In the world of business, efficiency and customer service depend on having what you need, when you need it. Ensuring supplies are always available when needed is the role of the Supply Chain Management department. Specifically, Supply Chain Management involves identifying, acquiring, and managing the resources that a business needs to ensure that a business is well positioned to meet its strategic goals.

A degree in Supply Chain Management will include courses in: strategic alliances and planning, relationship management, cost/price analysis, purchasing, performance measurements, logistics, distribution, inventory control, and contract development.

The field of Supply Chain Management continues to evolve. Previously, Supply Chain Managers spent much of their time as contract managers and purchasers. Today, technology has automated the majority of clerical tasks and Supply Chain Managers are taking on more strategic roles in an organization.

A supply management department may be responsible for up to 50-60 percent of organizational spending and so Supply Chain Managers are positioned to have a huge impact on organizational spending, allotment of company resources, and the development of strategic goals. As e-commerce continues to grow, there will be more opportunities for Supply Chain Managers who have a strong background in International Business or Technology.

Some Supply Chain Managers choose to specialize in one process, such as product design and development, contract development, and forecasting, while others remain involved in the entire process. Possible career titles include: Purchasing Director, Materials Analyst, Director of Contracts and Procurement, and Inventory Planner. A degree in Supply Chain Management can also offer career opportunities in related business operations, including planning, policymaking, product development and inventory control.