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2023 Best Online Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management Programs

By OnlineU Staff Writers | Updated 5/19/2023

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A bachelor's degree in supply chain management aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to keep products moving through global transportation networks. Enrollees in this program complete courses on finance, sourcing, and strategy in supply chain logistics. Many of these programs are business administration degrees with specializations in supply chain management, which lets students get a general business education along with their logistics focus. Graduates might qualify for a range of business careers, including as logisticians, cost estimators, or operations research analysts.

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Online Supply Chain Management Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In


2023 Best Online Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management Programs

RankSchool Salary Score Median Starting Salary
# 1 #1 City University of Seattle 100 100 $79,719
# 2 #2 Excelsior University 99 $62,731
# 3 #3 Bellevue University 98 $60,272
# 4 #4 University of Minnesota - Online 98 $59,473
# 5 #5 Western Governors University 97 $58,705
# 6 #6 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide 95 $56,141
# 7 #7 University of Massachusetts Global 93 $54,565
# 8 #8 National University 93 $54,361
# 9 #9 Oregon Institute of Technology 92 $54,257
# 10 #10 American Public University System 92 $54,183

#1 City University of Seattle

  • Salary Score: 100
  • Median Starting Salary: $79,719
  • Locations: Seattle (WA)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

City University of Seattle (CUS) is a private school offering two bachelor's degree options to supply chain students. The first is a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Management degree with a specialization in global supply chain management. The second is a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a global supply chain management specialization. Both degrees contain 180 quarter credit hours, which can take about four years to complete.

GGU's online students complete coursework using the Brightspace learning management system. The BA curriculum is intended for students who want leadership roles in management, while the BS is geared toward general business students. Students in both programs take the same five-course sequence starting with Managing Global Operations and Value Chains.

#2 Excelsior University

  • Salary Score: 99
  • Median Starting Salary: $62,731
  • Locations: Albany (NY)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Excelsior College is a private online institution featuring a Bachelor of Science in Business degree with a concentration in logistics management. This program contains 120 credit hours of courses, which often takes full-time students four years to complete. Excelsior has an open admissions policy and a 35% graduation rate for bachelor's students.

The college uses the Canvas platform to deliver online asynchronous online courses. BS students learn general business principles alongside supply chain topics such as lean logistics and inventory management. Some required courses for the concentration include Transportation, Warehousing, and Distribution and Quality Control. Graduates might find work in all areas of business, including as logisticians and production managers.

#3 Bellevue University

  • Salary Score: 98
  • Median Starting Salary: $60,272
  • Locations: Bellevue (NE)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Bellevue University is a private school with three online bachelor's degrees for candidates interested in supply chains. The Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain, Transportation and Logistics Management covers on-the-ground logistical concerns for employer supply chains. Bellevue's Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Logistics Management emphasizes business strategy in the design of supply chains. Finally, the Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration offers a concentration in supply chain logistics for business students who want some grounding in logistics issues.

Each degree consists of 127 credit hours and tends to take four years with a full-time schedule. The basic curriculum differs by degree, but they each contain coursework on supply chain management systems, finance, and sourcing.

#4 University of Minnesota - Online

  • Salary Score: 98
  • Median Starting Salary: $59,473
  • Locations: Minneapolis (MN) (and 4 others)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of Minnesota Online (UMO) is a public university offering an online Bachelor of Manufacturing Management degree. This 120-credit program often takes four years to complete with a full-time course load. All branches of the University of Minnesota have acceptance rates in the 70-79% range and graduate rates of 55-80%.

Canvas is UMO's digital learning platform where online students can view assignments and lectures and complete coursework. This program's faculty teach up-to-date theories and practices for efficient manufacturing, such as lean principles and Six Sigma. Core required classes include Managerial Accounting, Applied Quality, and Applied Engineering Principles.

#5 Western Governors University

  • Salary Score: 97
  • Median Starting Salary: $58,705
  • Locations: Salt Lake City (UT)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

Western Governors University (WGU) is a private, fully online university that offers a Bachelor's in Supply Chain Operations Management. This program, typically completed in four years, consists of 36 courses that cover a wide range of topics related to supply chain operations. Students can complete courses and exams at their own page while gaining practical skills and knowledge in data visualization and project management. The program culminates with a capstone project, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world supply chain challenges and demonstrate their expertise in the field.

#6 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide

  • Salary Score: 95
  • Median Starting Salary: $56,141
  • Locations: Daytona Beach (FL)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide (ERAUW) is a private institution with a Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree containing 120 credit hours of coursework. This BS program usually takes at least four years with a full-time course load. ERAUW has a 63% acceptance rate for bachelor's degree applicants, 36% of whom finish their degrees.

The university's online students use Canvas to complete coursework. This program's curriculum consists of a general business core and 21 credits on the logistics and supply chain focus. The required logistics courses include Principles of Procurement Management, Transportation Principles, and Advanced Professional Logistics.

#7 University of Massachusetts Global

  • Salary Score: 93
  • Median Starting Salary: $54,565
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

The University of Massachusetts Global (UM Global) is a private institution with a Bachelor of Business Administration - Supply Chain Systems requiring 135 credit hours. Students studying full-time are likely to complete the degree within four years. UM Global accepts 93% of its applicants, while 59% of students graduate with their degrees.

UM Global uses Blackboard to deliver online coursework. This software allows students to finish their degrees completely online and in an asynchronous format. The curriculum is designed to teach students various skills in business, entrepreneurship, leadership, and effective communication. Core classes include Labor Relations, Strategies Across the Supply Chain, and Organizational Behavior.

UM Global also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership - Supply Chain Systems, which engages both a theoretical understanding and practical skills for supply chain management. Supply chain degree graduates typically gain employment in logistics, distribution, and warehousing.

#8 National University

  • Salary Score: 93
  • Median Starting Salary: $54,361
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

National University (NU) is a private institution that hosts a Bachelor of Business Administration - Logistics and Supply Chain Management. In order to earn this degree, students must complete 180 quarter units, which is typically done within four years if studying at a full-time pace. NU has an acceptance rate of 55%, and 36% of students graduate with degrees on average.

Online students at NU use Blackboard to complete their coursework, which is delivered fully online. The curriculum teaches students how to facilitate orders, stay on budget, and connect with suppliers, with an emphasis on e-commerce and omnichannel distribution systems. There are several required courses, such as Global Logistics, Network Modeling, and Supply Chain Management. Students are also required to complete a capstone project. Graduates may find employment in roles that involve project management, materials management, and warehouse management.

#9 Oregon Institute of Technology

  • Salary Score: 92
  • Median Starting Salary: $54,257
  • Locations: Klamath Falls (OR)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) is a public university that features a Bachelor of Science in Operations Management requiring 180 credit hours. The general completion time for a degree of this size is around four years for full-time students. Of all the students who apply to OIT, 91% are accepted into a program. OIT has a 51% graduation rate.

At OIT, students use Canvas as its learning management system, where courses are delivered fully online. The core curriculum for this program teaches students how to coordinate equipment, meet customer needs, and to blend science with creativity. Here are three examples of required courses: Operations Management, Human Resources Management, and Business Research Methods. Students must also complete a senior project in data analysis. Career opportunities may be found in production planning, production supervision, and quality control.

#10 American Public University System

  • Salary Score: 92
  • Median Starting Salary: $54,183
  • Locations: Charles Town (WV)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The American Public University System (APUS) is a private institution offering a Bachelor of Arts in Supply Chain Management. This degree requires 120 credits, which may be completed in four years while studying full time. APUS also offers similar programs, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Transportation and Logistics Management and Bachelor of Arts in Reverse Logistics Management. Due to APUS' open admissions policy, 100% of students are accepted to APUS, but it has a rather low graduation rate of only 18%.

At APUS, remote learners use Brightspace to complete their coursework, which is fully online and asynchronous. The curriculum for the supply chain management major explores on-the-job challenges, such as capacity planning, risk management, and applying critical thinking. Core classes include Macroeconomics, Principles of Supply Chain Management, and Retail Shipping and Receiving. Students are also required to complete a Senior Seminar in Transportation and Logistics. Graduates of any of the aforementioned programs will be eligible for roles in manufacturing, procurement, purchasing, and quality control.

#11 Ball State University

  • Salary Score: 90
  • Median Starting Salary: $53,024
  • Locations: Muncie (IN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Ball State University (BSU) is a public university with a Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. This degree requires a minimum of 120 credits, with 69 credits for the major. Bachelor's degrees are generally completed in four years while studying full time. BSU accepts 68% of applicants, while 64% of those who enroll graduate with a degree.

Canvas is the main learning platform used by BSU students for their degree, which can be completed entirely online and asynchronously. This degree blends theory and application through interdisciplinary courses. The majority of the required credits are devoted toward the core curriculum including classes such as Project Management, Quality Management and Lean Six Sigma, and Global Logistics and Transportation Management. Additional credits are required for an industry internship and a senior capstone project in supply chain integration. Jobs for graduates may be available as a procurement manager, inventory planner, and quality control analyst.

#12 Southern New Hampshire University Online

  • Salary Score: 88
  • Median Starting Salary: $52,197
  • Locations: Manchester (NH)
  • Accreditation: NECHE

Southern New Hampshire University Online (SNHU) is a private university that has an online Bachelor of Science in Operations Management requiring 120 credit hours. There are two concentration options: (1) Logistics and Transportation and (2) Project Management. Students studying full time can generally complete bachelor's degrees in four years. SNHU accepts 92% of its applicants, with 36% graduating.

SNHU uses the Brightspace learning management system for their core courses, which are taught completely online and on a flexible schedule. The curriculum for this program teaches students the leadership and practical skills required for the large-scale production and transportation of goods. The coursework covers operations management theory and sustainable business practices, among other topics. Core courses include Sustainable Operations, Supply Chain Management, and Continuous Improvement Tools and Techniques. In order to fulfill all course requirements, students must also complete the capstone project in operations management. Graduates may earn career opportunities as project managers, production planners, and production supervisors.

#13 Trident University International

  • Salary Score: 87
  • Median Starting Salary: $51,749
  • Locations: Cypress (CA)
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

Trident University International (TUI) is a member of the American InterContinental University System (AIU) which is a private institution. The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Logistics requires the completion of 120 credit hours, which students typically complete within four years while studying full time. Trident does not provide student data. AIU accepts 100% of applicants, with 19% reaching graduation.

TUI uses its own Trident Learning Community platform to deliver its 100% online coursework. This degree focuses on areas of supply chain management, operations management control, and global logistics management. Among the major requirements are courses such as Managing the Supply Chain, Managing Logistics Operations, and Management of Information Technology in Organizations. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to gain entry-level management positions.

#14 Arizona State University

  • Salary Score: 87
  • Median Starting Salary: $51,542
  • Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Arizona State University (ASU) is a public university with a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management. This program requires 120 credits and may be completed in four years while studying with a full-time schedule. ASU has an acceptance rate of 70%, along with a graduation rate of 47%.

At ASU, students use Canvas for their coursework, which is fully online and asynchronous. The curriculum for this program uses practical case studies to teach students the skills needed to lead projects. Some of the core classes include Global Supply Chain Management, Business Decision Models, and Logistics Management. Students will be required to complete a capstone project from the perspective of a general manager. ASU also offers a Bachelor of Arts in Business - Global Logistics Management, focusing more on international trade and transportation. Both program graduates may pursue careers as distribution center managers, supply chain managers, and logistics analysts.

#15 University of Arkansas

  • Salary Score: 86
  • Median Starting Salary: $51,096
  • Locations: Fayetteville (AR)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of Arkansas (UA) is a public university with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Supply Chain Management. This program requires 120 credit hours, which undergraduate students generally complete within four years on a full-time schedule. The school has an 83% acceptance rate, with 65% of students graduating with a degree.

UA students use Blackboard as their digital learning platform, which is 100% online. The curriculum teaches students to use data and analytics to solve complex issues in the digital supply chain. Core coursework includes Integrated Supply Chain Management, Transportation and Distribution Management, and Inventory and Forecasting Analytics. A 3-credit supply chain management internship is also required. Graduates of similar programs gain employment in distribution, logistics, and quality control.

#16 Temple University

  • Salary Score: 85
  • Median Starting Salary: $50,782
  • Locations: Philadelphia (PA)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Temple University (TU) is a public institution that offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management program requiring 124 didactic credits, which full-time students can typically complete within four years. TU's acceptance rate is 72% and its graduation rate is 73%.

At TU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online. Students will learn a wide array of skills such as planning, procurement, forecasting, and sales, along with sustainability practices. Some core courses for this major include Global Entrepreneurship, Inventory and Warehouse Management, and Principles of Supply Chain Management. To graduate, students must complete all course requirements and a capstone project. Graduates of the program may go on to explore careers in manufacturing supervision, strategic sourcing, and inventory control.

#17 Columbia Southern University

  • Salary Score: 84
  • Median Starting Salary: $50,330
  • Locations: Orange Beach (AL)
  • Accreditation: DEAC

Columbia Southern University (CSU) is a private institution offering a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Supply Chain Management, requiring the completion of 120 credit hours. Typically, students graduate within four years while studying full time. CSU accepts 100% of applicants, with 46% graduating with a degree.

All online courses at CSU are delivered through the Blackboard learning management system. This allows students to study fully online. This degree teaches students how to analyze financial statements, examine the effects of globalization, and practice effective managerial decision-making. Among the major requirements are courses in Risk Management, Manufacturing Planning and Control, and Principles of Supply Chain Management. Graduates of similar programs have explored careers in manufacturing supervision, materials management, and strategic sourcing.

#18 California State University - East Bay

  • Salary Score: 82
  • Median Starting Salary: $49,638
  • Locations: Hayward (CA)
  • Accreditation: WSCUC

California State University - East Bay (CSU East Bay) is a public university that offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Operations and Supply Chain Management. This degree requires 120 credit hours, which is generally completed in four years while studying full time. CSU East Bay accepts 82% of applicants, while 67% graduate with a degree.

Canvas is the main learning platform CSU East Bay students use for their degree, so they can complete all their coursework 100% online. This degree is about developing the professional skills needed for students to understand the global business environment, from effective communication to quantitative tools. The majority of the required credits are devoted to the core business curriculum, with 12 credits for the major, including Logistics Management; Supply Chain Data Analytics; and Enterprise Resource Planning and Control. Additional credits are required for the capstone Seminar in Strategic Business Management. Jobs for graduates may be available in manufacturing and logistics operations.

#19 DeSales University

  • Salary Score: 81
  • Median Starting Salary: $49,561
  • Locations: Center Valley (PA)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

DeSales University (DSU) is a private institution that features a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management - Accelerated requiring 120 credit hours. A specialization in Data Analytics is also offered as a part of the core degree. The completion time for an accelerated bachelor's degree is around three years for full-time students. DSU has a 78% acceptance rate, with 61% reaching graduation.

At DSU, students use Blackboard as their learning management system, where courses are delivered 100% online. The core curriculum for this program produces skills in logistics and supply chain management alongside a core business understanding. Here are three examples of required courses: Supply Chain Management; Strategic Procurement and Financial Risk Management; and Operations Management. Students must also complete a business capstone and strategic logistics and materials management seminar. Career opportunities for supply chain graduates may include operations manager, purchasing agent, and logistics analyst.

#20 Metropolitan State University

  • Salary Score: 80
  • Median Starting Salary: $49,095
  • Locations: Saint Paul (MN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Metropolitan State University (MSU) is a public university that hosts a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Operations Management. In order to earn this degree, students must complete 120 credit hours, which is typically done within four years. MSU's acceptance rate is 67%, with 58% of students graduating with a degree.

Online students at MSU use Brightspace to complete their coursework, which is delivered completely online. Students will study various business fundamentals, including the complex processes of storage, transportation, and sourcing of products. There are 20 credits of core coursework, such as Supply Chain Planning and Control, Logistics in Supply Chain, and Supply Chain and Operations Management Strategy. Internships are available but not required. Graduates may find employment as business analysts, production supervisors, and global trade analysts.

#21 Sullivan University

  • Salary Score: 78
  • Median Starting Salary: $48,560
  • Locations: Louisville (KY)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

Sullivan University is a private university offering a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Logistics and Supply Chain Management that requires 180 credit hours. Typically, students complete this program in around four years while studying full time. Associate degree holders can graduate within 18 months. The acceptance rate at Sullivan is 100%, with 27% of students reaching their degrees.

At Sullivan, students use Blackboard to access their assignments and check grades — all of which can be completed fully online. This program offers students a foundational understanding of business with a more comprehensive look at manufacturing, warehousing, information systems, and inventory control. Required classes include Supply Chain Inventory Planning, Managing Warehouse Operations, and Overview of Procurement Practices. A four-credit hour externship is also required. Graduates may explore logistics, distribution, transportation, and supply chain management roles.

#22 University of Wisconsin - Stout

  • Salary Score: 76
  • Median Starting Salary: $47,967
  • Locations: Menomonie (WI)
  • Accreditation: HLC

The University of Wisconsin - Stout (UW Stout) is a public institution with a Bachelor of Science in Management - Supply Chain Management requiring 120 credit hours. Students studying at a full-time pace are likely to complete the degree in four years, while students with 60 to 70 existing credits can graduate in two to three years. UW Stout accepts 91% of its applicants, while 62% graduate with their degrees.

UW Stout uses Canvas to deliver their online coursework. This software allows students to finish their degrees completely online and on a schedule that meets their needs. The core management curriculum trains students for mid- to senior-level business careers, while the concentration focuses on various elements of the supply chain such as logistics, sourcing, transportation, and procurement. Required classes include Principles of Logistics; Global SC Modeling & Optimization; and Procurement, Sourcing, and Supply Chain Management. Career options may be available as a purchasing manager, site supervisor, and industrial logistics manager.

#23 Purdue Global

  • Salary Score: 76
  • Median Starting Salary: $47,866
  • Locations: Indianapolis (IN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Purdue Global (PG) is a public institution with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Supply Chain Management and Logistics, requiring 180 credits. The average completion time for this degree is four years for full-time students. PG accepts 100% of its applicants but only has a 27% graduation rate.

PG students use Brightspace as its remote learning management software, where distance learners can complete courses 100% online. The program offers flexible start dates so students can coordinate courses with their current schedules. The 45-credit core curriculum is designed to develop leadership skills and includes detailed explorations of business fundamentals. The 83-credit major looks at procurement, maintenance, and transportation through a global lens. Here are three examples of required courses: Purchasing and Vendor Management, Strategic Warehouse Management, and Supply Chain Analytics. Students must also complete a Bachelor's Capstone in Management.

Similar online degrees are also available, including the Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management - Supply Chain Management and Logistics and the Bachelor of Science in Analytics - Supply Chain Management and Logistics. Career opportunities for graduates include roles as storage managers, distribution managers, and operations managers.

#24 Franklin University

  • Salary Score: 75
  • Median Starting Salary: $47,825
  • Locations: Columbus (OH)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Franklin University is a private university with a Bachelor of Science in Operations and Supply Chain Management. This degree requires 126 credit hours which full-time students can generally complete in four years. All applicants are accepted into Franklin, and 41% graduate with a degree in hand.

Franklin students use BlueQuill as their primary learning management system, where they can complete courses 100% online. This program is all about understanding efficiency, particularly when it comes to moving goods from supplier to storage. Students will learn quality management methods, optimization techniques, and supply chain infrastructure. Among the required classes are Integrated Project Management, Business Modeling, and Quant/Qual Methods for Decision Making. Students must also complete an operations and supply chain management capstone course. Career opportunities may be available for inventory, logistics, and project managers.

#25 DeVry University

  • Salary Score: 73
  • Median Starting Salary: $47,138
  • Locations: Multiple Locations
  • Accreditation: HLC

DeVry is a private university offering a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Global Supply Chain Management requiring 124 credit hours. Full-time students can complete this program in two years and eight months. DeVry accepts 38% of its applicants, with 23% earning a degree.

At DeVry, students use the Canvas learning management system to access their core online courses, which are taught 100% virtually. The majority of their remote courses are delivered asynchronously. The core curriculum not only explores the various stages of the supply chain, but it also looks closely at the cultural, political, and economic factors of working in foreign markets. Required courses include Total Quality Management, Managing Operations Across the Supply Chain, and Global Issues in Supply Chain Management. A senior project is required before graduation.

DeVry also features an online Bachelor of Science in Management - Global Supply Chain Management and Bachelor of Science in Technical Management - Global Supply Chain Management. Global Supply Chain graduates may go on to explore careers as a procurement officers, purchasing associates, and materials managers.

#26 Davenport University

  • Salary Score: 71
  • Median Starting Salary: $46,639
  • Locations: Grand Rapids (MI)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Davenport University (DU) is a private university offering a Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain and Logistics requiring 120 credit hours. In general, full-time students can complete bachelor's programs in around four years. DU accepts 98% of its applicants, with 38% earning a degree.

At DU, students use the Blackboard learning management system to access their core courses, which are taught completely online. Courses are offered asynchronously with the occasional scheduled meeting. The curriculum for this program combines business fundamentals with management and research principles. Required courses include International Business Law, Quality Management, and Warehousing Management Systems — with an emphasis on inventory control, transportation, and supplier relations.

Similar online degrees are available as a Bachelor of Business Administration in Industrial Production Management - Supply Chain Logistics and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management - Supply Chain & Logistics. Supply chain majors may go on to explore careers as logistics analysts, operations managers, and purchasing agents.

#27 Western Illinois University

  • Salary Score: 70
  • Median Starting Salary: $46,347
  • Locations: Macomb (IL)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Western Illinois University (WIU) is a public university with a Bachelor of Business in Supply Chain Management. This degree requires 120 credit hours, which may be completed in four years on a full-time schedule. WIU has a 72% acceptance rate with 58% of students graduating with a degree.

WIU students use Brightspace as their learning management system. This allows online students to complete coursework remotely. They will explore logistics, transportation, purchasing, and professional selling tactics. Core classes for the major include Supply Chain Management, Project Management, and Inventory Strategy. A Seminar in Supply Chain Management is also required, which requires students to explore a related topic chosen by their instructor. Graduates often work cross-functionally with various departments in business and hold titles such as operations manager, purchasing agent, and logistics analyst.

#28 Kennesaw State University

  • Salary Score: 70
  • Median Starting Salary: $46,343
  • Locations: Kennesaw (GA)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

Kennesaw State University (KSU) is a public university offering a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Logistics that requires students to complete 120 credit hours. Only applicants with an associate degree in applied science will be accepted into this program. This means that students generally graduate in around two years using existing credits. KSU accepts 82% of its applicants, while 49% reach graduation.

KSU uses the Brightspace system to deliver coursework, which can be completed exclusively online. The curriculum explores a host of related skills in management, warehousing, marketing, team dynamics, and human resources. Major requirements include Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Statistical Quality Control, and Warehousing Systems. There are a number of supply chain-related roles that students will be qualified to pursue such as project manager, logistics analyst, and operations manager.

#29 Kansas State University

  • Salary Score: 69
  • Median Starting Salary: $46,241
  • Locations: Manhattan (KS)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Kansas State University (K-State) is a public institution with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Operations/Supply Chain Management requiring the completion of 120 credit hours. Bachelor's degrees of this size are typically completed within four years for full-time students, while part-time learners may take longer. K-State accepts 96% of applicants, and approximately 63% of those enrolled reach graduation.

All online courses at K-State are delivered through the Canvas learning management system. This allows students to study fully online and at their own pace. The business core teaches students the fundamentals in finance, management, accounting, and marketing, while the major teaches a technical understanding of logistics and project management. Among the major requirements are courses such as Business Project Management, Managerial Decision Analysis, and Introduction to Operations and Supply Chain Management. Graduates will be prepared to join major manufacturing companies, large corporations, and government agencies.

#30 Portland State University

  • Salary Score: 69
  • Median Starting Salary: $46,148
  • Locations: Portland (OR)
  • Accreditation: NWCCU

Portland State University (PSU) is a public university that offers a Bachelor of Arts/Science in Business Administration - Supply and Logistics Management. This degree requires 180 credit hours, which is generally completed in four years while studying full time. PSU accepts 98% of applicants, while 53% graduate with a degree.

Canvas is the main learning platform PSU students use for their degree, which can be completed online. The curriculum is all about developing practical skills in procurement and distribution on a global scale. A minimum of 24 credits are taken for the major, including courses in Transportation and Logistics Management, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, and Business Forecasting. The program description also mentions internships and class projects. Jobs for graduates may be available as logisticians, purchasing managers, and procurement specialists.

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Overview of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management

A degree in supply chain management is designed to provide students with the practical knowledge and hands-on experience to efficiently manage the flow of goods from manufacturers to consumers. Supply chain management includes transportation, packaging, quality control, and investment recovery. Students can choose an area of focus, such as strategic sourcing or manufacturing supervision, to launch a career. Data from Burning Glass shows that 6,538 supply chain management degrees were awarded in 2020, which is up by 27.4% since 2016.

Students can enroll fully online for a bachelor's degree in supply chain management. As participation in distance education increases, there is some evidence indicating that employers are paying more attention to the value of online degrees while the stigma surrounding them is fading. A 2018 Center for the Future of Higher Education and Talent Strategy survey found that over 60% of human resources leaders believe online degrees are comparable to on-campus degrees. These online programs are designed to take full-time students four years to complete the required 120 credit hours, and it takes longer for those with part-time schedules.

Unsure about a degree in supply chain management? You can explore our list of additional online bachelor's programs.

Which Degree Type Is Best for You?

Students can earn either a bachelor's of arts or bachelor's of science in supply chain management. While B.A. degrees focus on the humanities and tend to be broader in scope, B.S. degrees emphasize STEM. The majority of supply chain management programs award B.S. degrees because they teach skills in predictive modeling, statistics, and information technology.

Common Courses

Curriculum for this program is designed to prepare students for managing the flow of consumer goods — from cars and building materials to food and medicine. The curriculum covers various components of supply chain management, such as inventory management, information systems, and supplier relations. If students are interested in pursuing a niche, completing electives may help them choose a concentration, such as government contracting or transportation and logistics. To graduate, students may need to complete a senior capstone project, internship, or a comprehensive management exam.

Courses are similar across various supply chain management degree programs, and typically include the following:

Fiscal Management

Fiscal Management focuses on applying accounting principles and processes to supply chain management. In addition, students discover the importance of managing business information systems as they apply to inventory control and finance.

Fundamentals of Contracting and Acquisition

Fundamentals of Contracting and Acquisition introduces students to federal acquisition practices, policies, and procedures. Faculty discuss contract planning, execution, and management, which may interest students embarking on public service careers.

Global Demand Management

Global Demand Management studies the demand for goods and services as well as how to prioritize demand based on supply availability. Students examine ways to balance supply and demand while appeasing both management and customer needs.

Principles of Procurement Management

Principles of Procurement Management develops students' understanding of the strategic impact of purchasing and supply chain management in terms of profitability and competition. Students also study the relationship between production, order fulfillment, billing, and revenue.

Transportation Principles

Transportation Principles explores the various principles and modes of transportation, including air, sea, rail, automobile, and pipeline. Instructors discuss the impact of each on the economy, environment, and future developmental prospects.

The Importance of an Accredited Online Supply Chain Management Degree

Accreditation is one of the most important factors when considering an online degree because it ensures that a school has consistently met quality education standards. In addition, accreditation is necessary for using federal financial aid. Most non-profit universities are regionally accredited. Regional accreditation is preferred over national accreditation because of its prestige and longevity. This level of accreditation also allows students to transfer college credits from one regionally accredited institution to another. Students can visit Ed.gov to check an online school's accreditation status.



ACBE and ACBSP ensure that a program's committed to continuous improvement and is designed to prepare students with the skills employers want. However, graduating from an accredited degree program is not required for certification or credentialing.

Programs can also be accredited to make sure that they not only meet rigorous academic standards but also industry standards. The International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (ACBE) and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) evaluate supply chain management degree programs because many are part of business programs. ACBE and ACBSP ensure that a program's committed to continuous improvement and is designed to prepare students with the skills employers want. However, graduating from an accredited degree program is not required for certification or credentialing.

We've compiled an accreditation resource where you can find additional information

How Much Do Online Supply Chain Management Programs Cost?


Out of 24 top schools, the median annual tuition for supply management programs is $14,947. For online programs in general, tuition is $13,919 across 846 schools.


Online degrees can sometimes be less expensive than on-campus degrees because students don’t have to pay for housing or transportation. In addition, schools may waive on-campus fees for distance learners, and in-state tuition is usually available regardless of a student's location. Students should also consider ROI and if it justifies tuition costs.

To help pay for school, students should fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their federal financial aid eligibility. You may qualify for government scholarships, grants, work-study programs, or low-interest student loans. A school's financial aid office can also assist students in finding private scholarships and grants to help make college a reality. Additionally, students should consider ROI and the resulting benefits of a supply chain management degree program to determine whether the tuition costs are worth it in the long-run.

Careers in Supply Chain Management

A bachelor's degree is typically required to become a supply chain manager, who typically oversees every step of an item's production, including purchasing and transporting products and maintaining storage and inventory. The Association of Supply Chain Management and the International Society of Logistics offer programs that grant licenses and certificates in this field. Obtaining a license or certificate is not usually required, but it can increase marketability and prove competency. In addition, direct job experience is also helpful when looking for a job after graduation.

Supply chain management jobs can be fast-paced and demanding. Career Explorer reports that supply chain managers are in the bottom 18% of careers in the U.S. in terms of job satisfaction. This role can be stressful because managers often face emergencies with shipping, labor, and the integrity of products. However, this position may be an appropriate fit for an enterprising individual who possesses strong people skills and enjoys the challenges of a dynamic environment. It's a growing field with many career opportunities, such as those listed below:

General and operations managers
Median Annual Salary: $103,650
Job Growth Rate: 5%-10%

General and operations managers plan, direct, and coordinate an organization's daily operations, including managing personnel, materials, and equipment. They also oversee activities related to the production, sale, and distribution of goods.

Industrial production managers
Median Annual Salary: $108,790
Job Growth Rate: 5%

Industrial production managers ensure production schedules stay on budget and on time. They coordinate employees' labor and the equipment they need to meet goals while monitoring performance and safety requirements.

Logistics analysts
Median Annual Salary: $76,270
Job Growth Rate: 15%

Logistics analysts investigate supply chain processes for efficiency to make recommendations for change. They may monitor the flow of vehicles and inventory using data information systems.

Purchasing managers
Median Annual Salary: $125,940
Job Growth Rate: 5%-10%

Purchasing managers oversee an organization's purchasing and procurement processes. They develop and implement contracting policies and procedures and develop cost reduction plans and strategies.

Transportation, storage, and distribution managers
Median Annual Salary: $96,390
Job Growth Rate: 5%-10%

Transportation, storage, and distribution managers are supply chain professionals who coordinate and direct the transportation, storage, and distribution of goods according to governmental regulations and organizational policy.

Explore our career finder tool to see where popular programs, like business, can lead you on your career path.

This website offers school details to prospective students as an informational resource. The appearance of a school listing on this website should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the school by this site.

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