Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online
Stay ahead of supply chain shifts with a top-ranked online master’s in supply chain management from the Haslam College of Business.
MS in Supply Chain Management Online Program Highlights
Here’s a quick snapshot of what it’s like to earn your online master’s in supply chain management:
30 credit hours
18-24 months
Weekly 1-2 hour live sessions
1 capstone project
3-day immersion session
Full- or part-time
Online Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management Program Overview
As part of the Global Supply Chain Institute (GSCI), we are driven by our passion for understanding and impacting how systems operate. We seek to shape the practice of supply chain management by teaching our students how the supply chain is evolving both at home and abroad.
Our top-ranked online supply chain management master’s program offers you a seamless, holistic, and flexible virtual learning experience supported by expert faculty. You will explore supply chain concepts and functions, such as planning and manufacturing, as well as enablers like technology and international trade. More specifically, the MS in Supply Chain Management Online empowers you to:
- Leverage supply chain management learning to deliver real impact for your organization.
- Develop powerful critical thinking skills to solve real business problems.
- Understand how supply chain management processes can create value for your organization.
- Learn new ways to work effectively with remote teams and geographically and culturally diverse teammates.
All of our classes are conducted online. You have the flexibility to schedule your own asynchronous coursework. Every other week, you connect with your peers and faculty for live sessions, which use tools such as polling, in-class chat, and breakout rooms to foster collaboration. A personal student success coach and regular faculty office hours provide further individualized support throughout the program.
You will meet your cohort and faculty in person during a three-day immersion experience on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville or another location. Students are encouraged to build connections with current and future global supply chain management professionals during the immersion experience.
What You’ll Learn
Supply Chain Concepts
Master supply chain management tools to deliver impactful results to a company.
Supply Chain Functions
Leverage knowledge of supply chain functions like planning, sourcing, manufacturing and logistics to support overall supply chain efficiencies.
Supply Chain Enablers
Employ critical levers like technology and international trade to benefit the supply chain.
Curriculum
This course defines the principles and practice of end-to-end integrated supply chain management with particular emphasis on how supply chains create organizational value. The course covers foundational concepts on integrating business activities through improved processes and relationships to achieve and maintain competitive advantage through supply chain management.
This course explores the impact that supply chain management has on the financial performance of the organization. Coverage includes the impact of supply chain management on financial statements, budgeting, allocation strategies and related concepts.
This course explores the key issues associated with the design, modeling, and analysis of dynamic, flexible and responsive supply chain systems. Emphasis will be on the application and development of advanced modeling techniques for the analysis of strategic, tactical and operational supply chain problems including supply chain network design, inventory management, transportation management, purchasing, demand management and coordination among supply chain partners.
This course introduces students to information management strategies and tools to manage integrated supply chains. Coverage includes information technology systems used to support modern supply chains and exposure to the supply chain digitalization transition. The course aims to develop and produce supply chain professionals who can take a critical view of how information and technology can best support effective supply chain management.
This course explores development of plans for executing supply chain processes to support integration of the supply chain across major functional areas of the business including logistics, marketing, manufacturing and procurement. To facilitate achievement of these objectives, the course introduces analytical tools and techniques that provide a cause and effect understanding linking operational plans with corporate objectives. This course requires a three day immersion on the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, campus or another location.
This course addresses the processes that facilitate the structure, creation and management of value added transactions and relationships between supplier and customer organizations in a channel, supply chain and integrated value system context with a particular focus on financial techniques to better manage supply chain costs. This course will help students learn to apply financial measures to supply chain decision-making problems and also to become an effective and efficient supply chain managers. This is a highly interactive class using cases, simulations and in-class exercises to better align “real-world” thinking while focusing on the foundations of the supply chain and the interactive role of supply management within an organization and as a boundary spanner.
This course explores the complexities of managing supply chains in a global context and provides frameworks and foundations to help SCM professionals successfully work in international environments. Issues relating to the drivers of globalization and managing the supply and demand fulfillment processes across an extended and global organization will be addressed. Topics include cross-cultural relationships, overviews of important global business regions, regional trading blocs, global operations, offshoring, infrastructure, security and risk, sustainability, market entry and other related issues.
This course covers the concepts, methods and tools that are useful in understanding the management of a firm’s operations in manufacturing and service firms. This course covers systematic planning, design and operation of all processes required for the production and delivery of goods and services. Process improvement and operational excellence tools required to operate high quality operations are highlighted.
This course addresses strategic decision making related to the physical network design and operation of the supply chain, including the location and capacity of suppliers, plants and warehouses in a logistics network that delivers products and services to end customers. The content in this course will explore the tradeoffs inherent to physical network decision making with special emphasis on managing demand and lead time variability, matching capacity to demand, centralization and pooling of inventory and achieving a total value solution. This course will apply analytic methods learned in other courses to the problems of supply chain network design and strategic inventory positioning, in order to explore theoretical relationships and to provide students with decision making skills needed in practice.
This is a capstone course, enabling students to synthesize their learning from program coursework. The global context within which firms operate will provide the foundation for understanding global supply chain strategy, from market entry through to the integration of demand management and supply management processes to meet corporate objectives. The course will utilize exercises and a simulation to allow students to analyze and synthesize program coursework. The course will help students understand how to best use program knowledge to maximize value creation for employers and in their own career.
How to Apply
A $60 non-refundable application fee is required to apply for the program.
An essential component of your application, your Statement of Purpose tells your story and highlights how our program can connect your past experience to future goals. Your Statement of Purpose should answer the following prompts in a 2-3 page essay format:
- Why are you pursuing a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online at this point in your professional career?
- Why are you a strong candidate for this program, as supported by your short and long term goals?
- Why have you specifically chosen to apply to the MS SCM – Online program at UT Knoxville, beyond its ratings and reputation?
Haslam requires that you provide transcripts from the institution(s) where you earned your bachelor’s degree(s) and from all institutions where you have been enrolled or earned credit for graduate-level coursework, even if a degree was not earned. You may upload copies of official transcripts for application review, but official transcripts are required to enroll. Refer to our transcript guidelines for more information.
Your resume should underline relevant work experience, internships, research, awards and/or publications, as well as educational history. A curriculum vitae (CV) will also be accepted.
GMAT or GRE scores are optional for this program. All scores, if available, must be sent directly to University of Tennessee, Knoxville, by the testing agency. Scores more than five years old do not meet University of Tennessee, Knoxville, application requirements. The University’s institutional code for the GRE is 1843.
If you have an area of concern or would like to give more information to the faculty about a unique situation, i.e., poor grades, then an optional statement can be submitted.
We accept international applicants for the MS in Supply Chain Management Online. In addition to the above components, applicants with international (non-U.S.) transcripts will need to have their transcripts evaluated by a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) accredited evaluation institution (World Education Services, for example). A full list of evaluation institutions can be found on the NACES website.
International applicants might also be required to submit results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum score requirements for admission to the program are a total score of 100 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) or a 6.5 overall band score on the IELTS.
Only test scores within the last two years will be valid for consideration. Applicants may be exempted from the English Certification requirement if English is an official language in the applicant’s country of citizenship, according to standards published by the Graduate School, or if English is the primary language of instruction at the institution in which the applicant received an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree, or on a case-by-case basis as determined by the Admissions Committee.
Tuition and Financial Aid
This page covers the expected cost of your degree, financial aid and scholarship resources and our graduates’ estimated salaries.
$1,313
Cost per Credit Hour
30
Total Credit Hours
$39,390
Total Cost of Attendance
The program fee includes:
- All university tuition and fees
- Case studies, periodicals for required reading
- Technical support for all software
The program fee does not include:
- Books, professional subscriptions and supplies
- Laptop computer (if needed, you can purchase a laptop at a discount through the UT Computer Store)
- Lodging and travel for the immersion experience
*UT reserves the right to adjust tuition and fees when deemed necessary. These are set by the UT Board of Trustees in June/July of each year.
Is This a Good Investment?
Graduates from programs like ours often find employment in a range of leadership positions. According to a 2019 GMAC Business Hiring Report, 67 percent of U.S. companies plan to hire graduates from supply chain management programs. Nationally, the average salary for many of these occupations is quite lucrative. As each graduate is unique, you should evaluate your personal goals after graduation in order to assess your earning potential.
*Source: Payscale (January 2022). These salaries are based on national averages and are subject to change.
Financial Assistance Options
MS in Supply Chain Management Online (MS SCM Online) students have a variety of options to fund their education. Some of the most frequently used funding options are included below, but we encourage you to consult with the Financial Aid Office and/or a financial advisor to determine the best options for you.
Other Scholarships
We recommend the FastWeb scholarship search site for external scholarship opportunities.
Employer Sponsorship
Many applicants’ employers provide full or partial financial assistance, as the MS SCM Online assignments relate directly to work and improve employee performance and retention. For State of Tennessee employees, please note that the entire cost of the program may not be covered by the employee education benefit. Please connect with your employer for specific details as they relate to your company.
*State of Tennessee employees, including employees of the University of Tennessee System, are eligible for partial coverage of the $1,313 cost per credit hour rate (for up to three credit hours per academic term). Email msscmonline@utk.edu for more information.
Military Service Programs
Details and eligibility guidelines for the Post-9/11 benefits, including the Yellow Ribbon Program, can be found through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Applicants can also contact UT’s Veterans Success Center: utkva@utk.edu or 865-974-1500.
Loans
The federal government provides loan options for graduate students, even if they do not qualify for need-based financial aid. The UT Financial Aid Office works with two types of U.S. federal government loans:
- Federal Direct Loans: This is generally the lowest cost loan available, for up to $20,500 every academic year. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, take at least six credits per semester, and submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to qualify.
- Federal Graduate PLUS Loans: If you need to borrow more, then a Graduate PLUS loan can generally cover the remainder. You will need to submit the application for the Federal Direct loan prior to applying for the PLUS.
If federal loans are unavailable or insufficient, we can help you explore private or alternative education loans. Unlike federal loans, private loans do not require a FAFSA to apply. Private loans are not based on need and approval is generally based on creditworthiness and ability to repay. Some students may need to apply with a credit-worthy co-signer. Interest rates, grace periods, repayment options and fees are determined by the lender and can vary considerably from lender to lender; generally, they charge higher rates than federal loans. For more information on private loans, please visit our private lender list.
Contact
If you have any questions, please email us at msscmonline@utk.edu or call us at 865-381-2017.
Key Dates
MS in Supply Chain Management Online Testimonials
Why Choose Haslam Over Other Online Supply Chain Management Master’s Programs?
At the Haslam College of Business, we commit to preparing you with the skills to solve complex problems and turn supply chain industry disruptions into advantages for your organization.
Hear from MS SCM Online students about their experience in the program, the professional connections they’ve built, and how they’re applying what they learn in meaningful ways to their lives and careers.
“The courses provided me with real-world applications I could use after just one class and the opportunity to expand my circle. I spoke with peers outside of class regularly to share ideas. It’s amazing to compare the benefits we’ve seen in our workplaces.”
“This is worth the time investment. I immediately applied the knowledge from these classes to my career. Sometimes it can feel impossible to work full-time, fully engage with your family, and pursue a master’s degree. But you will be able to make it happen.”
“One of the main things that drew me to UT was the flexibility the online program offered for working professionals. You learn from professors who have led some of the largest global organizations in the field. By enrolling in this program, I believe you commit to being a leader in the supply chain industry.”
“Supply chain has become more diverse than it’s ever been. Doing this program together helped us stay motivated. Having someone to motivate you, whether it’s your dad or a friend is a real advantage.”
Read more about this father-son duo.
“The program provided me with a tremendous amount of knowledge. The instructors are top-notch. You gain amazing insight from classmates who work in various supply chain functions around the world.”
“Through this program, I have met with company leaders and executives for various assignments. The finance courses were a benefit, as I now manage income statements for my department. I have also spoken to procurement, manufacturing, and finance professionals, which has provided me valuable insight into high demand and shortage issues. Although the program is top-ranked, I chose it because of the faculty and staff. During the admissions process, I could tell how passionate they were. I wanted to be part of it.”
“The instructors have been nothing short of extraordinary. They’ve helped me with questions and when things happen with my job. They work with me if I need a couple of extra days for an assignment. I wanted to further my knowledge and education in logistics and SCM. I will leave the Air Force soon and want to be as prepared as possible for the next chapter of my life.”
“My experience has been nothing but positive. I applied to the program due to the flexibility of the class structure. Most programs only offered certain classes each semester, sometimes requiring me to take more classes than I was comfortable with. At UT, all classes were offered every semester. There was also no minimum for the number of classes I could take. My first semester started off a little overwhelming. I was not familiar with how online programs were conducted. But my professors and student advisor did an amazing job helping me acclimate to the online program structure.”
“Since joining UT’s program, my industry knowledge has vastly increased. I now understand better why business decisions are made at the corporate level and at a global scale. The pandemic caused many bottleneck pressures, making it a great time to understand disruptions in the supply chain industry. The knowledge I’ve gained is helping me see strategies to mitigate these risks better in the future.”
“When you pick UT, you know you’ll have support and camaraderie. The classes are engaging and interactive. You suddenly watch the news and current events come alive. You know you’re part of a profession that is impacting the world.”
The Online Learning Experience for UT Supply Chain Management Students
The online master’s in supply chain management offers you access to a top-ranked curriculum and expert faculty in a flexible online format. MS SCM Online students earn a degree from a renowned supply chain institution and benefit from a seamless and holistic online learning experience.
Bringing the Classroom to You
- Online programs bring a new level of flexibility to earning your master’s degree, while allowing you to fulfill your current commitments.
- Our format offers synchronous classes online every other week, giving you ample time to complete coursework and seek help from faculty between sessions.
- All of our classes are conducted online, with the exception of a short, in-person immersion session.
Student Support Services
- Regular faculty office hours for each course, open to all students
- Personal student success coach for support, from orientation through graduation
What to Expect
- Proven curriculum and faculty available in an online format
- Live class sessions with polling, in-class chat and breakout rooms
- Engagement tools to allow synchronous discussions and lectures
- Participation and collaboration tools that allow asynchronous video, audio and text commenting
Program Profile
The MS in Supply Chain Management Online welcomed its first class in September 2019 with a full student cohort. The program capitalizes on UT’s leading role in the supply chain industry to connect students to a thriving network of corporate leaders.
273 Students
31%
female
33%
Ethnically Diverse
33
Average Age
18
States
7
Average Years of Work Experience
Academic Backgrounds
24%
University of Tennessee graduates
61%
Hold a business-related bachelor’s
27%
Hold bachelor’s in SCM
-
Selected Employers
- Amazon
- Apple
- Bechtel
- Cummins
- DHL
- Entergy
- Hapag-Lloyd
- HAVI
- Houzz
- Hyster-Yale Group
- Leidos
- Mars
- Mondelez
- Penske Logistics
- Rockwell Automation
- Sam’s Club
- Sodexo
- The Home Depot
- United States Army, Navy and Airforce
- Verizon
-
Selected Alma Maters
- Auburn University
- Austin Peay State University
- California State University
- DePaul University
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
- Fundacao Getulio Vargas
- Georgia State
- Loyola University – Chicago
- Michigan State University
- North Carolina State University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Rutgers University
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Tennessee State University
- University of Georgia
- University of Houston
- University of Memphis
- University of Tennessee
- University of Virginia
- University of Wisconsin
- Virginia Tech
-
Selected Job Titles
- Analyst, Business Development
- Analyst, Quality
- Assistant Brewer
- Business Continuity and Recovery Lead
- Buyer Planner
- Category Owner (Sr. SC Planner)
- Corporate Logistics Specialist
- Customer Service Manager
- Director
- Export Coordinator
- Fleet Manager
- Inventory Manager
- Logistics Broker
- Logistics Officer
- Pricing Analyst
- Procurement Officer
- Sr. Buyer, Global Sourcing
- Sr. Tax Accountant
- Sr. Operational Excellence Engineer
Online Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management FAQs
The program is flexible and can be completed at your own pace. Full-time students should expect to complete the degree in 18 months, while part-time may take closer to 24 months to finish.
The program comprises 30 credit hours at $1,313 per credit hour and will cost approximately $39,390, excluding immersion expenses.
With supply chain management roles projected to grow 28% by 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for supply chain and logistics managers is bright. While not every position requires a master’s degree, job candidates with graduate degrees are considered more desirable and often better prepared to assume leadership positions. The average salary for supply chain professionals holding master’s degrees is $113,300.*
Online students earn the same degree as residential students. Led by the same expert faculty who guide our residential supply chain programs, the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online offers students the high-level instruction, curriculum, and support that distinguishes UT Knoxville. Our graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world supply chain challenges and make lifelong connections with supply chain practitioners, researchers, and peers.
UT’s supply chain graduate programs have been ranked No. 1 in North America by Gartner.** In 2023, U.S. News and World Report ranked the MS SCM Online No. 2 among all online graduate business programs offered by public institutions.*** Our faculty and the industry leaders they recruit to teach in the program will prepare you to make an immediate impact for your organization and career.
Intakes are held in January, May, and August of each year.
*Association for Supply Chain Management, 2023.
**Gartner, 2022.
***U.S. News and World Report, 2023.
Faculty
John Bell
Daniel & Karen Myers Faculty Scholar; Nancy & David McKinney Faculty Research Fellow; John “Red” Dove Professor of Supply Chain Management
Christopher Craighead
FedEx Chair of Supply Chain Management; Cheryl Massingale Faculty Research Fellow
Thomas Goldsby
Co-Executive Director, Global Supply Chain Institute; Dee & Jimmy Haslam Chair in Logistics
Alex Scott
Associate Professor; Gerald T. Niedert Professor in Supply Chain Management
Wendy Tate
McCormick Endowed Professorship; William J. Taylor Professor; Haslam Family Faculty Research Fellow
