

To apply, both in state and out of state students should submit:

  • transcripts
  • two letters of reference
  • a resume
  • answers to essay prompts
  • GRE or GMAT scores

Selected candidates hold a 3.48 undergraduate GPA and GMAT score of 656.

Apart from academic qualifications, the school looks for students with:

  • sufficient work experience of at least three years
  • a successful track record of teamwork
  • examples of leadership, exemplary communication abilities, and international experience

Applicants do not have to hold a business degree. Admissions is not based solely on this factor. However, prerequisite classes such as accounting or statistics are suggested.

This school of business is top ranked by U.S. News & World Report for its supply chain management degrees. There are financial aid opportunities for both in state and out of state supply chain management graduate students alike.

#5. Georgia Institute of Technology

Master Degree in Operations Management

Georgia Tech

As one of the nation’s leading research institutions, Georgia Institute of Technology offers one of the top supply chain masters programs.

Also known as Georgia Tech, this school has a lot of experience in figuring out how to make things work in a more efficient and effective way.

That’s why its MBA program with an optional concentration in operations management is perfect for full-time students. Its students are ready to learn the innovative, practical problem-solving skills that can be put to use in their careers. It is taught by veteran faculty from the Scheller College. This 22-month program of study features just twelve core courses such as:

  • Analytical Tools for Decisions
  • Business Communications
  • Financial and Managerial Accounting
  • Leading People and Organizations
  • Managerial Economics
  • Managing Information Resources
  • Marketing Management
  • Operations Management

Eleven electives are also required. Options include classes such as:

  • Collaborative Product Development
  • Operations Strategy
  • Service Operations Management
  • Pricing Analytics and Revenue Management
  • Global Operations and Supply Chain Strategy
  • Supply Chain Innovation Practicum (which allows students to put learned skills to practical use on a sponsored real-world group project)

Georgia Tech’s MBA can be customized with a concentration option. Also, students can also elect to use four electives as an Immersive Track in Leading Innovation.

One immersive option is in supply chain innovation. This is an excellent add-on to any operations management MBA.

Students will engage in a paid summer internship after their first year. This will not only enhance learning but look great on a resume.

Sponsors include Fortune 500 companies like:

  • Amazon
  • American Airlines
  • Deloitte
  • Delta
  • Fiat Chrysler
  • Georgia Pacific
  • Goldman Sachs
  • Google
  • HD
  • IBM
  • Intel
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • Michelin
  • PepsiCo
  • Porsche
  • Coca-Cola
  • Home Depot

Just about every student will acquire a paid internship. Georgia Tech offers financial aid opportunities for both in state and out of state supply chain management graduate students alike.

Applicants must submit:

  • two essays
  • transcripts
  • two letters of recommendation
  • current GMAT or GRE scores

#6. Stanford University

MBA Focus in General Management

Stanford

Few names in higher ed stand out like Stanford’s. Its Graduate School of Business (GSB) is a large part of the institution’s acclaim.

With acceptance rates in the single digits, it’s one of the toughest supply chain management schools to get into if you’re interested in a master degree in operations management.

But the Stanford MBA Program is worth it! This is one of the best supply chain management schools. This customizable master’s program leads to a General Management MBA. It demands a full-time two-year commitment. It also features options for joint or dual degree attainment. This can save students time and money. The first year of the GSB MBA covers complex, big picture general management core topics. You’ll also work on developing individual leadership traits and approaches.

Stanford has a unique, four-week Global Management Immersion Experience requirement. This requires students to participate in various exploratory cultural learning experiences. These are designed to widen international perspectives. The second year of the curriculum consists of electives. This allows students ample flexibility in pursuing topics which will help their careers or further educational goals.

The school takes care to update and to incorporate new electives in order to keep up with changes in the real world. Elective options for in state and out of state graduate students include:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Global management
  • Human resources
  • Information technology
  • Marketing
  • Organizational behavior
  • Political economics
  • Public management

Other coursework includes compressed special interest classes. There’s also an opportunity to take up to 12 credits from other departments on topics like:

  • computer science
  • energy
  • foreign language
  • politics
  • policy

Stanford’s GSB allows students to participate in joint educational programs such as:

  • Harvard Kennedy School
  • Johns Hopkins
  • Princeton

The program doesn’t have minimum GPAs or GMAT/GRE scores to meet. The admissions section does need the usual application materials. In fact, the school’s website goes into great detail on each item needed.

Materials include:

  • transcripts
  • GMAT or GRE scores
  • a resume listing professional work experience
  • two letters of reference
  • details on activities and awards won
  • two personal essays answering the prompts “What matters most to you, and why?” and “Why Stanford?”

U.S. News & World Report ranks Stanford University as one of the Best Business Schools out of all graduate schools in the country. The site also lists Stanford internationally as a top pick for its economics and business global research reputation. It’s clearly one of the best supply chain management schools around!

There are financial aid opportunities for both in state and out of state supply chain management graduate students alike.

#7. University of Wisconsin-Madison

MBA With Supply Chain Analytics Concentration

University of Wisconsin-Madison

You’ll find another one of the world’s top supply chain management schools at the University of Wisconsin- Madison.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Grainger Center for Supply Chain Management ensures its graduates students are receiving the most up-to-date education in the field. Its full-time MBA with a supply chain analytics concentration prepares students to understand how to utilize:

  • data and information systems
  • enterprise resource planning systems
  • other modern methods relevant in today’s supply chain environments

The curriculum includes numerous practical topics. It is updated based on input from the program’s advisory board and working alumni. It’s ideal for both in state and out of state students alike and features input from industry experts.

The Wisconsin MBA uses a cohort model in its supply chain management schools. This is done for both in state and out of state students alike. This allows students to progress together as a team. The first year of study includes classes such as:

  • Data to Decisions
  • Financial Accounting
  • Integrated Company Analysis
  • Leading and Working in Teams
  • Logistics Management
  • Marketing Management
  • Operations Management
  • Strategic Global Sourcing
  • Supply Chain Analytics

The second year of study in the supply chain management schools includes a seminar, additional core classes, plus electives in:

  • business
  • marketing
  • operations
  • accounting
  • HR
  • insurance

Wisconsin MBA students have the option to take a Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification. They can also visit company supply chain sites at home and abroad in countries like:

  • the United Kingdom
  • South Africa
  • Vietnam
  • Turkey
  • China

There are also opportunities to participate in challenging case competitions at universities like Michigan State University or Brigham Young University. You can work on sponsored industry team projects and “hackathons.”

Like other supply chain management schools, you can even learn from alumni business leaders. The program’s advisory board is packed with executives and corporate leaders. They provide invaluable mentorship to students on internship projects, career planning, interviewing tactics, and more.

The Wisconsin School of Business maintains a strong connection with industry. It produces work-ready graduates. It liaisons with recruiters looking for new hires. It even accepts company employees as MBA students to return them as company leaders.

Admissions to Wisconsin’s MBA program and its supply chain management schools requires no minimum GPA. Those with under a 3.0 are accepted on a probationary status. Applicants aren’t required to hold a business-related undergraduate degree.

Applicants should send in transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, and at least one essay. The average GMAT score was 665. International students must also submit proof of English proficiency. They’ll need at least a 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL exam. There are financial aid opportunities for both in state and out of state supply chain management graduate students alike.

#8. The Ohio State University

Operations and Logistics MBA

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Another outstanding master’s degree operations management program is found at the Ohio State University. Ohio State is one of the best colleges for students who want to learn how to solve complex and challenging problems in supply chain management.

The Ohio State University in Columbus has always done things its own way. It should come as no surprise that its MBA is unique, as well. Ohio State University is a school that is ideal for graduate students who are in state and live in Ohio. However, Ohio State is also an excellent option for out of state students seeking a supply chain management degree in Ohio.

It is offered through the Fisher College of Business. The full-time MBA program uses a customized plan of study with numerous skills assessments given along the way. This is to ensure proper understanding and retention.

Over the course of a two-year program of study, students receive personalized attention from faculty and success coaches. Every student chooses the route they want to pursue. This is done via the MBA Pathways program. These supply chain management schools let them decide upon which practical experiences they’ll need to meet the challenges of their future careers.

Pathways options include the logistics management pathway. Required courses include:

  • Strategic Logistics Management
  • Logistics Decision Making
  • Logistics Analytics
  • Logistics Technology and Application
  • Lean Logistics
  • Field Problems

Another pathway is in supply chain management. Coursework for these supply chian management schools covers:

  • Global Sourcing
  • Matching Supply and Demand
  • Lean Enterprise and Leadership
  • Product and Process Innovation

The College of Business partners with leading companies at home and overseas. This ensures that its offerings are the most up-to-date and sought after. As an immersive program, the degree’s cross-functional curriculum features plenty of practical projects and lessons. These are designed to be applicable on the outside.

Both in state and out of state students will engage in a:

  • team-based overseas consultation Global Applied Project or intensive Global Business Expedition
  • a Business Lab Project in which they serve as either an embedded or external consultant to a real company
  • a Social Impact Challenge where they act as a non-profit consultant.

Graduates are adept leaders. They are able to define and resolve difficult problems using analysis and critical thinking. They learn marketable business skills and enhance invaluable personal skills. This helps them make a direct impact for future employers or in their own entrepreneurial endeavors.

When not roaming the globe, Ohio State’s graduate business students may take courses at several on-site centers. These include:

  • the Dice Center for Financial Economics
  • Center for Innovation Strategies
  • Center for Operational Excellence
  • Global Supply Chain Forum
  • Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship

There are several other stellar campus facilities that both in state and out of state students can enjoy.

According to the U.S. News & World Report, Ohio State’s Full-time MBA program ranks well in production and operations. It’s also well-ranked supply chain management and logistics. 91% of graduates reported finding a job within three months. They had a median starting salary of $105,000. Financial aid opportunities exist for both in state and out of state supply chain management graduate students alike.

#9. Carnegie Mellon University

Operations Management Concentration MBA

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon has a long-standing reputation as a technology innovator. It’s also one of the best colleges for students who want to learn how to solve complex and challenging problems.

That’s why it’s no shock to see their MBA program has received a STEM designation. It has a focus on sophisticated analytics, management science, and data utilization.

The program is crafted to equip modern students, both in state and out of state, for the business needs and challenges of the future. This teamwork-oriented program comes with a ton of flexibility for in state and out of state students alike.

Students in these supply chain management schools may select to take the MBA operations management concentration. Or they can take any other number of concentration options.

Operations management concentration coursework for both in state and out of state students includes classes such as:

  • Service Management
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Operations Strategy

This path prepares graduates for important roles in management, marketing, finance, consulting, and even entrepreneurship.

It also allows students to choose several electives, including:

  • Demand Management
  • Risk Analytics
  • Sustainable Operations
  • Six Sigma Techniques

Carnegie Mellon MBAs are offered through the Tepper School of Business. They come in three delivery format options:

  • full-time
  • part-time online hybrid
  • part-time flex

The full-time option is 21-months long. It is taught on the Pittsburgh campus. It features a summer internship requirement and month-long BaseCamp Orientation. This is designed to set students up for success. It incorporates:

  • academic planning
  • peer networking
  • faculty introductions
  • a variety of engaging activities.

The 32-month part-time online hybrid is done using a combination of online and in-person sessions. Students will attend live sessions just 6 times a year on the weekends. They have an array of locations to choose from other than the main campus.

The part-time flex option is similar. It takes the same time to complete. However, it features more opportunities for on-campus class attendance. All students receive a customized plan of study. They have access to student and career services.

Classes are taught using a “mini-semester” format. This splits a normal semester into two 6.5-week parts. In addition to the various concentration options, students can choose an optional MBA track. They’ll use up to 10 electives for a deeper exploration of certain fields of research. Carnegie Mellon keeps its MBA students on the go with learning excursions around the country and overseas. This is through its Global and Career Trek requirements.

Past Global Trek destinations include:

  • China
  • Dubai
  • Japan
  • India
  • Colombia
  • Israel
  • Latin America
  • South Africa
  • Morocco

Students have paid visits to several top companies during their Career Trek experiences. These include:

  • Amazon
  • Cisco
  • Facebook
  • Google
  • HP
  • Microsoft
  • Salesforce
  • Walmart

Three intriguing capstone options are available:

  • study abroad – a month-long trip to Germany or China
  • Management Game, an applied team exercise involving a computer-simulated multinational company
  • Strategic Management of the Enterprise, a sponsored experiential learning adventure which tasks students with solving an actual real-world business problem.

Applicants should submit:

  • unofficial transcripts
  • a resume
  • one required essay (and one optional essay)
  • one professional recommendation
  • GMAT or GRE scores

International students should also send in their official TOEFL or IELTS scores.

#10. Rutgers University

MBA Concentration in Supply Chain Management

Rutgers University at New Brunswick

If you’re looking for a great master’s degree in operations management, look no further than Rutgers. This is one of the best colleges to help you learn how to solve complex and challenging problems in supply chain management.

Rutgers University first opened as Queen’s College in Newark, New Jersey, back in 1766. It is the eighth oldest university in America.

As a public institution it is not a private Ivy League school. However, it remains one of the original colonial schools bearing all of the associated historical clout.

Today, through the Rutgers Business School, Rutgers offers a versatile 49-credit hour part-time MBA with a strategic concentration in supply chain management. It was built under careful advisement by working executives and seasoned faculty.

It covers a comprehensive range of courses on topics such as:

  • B2B Marketing
  • Contract Management
  • Data Analysis
  • Enterprise Resource Planning
  • Fundamentals of Project Management
  • Global Labor Governance
  • New Product Commercialization
  • Pricing Strategy
  • Risk and Disruption Management

Rutgers created its part-time MBA to make higher education more accessible for working students. This is one of the best colleges for aspiring supply chain management professionals who want to learn how to solve complex and challenging problems – but on their own terms.

There are flexible attendance options such as night-time classes, choice of campus locations (Newark or New Brunswick) or satellite offices in Morristown and Jersey City.

Many classes can even be taken online. The school offers three program start times for eager students.

MBA students work on actual sponsored projects through partnerships with the Rutgers Center for Supply Chain Management. All students will complete internships with some of the biggest companies in the area.

The Center for Supply Chain Management, with oversight by academic and industry advisory boards, is a hub of research and collaboration. Students can learn current best practices. They can liaison with top industry executives, and they can discover invaluable opportunities for career growth.

Post-graduation, Rutgers alumni are prepared to take on leadership roles. They work managing complex industry issues such as:

  • contract management
  • global sourcing
  • labor regulations
  • legal affairs
  • pricing strategy
  • process design and improvement
  • risk analysis
  • technology utilization

Applicants should send in official transcripts and either GMAT, GRE, or executive assessment. This requirement may be waived for those with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, plus eight years of relevant work experience.

The executive assessment option is to review applicant’s readiness for the rigorous nature of the program.

Application materials also include:

  • a resume
  • two letters of recommendation
  • short essays describing career goals, reasons for wanting to complete an MBA, and specifics related to how Rutgers can help with those goals.

International students needing to meet F-1 visa requirements may be ineligible for the part-time MBA option. Rutgers also offers a related Master of Supply Chain Analytics and a Master of Supply Chain Management. This is for students not interested in pursuing the MBA route.

Other Top Supply Chain Masters Programs

#11. Bowling Green State University

Location: Bowling Green, Ohio

Degree: MBA with a Specialization in Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $17,508

Website

#12. California State University – East Bay

Location: Hayward, California

Degree: MBA: Operations and Supply Chain Management Concentration

Net Price: $11,422

Website

#13. Middle Tennessee State University

Location: Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Degree: Management, Supply Chain, MS

Net Price: $12,294

Website

#14. Binghamton University

Location: Binghamton, New York

Degree: MBA with a Career Track in Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $16,440

Website

#15. Brigham Young University

Location: Provo, Utah

Degree: MBA with a Track in Global Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $13,120

Website

#16. San Diego State University

Location: San Diego, California

Degree: MBA with a Specialization in Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $14,568

Website

#17. University of Toledo in Toledo

Location: Toledo, Ohio

Degree: Professional MBA with a major in Operations and Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $16,588

Website

#18. The University of Texas

Location: Austin, Texas

Degree: Full-Time MBA with a Supply Chain & Operations Management Concentration

Net Price: $14,156

Website

#19. California State University-Long Beach

Location: Long Beach, California

Degree: MS in Supply Chain Management

Net Price: $9,477

Website

#20. University of Michigan in Ann Arbor (MI)

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Degree: Master of Supply Chain Management or Full-Time MBA (Ann Arbor, MI and online – the campus in East Lansing, MI also has a program)

Net Price: $16,856

Website

IF YOU ENJOYED THAT THEN CHECK OUT OUR ARTICLES ON THE MOST POPULAR MASTER’S DEGREES AND TOP 50 HIGHEST PAYING MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS.

Michael Templeton
Managing Editor

Kacey Reynolds Schedler
Contributing Editor