Graduates with a bachelor’s in logistics and supply chain management degree can work in fields such as car manufacturing, general manufacturing, and shipping.
Are you ready to find your fit?
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.
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
Rank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Lehigh University | Bethlehem, PA |
2 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | Daytona Beach, FL |
3 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI |
4 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL |
5 | Bellevue University | Bellevue, NE |
6 | Arizona State University-Tempe | Tempe, AZ |
7 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX |
8 | North Carolina State University-Raleigh | Raleigh, NC |
9 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA |
10 | University of North Texas at Dallas | Dallas, TX |
Graduates with a bachelor’s in logistics and supply chain management degree can work in fields such as car manufacturing, general manufacturing, and shipping.
Logistics and supply chain management programs often cover topics like trends in operations management, integrated supply chain management, and sustainable operations.
Logistics concerns the planning involved in moving and storing finished goods, while supply chain management oversees the entire process, from raw materials acquisition to customers purchasing the final product.
One example involves manufacturers making products, warehouses storing the finished products, distribution centers sending those products to stores, and customers purchasing the products.
Bethlehem, PA
$$$$$
Overview
Founded in 1865, Lehigh University is a private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The university provides a rigorous academic community for over 7,000 students. Lehigh boasts over 100 majors and degree programs, as well as more than 20 interdisciplinary programs spanning multiple colleges. Ninety-six percent of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is $61,000. Lehigh offers a Supply Chain Management major.
Program Features
The Supply Chain Management major emphasizes advanced cost analysis, negotiation, product development, and e-business. Students study supply management, logistics, cost and risk management, and operations management topics. This innovative program integrates core business courses with supply chain major coursework. The 18 credits of required major courses include:
Notables
Lehigh’s Supply Chain Management major includes an optional internship or experiential project. Students also develop cross-functional team skills by working with engineering students in the Integrated Product Development program. Graduates typically work in purchasing and supply management, transportation and logistics, operations management, inventory management and control, or demand and supply chain planning.
Daytona Beach, FL
$$$$$
Overview
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona. In 1971, the school also became one of the first to offer distance learning. Embry-Riddle Online and the school’s Worldwide campus feature state-of-the-art technology delivering flexible learning opportunities. The private, not-for-profit institution is recognized as one of the nation’s best colleges by U.S. News and World Report. It offers a BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
Embry-Riddle’s Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management can be earned online or in person. The 120-credit program trains students in the concepts and competencies central to best practices, regulations, and professional ethics. Topics include warehousing, distribution, transportation operations, inventory management methods, purchasing and procurement, and metrics for tracking and analyzing supply chain performance. Students take courses like:
Notables
Embry-Riddle Logistics and Supply Chain Management graduates are in high demand. The program prepares students to distinguish themselves as leaders in the field or to pursue graduate studies. To complete the program, students must take a comprehensive exam in Strategic Management.
East Lansing, MI
$$$$$
Overview
Michigan State is a public research university in East Lansing, Michigan. It was founded in 1855 as the prototype for land-grant universities. MSU is a nationally ranked university and a Best Value college. In addition, it’s known as one of the world’s top research universities. Twenty-five of the school’s degree programs are ranked in the top 20 nationally by U.S. News and World Report. MSU offers over 200 academic programs, including a BA in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
MSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Supply Chain Management is a 120-credit program. It focuses on value-adding components from manufacturing operations, purchasing, transportation, and physical distribution that are critical to the enhancement of global competitiveness. Students develop the skill needed to plan and control value-creating processes in both private and public enterprises. Required courses include:
Notables
Students may select concentration such as physical distribution system design and administration, purchasing techniques and strategies, computer integrated manufacturing, and manufacturing strategies. In addition to supply chain management coursework, students take a variety of courses from the MSU business core.
Champaign, IL
$$$$$
Overview
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public research university in Champaign County, Illinois. The school was founded as a land-grant institution in 1867. It is ranked as the number 13 public university in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. The university offers programs in more than 150 fields of study. The Gies College of Business provides a major in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
The rigorous Supply Chain Management program spans processes such as procurement, purchasing, plant and transportation logistics, demand fulfillment, and promotion management. Curricular and practical training prepare students to effectively manage the supply chain in global and hyper-competitive environments. In this program, expect to take courses such as:
Notables
Students are required to complete a summer internship before graduating. Students must fill out an application and interview with faculty to ensure that Supply Chain Management is the right fit. This selective program has been very successful in training and placing undergraduate students. Graduates work for consulting, manufacturing, and logistics companies as analysts and project managers.
Bellevue, NE
$$$$$
Overview
A private university in Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University is a non-profit institution founded in 1966. BU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It’s routinely recognized as one of the nation’s top military-friendly universities. The university offers flexible, rigorous majors and degree programs both online and on campus. Programs receive input from area businesses to ensure students develop the skills employers seek. BU offers a BS in Supply Chain and Logistics Management.
Program Features
BU’s 127-credit Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Logistics Management covers leading-edge supply chain strategies. Hands-on, applied learning is integrated with theory on topics such as global sourcing, supplier, and inventory management; demand planning and order fulfillment; quality management; relevant information systems and technology; international trade regulations and global logistics; and types of supply chains. Coursework includes:
Notables
To help students build a well-rounded skill set, the Supply Chain and Logistics Management degree program incorporates foundational knowledge in several related disciplines, including accounting, economics, finance, information systems, and management.
Tempe, AZ
$$$$$
Overview
Recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the nation’s most innovative school, Arizona State boasts over 40 programs ranked in the top 20 in the United States. The public university is based in Tempe, Arizona. It has four campuses across the Phoenix metropolitan area and four regional learning centers throughout the state. ASU is nationally ranked for its affordability and for producing some of the country’s best-qualified graduates. The university offers a business degree in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
The W.P. Carey business degree in Supply Chain Management develops skills and expertise critical to the success of industries around the world. Students learn how to build and maintain an efficient and effective supply chain. Graduates can immediately take on leadership roles as supply chain managers or consultants. In this program, students take courses like:
Notables
The Supply Chain Management degree is one of the top-ranked programs at ASU. Students have plentiful opportunities to apply and diversify their degree through undergraduate research, internships, targeted career programs, and organizations like the Supply Chain Management Association.
Austin, TX
$$$$$
Overview
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas System. It’s ranked one of the top 20 public universities in the country by U.S. News and World Report. More than 15 undergraduate programs and 40 graduate programs are ranked in the top 10 nationally. Home to 51,000 students, UT Austin is one of the biggest and best research universities in the United States. Its many programs include a BBA in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
UT Austin’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management requires 120 semester hours. Coursework blends core business courses with classes specific to the supply chain and operations management. Students learn how information technology integrates all elements of the supply chain, giving enterprises a competitive advantage. If you enroll in this program, expect to take courses including:
Notables
Students work closely with the faculty adviser in the Department of Information, Risk, and Operations Management. They are prepared for careers including buyer, materials manager, risk management analyst, logistics planner, and staff consultant.
Raleigh, NC
$$$$$
Overview
North Carolina State University is a leading public research university in Raleigh, North Carolina. It’s ranked by both Princeton Review and U.S. News and World Report as one of the top five Best Value universities in the country. NC State also boasts some of the nation’s best undergraduate teaching and a variety of top-ranked programs. The university’s mission is to solve problems and provide leadership that transforms lives. It offers a BS in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
NC State’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Supply Chain Management focus prepares students to become tomorrow’s supply chain leaders. Students learn how to develop and evaluate business processes, perform strategic and tactical supply chain planning, and manage the activities and resources that transform inputs into finished goods and services. Courses include:
Notables
Students are required to complete a practicum, a semester-long experiential learning project. The project pairs student teams with an industry partner to solve a specific supply chain problem the company is experiencing. Students gain both valuable work experience and professional contacts.
Kennesaw, GA
$$$$$
Overview
Kennesaw State is a public university with primary campuses in Kennesaw, Georgia and Marietta, Georgia. The university offers more than 150 degrees to over 35,000 students. KSU is a member of the university system of Georgia and is the third largest university in the state. Its business, engineering, and information technology programs are nationally ranked. Kennesaw State offers a BAS in Supply Chain Logistics.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Logistics is designed for students who have already completed an Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Applied Technology Degree. It prepares students in the areas of manufacturing, operations, logistics, and supply chain through an industry-driven curriculum. This curriculum encompasses manufacturing processes, quality principles, engineering economy, work measurement, and facilities layout. Students enroll in courses such as:
Notables
The requirements for this degree may be completed online. Online participants can attend class “virtually”, meaning the student can attend class at a designated time/day via the Internet. Optionally, students can choose not to attend virtually and catch up through video lectures, recorded archives, and/or discussion groups The program is designed to be completed within two years.
Dallas, TX
$$$$$
Overview
The only public four-year university in Dallas, the University of North Texas at Dallas is growing rapidly. The university’s first residence hall is now in place, and a $63 million student center is under construction. Established in 2010, UNT Dallas currently serves over 3,500 students. The university offers over 40 academic programs, including a BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management provides a well-rounded education using a “learn today, apply tomorrow” classroom philosophy. Students are required to participate in a 240-hour paid internship. Major coursework includes 21 credit hours of business foundation courses, 27 credit hours of logistic courses, and 6 credit hours of logistics electives. These courses include:
Notables
The curriculum was developed with input from an advisory board of 20 senior logistics executives, the North Texas Commission’s Logistics Development and Marketing Committee, and the Dallas/Fort Worth Roundtable of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. This ensures that students stay up-to-date on current industry trends. Gartner Research recently ranked the program sixth among all logistics and supply chain management programs in the nation.
Flagstaff, AZ
$$$$$
Overview
Northern Arizona University is a public university with its main campus in Flagstaff, Arizona. The university has additional campuses throughout the state, as well as NAU Online. For nearly 120 years, NAU has delivered a student-centered experience. Rigorous courses are taught by world-renowned professors and researchers. The school offers over 120 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. This includes a Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis on Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
NAU’s Bachelor of Business Administration has an available emphasis in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The 120-credit program prepares students to make an immediate impact in leadership positions related to logistics and the supply chain. An internship is recommended, but not required. Coursework includes:
Notables
Students who are unable to complete an internship due to work/life circumstances may do an intensive guided study project on a specific industry and region under the guidance of a faculty member. A proposal for the project must be approved in advance by a B.B.A. full-time faculty member. This program is available on six NAU campuses and online.
Potsdam, NY
$$$$$
Overview
Based in Potsdam, New York, Clarkson University is a private research university with five New York campuses in total. Founded in 1896, Clarkson has grown into a leader in research and technological education. Clarkson has more than 380 industry and government partners, giving students direct access to internships and careers after graduation. The university offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs. This includes a major in Global Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
Clarkson’s Global Supply Chain Management program is ranked one of the nation’s top 20 Supply Chain Management programs by U.S. News and World Report. Students take 42 credits of foundation coursework in business and 27 credits of specialized business courses. They also participate in a project-based professional experience such as a co-op, internship, directed research, or community project. You’ll take courses such as:
Notables
During the first and second year, students will complete core business courses that provide a foundation in accounting, economics, marketing, and business innovation. In the past, students have interned with Lockheed Martin, Amazon, General Electric, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble, and other major corporations.
Miami, FL
$$$$$
Overview
With a total of eight campuses, Miami Dade College is the largest institution of higher learning in the country. The college began operations in 1960 with 1,400 students. Today, over 165,000 students are enrolled in the school. Miami Dade is committed to changing lives through accessible, high-quality teaching and learning experiences. MDC offers more than 300 educational pathways, including a BAS in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
MDC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Management is a 120-credit program that takes four years to complete. It explores the risks, logistics, economics, regulatory issues, resource allocation, production planning, inventory management, and other functions basic to supply chains and business. Students gain a broad command of finance, operations, international law, and more. Courses include:
Notables
This program focuses on the applied knowledge necessary to immediately enter into successful employment. Graduates are employed as quality control systems managers, supply chain managers, logistics engineers, logistics analysts, and more. Some graduates also opt to attend MBA programs.
Greenville, NC
$$$$$
Overview
East Carolina University is a public university in Greenville, North Carolina. Founded in 1907 as a teacher training school, ECU is now the third largest university in the state. The school prepares students to live, work, and compete in the 21st century global knowledge-based economy. ECU is home to 12 colleges and schools offering over 250 degrees and certificates. One option is a BS in Industrial Distribution and Logistics.
Program Features
ECU’s Bachelor of Science in Industrial Distribution and Logistics provides a unique combination of coursework, technology, and hands-on learning. Classes are taught by professional faculty with industry experience, interactive teaching styles, and a strong network of career opportunities for graduates. Core courses include:
Notables
ECU faculty networks with industry partners to help graduates leave with a career in addition to a degree. They guide and assist students through the recruiting process for careers in manufacturing, wholesale distribution, fulfillment center operations, transportation, and business to business sales. Students also complete an internship experience in distribution and logistics.
Murray, KY
$$$$$
Overview
Located in Murray, Kentucky, Murray State is a public university. It has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the nation’s top regional universities for 28 years in a row. The school enrolls over 10,000 students. It aims to engage students in collaborative scholarship, creative activity, and research. Murray State offers 126 academic programs across six colleges and schools. This includes a Logistics and Supply Chain Management program.
Program Features
Murray State’s Logistics and Supply Chain Management program requires 120 credits. It prepares students to manage and coordinate the efficient flow of materials, products and information within and among organizations. Business core requirements give students a solid background in economics, finances, business communication, and marketing. Courses focused on the supply chain include:
Notables
Graduates are employed as supply chain managers, purchasing managers, transportation managers, operations managers, logistics analysts, logistics managers, and more. Students are not required to complete an internship, but hands-on learning is delivered through real-world projects.
Kingstown, RI
$$$$$
Overview
The University of Rhode Island is the flagship public research university of Rhode Island. The main campus is located in Kingstown, but URI has three additional campuses. 18,000 students attend the university, and faculty has grown by 40 percent in the last several years. The university offers 170 degree and certificate programs. One of these programs is a BS in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
URI offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Supply Chain Management. The major focuses on the strategic planning, design, operations, transportation, logistics, and improvement of all activities involved in the procurement, manufacture, and delivery of goods and services. Students learn the interdisciplinary skills necessary for linking major business processes. Students in this program take courses like:
Notables
This program is recognized as one of the top 25 Supply Chain Management programs in the country. Students take core business classes in economics, accounting, managerial decisions, and business communications before narrowing the focus to supply chain management. During junior year, students take a one-credit Junior Career Passport Program to prepare for a successful transition to the working world.
Lawrence Township, NJ
$$$$$
Overview
Rider University is a private university in Lawrence Township, New Jersey. Founded in 1865, Rider is committed to student growth, transformation, and leadership. Graduates are prepared to thrive professionally and make meaningful contributions to the changing world in which they live and work. U.S. News and World Report ranks RU in the top tier of northern regional universities. RU offers 126 academic programs, including a BS in Global Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
RU offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Global Supply Chain Management. This is an interdisciplinary program combining theory and practice with hands-on internship and mentoring experiences. Students learn the many dimensions of supply chain networks that businesses use to acquire, produce, and deliver goods and services across the global marketplace. Courses include:
Notables
Rider’s Global Supply Chain Management curriculum is ranked in the top 20 by global research firm Gartner, Inc. All students complete one or more internships or co-ops at companies including L’Oreal, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Estee Lauder. Over 95 percent of program graduates have landed jobs in supply chain management within just three months after graduating. Many receive and accept offers well before graduating.
Houston, TX
$$$$$
Overview
Founded in 1927, the University of Houston is the third-largest university in Texas with an enrollment of over 45,000 students. The university empowers students in their pursuit of learning, discovery, leadership and engagement. It’s ranked as a Tier One university by U.S. News and World Report. UH offers over 250 degrees, including a BS in Supply Chain and Logistics Technology.
Program Features
UH’s Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain and Logistics Technology gives students the option to choose one of four tracks. These tracks are Operations, Systems Management, Global Logistics, and Directed Emphasis (designed for community college transfers). The program is STEM-designated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. In this program, expect to take courses like:
Notables
Students are required to complete a practicum in Supply Chain and Logistics Technology. They also take courses in economics, business communications, computer applications, business law, and logistics technology.
Dallas, TX
$$$$$
Overview
The University of Texas at Dallas is a public research university in the University of Texas System. UT Dallas has cutting-edge programs and strong ties with business and industry. The university is ranked as one of the top 100 tuition values in the nation by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. It offers over 142 degree programs, including a BS in Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
The Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management at UT Dallas helps students build a versatile skill set that is critical to business success. The 120-credit program includes preparatory courses in business, economics, human resources, and mathematics. Coursework then narrows to focus on supply chain management with classes such as:
Notables
A practicum experience in Management or Supply Chain Management is required, along with a community engagement experience. The student has the option for zero or three semester credit hours, depending on the experience and preference for additional electives.
Moorhead, MN
$$$$$
Overview
A public university in Moorhead, Minnesota, Minnesota State University has an enrollment of approximately 6,600 students. The school’s purpose is to transform the world by transforming lives. Core values include grit, humility, and heart. The university also focuses on student achievement and students’ return on their investment. MSU Moorhead has 247 academic programs, including a BS in Global Supply Chain Management.
Program Features
MSU Moorhead’s Bachelor of Science in Global Supply Chain Management prepares students to successfully implement supply chain strategies both domestically and internationally. Globally minded students learn to identify the components of global supply chains, explain how organizations operate and adapt, and explain the connections between related disciplines. Students also learn about current and future career opportunities in the field. Courses include:
Notables
Students must complete either an internship or Dragon Consulting. In Dragon Consulting, students work on project teams to apply their academic knowledge to real life business problems in real time. Students provide consulting services for businesses through the Center for Innovative Business Solutions.
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.
Graduates with a logistics and supply chain management degree enjoy many benefits, several of which we highlight below.
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.
What is Accreditation and Why Does it Matter?Logistics and supply chain management degree-seekers can prepare for career success by joining professional organizations. Organizations like those below confer numerous benefits, such as scholarship opportunities, job boards, and professional development resources.
Logistics and supply chain management students can take advantage of scholarships to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a logistics and supply chain management degree.
Who Can Apply: John Galt offers this scholarship twice per year to students majoring in business forecasting or supply chain management. Applicants must submit a 500- to 750-word personal essay. The scholarship committee recommends but does not require FAFSA results. Scholarship recipients cannot renew the scholarship or reapply the following year.
Amount: $10,000
Who Can Apply: The NGA Foundation Scholarships recognize students whose career plans involve working for an independent grocer. The scholarship committee considers graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate degree-seekers. NGA prefers applicants with some grocery experience.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Transportation, logistics, and supply chain management students can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit official transcripts and a personal essay. This one-time scholarship does not renew.
Amount: $500-$1,000
Helping you prepare and gain the most out of your educational experience.
A complex global economy drives the need for business leaders who can navigate a fast-changing economic landscape. Students interested in learning how to effectively run an organization should consider pursuing...
Nursing degrees give learners the skills and experience they need for a career as a registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). Nursing programs confer...
Medical assistants apply clinical and clerical skills to keep doctors' offices, clinics, and hospitals running smoothly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects in the healthcare sector than any other...
Search schools to find the program that is right for you.