Why Pursue a Supply-Chain Management Masters Degree?

Recent supply-chain disruptions, ranging from natural disasters to global pandemics, have propelled supply-chain management (SCM) to the forefront of business priorities. As companies recalibrate their strategies to mitigate risks, professionals equipped with advanced SCM knowledge are in high demand.

The expansion of career opportunities in supply chain management have amplified the appeal of pursuing a masters degree in this field. Beyond traditional roles in logistics and procurement, SCM graduates are sought after for positions spanning strategic sourcing, inventory management, demand forecasting and supplier-relationship management. 

Moreover, the increasing integration of technology, data analytics and sustainability principles into supply-chain operations has created niche roles that require specialized expertise — a gap that SCM masters programs aim to address.

“Supply-chain management has gained tremendous momentum over the past decade and is rightfully seen as a competitive imperative. We observe that students also recognize this  and as a result, demand is high and increasing for our program,” says Oben Ceryan, course director for the MSc in Digital Supply Chain Management program at Bayes Business School (formerly Cass) in London. 

Curriculum innovation 

In response to the shortcomings exposed by traditional “just in time” supply chains – systems where materials or products are delivered only as they are needed, minimizing inventory costs and storage space – masters programs in this field are evolving to equip students with the requisite skills and knowledge to tackle contemporary challenges. 

Embracing a holistic approach, these programs delve into areas such as risk management, supply-chain resilience, sustainability practices and digitalization. 

“Our program has an increased focus on supply-chain risk management and resilience frameworks. For example, we have a specific module where students are made aware of these topics and learn the tools used in practice for managing risks. Students also learn about the trade-offs between ‘just-in-time’ and ‘just-in-case’ supply chains,” says Ceryan, citing the shift to holding extra inventory to mitigate the risk of disruptions. 

By combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experience and real-world case studies, students on these masters programs gain practical insights into designing, optimizing and managing resilient supply chains capable of withstanding disruptions. 

“The demand for supply chain management professionals is still higher than the current supply in the workplace. With more than 30 percent of the total US economy, supply chain jobs continue to be in high demand across industries,” says Humberto Coronado, academic director of the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management program at the Robert H Smith School of Business, in the USA. 

Rising demand for supply chain managers 

Moreover, the rising demand for SCM professionals has spurred the development of new curriculum offerings, including specialized tracks in areas like healthcare supply chain management, global logistics and supply chain analytics. These tailored courses cater to diverse interests and career aspirations, allowing students to carve out a niche within the expansive field of supply chain management.

“Supply chain management has evolved from a tactical backroom process 50 years ago to a technology-driven business field today,” says Coronado. “As new technologies continue to emerge and evolve, so does the role of the supply chain manager. The supply chain manager of today and tomorrow must be able to adapt and evolve with the pace of new technological advancements.” 

For aspiring supply chain leaders, a masters degree not only enhances job prospects but also facilitates career advancement and higher earning potential. Organizations recognize the value of investing in talent equipped with advanced SCM knowledge, offering opportunities for leadership roles in supply chain strategy, operations management, consulting and executive management.

“There is a large range of opportunities for our graduates from top international companies to small businesses in industries such as e-commerce, manufacturing, fast-moving consumer goods, logistics and transportation,” says Ceryan at Bayes. 

“A supply chain management role provides excellent long-term career outcomes and often leads the way to senior positions as people in these roles gain a thorough understanding of all the facets of the business,” he adds. Tim Cook at Apple is an example of a CEO with a supply chain background.” 

So a degree in supply chain management can take you to the top of the C-suite.