How a supply chain management major sets you up for success

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Key takeaways about a supply chain management major

Supply chain management majors learn how products move from idea to delivery.
It’s a great fit if you’re into problem-solving, logistics, and global business.
You’ll take courses in operations, analytics, and strategy.
Careers range from logistics coordinator to global supply chain director.
You can earn a strong salary and work in nearly any industry.

So... what is a supply chain?

Imagine ordering a pair of sneakers online. Behind that click is a whole system—designers, manufacturers, shipping companies, warehouses, and retailers—all working together to get those shoes to your door. That system is the supply chain.

Supply chain management is all about making that system run smoothly. It’s the art (and science) of getting the right product to the right place at the right time, at the right cost.

What is a supply chain management major?

A supply chain management major teaches you how to manage the flow of goods, services, and information across businesses and borders. You’ll learn how to plan, source, produce, and deliver products efficiently and ethically.

It’s a mix of business, operations, analytics, and strategy. You’ll dive into topics like logistics, procurement, inventory control, and global trade.

Supply chain vs. logistics: what’s the difference?

Logistics is just one part of the supply chain—it’s the transportation and storage piece. Supply chain management covers the whole journey, from raw materials to customer delivery. Think of logistics as the road trip, and supply chain as planning the entire vacation.

Supply chain vs. business or operations majors

While business majors get a broad overview of finance, marketing, and management, supply chain majors specialize in the systems behind how businesses run. Operations majors focus on internal processes, but supply chain goes beyond—connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and customers worldwide.

Common courses for supply chain management majors

Here’s a peek at your schedule:

Supply Chain Strategy
Logistics and Transportation
Operations Management
Procurement and Sourcing
Data Analytics for Supply Chains
Global Trade and Compliance

Double majors and minors that pair well with supply chain management

Want to level up your degree? These combos are worth considering:

Double major: Business Analytics, International Business, Engineering
Minors: Data Science, Sustainability, Economics, Foreign Language

Skills I’ll gain as a supply chain management major

This major builds serious career-ready skills:

Analytical thinking
Project management
Negotiation and communication
Tech-savviness (hello, ERP systems)
Global awareness

Top careers for supply chain management majors

Supply chain grads are in demand across industries—from fashion to tech to healthcare. Popular roles include:

Logistics Coordinator
Supply Chain Analyst
Procurement Manager
Inventory Planner
Operations Manager
Global Supply Chain Director

Global opportunities within supply chain management

Supply chain careers are super international. You could work with suppliers in Asia, manage logistics in Europe, or optimize operations in Latin America. Many companies offer travel or relocation opportunities.

How much will I earn with a supply chain management degree?

Graduates with a supply chain management degree often start out as logisticians, earning a median salary of $80,880 per year. As you gain experience, you could move into management roles like transportation or distribution manager, where salaries can reach over $100,000 annually. Your earnings will depend on your role, industry, and location—but overall, supply chain careers offer strong pay and growth potential,

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025

Notable schools for supply chain management

Looking for top programs? Check out:

Use Scout College Search to find more schools that fit your vibe.

Scholarships for supply chain management majors

If you're thinking about majoring in supply chain management, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities to help you fund your education. Start by exploring scholarships by major, which include options specifically for supply chain students. You can also check out Scholly Scholarships, a platform that matches you with personalized scholarship opportunities. Don’t miss the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship—it’s quick to apply and open to all students. For supply chain-specific funding, visit the Supply Chain Management Scholarships page. And if you're still exploring colleges, Scout College Search is a great tool to help you find schools that offer strong supply chain programs and fit your goals.