In this article, we rank and review the top 30 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degrees. As global and national economies grow in complexity and size, businesses might find themselves facing many challenges. These issues can happen when a company tries to coordinate the distribution and production of goods and services while keeping their returns high and costs low. An online bachelor’s degree in logistics, materials, and supply chain management teaches students how to tackle these problems. In this program, undergraduates learn how to lead teams, manage the flow of transportation and products, and communicate between customers, suppliers, and companies. The best online bachelor’s degrees also offer a foundation in best practices and business theory. Graduates are prepared to pursue master’s-level studies or work in many different industries.
Methodology
To provide our readers with the best possible list of affordable online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degrees, we came up with the following methodology. We awarded points to each school for certain things that most prospective students look for when choosing a college: tuition, student-to-faculty ratios, and graduation rates. However, before we could award points, we first needed to get our list of schools. We used the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and searched for logistics, materials, and supply chain management bachelor’s degree. We then narrowed down the search results from 50 schools into the top 30 based on the methodology outlined below.
Average Cost of Attendance
If you are researching colleges, you are probably looking for the cheapest program that will help you save money. Although this article is based on affordability to help you get a good education without breaking the bank, it is important to think about other factors as well. For example, is there a certain concentration you are looking for? Do you want a program with opportunities for research and internships? Are you looking to join a club or organization to complement your degree? Consider each school’s tuition, of course, but make sure that it has other features to offer, too. In this article, we ranked tuition based on how much an in-state student would pay for one full year of academic study using rates provided by the NCES. Rates for out-of-state students are also provided for your reference.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we ranked schools based on their student-to-faculty ratios. These numbers give us an idea of the size of the classes and the overall learning environment at each institution. In most cases, universities with high ratios typically provide larger classes and more concentration and internship options. On the other hand, colleges with low ratios usually offer smaller classes and opportunities for one-on-one advising and studies. It all comes down to personal preference; what is your learning style? What are you looking to get out of your college experience and academic environment? For this article, we awarded the most points to schools with the lowest ratios as reported by NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we awarded points based on each school’s graduation rate. Although there’s no hard and steadfast rule, most schools with high graduation rates are doing something to keep their students happy. Why? Students who are happy with their college experience are more likely to remain enrolled and graduate with their degrees. On the other hand, unhappy students might be more likely to leave and earn their degrees somewhere else. This can happen for any number of reasons. A school might be failing to offer academic support, employing unhelpful or inexperienced faculty, or providing unaffordable programs. For this article, schools with the highest graduation rates from NCES earned the most points based on the following ranges.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management Degrees
30. Ohio Christian University
Circleville, Ohio
Points: 4
Program Website
Ohio Christian University is a private Christian institution of higher learning affiliated with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. OCU offers an affordable online BA in Business with a concentration in logistics management. In this high-value degree program, students take classes in business like business law and ethics, accounting, business information systems, and financial management. They also complete four concentration courses that cover areas like warehousing and terminal management, transportation systems, logistics management, and strategic procurement. A total of 120 credit hours are required for the low-priced online degree.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Arts in Business, Logistics Management Concentration
In-State Tuition: $20,806
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,806
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 25 percent
29. Brandman University
Irvine, California
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1958 as Chapman University College, Brandman University is a nonprofit, private university that provides degrees for working adults. Students looking for an affordable logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree can pursue a cheap BBA in Supply Chain Systems. Courses introduce students to business information systems, organizational behavior, and labor relations as well as leadership and project management. Students also learn how to solve problems, organize, plan, and prioritize. This best-value degree program is available 100 percent online and requires at least 120 semester units.
Degree Options:
BBA in Supply Chain Systems
In-State Tuition: $12,380
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,380
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
28. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1966, Bellevue University is a private university focused on providing educational outreach and adult education. It is also one of the top universities for an affordable online bachelor’s degree in logistics, materials, and supply chain management. Bellevue’s economical, accelerated online BS in Supply Chain, Transportation, and Logistics Management program requires 127 semester hours of study. Students take classes in procurement, warehousing, and transportation as well as information systems and technology. Other areas of study include inventory management and global logistics management. Classes also examine related disciplines like organizational management, information systems analysis, economics, fiscal management, and business communication.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain, Transportation, and Logistics Management
In-State Tuition: $7,827
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,827
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
27. Lindenwood University
St. Charles, Missouri
Points: 5
Program Website
Founded as The Lindenwood School for Girls by George and Mary Sibley in 1827, Lindenwood University is a private liberal arts university that offers two affordable online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degrees. Students can choose from either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, each with a 12-credit emphasis in supply chain management. Both high-value online degree programs focus on subjects like supply chain management, operations, procurement, and logistics. Graduates are ready to work in financial, healthcare, retail, transportation, and manufacturing organizations.
Degree Options:
Business Administration (BA, BS) With Emphasis in Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $17,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
26. University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, Massachusetts
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1863 as Massachusetts Agricultural College, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is a public land-grant and research university. It is also the flagship school of the University of Massachusetts System and one of the most affordable universities for an online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. UMass-Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management offers a low-cost online Bachelor of Business Administration in Operations and Information Management. Available online, the 120-credit-hour inexpensive degree program introduces students to areas like staffing, logistics and transportation, and supply chain management. Other topics of focus include demand planning, business intelligence and analytics, and project management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business Administration, Operations and Information Management
In-State Tuition: $15,887
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,570
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 80 percent
25. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, Florida
Points: 5
Program Website
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, established in 1926, is a private university that specializes in aerospace and aviation degree programs. It is also one of the top schools for an affordable online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. ERAU’s economical online BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management focuses on areas like inventory management, purchasing and procurement procedures and policies, and metrics for analyzing and tracking supply chain performance. Students also learn about the processes and technology solutions for transportation operations, distribution, and warehousing. The best-value 120-credit-hour program is offered through the Embry-Riddle Worldwide Campus network and prepares students for employment, graduate-level study, and professional certifications.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $9,360
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,360
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent
24. California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Points: 6
Program Website
Students looking for a low-cost online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management might consider attending California Baptist University. CBU, founded as California Baptist College in 1950, offers a high-value Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics and Operations. The curriculum includes business-focused classes in marketing, organizational management, and finance. Concentration courses in logistics and operations cover project and team management, logistics planning and controlling, global supply chain management, and operations management. A general survey course that examines the New Testament and the Hebrew Bible is also required. Students complete 48 units of study within the major and graduate within 16 months.
Degree Options:
BBA – Logistics and Operations
In-State Tuition: $33,478
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,478
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
23. Anderson University
Anderson, South Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1911, Anderson University is a private university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Students looking for a cost-effective online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management can pursue the top-value BBA in Supply Chain Management. Students take classes in logistics and distribution, supply chain management, and operations management. They also become fluent in different areas of business like law, information technology, and marketing statistics. Other business-focused topics include human resources, economics, finance, and accounting. Graduates are ready for careers as purchasing agents, materials analysts, inventory managers, and buyers.
Degree Options:
Business Administration — Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $28,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
22. Southern Wesleyan University
Central, South Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Southern Wesleyan University is a private Christian university and one of the best universities for an economical online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degree. Founded in 1909 by the Wesleyan Church, SWU offers an affordable online BS in Business Administration that features self-paced coursework. The school emphasizes Christian values and provides a personal, dedicated advisor to every student. Undergraduates complete a business-focused curriculum and take classes in an optional supply chain management concentration. This specialization focuses on managing and planning activities like logistics management, operations, procurement, and sourcing.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
In-State Tuition: $25,476
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,476
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
21. Saint Leo University
St. Leo, Florida
Points: 6
Program Website
Undergraduates looking for a high-value online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degree should consider Saint Leo University. Established in 1889, SLU is a private, Roman Catholic, liberal arts university that offers an affordable online BA in Business Administration with a specialization in logistics. The curriculum includes a core of foundational business classes and 30 hours of intensive logistics courses. Undergraduates learn about procurement and purchasing, transportation and distribution, inventory control and materials management, logistics management, and project management. A logistics specialization portfolio is also required. Students can also take advantage of professional development opportunities like professional memberships, internships, and local or regional conferences.
Degree Options:
Logistics Degree Online – Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration
In-State Tuition: $23,020
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,020
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
20. Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1884, Temple University is a public research university and a highly ranked school for those seeking a best-value online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. Temple offers an inexpensive online BBA in Supply Chain Management through its Fox School of Business. Students complete 124 credits of study to earn the degree. Topics of focus include transportation and logistics management, supply chain management, and global entrepreneurship. Students also learn about sourcing and procurement as well as inventory and warehouse management. The low-cost online degree program includes internships, seminars, career fairs, and other opportunities for students to learn from industry leaders.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $16,970
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,066
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
19. Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, Kentucky
Points: 6
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management, Northern Kentucky University is a public university that was established in 1968. NKU offers a fully online economical BS in Business Administration in Global Supply Chain Management. Students must complete 120 credit hours, including business-focused classes in finance, accounting, marketing, and business. Other required courses cover global supply chain analytics, logistics and distribution, global strategic sourcing, and supply chain management. All classes are seven weeks in length. Graduates are ready for careers in purchasing, transportation, and logistics management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration — Global Supply Chain Management Online
In-State Tuition: $10,032
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,680
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
18. Portland State University
Portland, Oregon
Points: 6
Program Website
Portland State University was established in 1946 as a university for World War II veterans. Today, it offers one of the only accredited, fully online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degree programs in the country. PSU’s cost-effective BS in Supply and Logistics Management is also one of only three in the U.S. to hold certification from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The low-priced online degree program builds expertise in four core areas: logistics, manufacturing, sourcing, and planning. Students also learn about business topics like operations and quality management, marketing management, organizational behavior, and information technology.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Supply and Logistics Management
In-State Tuition: $9,105
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,437
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
17. University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Points: 6
Program Website
The University of Southern Mississippi is a public research university that was founded as Mississippi Normal College in 1910. Today, USM offers a top-value online bachelor’s in logistics, materials, and supply chain management in the form of a cheap Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. Students complete 45 hours of classes in the major in areas like global supply chain management, logistics distribution systems, and logistics transportation systems. Other online topics of study include management for organizations, human resource management, and operations management. A senior project is required for graduation. The affordable online degree program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Degree Options:
Industrial Engineering Technology (Logistics) BS
In-State Tuition: $8,624
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,624
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
16. Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Minnesota State University Moorhead is a public university and a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. Established in 1887, MSUM offers a low-cost BS in Global Supply Chain Management. This affordable online degree program teaches students how to plan and implement supply chain strategies at the domestic and international levels. Core online courses cover topics like supply chain management, operations management, and management information systems. Students also develop their knowledge of logistics management and network design, computer applications, and production inventory management. Graduates can pursue careers in distribution, management, transportation, and logistics.
Degree Options:
BS Degree in Global Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $8,496
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,906
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
15. Metropolitan State University
St. Paul, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1971, Metropolitan State University is a public university and a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. Metro State offers an affordable online BS in Supply Chain and Operations Management. The 120-credit online curriculum focuses on planning and control, inventory and warehousing, and sourcing and purchasing. Students will also develop their knowledge of supply chain management and systems, transportation, and logistics. A capstone in the form of a strategic management course is required for graduation. Graduates are ready for careers in nonprofit organizations, the government, and businesses.
Degree Options:
Supply Chain and Operations Management BS
In-State Tuition: $7,879
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,980
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
14. Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Western Illinois University is a public university that was founded as Western Illinois State Normal School in 1899. WIU offers an affordable online Bachelor of Business in Supply Chain Management that is accredited by the AACSB. Students complete a comprehensive curriculum and build relevant industry skills. Internships, career fairs, professional development events, study-abroad programs, and student organizations offer additional networking opportunities and industry experience. WIU also allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management and a Master of Business Administration in five years through an accelerated, integrated program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business in Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $12,951
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,951
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
13. Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Students looking for an affordable degree in logistics, materials, and supply chain management may consider enrolling at Franklin University. Established in 1902, Franklin is a private university that offers mostly online programs to adult learners. Franklin’s low-cost BS in Operations and Supply Chain Management program consists of 126 semester hours of study, including business core classes and courses within the major. Students investigate project management, purchasing and inventory management, and transportation and logistics management. Other areas of focus include supply chain management, quality management, and operations management. An operations and supply chain management capstone is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
B.S. Operations & Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $12,649
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,649
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
12. Park University
Parkville, Missouri
Points: 7
Program Website
Park University is a private university that was founded in 1875. The school is also an affordable university for an online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. Students may earn a top-value online BS in Business Administration with a concentration in logistics. The curriculum includes business core classes in management and organizational behavior, financial management, accounting, and business law. The logistics concentration focuses on logistics management, transportation and distribution systems, and production and operations management. Students also develop their knowledge of purchasing and vendor management and quality control.
Degree Options:
Business Administration, Logistics Concentration, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $11,572
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,572
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
11. Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1899, Northern Arizona University is a public research university and one of the most affordable universities for an online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. NAU offers a low-cost online Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management that requires 120 units of study. After laying a foundation in the principles and fundamentals of logistics, the economical online degree program offers in-depth courses in strategic logistics, logistics network analysis and design, sustainable logistics, and global logistics. The classes emphasize real-world, relevant content, and students benefit from realistic experiential assignments.
Degree Options:
Applied Science — Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Bachelor of Applied Science
In-State Tuition: $11,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,828
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
10. Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Points: 7
Program Website
Ball State University is a public research university that was established in 1918 by the Ball brothers, industrialists and founders of the Ball Corporation. At BSU, students can choose from an inexpensive Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Available entirely online, the affordable degree program provides core classes in management, technology, science, and logistics. The cheap online degree program culminates in a senior capstone in the form of a supply chain integration project. Faculty mentors challenge students to apply what they have learned through real-world projects and internships with industry leaders.
Degree Options:
Bachelor’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $9,896
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,468
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
9. Baker College
Flint, Michigan
Points: 7
Program Website
Baker College is Michigan’s largest not-for-profit, independent college. Established in 1911, Baker College is also one of the most affordable colleges for an online logistics, materials, and supply management degree. Students can earn a high-value BBA in Logistics that covers all aspects of supply chain management, ranging from end-users to raw materials. Students complete online coursework in both business and logistics, including topics like operations management, change management, applied business analytics, and procurement and supply chain management. Graduates are prepared to work as warehouse managers, transportation specialists, demand planners, and project managers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business Administration in Logistics
In-State Tuition: $9,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,800
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent
8. Georgia Military College
Milledgeville, Georgia
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1879, Georgia Military College was originally known as Middle Georgia Military and Agricultural College. Today, GMC is a military-focused institution that offers an affordable online Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Management and Logistics. Online degree courses focus on fundamental logistics and supply chain management skills in areas like purchasing, distribution, transportation, warehouse management, materials management, and inventory management. Students can also customize their degree through electives in team management, marketing, organizational leadership, human resources management, and organizational behavior. Graduates are ready for entry-level and middle-management positions in logistics and supply chain management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Supply Chain Management and Logistics
In-State Tuition: $6,480
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,480
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 27 percent
7. Murray State University
Murray, Kentucky
Points: 8
Program Website
Murray State University is a public institution of higher education and one of the most affordable universities for an online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. Established in 1922, MSU offers an affordable online BS in Business with an area in logistics and supply chain management. The online curriculum includes business core courses in strategic management, the fundamentals of operations, and the principles of finance. Students also take classes in logistics management, purchasing and supply management, process management, and international transportation and logistics. A supply chain strategy capstone course is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Business, Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $9,084
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,540
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
6. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Points: 8
Program Website
Kennesaw State University, established in 1963, is a public university that operates two campuses, one in Marietta and another in Kennesaw, Georgia. A member of the University System of Georgia, KSU offers a top-value online Bachelor of Applied Science in Manufacturing Operations. Students are exposed to areas like supply chain, logistics, operations, and manufacturing. The industry-driven online curriculum also encompasses topics such as facilities layout, work measurement, engineering economy, quality principles, and manufacturing processes. All courses are offered in a synchronous, online format. The cheap online degree program is designed for students who already hold an Associate of Applied Technology or Associate of Applied Science degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Manufacturing Operations
In-State Tuition: $6,347
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,329
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
5. Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1966 as Florida Junior College, Florida State College at Jacksonville is a top choice for students seeking an affordable online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. A member of the Florida College System, FSCJ offers an inexpensive online Bachelor of Applied Science in Logistics that focuses on global operations, logistics technologies, and supply chain management. Other areas of study include regulatory compliance, strategic transportation, and financial management. Graduates have the skills and knowledge needed to work as logisticians, distribution managers, warehouse managers, transportation managers, and operations managers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Logistics
In-State Tuition: $2,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,992
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 38 percent
4. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, North Carolina
Points: 9
Program Website
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a public research university and a member of the University of North Carolina System. However, UNCG is a standalone school that awards its own degrees. UNCG offers an economical online BS in Supply Chain Management, an AACSB-accredited program that focuses on the development of management-level workplace skills. Students learn how logistics helps companies to distribute, produce, procure, and source services and goods more effectively and efficiently. All low-priced courses are offered online with no set class times, and the curriculum is taught by the same on-campus faculty.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $7,331
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,490
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
3. East Carolina University
Greenville, North Carolina
Points: 9
Program Website
Established in 1907, East Carolina University is the fourth-largest university in North Carolina and a popular choice among undergraduates seeking an affordable online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree. ECU students can pursue a cheap online BS in Business Administration with a concentration in operations and supply chain management. The curriculum includes required online courses in purchasing and materials management, strategic supply chain management, and strategic logistics management. Graduates are prepared for careers in fields like retail management, distribution, product planning, sales management, and business marketing. Students are also prepared to sit for the Certified Purchasing Manager examination.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Operations & Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $7,188
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,465
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
2. Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Florida International University is a public research university and a member of the 12-campus State University System of Florida. FIU offers an affordable online BBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The curriculum teaches students how to enhance profitability, improve customer experience, streamline processes, and reduce transportation, warehouse, and inventory costs. Graduates are prepared to tackle all sorts of business problems and understand the complex world of trade industries, supply chain management, and logistics. The inexpensive degree program is available 100 percent online, and students must complete 120 credits to graduate.
Degree Options:
BBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $6,546
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,954
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
1. Athens State University
Athens, Alabama
Points: 10
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an online logistics, materials, and supply chain management degree is Athens State University. Established in 1822, ASU is a public, two-year senior college that offers an economical online BS in Logistics and Supply Chain Management degree. The 124-hour online curriculum focuses on areas like logistics and supply chain management in the global environment, operations management, logistics and distribution, project management, and financial management. Students also learn about management information systems, management decision support systems, and either international business or international economics and trade. The cheap online degree program culminates in a business policy capstone course. Graduates are prepared for careers as global logistics managers, materials planners, and supply chain managers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
In-State Tuition: $6,810
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,870
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management Degree?
Logistics, materials, and supply chain management professionals are responsible for the production, warehousing, and transportation of goods and services. Earning a degree in supply chain management prepares students for jobs in operations research analysis, inventory management, and logistics. There are a number of career options that students can apply for with a Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management like:
- Purchasing Manager
- Procurement Analyst
- Cost Estimator
- Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representative
- Sales Manager
- Distribution Manager
- Logistician
- Operations Research Analyst
Also, by earning an online bachelor’s degree in supply chain management and logistics, distance learners are ready for careers as transportation coordinators, financial analysts, and manufacturing and wholesale representatives. Most professionals in this field work for wholesalers and businesses. However, with the right amount of career experience, undergraduates may be equipped for jobs as freelance consultants and advisers.
Although a bachelor’s is usually all that is needed for entry-level positions, management-level jobs might require undergraduates to earn a master’s degree and boost their resume with on-the-job experience. Because foreign transportation and transactions are complex, a graduate degree is especially important for those looking to work in international logistics.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management Degree?
As we have seen, there are many career options for graduates who have earned an online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. So, it makes sense that the salary potential will vary just as much as the occupations. The salary potential for this degree also depends on where a professional is working, the company he or she is working for, and the level of education and experience he or she has. To dig in a little deeper, we consulted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), where we found salary data for five popular occupations related to logistics and supply chain management.
First, transportation, storage, and distribution managers are among the highest-paid workers. According to the BLS, these professionals make $102,850 per year as of May 2018. The top 10 percent earned more than $158,370, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,050. Top-paying industries for these professionals include:
- Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing: $143,810
- Natural Gas Distribution: $143,810
- Oil and Gas Extraction: $138,150
- Other Pipeline Transportation: $137,430
- Scientific Research and Development Services: $134,620
Similarly, operations research analysts earned an annual median wage of $83,390 per year. The highest-earning 10 percent of workers raked in more than $136,250, and the lowest-earning 10 percent saw less than $46,810. The highest paying industries for this occupation are the federal government; manufacturing; professional, technical, and scientific services; management of enterprises and companies; and insurance and finance.
Three other top-paying occupations and their earnings include:
- Logisticians: $74,600 per year
- Purchasing Managers, Buyers, and Purchasing Agents: $67,600 per year
- Cost Estimators: $64,040 per year
What Will You Study in an Online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management Degree Program?
Most online bachelor’s degrees in logistics, materials, and supply chain management are designed for working professionals. Some even prepare graduates for certifications like the ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management designation or the APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional title. Although program structures and curriculum requirements vary, many programs feature asynchronous courses that let students read materials and view lectures on their own time; exams, projects, and assignments usually have deadlines. Specific academic requirements will depend on the school you choose, but most colleges and universities offer classes in:
- Transport Systems
- Supply Chain Fundamentals
- International Logistics
- Procurement and Sourcing
- Demand Fulfillment
- International Supply Chain Management
Other courses undergraduates might take include warehouse management, logistics and transportation, and inventory management. Students will learn the basic practices and principles of the supply chain process and understand how to solve problems that might happen in organizational distribution. Some schools might offer concentrations to help students focus their degree on a specific area like global supply chain, retail supply chain, transportation, production, or warehouse. Also, depending on the program, hands-on experiences such as internships might be required. These classes help students create a professional network and build valuable skills that apply directly to their future careers.
Depending on the program, undergraduates can expect to complete around 120 credit hours to obtain an online bachelor’s degree in logistics, materials, and supply chain management. Although traditional, on-campus programs can be completed in four years, online learners may opt for a degree-completion or accelerated track and graduate sooner in as few as two years. These programs usually require students to have already completed prerequisites or have experience in the field. Regardless of the path you take, we hope that our list of the top 30 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management degrees is a helpful starting point.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable online bachelor’s in logistics, materials, and supply chain management degrees.
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