Master of Supply Chain Management
March 30, 2026
May 11, 2026
Overview
Supply chains require professionals who possess the technical expertise and cross-functional business skills to understand every link in the chain — from inception to the consumer. The Master of Supply Chain Management program at The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business is meeting this need head-on. The MSCM program prepares a new generation of supply chain professionals through a combination of online coursework and hands-on learning experience. According to the the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, positions such as Logisticians and Purchasing Managers, Buyers, and Purchasing Agents, are on track to grow 19% and 7%, respectively, between 2023 and 2033. This further highlights the continued importance of the supply chain and the positions that keep it running.
Why choose Ohio State for your online Master of Supply Chain Management?
Ohio State’s Master of Supply Chain Management utilizes a seamless blend of synchronous and asynchronous instruction to provide flexibility and collaboration while you learn from industry experts and world-class faculty at the Fisher College of Business. With two required on-campus experiences, you’ll participate in workshops, on-site industry Gemba tours, hear from executive speakers, and participate in in-person networking. Finally, you’ll put your learnings to work through a capstone project where you’ll deliver real results to your employer or assigned organization. With full-time and part-time options available, you can complete the program in 12 or 24 months—whichever is right for you.
An AACSB-accredited, online program
The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Only 6% of business schools receive this accreditation.
AACSB-accredited
Frequently Asked Questions
The Master of Supply Chain Management utilizes a 50/50 split of synchronous and asynchronous course instruction. Students can expect to interact live for ~1-2 hours each week per class.
The Master of Supply Chain Management curriculum features two on-campus experiential learning sessions which are mandatory. Each session will be held on the main campus in Columbus and last 2-3 days.
The Master of Supply Chain Management program can be taken part-time or full-time. Part-time students can complete the program in six semesters (24 months). Full-time students can complete the program in three semesters (12 months).
There is no minimum score required to apply. Submitting a GMAT/GRE score is optional.
Related Content
Related Content
What is a Master of Supply Chain Management (MSCM)?
What’s the Difference Between Asynchronous and Synchronous Learning?
Are Online Degrees Respected?
Academic Calendar
The Master of Supply Chain Management program admits students once-per-year for the Summer semester. Utilizing a 50/50 split of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, this program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis in 12 or 24 months.
Academic Calendar
The Master of Supply Chain Management program admits students once-per-year for the Summer semester. Utilizing a 50/50 split of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, this program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis in 12 or 24 months.
Admission Criteria
Admission into the Master of Supply Chain Management program is based on the following requirements:
- The equivalent of a four-year bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited college or university, earned by the expected date of entry into your graduate program.
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for the last bachelor’s or advanced degree earned.
- Transcripts or other credentials documenting that you have completed prerequisite academic work.
- Candidates exhibiting advancement or leadership potential with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and skill sets are desired. Applicants with limited or no work experience are considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
The Master of Supply Chain Management program prepares you for career growth across various industries. These roles may include logisticians, purchasing managers, procurement managers, and operations managers.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Analyze and coordinate the ongoing logistical functions of a firm or organization. Responsible for the entire life cycle of a product, including acquisition, distribution, internal allocation, delivery, and final disposal of resources.
Work Activities
Maintain and develop positive business relationships with a customer’s key personnel involved in, or directly relevant to, a logistics activity. Develop an understanding of customers’ needs and take actions to ensure that such needs are met. Manage subcontractor activities, reviewing proposals, developing performance specifications, and serving as liaisons between subcontractors and organizations.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $49,260
- Mid Level: $80,880
- Senior Level: $132,110
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Logistics Analysts
- Logistics Engineers
- Project Management Specialists
- Supply Chain Managers
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Job Sectors
- Transportation
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
What They Do
Compile information and records to draw up purchase orders for procurement of materials and services.
Work Activities
Track the status of requisitions, contracts, and orders. Perform buying duties when necessary. Prepare purchase orders and send copies to suppliers and to departments originating requests.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $36,810
- Mid Level: $48,510
- Senior Level: $65,890
Job Outlook
Below Average
Related Careers
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products
- Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks
- Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks
- Stockers and Order Fillers
- Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Administrative
- Customer and Personal Service
- Economics and Accounting
- Administration and Management
What They Do
Purchase machinery, equipment, tools, parts, supplies, or services necessary for the operation of an establishment. Purchase raw or semifinished materials for manufacturing. May negotiate contracts.
Work Activities
Monitor and follow applicable laws and regulations. Prepare purchase orders, solicit bid proposals, and review requisitions for goods and services. Negotiate, renegotiate, and administer contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other representatives.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,460
- Mid Level: $75,650
- Senior Level: $127,520
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products
- Logisticians
- Procurement Clerks
- Purchasing Managers
- Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Economics and Accounting
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services. Includes wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers.
Work Activities
Develop and implement purchasing and contract management instructions, policies, and procedures. Locate vendors of materials, equipment or supplies, and interview them to determine product availability and terms of sales. Prepare bid awards requiring board approval.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $85,500
- Mid Level: $139,510
- Senior Level: $219,140
Job Outlook
Average
Related Careers
- Logisticians
- Logistics Analysts
- Procurement Clerks
- Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products
- Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Economics and Accounting
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
Work Activities
Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement. Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products. Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $47,420
- Mid Level: $102,950
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Administrative Services Managers
- Chief Executives
- Facilities Managers
- First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers
- Industrial Production Managers
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Production and Processing
- Mathematics
What They Do
Direct or coordinate production, purchasing, warehousing, distribution, or financial forecasting services or activities to limit costs and improve accuracy, customer service, or safety. Examine existing procedures or opportunities for streamlining activities to meet product distribution needs. Direct the movement, storage, or processing of inventory.
Work Activities
Determine appropriate equipment and staffing levels to load, unload, move, or store materials. Manage activities related to strategic or tactical purchasing, material requirements planning, controlling inventory, warehousing, or receiving. Select transportation routes to maximize economy by combining shipments or consolidating warehousing and distribution.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $61,200
- Mid Level: $102,010
- Senior Level: $180,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Industrial Production Managers
- Logisticians
- Logistics Analysts
- Logistics Engineers
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
Job Sectors
- Transportation
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Economics and Accounting
- Customer and Personal Service
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The Master of Supply Chain Management curriculum is designed to build and refine the skills needed to succeed in supply chain management. Through a blend of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, you can expect a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain industry allowing you to provide immediate value to your organization or execute a career shift. To further immerse you in the Supply Chain industry, two on-campus experiences are required as part of this program. You are expected to attend these in-person sessions, with rare exceptions.
Operations Management is designed to provide a solid foundation and deeper understanding of how the operations function contributes to ensuring effective and efficient flow of materials and information within and outside the organization.
Focus on major decisions related to global sourcing, starting with ownership (make-buy) and location (offshore-onshore). Among other topics, explore approaches to supplier and vendor selection and ongoing management, including conditions under which approaches are appropriate.
Focus on the operational use and appropriate contextual use of supply chain technologies. These include traditional technologies, such as manufacturing planning systems, transportation management systems and warehouse management systems, to emerging technologies, including cloud-based systems, robotic process automation, internet of things, augmented reality and artificial intelligence.
Overview of the key components of managing and operating a supply chain, including the strategic role of supply chain management in determining both the firm’s financial performance and the customer experience.
This course will expose students to cutting-edge topics in supply chain, taught by research-active faculty. There will be six class sessions. Each session will include approximately 1.5-2 hours of asynchronous content and approximately 1.5-2 hours of synchronous content. Each session will cover a topic.
In any organization, the quantitative analysis of information to improve decision making (“Analytics”) is exploding in all functional areas. The primary objective of this course is to study several applications of analytics in operations/supply chain management through a hands on approach. Topics include Data Analysis and Visualization, Simulation, Optimization and Time Series Forecasting.
Strategic Logistics Management is the introductory graduate logistics course. The objective is to give students a working knowledge of strategic and managerial issues in logistics and supply chain management. The course is intended to provide broad support for careers in management, regardless of major.
Focus on understanding how to measure and impact the long-term sustainability of a company’s supply chain operations. Learn practices for reducing carbon footprints, adopting eco-efficient principles, and creating a more resilient supply chain while meeting financial goals. Highlights factors that promote these efforts, such as environmental laws and product returns.
In this course, we will explore the “ultimate customer” of supply chains, by highlighting consumer trends, consumer expectations, and consumer-facing supply chain contexts, such as retail and last mile logistics.
Dive into the behavior of individuals from a leadership perspective. Explore questions: what does it mean to be an effective leader, and how to use influence to make needed changes in organizations, society, and ourselves? Seek answers by taking an evidence-based approach, appealing to the results of rigorous, empirical studies in management and psychology.
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
Learn More
Program Faculty
In the Master of Supply Chain Management program, you will learn from the Fisher College of Business faculty comprised of world-class scholars and industry experts who bring together theory and practice to prepare you for success as a supply chain professional.
John Gray
Professor of Operations / Associate Director
John Gray is a professor of operations. He joined Fisher after receiving his PhD from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Prior to pursuing his PhD, he worked for eight years in operations management at Procter & Gamble, receiving an MBA from Wake Forest University’s evening program during that time. He holds two undergraduate degrees from Dartmouth College and its Thayer School of Engineering.
Dr. Gray teaches Data Analysis (at the Ph.D., Executive, and MBA levels) and an elective he created called Global Sourcing (at the Ph.D., Executive, MBA, and undergraduate levels). The students awarded him “Outstanding Full-time MBA Core Faculty” for Data Analysis in 2015 and “Outstanding Working Professional MBA Elective Professor” for Global Sourcing in 2010. A student project from Global Sourcing led to a co-authored case (Scotts Miracle-Gro: The Spreader Sourcing Decision) that has been widely adopted.
Keely L. Croxton
Professor of Logistics in the Department of Marketing and Logistics
Terry L. Esper
Associate Professor of Logistics in the Department of Marketing and Logistics
Testimonials
See what students and graduates have to say about Ohio State Online.
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“I could not have faced so many obstacles without the support, strength and guidance from the faculty and staff. Even when times were tough, they believed in me, so I believed in me.”
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“While going into the program, I was concerned that by Ohio State being one of the largest institutions, I would feel like one in 1,000 students. Instead, I felt a sense of close-knit, connected support from both classmates and faculty.”
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“Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program.”
Derek Danek Ohio State Online Grad -
“I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized.”
Demi MacLennan Ohio State Online Grad -
“Ohio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others.”
Cara North Ohio State Online Grad -
“As an online student, there’s so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless.”
Audra Hanners Ohio State Online Grad
Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program. Estimates are based on the expenses typical of an Ohio State Online student, who would take 6 credit hours each semester as a part-time student, or 8 credit hours each semester as a full-time student. Actual costs may vary.
| Tuition and Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Part-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester | Full-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $1,199.00 | $7,194.00 | $9,592.00 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 | $261.00 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 (per semester) |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 (per semester) |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester.
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