Companies hire supply chain managers to ensure the efficient production and distribution of goods. These professionals procure materials and coordinate the manufacturing process. Supply chain managers may specialize in areas such as logistics, purchasing, or transportation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that transportation, storage, and distribution managers earn a median annual salary of $94,560, which is more than double the median salary for all occupations. General and operations managers earn approximately $6,000 more annually.
A logistics and supply chain management degree prepares students to enter this lucrative field. This guide ranks the best logistics and supply chain management programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, such as professional organizations and scholarships for students pursuing a logistics and supply chain management degree.
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What Are the Goals of a Logistics and Supply Chain Management Degree?
Bachelor's in logistics and supply chain management programs prepare students to enter this lucrative field. Learners often study topics such as sustainable operations and trends in operations management. They may also examine business topics, such as accounting and marketing.
Students can often customize their education and prepare for a specific career track by selecting specializations in areas such as global supply chain management or logistics.
Why Get a Logistics and Supply Chain Management Degree?
Graduates with a logistics and supply chain management degree enjoy many benefits, several of which we highlight below.
- Earn More:
Supply chain managers enjoy a high median salary that allows them to live comfortably in any area of the country.
- Explore Different Careers:
Professionals with a logistics and supply chain management degree can work in diverse roles, like procurement officer, materials manager, and logistics team lead.
- Work Anywhere:
Manufacturers all over the country hire supply chain managers, giving graduates with a logistics and supply chain management degree plenty of flexibility with respect to where they live.
- Prepare for a Career:
Unlike many liberal arts degrees, logistics and supply chain management programs train students for a specific career. Students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to enter this lucrative field.
Enter a Growing Field: An in-demand field, supply chain management offers many job opportunities.
What Are the Requirements for a Logistics and Supply Chain Management Degree?
Although admission requirements vary by school, they typically include at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants may also need to submit essays, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. Some schools require applicants to meet a minimum GPA requirement.
Once enrolled, students must complete major and general education requirements. They may also need to complete an internship, gaining hands-on experience in the field. Some programs require a capstone project that includes a simulation or collaboration with a top employer to address a real-world supply chain management issue.
How Much Will a Supply Chain Degree Cost?
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported an average tuition of $28,123 for students at four-year institutions in the 2018-2019 school year. This figure includes all school fees and room and board rates for full-time undergraduate students. However, other educational factors also affect tuition rates and overall costs.
A school's reputation and public or private distinction can impact cost of attendance. According to NCES, undergraduate students at private universities paid an average of $44,306 for the 2018-19 academic year. On the other hand, students at public universities paid an average of only $18,383. Other aspects impacting tuition rates may include instruction format and students' residency status.
Financial aid resources like scholarships, grants, and loans can help applicants reduce the cost of their supply chain degrees. The Institute for Supply Management also offers scholarships for students. Follow the links below to learn more about the FAFSA and our top scholarships.
Learn more about paying for college:
Choosing the Right Logistics Management Degree Program
Finding the right logistics management degree program can be challenging, but rankings help with the selection process. Learners should also consider the following factors to help narrow their search:
Accreditation: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) evaluates business programs, such as those in supply chain management, to determine the top 5% of schools worldwide. AACSB accreditation verifies that a program meets high-quality educational and industry standards.
Location: Students can save money on tuition by selecting schools in their home states. Regional tuition exchange programs like the Western Undergraduate Exchange can make tuition more affordable for out-of-state students who want to study in a nearby state.
Future Education Opportunities: Undergraduate supply chain students should consider their future educational plans when selecting a school. Institutions also offering graduate programs in the field may appeal to students who plan to pursue advanced degrees.
FAQ Logistics and Supply Chain Management Degrees
Graduates with a bachelor's in logistics and supply chain management degree can work in fields such as car manufacturing, general manufacturing, and shipping.
