An online associate degree in supply chain management may teach the fundamentals of logistics and how goods and services are transferred from a supplier to the consumer. In these two-year programs, students may learn about the life cycle of a product, proper purchasing methods, and how to analyze performance data. This program contains coursework which includes some general education classes as well as major-specific classes such as administration of transportation, basic supervision, and supply chain process.

Upon graduation, students may either seek entry-level employment or transfer their credits to a baccalaureate degree program in supply chain management. Associate-level graduates may gain employment in materials management, purchasing, distribution, and inventory control.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 26% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for an online associate degree program may include general education courses along with major-specific classes. These two-year programs may focus on the logistics of planning and controlling the flow of goods from one point to another while maintaining a high level of customer service. Core supply chain management courses may include the following:

• Administration of Transportation
• Business Organization and Management
• Logistics/Supply Chain Process
• Introduction to Business Law
• Basic Supervision
• Principles of Accounting
• Microeconomics

Career Options

Graduates at the associate level may find employment opportunities in manufacturing, inventory control, transportation, warehousing, and order-processing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those who wish to pursue employment as a logistician may expect opportunities to increase by 26% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Purchasing Assistant
• Logistician
• Assistant Buyer
• Materials Manager
• Retail Manager

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete an associate degree program in supply chain management may wish to increase their education by transferring to a baccalaureate program. A bachelor’s degree in supply chain management may provide an advanced view of the technical knowledge required in the field of logistics.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook