What Do You Learn in a Global Supply Chain Management Master’s Degree Program?
GRADUATE STUDIES | 5 MIN READ
Consumers expect goods to be readily available. They don’t want to concern themselves with how the products got to the stores or their doors. With a global supply chain management master’s degree, you will not only be keenly aware of how products arrive at their destination, but you will manage the systems that keep the supply chain running smoothly and goods flowing efficiently to consumers.
For many companies, success depends on a reliable global supply chain management system. From obtaining raw materials to manufacturing, transporting and distributing goods, companies are always looking for ways to make their supply chains more effective, efficient and economical. With a Master’s in Supply Chain Management, you will have the knowledge to guide companies to their goals.
Understanding a Business End-to-End
The importance of supply chain managers became evident to people around the world when COVID-19 caused major slowdowns in the manufacturing and delivery of many products. Supply chain managers had to find ways to get life-saving equipment, vaccines and everyday necessities to people everywhere. With a STEM-designated supply chain master’s degree, you have the skills and knowledge to monitor and analyze the factors causing bottlenecks around the world. You’ll be able to develop strategies to achieve a successful flow of goods.
Global supply chains are composed of interlinking businesses and teams all performing distinct roles but acting in unison to achieve the end result of consumer satisfaction. As the manager of the supply chain, you will have a thorough knowledge of the operations of each of these businesses and be able to plan for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as well as for issues that may disrupt the chain.
Success in this field requires technical knowledge and business acumen, and you will achieve competency in these areas through coursework in a global supply chain management master’s degree program. Some of the core areas of study include:
- Information Technology Tools
- Business and Financial Strategies
- Forecasting in the Supply Chain
- Supply Chain Research and Analysis Techniques
You will also hone the management and interpersonal skills you need to communicate effectively with the various teams you will be coordinating.
As consumers continue to expect goods to be readily available, and as global transactions continue to grow, supply chains must become more agile. Professionals equipped with a master’s degree will be the leaders in advancing this industry.
Get Career-Ready with Real-World Experience
Hands-on learning is a vital component of learning how global supply chain management works. In a master’s program, students participate in an internship, field placement, or capstone project that allows them to apply the coursework to a real-world situation.
Over the course of Elmhurst University’s M.S. in Supply Chain Management program, students work with a local company to identify a problem in the supply chain and develop and implement a viable solution.
Students complete the degree with the analytical skills and practical knowledge to enter the field with confidence and to excel in their positions as global supply chain managers.
Professional Outlook in Global Supply Chain Management
According to the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), supply chain managers earn an average annual salary of $96,000. ASCM also reports that 81% of new graduates found their job in the supply chain industry in three months or fewer.
The MSCM degree prepares you for a variety of career opportunities. One niche you may choose is logistician. Logisticians analyze and coordinate a company’s supply chain in almost every industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an average salary of $77,030 and a projection of 28% growth in these jobs over the next 10 years.
Below are a selection of related career paths you may choose to pursue in the field of global supply chain management, along with average annual salaries as calculated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Purchasing Manager / Purchasing Agent / Vending Manager: $75,410
- Management Analyst: $93,000
- Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers: $109,020
- Database Administrator and Architect: $101,000
Design, Plan, and Operate Innovative Supply Chains
To be successful in global supply chain management, it is imperative that you stay at the forefront of theory and practice in your industry. Elmhurst University’s Master of Science in Supply Chain Management degree program meets this need.
You might have professional and personal commitments, and you need to earn your degree on your terms. Elmhurst recognizes this and offers courses for the M.S. in Supply Chain Management degree in our EU-Flex format, meaning you can attend classes online, on-campus, or with a combination of the two.
In just two years, you can complete your degree and enter the field of global supply chain management with a deep knowledge of each of the functional areas of a supply chain, as well as the leadership skills that will make you indispensable. And if you are interested in enhancing your resume and management skills further, Elmhurst offers an MBA Dual Degree Option.
Transform Your Career with a Master’s in Supply Chain Management
Businesses depend on global supply chains to move goods to consumers, and consumers depend on supply chains for everyday items and basic necessities. With a supply chain management master’s degree, you will elevate your skill so you can play a critical role in your business efficiently meeting the needs and demands of consumers.
Have you been wondering how to advance your career to the next level? Fill out the form below to request more information about Elmhurst’s M.S. in Supply Chain Management.
