Why Pursue a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management?

In the ever-evolving world of supply chain management, I often receive questions from ambitious colleagues about which degree or certification they should pursue. Whether you're an industry veteran looking to update your skills, a professional seeking to expand your credentials, or a newcomer eager to embark on a career in supply chain management, it can be hard to find good advice. Worse yet, a lot of the answers you get may be contradictory.

The truth is that all education can be useful, but choosing the best way to invest your time and money depends a lot on who you are, where you've been, and where you'd like to go in the future.

Among the many activities that I'm involved in, one of my favorites is serving as a lecturer at the J.B. Hunt Transport Department of Supply Chain Management at the University of Arkansas . I first got involved with the SCM program at Arkansas about 15 years ago as a member of the advisory board. A few years ago they asked me to teach the introductory course in the online masters degree program, so now my job is to make sure that all of our students get quickly up to speed with the tools, the rules, and the language of SCM.

One of the people who has been responsible for my ongoing involvement in the program is Dr. Matt Waller . Dr. Waller was Chair of the SCM department when it first launched, and went on to become Dean of the University of Arkansas ­- Sam M. Walton College of Business . Now, he's back to teaching full time, along with investing in and advising startups.

Last week I caught up with Matt in the hallway at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium. The conversation covered a lot of ground, but one thing we talked about is who should get an advanced degree... and why. He also shared some thoughts about why it's so important for supply chain academics to engage with folks in industry.

Here's a short glimpse into our conversation. I think you'll see why Matt and I are friends, and why I am such a strong cheerleader for the program he has helped to build.

Summarizing the key takeaways from our full conversation, here are some of the benefits of getting a masters degree in supply chain:

Broad Career Opportunities: SCM is a critical component in a variety of industries, from manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare. Professionals with a master’s degree in this field are well-prepared to tackle leadership roles such as Supply Chain Manager, Operations Director, or Procurement Manager. The skills acquired are applicable across sectors, making career transitions smoother for those looking to enter new markets or industries.

Enhanced Skill Set: A master’s program in supply chain management goes beyond the basics, diving into advanced topics like global supply chain coordination, sustainable operations, and risk management. It also covers emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics, which are revolutionizing how supply chains operate. This knowledge prepares graduates to handle the complexities of modern supply chains and to drive innovation within their organizations.

Economic Stability: The SCM field is known for its resilience. Even during economic downturns, supply chain roles remain critical as companies seek to optimize their operations and reduce costs. The pandemic highlighted the importance of supply chain professionals, who were essential in addressing disruptions and ensuring the continuity of supply chains.

Networking and Growth: Being part of a master’s program allows you to connect with peers, industry experts, and alumni, creating networking opportunities that can lead to career advancements. Additionally, many programs offer real-world projects and internships, providing practical experience that can make a significant difference in job readiness.

A master’s degree in supply chain management not only enhances your professional qualifications but also equips you with the expertise to make a more significant impact for your organization. As businesses continue to prioritize efficiency and innovation, SCM professionals will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global markets.

• 2024 Best Supply Chain Management MBA Programs (USA Today)
• The Gartner Supply Chain University Top 25 for 2022
• "Supply chain professional salaries up 3%, approaching $100K annually" (Supply Chain Management Review, 2023)
• "Current state and future potential of logistics and supply chain education: a literature review" (Luoyi Sun and Guang Song, 2018)

Daniel Stanton is a supply chain industry veteran and the best-selling author of Supply Chain Management For Dummies. He is dedicated to empowering professionals through education and technology. His courses on LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) have been viewed by over two million students around the world, and he's a frequent speaker at educational conferences and industry events.