10 Fastest Online Supply Chain Management Master’s Degrees for 2020

supply chain masters online

If you want to advance your supply chain management career fast, look to an accelerated program. An accelerated program allows you to finish your master’s degree at a faster pace when compared to a traditional master’s degree program. If you have a bachelor’s in supply chain management, the accelerated master’s builds on that expertise. That means you will need to work on completing your course material at the same fast pace.

The primary advantage is the shorter amount of time before you can move forward in your career. It allows you to start working on a new job or to gain opportunities for advancement in your job within a short amount of time. You will also notice a financial advantage. Since it does not take as long to complete the course material, you may have lower costs associated with an accelerated degree program when compared to a traditional program. In some cases, a university may offer scholarships or other financial assistance for students in an accelerated master’s program.

Methodology: Ranking the Best Accelerated Supply Chain Management Degree Programs

Speed is important, but so is quality. That’s why Great Business Schools editors chose only accredited, reputable institutions for the best accelerated supply chain management program ranking. Schools have to offer a master’s degree that can be completed in less than 2 years, and are ranked according to their value: Cost, Job Market Reputation, and Student Satisfaction, with date from IPEDS, Niche, and College Scorecard. 

1. Adelphi University

Adelphi University offers an MS in Supply Chain Management with STEM-Designation. This accelerated supply chain management degree teaches students the latest techniques for solving logistical challenges in industry. The program integrates knowledge of customer service, production, sourcing, and logistics. Students gain the skills they need to prepare for a career in supply chain management, including the latest technological skills for the industry.

The Robert B. WIllumstad School of Business at Adelphi University prepares today’s students for the business opportunities of tomorrow. The school is collaborative, innovative, and creative. There is a focus on internships and other real-world experiences that help prepare students for their future careers.

Highlight This program takes just one year to complete when taken full time.
Degree MS in Supply Chain Management – 12 months

2. Marquette University

Marquette University offers an online MS in Supply Chain Management. This accelerated supply chain management degree gives students the knowledge and tools required to help transition their companies from physical supply chains to digital. Students can learn at their own pace in a curriculum that is driven by industry and up to date with current supply chain management technologies. The program can be completed in as little as one year.

The Graduate School of Management at Marquette University is known for its quality master’s degree programs. Students benefit from flexible schedules and high-achieving faculty members. The school strives to be a destination of choice for business students. It strives to create strong leaders who will make the world a better place. The school emphasizes student excellence, research, and community engagement. There is a strong alumni network.

Highlight The program can be completed 100% online either part time or full time.
Degree MS in Supply Chain Management – 12 months

3. Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University offers an online MBA in International Trade and Logistics. This accelerated supply chain management degree consists of 30 credit hours and helps students learn the skills and knowledge they need to diversify their career opportunities by learning about export and import operations and logistics strategies. Students learn about international trade, operations management, customs regulations, warehousing and distribution, and international transportation.

The A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business has a multicultural faculty made up of experts who draw on their own experiences to provide students with a top-notch business education. The school offers a dynamic learning experience that is supplemented with internships and other opportunities for real-world, hands-on learning. Students gain the skills and experiences they need to be resourceful and independent leaders who will build successful careers and impact the business world in a positive way.

Highlight This program can be completed in as little as 15 months.
Degree MBA in International Trade and Logistics – 15 months

4. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida offers an online MBA in Supply Chain Logistics Management. This accelerated supply chain management degree helps students develop effective business practices that save time and money. Students learn all aspects of supply chain management, from logistics systems to logistics management. In addition, they learn the foundations of business management. Courses include financial management, marketing management, and quantitative methods for business.

The University of West Florida offers accelerated online programs that help students advance their careers quickly by providing the education and skills they need to get ahead. The programs are flexible enough to meet the needs of busy, working professionals. UWF’s online business programs are AACSB accredited, so students receive a high-quality education that will help them advance in the business world. UWF believes that higher education can change the world and equips its students with the tools they need to become effective leaders.

Highlight The program can be completed in as little as 16 months.
Degree MBA in Supply Chain Logistics Management – 16 months

5. Boston University

Boston University offers an online MS in Supply Chain Management that provides students with the knowledge they need to navigate today’s complex international supply chain networks. Students learn about international trade, logistics, and supply chain theory. There is a shortage of graduates to fill the jobs available in this field, so it is a great time to major in supply chain management. Graduates will be able to design, optimize, and operate a global supply chain.

Boston University’s Distance Education office is made up of media producers, instructional designers, and support staff who work with the faculty at Boston University’s colleges and schools to provide top-notch online educational programs for its students. The distance education team ensures that all online offerings meet their high standards while delivering the quality educational experience students deserve.

Highlight This accelerated supply chain management degree can be completed in 18 to 24 months.
Degree MS in Supply Chain Management – 18 months

6. Portland State University

Portland State University’s online MS in Global Supply Chain Management is one of the most prestigious and well-developed in the world, with recognition from the Institute for Supply Management. The program at Portland State is specifically designed for working adults who are already experienced professionals in the field to develop their managerial skills and advanced knowledge. 

PSU’s location in Portland is also an essential asset to graduates, providing connections to a wide range of industries. With one of the best online education systems in the US, Portland State provides online students with all the experiential learning and mentorship of a traditional program, with the convenience of an accelerated distance format. 

Highlight Portland State’s supply chain management online degree takes just 18 months to complete. 
Degree MS in Global Supply Chain Management – 18 months

7. Governor’s State University

Governors State University offers an online MBA in Supply Chain Management. This program is 100% online and is taught by full-time faculty members who have the experience to be able to deliver the specialized knowledge students need to succeed in the field of supply chain management. Students learn about operations, management, and organization as well as supply chain management and logistics. Graduates are prepares to take on challenging careers as supply chain managers.

The College of Business at Governors State University integrates research with real-world experience and big ideas to create courses that include both practice and theory. The school’s top-notch professors teach students the skills they need to become successful business leaders. The College of Business is focused on the success of its students. The classes are small, so students can get the attention they deserve. The school’s core values are continuous improvement, excellence, diversity, and accountability.

Highlight This accelerated supply chain management degree can be completed in 18 months.
Degree MBA in Supply Chain Management – 18 months

8. University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas offers an MS in Supply Chain Management that is part of the school’s STEM program. Students who complete the program receive a SAS certificate in data mining and business intelligence. The program can be taken online or on campus. There are outstanding internships and job placements available for supply chain management students, as well as international study opportunities. US News & World Report ranked the program #20 (tied) for supply chain and logistics programs.

The Naveen Jindal School of Management is one of the leading business schools in the nation. The school has more than 30 degree program and over 9,000 students. The Naveen Jindal School offers rigorous curriculums that are developed by top-notch faculty members to challenge students. The school is committed to excellence and diversity.

Highlight This accelerated supply chain management degree takes 18 to 24 months to complete.
Degree MS in Supply Chain Management – 18 months

9. Kettering University

Kettering University offers an online MS in Supply Chain Management. This accelerated supply chain management degree is available 100% online and there are three concentrations available: healthcare management, global leadership, and operations management. Students learn the skills they need to pursue successful careers in logistics, transportation, manufacturing, import and export. Graduates are experts in delivering goods to the consumer. Courses include foundations of supply chain management, customer relationship management, and supply chain logistics.

Kettering University is committed to providing training for STEM professionals that will allow them to achieve extraordinary levels of leadership, innovation, and success. The school integrates hands-on learning with a top-notch academic program to help students achieve their full potential. Kettering is one of the best schools in the world at combining practice with theory. Kettering has always been about technology, having started in the beginning as the School of Automobile Trades.

Highlight This program can be completed in just 18 months.
Degree MS in Supply Chain Management – 18 months

10. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers an MBA with a major in Supply Chain Management & Operational Systems. This program prepares students to become leaders in the supply chain management industry, helping to ensure that products make it from one place to another on time. Students receive a foundation in business administration along with a focus on moving and storing goods. Industry leaders provide valuable insights and offer real-world projects that give students hands-on experience.

The H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business & Entrepreneurship is one of the few business schools in the world that has entrepreneurship in its name. The school has over 3,000 students and collaborates with more than 100 corporate partnerships to provide corporate visits, internships, and networking opportunities. The school’s faculty has experience in the real world, and the curriculum is constantly being updated to keep up with ever-changing advancements in technology.

Highlight This accelerated supply chain management degree can be completed in 21 months.
Degree MBA in Supply Chain Management & Operational Systems – 21 months

What if I Already Have a Degree?

When you have a master’s degree in business or a related field, you may not be able to obtain a traditional master’s degree in supply chain management. That does not mean you cannot add to your degree with a graduate certificate in supply chain management.

An advanced certificate in supply chain management is designed to give you specialized skills that apply to your industry or job. An online graduate certificate in supply chain management allows you to enhance your current degree and show employers that you have the ability to work in a leadership role.

When you are looking into a certificate in procurement and supply chain management, make sure that you evaluate the details of the program. A graduate certificate in supply chain management online may have educational requirements you must meet to qualify for the classes. You also want to evaluate the school so that your professional certificate in supply chain management is from an accredited university or college. 

By obtaining a master certificate in supply chain management and logistics, you are able to improve your educational background. It gives potential employers or current employers confidence in your capabilities and sets you up for one of the highest-paying jobs in business.

What is Logistics Management? 

When you are looking into what does a logistics manager do, it will bring up the question of what is logistics management in the first place. You may also wonder how it differs from supply chain management.

As a general rule, logistics management is a process used to procure, move, or store materials. What does a logistics management specialist do in their job? They work on obtaining materials that a company needs for a product or service. They then make sure that it moves to an appropriate location or is properly stored until it is needed by the business. 

The job may also involve the maintenance of company inventory and the management of finished products or parts for products. The exact role of a logistics manager depends on the company and their specific needs, so it may have many similarities to a supply chain manager.

How Do I Become a Logistics Manager?

When you want to become a logistics manager or work in a management position within a supply chain for a business, you want to obtain the right degree and training. A master of logistics and supply chain management is a good place to start developing the relevant skills you need as a professional. The masters of logistics and supply chain management give you specialized training in logistical support for a business or corporation.

After you complete a master’s in supply chain management and logistics, you can focus on gaining experience in your field. The master of logistics and supply chain management gives you the fundamental skills and tools you need to appeal to an employer; however, you will need to work as a manager to build on your education.

In some cases, you will work your way up in a corporation or business when you gain enough experience and you complete a master’s in logistics and supply chain management. The specific training your employer needs may vary, so you may need to take leadership training courses or complete other types of training within the company before you are able to advance into a logistics manager position.

The role of a manager focuses on leading others to accomplish a goal. By obtaining a master’s degree, you learn the fundamental leadership skills you need to take on an advanced position. It may take time to find a job that fits your long-term goals or to obtain a promotion into a management position after you finish your degree. By gaining experience and completing your education, it is possible to get the attention of an employer and improve the number of opportunities to take on greater responsibilities in your workplace. 

Carrie Morris
Author

Warren Dahl
Editor-in-Chief