What Is a Master's in Supply Chain Management?

A Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (MS in Supply Chain Management) is a graduate-level degree that focuses on managing the flow of goods, services, data, and finances across the global supply chain. This includes everything from procurement and production to distribution, sustainability, and risk management.

A Master’s in Supply Chain Management equips you with the knowledge and tools to lead, innovate, and optimize supply chains in nearly any industry. Whether you're aiming to upskill, pivot careers, or move into a strategic leadership role, this degree can open doors and significantly elevate your professional trajectory.

Understanding the Master's in Supply Chain Management

As we defined it above, an MS in Supply Chain Management is an advanced degree that prepares students to oversee the movement of products, services, information, and finances within global supply networks. It covers key areas like procurement, manufacturing, logistics, sustainability, and risk management. The program is designed to help students:

Analyze and improve supply chain performance
Use data analytics and forecasting to guide strategic decisions
Apply Lean Six Sigma and DMAIC methods to reduce waste and increase efficiency
Address sustainability, ethical sourcing, and reverse logistics
Mitigate risks across global supply networks

No prior experience with Lean Six Sigma? That’s okay. This degree introduces you to these concepts and helps you build proficiency through real-world applications and projects.

What You’ll Learn in a Master's in Supply Chain Management Program: Core Curriculum

The master’s curriculum typically aligns with the SCOR (Supply Chain Operations Reference) model, covering six key areas: Plan, Source, Make, Deliver, Return, and Enable.

Here are a few topics you can expect to dive into:

Supply Chain Management in a Global Environment
Financial Reporting & Business Analysis
Reverse Logistics and Sustainability
Regulations and Ethics in International Business
Supply Chain Risk Management and Disruption
Advanced Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt training included)

Courses blend theory and practice, often incorporating real-life business challenges, simulations, and data-driven case studies.

Other curriculum highlights include relevant skills in problem-solving and technology, which are embedded throughout the emerging global supply chain environment.

I've made choices based on clear guidance that I have received from classes and advisors at Bellevue, and that has been a huge advantage to me. I am excited to share that I have accepted an Area Manager internship with Amazon, and I am looking forward to really exploring the options that are opening to me related to the skills I have and the opportunities that are out there in the vast supply chain-related network.

– Rebecca Wetzel, Target Distribution, Supply Chain, Transportation & Logistics Management student

Why Earn a Master’s in Supply Chain Management? Benefits of Earning This Degree

A master's in supply chain isn’t just about logistics—it’s about becoming a strategic thinker who understands global business, finance, technology, and sustainability. As the global business environment becomes increasingly complex, the value of a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management continues to grow, providing the knowledge and opportunities necessary for leadership roles across industries.

Supply chain professionals require a blend of skills, including business acumen in a global environment, financial responsibility, data analysis, risk management, and ethical, social, and economic management through sustainability. Here’s what makes this degree valuable:

High industry demand: Companies worldwide need skilled supply chain leaders.
Cross-industry application: Skills apply to healthcare, manufacturing, retail, services, IT, hospitality, and more.
Career advancement: Experts can move into management or director-level roles.
Global perspective: Understand cultural, political, and economic influences on supply chains.

Certification Readiness

In addition to these skills, programs in supply chain management often prepare students for professional credentials like APICS, SCPro, and Lean Six Sigma.

The Master of Science in Supply Chain Management at Bellevue University will prepare you to sit for supply chain and Lean Six Sigma industry certifications through exposure to and understanding of various topics within the exams. If you already have earned an undergraduate degree in business, hospitality management, healthcare, IT, statistics, or business analytics, you may be a good fit for this Master’s program. This degree is ideal for professionals with backgrounds in business, analytics, operations, IT, or engineering, or anyone looking to transition into supply chain roles with confidence and capability.

Career Paths with a Master’s in Supply Chain Management

Jobs with a supply chain degree are not limited to manufacturing but include retail, healthcare, services, and hospitality. Graduates of a master’s in supply chain are well-equipped for mid-to advanced-level roles such as:

Supply chain manager
Logistics manager
Import/export manager
Procurement manager
Operations manager
Demand planner/analyst

My children motivated my pursuit of education. I want to give them a better life and show them that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. I want to get my degree to show them that you should never give up. My dream is to become a supervisor and be able to provide the life that my children deserve.

– Brandice Hull, Supply Chain Management student

Your Questions, Answered By The Experts

Q: How long does it take to earn a master’s in supply chain management?

A: Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors—How many credits you take per term, and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). A master’s in supply chain can typically require 30-36 credits.

Bellevue’s Master’s in Supply Chain Management program, for example, requires 30 graduate credits and is designed for working professionals. If enrolled full time (6 credits per term, minimum.), the program can be completed in 5 terms. Bellevue offers 4 terms per academic year: fall, winter, spring and summer.

Q: What are the requirements to enroll in a master’s in supply chain management program? While requirements vary by school, you can typically expect to:
1. Apply online
2. Submit official transcripts from a regionally accredited bachelor’s program
3. Show academic achievement in your final 60 credit hours or completed graduate coursework
4. Possibly provide a resume, recommendation letter, or personal statement
5. Some schools may require you to submit scores from the GRE or GMAT exam.
Good news: Many programs—including Bellevue—do not require GRE or GMAT scores.

See Bellevue University’s graduate admission requirements.

Q: Are there any additional certifications that complement a master’s in supply chain management?
A: Yes. Students should consider pursuing professional credentials like APICS, SCPro, and Lean Six Sigma, or one of several Project Management certifications.

Q: Can I earn a master’s in supply chain management online?
A: Yes, you can earn in supply chain management 100% online at Bellevue University. See how online learning works here.

Q: Are there scholarships available for master’s in supply chain students?
A: Yes. Graduate students are eligible for various scholarships and federal student aid. You can also research scholarships specific to your interests or your affiliations. Apply for scholarships here.

Explore a Master's in Supply Chain Management at Bellevue University

If you're ready to future-proof your career and thrive in a global, data-driven, and constantly evolving field, this could be your next big step. Whether you’re a business analyst looking to specialize, a logistics coordinator aiming to move up, or a professional from another sector making a strategic shift—this degree can help get you there. It’s time to ask yourself: