As more organizations realize the impact (both positive and negative) that the supply chain has on its growth and profitability, the need for experienced, trained supply chain professionals has increased. In the past, learning about supply chain management was usually done through on-the-job training. Now because of its global nature and recognized impact, there are degrees and certification programs available in supply chain management and logistics.

Certification courses

Supply chain online certification courses are plentiful. A number of major colleges and universities offer programs that teach supply chain management. Additionally, there are online courses provided by supply chain consulting companies, application service providers and supply chain industry organizations. The University of San Francisco offers a master certificate in supply chain management that is available 100 percent online. The program focuses on the functional perspective, tactical implementation and strategic best practices of supply chain management.

Degree programs

If you are seeking to obtain a master's degree in supply chain management, dozens of universities now offer MBA programs that focus on supply chain management. Prerequisites for entering these programs vary from school to school. Some of the most prestigious universities offer online degree programs in supply chain management. Penn State University, University of Michigan and Northeastern University are just a few of the accredited schools that offer these programs. Work experience is a big factor when entering a degree program. Most universities look at the quality of a candidate's experience along with the quantity.

Industry associations

There are numerous supply chain industry associations that offer online and distance learning. Most focus on specific areas of the supply chain, such as forecasting, procurement or purchasing, but others offer general supply chain industry certifications. The Institute for Supply Management, the Association for Operations Management, formerly APICS, and the Institute of Business Forecasting all offer certification programs in various aspects of supply chain management. The Institute for Supply Management offers the Certified Professional in Supply Management certificate while the Institute of Business Forecasting offers Certified and Advanced Certified Professional Forecaster certifications.

Time frame

As with most independent study programs, completion time depends on the student. Most degree programs are one-year programs, while certification programs vary in length. The University of San Francisco masters certificate program lasts for 24-weeks--eight weeks for each of its three courses. The Institute for Supply Management and Institute of Business Forecasting programs are done at the student's pace, but the Institute of Business Forecasting program only tests a few times a year for each of its two certificates.

Source:

University of San Francisco

Institute of Business Forecasting

Institute for Supply Management

Resource:

The Association for Operations Management