Is a master's in supply chain management worth it?
By: Liz Simmons, Edited by: Mitch Jacobson
Published: March 21, 2025
A master's in supply chain management can help you gain the specialized knowledge and skills you need to help companies improve their supply chain strategies and practices. Explore the best supply chain management programs and learn if this degree is right for you.
What is a master's in supply chain management?
A master's degree in supply chain management is a graduate-level business degree that focuses on the supply chain. A typical program explores topics like:
- Logistics
- Purchasing and procurement
- Sustainable business practices
- Supply chain regulations
A supply chain management master's degree usually takes two full-time years to complete. Some schools offer stand-alone supply chain management master's programs, while others offer an MBA in supply chain management.
What are the benefits of a master's degree in supply chain management?
Earning a master's in supply chain management offers many potential benefits for students. If you pursue this degree, you may:
- Gain advanced knowledge of general business practices
- Develop specialized skills in supply chain management
- Receive practical, hands-on supply chain experience
- Network with industry experts
- Increase your earning potential
Is getting a master's in supply chain management worth it?
You might be wondering if a master's in supply chain management is worth it.
Earning this degree can definitely pay off, but its value depends on your career goals, budget, schedule, and other personal factors.
Completing a supply chain management master's degree program can help you stand out from other job candidates and potentially qualify for higher-paying jobs. It can prepare you for advanced general business roles and specialized positions in supply chain management and logistics.
Continue reading to explore the typical costs, opportunities after graduation, and benefits of earning a master's in supply chain management.
How much does a master's degree program cost?
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that, on average, graduate students paid $20,513 for tuition and fees during the 2021-2022 academic year.
But, the cost of a master's degree in supply chain management can vary. Factors that impact price include:
- School type (public or private)
- Learning format (in-person, hybrid, or online)
- Student's residency status (in-state or out-of-state)
- The cost of expenses beyond tuition (housing, transportation, and student fees)
Financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and federal student loans can help you pay for your degree.
Are supply chain managers in demand?
Graduates with a master's in supply chain management are in high demand. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 18% job growth between 2023 and 2033 for logisticians. This is much faster than the average 4% for all positions during the same period and will result in about 26,100 job openings per year over the decade.
Demand is affected by the growth of e-commerce, the timeliness of delivery, and the need to manage multiple supply chains simultaneously.
Does a master's in supply chain management have a good ROI?
A master's in supply chain management can have a good return on investment (ROI) if you want to advance your career and pursue a specialized role.
Logisticians earn a median annual salary of $79,400, according to the BLS. Factors that may affect salary potential include education level, years of experience, industry, and geographic location.
The typical master's degree takes two years to complete, and the NCES reported that the average cost of graduate tuition and fees during the 2020-21 academic year was $20,513. Although this is a significant expenditure of time and money, this degree may lead to more job opportunities and a higher salary. However, you need to consider your specific career goals and personal circumstances to decide if this degree makes sense for you.