Top 15 Supply Chain Management Courses to Boost Your Career

• Career Advice Supply Chain Management

In today’s ever-changing business world, staying ahead of the curve in supply chain management is essential. Luckily, there are many online courses available to help you develop your expertise, regardless of your experience level. This article explores 15 of the top-rated supply chain management courses online to help you take your career to the next level.

At a Glance:

• We’ll explore some of the best online supply chain management courses from around the world.
• We’ll highlight what each course offers, including the pros and cons.
• We’ll also include ratings (when available) to help you choose the right course for you.

List of Top 15 Supply Chain Management Courses Online

1. ‘Supply Chain Principles’ by Coursera
2. ‘How to Run a S&OP Process – Benefits, Process Steps & Overcome Barriers‘ by SCMDOJO
3. ‘Supply Chain Design’ by MITx
4. ‘Excel Supply Chain Analysis: Solving Inventory Problems’ by LinkedIn Learning
5. ‘Warehouse Management in Logistics & Supply Chain Management’ by Udemy
6. ‘AI in Procurement’ by SCMDOJO
7. ‘Understanding Supply Chain Ecosystems’ by Alison
8. ‘Introducing Procurement and Supply (CORE)’ by CIPS
9. ‘Cognitive Procurement Specialization Program (CPSP)’ by SIG University Certification
10. ‘Supply Risk and Sustainability Management’ by NLPA
11. ’Supply Chain Innovation: How Technology Can Create a Sustainable Future’ by FutureLearn
12. ‘Global Supply Chain Management’ by edX
13. ‘E-Auction Basics‘ by SCMDOJO
14. ‘Supply Chain: Inventory Control & Safety Stock Calculation’ by Udemy
15. ‘Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training’ by Udemy
16. Excel Training Course by Acuity Training

‘Introducing Procurement and Supply (CORE)’ by CIPS

This eLearning course is designed to help you gain a foundational understanding of procurement and supply management. It covers the basics of procurement, including procurement strategies, contract management, and supplier selection. You’ll also learn about supply chain management and the various stages of the procurement process. The course is designed to be interactive, engaging, and easy to follow.

Pros:

• It forms part of the CIPS Level 2 Certificate in Procurement and Supply Operations qualification.
• Provides a solid foundation in the core principles of procurement and supply management.
• Track your progress as you work through the learning outcomes.
• Fresh, easy-to-digest format.
• Cost-effective study support.

Cons:

• Not as comprehensive as some other procurement and supply management courses.
• This course isn’t as advanced for experienced professionals.

Rating:

Not provided.

‘How to Run a S&OP Process – Benefits, Process Steps & Overcome Barriers’ by SCMDOJO

Through this S&OP course, you will:

• Discover in detail how to use the five-step S&OP process
• Use an S&OP Process self-assessment document and hands-on approach that emphasizes simulated problem-solving and team collaboration
• Develop S&OP meeting agendas, participant list, RACI Matrix, and direction of how to conduct S&OP meetings
• Reach a successful S&OP process output that can be used to drive marketing, sales, and operations until the next S&OP meeting

With this sales and operations planning course, you will acquire a basket of practical tools to make your S&OP process work more smoothly, enhance forecast accuracy, increase productivity, and reduce operational costs.

Pros:

• Utilizes a hands-on approach with simulated problem-solving and team collaboration
• Offers a self-assessment document to assess your own S&OP process
• Keep track of how well you’re doing while you complete the learning goals.
• The information is presented in a simple and understandable way.
• Affordable assistance for studying.

Cons:

• The course material may not be suitable for beginners.

Rating:

This course is rated 5 out of 5.

We also offer other additional courses taught by qualified experts that focus on trending and current topics such as how to handle a business case and modern warehousing.

‘Supply Chain Principles’ by Coursera

Coursera’s ‘Supply Chain Principles’ course is designed to provide you with a solid understanding of what a supply chain is all about. The course leverages graphics to promote the Integrated Supply Chain model, emphasizing the Extended Supply Chain. It presents a holistic approach incorporating People, Processes, and Technology and calls out industry-specific supply chains. The course consists of discussions, videos, quizzes, and questions for consideration, and provides awareness of career path opportunities. It also discusses emerging and futuristic trends in the supply chain. What’s more, there is very little math involved in this course, so you don’t have to worry about your math skills.

Pros:

• Provides an introduction to the basic concepts of supply chain management
• Utilizes graphics to aid in understanding the concepts
• Emphasizes the importance of an integrated and extended supply chain model
• Covers industry-specific supply chain
• Offers awareness of career path opportunities
• Presents emerging and futuristic trends in the supply chain

Cons:

• Very little math is involved, so it may not be suitable for those who want a more quantitative approach to supply chain management
• The course may not provide as much hands-on experience as other courses, which could be a drawback for some learners

Rating:

This course is rated 4.6 out of 5.

‘Supply Chain Design’ by MITx

MITx’s ‘Supply Chain Design’ course covers all aspects involved in the design of supply chains for companies and organizations anywhere in the world. The course is divided into four main topic areas: Physical flow design, Supply chain finance, Information flow design, and Organization/Process design. In the design of physical flows, the course shows how to formulate and solve Transportation, Transshipment, Facility Location, and Network Design Problems. For financial flows, the course shows how to translate supply chain concepts and actions into the language of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of a company. The course covers Activity Based Costing, Working Capital, the Cash-to-Cash cycle, and Discounted Cash Flow Analysis. The design of the information flow section describes how firms communicate with suppliers (procurement, risk contracts), internal resources (production planning, bills of materials, material requirements planning), and customers (Sales & Operations Planning and other collaboration-based processes). In the last section, the course introduces performance metric design and organizational design within the supply chain organization, focusing mainly on centralized/decentralized decisions.

Pros:

• Accredited by MITx, one of the most prestigious institutions in the world
• Course material covers a broad range of topics, making it a comprehensive program
• Instructors are highly qualified and experienced in the field of supply chain management

Cons:

• The course is quite intensive and may require a significant time commitment
• The cost of the course is relatively high compared to other options on this list

Rating:

Not provided.

‘Excel Supply Chain Analysis: Solving Inventory Problems’ by LinkedIn Learning

Excel is a powerful tool that can be utilized to help analyze inventory costs and develop effective inventory policies. In this course, Excel pro-Curt Frye demonstrates how to calculate total costs and total relevant costs for a product, and how to incorporate the effects of lead time into analysis. He covers how to evaluate quantity discounts, and how to calculate production quantities to maximize profit. Curt goes into detail on how back orders affect inventory policies and how to calculate the economic order quantity for inventory policies that allow backorders. He introduces you to difficulties associated with goods that have a limited lifespan, often called the newsvendor problem, and then shows you how to generate the data and summaries required to solve it. In conclusion, Curt walks you through how to calculate the base stock level for a target level of service and how to calculate a reorder point based on cycle service level performance.

Pros:

• Comprehensive guide to using Excel for supply chain analysis
• Teaches various inventory management techniques
• Detailed explanation of how to calculate economic order quantity and reorder points
• Covers the newsvendor problem and how to solve it using Excel
• The instructor is an Excel expert

Cons:

• Requires a basic understanding of Excel and inventory management principles
• Limited to Excel-based solutions and doesn’t cover other inventory management software

Rating:

This course is rated 4.7 out of 5.

‘Warehouse Management in Logistics & Supply Chain Management’ by Udemy

Warehouse management is a crucial aspect of logistics and supply chain management. This course covers the role of the warehouse, types of warehouse operations, warehouse location, and specialized warehousing. It delves into the various warehouse processes, including receiving and put-away, pick preparation, picking strategies and equipment, storage equipment, and order-picking methods. The course also covers warehouse processes from replenishment to despatch and beyond, warehouse management systems, warehouse layout, storage and handling equipment, outsourcing a warehouse, performance management, and inventory classification.

Pros:

• Comprehensive guide to warehouse management in supply chain and logistics
• Covers a wide range of topics, from warehouse processes to inventory classification
• The instructor is knowledgeable about the subject matter
• The course is accessible to beginners

Cons:

• May not be suitable for individuals seeking in-depth knowledge of specific warehouse operations
• Limited to warehouse management and doesn’t cover other aspects of supply chain and logistics

Rating:

This course is rated 4.4 out of 5.

AI in Procurement by SCMDOJO

The AI in Procurement Basics course offered by SCMDOJO is a comprehensive overview of how artificial intelligence can transform procurement processes. It equips procurement professionals and enthusiasts with an in-depth understanding of AI and its applications in procurement.

The course covers the following topics:

• What AI is and its components
• How AI is used in procurement
• Benefits and challenges of implementing AI tools in procurement
• Specific AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini
• How to effectively integrate AI into procurement
• The course includes quizzes, exercises, and a certificate of completion.

Pros

• Provides a foundational grasp of AI
• Covers specific applications of AI in procurement
• Prepares participants to optimize procurement operations, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making
• Positions participants at the forefront of technological advancements in procurement

Cons

• It is a basic course and covers the foundations of the topic.

Rating:

No reviews

‘Understanding Supply Chain Ecosystems’ by Alison

This free online course offered by Alison provides a comprehensive understanding of the various components of the supply chain ecosystem, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers. You’ll learn about the different types of supply chain networks, including global networks, as well as the role of information technology in supply chain management. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid understanding of how supply chains work, the challenges they face, and how they can be managed effectively.

Pros:

• Completely free, with no hidden costs or fees.
• Self-paced learning allows you to complete the course at your convenience.
• Covers a wide range of topics related to supply chain management.
• Provides an introduction to the latest technologies and trends in the industry.

Cons:

• The course is not as detailed or in-depth as other paid courses on the market.
• Limited interactivity and engagement compared to some other courses.

Rating:

Not provided.

‘Cognitive Procurement Specialization Program (CPSP)’ by SIG University Certification

This course offers comprehensive training on Cognitive Procurement technology and its application in procurement processes. Participants will gain knowledge on the latest procurement technologies and their implementation in organizational processes. The curriculum includes best practices for implementing cognitive procurement, strategies to overcome challenges, and the benefits of leveraging cognitive procurement to enhance procurement outcomes. The course is tailored for procurement leaders and aspiring practitioners, equipping them with the skills to spearhead the creation of a modern procurement organization.

Pros:

• The course is designed by experts from Zycus, a global leader in Cognitive Procurement software solutions.
• The course is self-paced, so participants can complete it at their own pace.
• The course provides experiential demos and case studies to help participants gain a deeper understanding of cognitive procurement.

Cons:

• The course is focused on Cognitive Procurement technology, so it may not be suitable for those looking for a more general supply chain management course.
• The course is designed for procurement leaders and aspiring practitioners, so it may not be suitable for those in other roles.

Rating:

Not provided.

‘Supply Risk and Sustainability Management’ by NLPA

In the NLPA’s “Supply Risk and Sustainability Management” course, participants will receive comprehensive training on supply disruption management. They will learn about the various tools, systems, and skills required to deploy effective countermeasures in the face of supply disruption. The course will cover how to evaluate the impacts of disruption on the total cost of ownership and total cost to serve, as well as strategies for developing supply risk and sustainability management plans. Participants will also gain insight into leveraging change management and transformative tools to realize risk, resilience, and supply sustainability management goals. Additionally, the course will provide guidance on how to anticipate, respond to, and recover from supply disruption.

Pros:

• The course provides essential skills and tools for supply chain professionals to manage risks and ensure business continuity.
• The course is self-paced, so participants can complete it at their own pace.
• The course has been pre-approved for 8 hours of CE credit.
• The course covers a wide range of topics related to supply chain risk and sustainability management.

Cons:

• The course is entirely self-paced and does not offer any instructor-led forum, so participants may not have an opportunity to ask questions or engage with peers.
• You have to complete the course within 60 days and cannot take longer.

Rating:

Not provided.

’Supply Chain Innovation: How Technology Can Create a Sustainable Future’ by FutureLearn

This six-week course is offered by FutureLearn, an online learning platform that partners with top universities and organizations worldwide. The course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the importance of managing supply chains, the challenges faced, and how technology can create sustainable supply chain innovations. It covers the following topics:

• The basics of supply chain management
• The impact of technology on supply chains
• How to create sustainable supply chain innovations
• The role of the supply chain in sustainability
• Best practices for managing supply chain risks and disruptions

Pros:

• Self-paced learning, allows you to complete the course at your own pace
• Providing real-world insights and practical knowledge
• Affordable course fee

Cons:

• Not for experienced individuals as it is very beginner-friendly and not as advanced.

Rating:

This course is rated 4.8 out of 5.

Global Supply Chain Management by edX

What it Offers:

This edX course provides a comprehensive overview of global supply chain management. You’ll gain a strong understanding of the complexities involved in managing a supply chain that stretches across borders. Topics covered may include:

• International trade and logistics
• Global sourcing strategies
• Customs clearance and regulations
• Supply chain risk management in a global context
• The impact of global events on supply chains

Pros:

• Broad scope: This course offers a well-rounded introduction to global supply chain management, making it a good choice for beginners.
• Credibility: edX is a reputable platform known for offering high-quality courses from top universities and institutions.
• Flexibility: edx.org courses are typically self-paced, allowing you to learn at your convenience.

Cons:

• May lack depth: Because it covers a broad range of topics, this course might not provide the same level of detail as some more specialized global supply chain management courses.
• Cost: While edX offers some free courses, ‘Global Supply Chain Management’ may require a subscription fee or a separate payment to access the full course content.

Rating:

There is no overall rating available for this specific course on the edX platform. However, edX itself is a trusted platform with a good reputation for course quality.

E-Auction Basics

The course covers the basics of e-auctions, including what they are, the benefits they offer, and how to implement them. The course is designed for procurement professionals, supply chain managers, and anyone involved in procurement processes.

What You Will Learn in this Course:

• What are the fundamental concepts and principles of e-auctions?
• How can e-auctions benefit your sourcing strategy and dispel common myths?
• What are the top opportunities and quick wins you can achieve through e-auctions?
• What key parameters should you consider when planning and conducting an e-auction?
• Which metrics are essential for evaluating the success of your e-auction?
• What are the different types of e-auctions and how can they be utilized effectively?

Pros

Some of the pros of the course are that it is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics related to e-auctions. The instructor is an expert in the field with a proven track record of success. The course also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

There are no cons listed in the article. However, the course does cost $49.

Rating

The course currently has no ratings.

Who Is This Course For:

The course is designed for procurement professionals, supply chain managers, and sourcing specialists who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in e-auctions. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to refine your expertise, this course offers valuable insights and practical strategies. It’s also ideal for business owners, operations managers, and anyone involved in procurement processes who aims to optimize their sourcing strategy, achieve cost savings, and make data-driven decisions.

By the end of this course, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of e-auctions, from fundamental concepts to advanced metrics and strategies, enabling them to confidently implement e-auctions and improve their organization’s procurement efficiency.

Supply Chain: Inventory Control & Safety Stock Calculation by Udemy

What you’ll learn:

• How to calculate safety stock levels using multiple formulas suitable for various industries.
• The significance of inventory control and its impact on cash flow and profits.
• Over 10 techniques to reduce costs by effectively managing inventory levels.

Pros:

• Practical and applicable content: Learn various safety stock calculation methods and cost-saving inventory control techniques directly relevant to supply chain planning.
• Time-efficient: The course can be completed in under 1.5 hours.
• Credibility: This course is trusted by businesses worldwide, with companies like Nasdaq and Volkswagen offering it to their employees.

Cons:

• Prior knowledge required: A basic understanding of supply chain concepts is recommended.
• Limited depth: The course description doesn’t mention in-depth explanations of the formulas or delve into the theory behind the inventory control techniques.

Rating:

Udemy doesn’t display instructor or course ratings, but it highlights that this course is part of their collection of top-rated courses trusted by businesses worldwide.

Who this course is for:

• Supply Planners
• Demand Planners
• Materials Planners
• Production Planners
• Distribution Requirement Planners

This course is ideal for professionals in supply chain planning roles who want to learn practical methods for calculating safety stock and controlling inventory levels to optimize costs and improve profitability.

Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt Training by Udemy

This Udemy course is designed to help you prepare for the Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CSSYB, LSSYB) exam. It covers the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Body of Knowledge and aims to provide a foundational understanding of Six Sigma concepts to help you support Six Sigma initiatives within your organization.

What you’ll learn:

• The DMAIC approach (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control)
• Seven basic quality tools
• Teamwork
• The cost of quality
• Six Sigma fundamentals
• Lean concepts
• Root Cause Analysis
• And more!

Pros:

• Covers the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Body of Knowledge
• Easy-to-understand video lessons
• Experienced instructor with 35 years of experience
• Over 28,000 satisfied students
• Lifetime access
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

Not affiliated with any certification body (course does not guarantee certification)
May not be suitable for complete beginners (completion of the Six Sigma White Belt is recommended)

Rating:

The course has not been rated by independent review sites, but it has received positive feedback from students who found the content to be easy to understand and applicable.

Excel Training Course by Acuity Training

Mastering Excel is essential for supply chain professionals who need to analyze data, create reports, and streamline operations. Acuity Training offers comprehensive Excel courses designed to enhance your skills from beginner to advanced levels. This course covers everything from basic functions to advanced data analysis tools.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers all levels of Excel, from basic to advanced.
• Practical Applications: Focus on real-world supply chain scenarios and data analysis.
• Expert Instructors: Learn from industry professionals with extensive experience.
• Flexible Learning Options: Offers both online and in-person classes to fit your schedule.
• Certification: Receive a certificate upon completion, adding value to your resume.

Cons:

• Cost: Higher price point compared to some other online Excel courses.
• Time Commitment: Requires a significant time investment to complete all levels.
• Pace: Might be fast-paced for complete beginners without prior Excel experience.

Enroll Now: Acuity Training Excel Course”

Supply Chain Courses – A Continuous Journey of Quality Learning

In conclusion, investing in a supply chain management course can significantly enhance your career prospects. These top 15 courses cover a range of topics from cognitive procurement technology to effective supply disruption management and logistics, transportation, and distribution. Each course is accredited by a reputable institution and offers certification upon completion. Moreover, these courses are self-paced, allowing participants to learn at their own pace and convenience. While each course has its unique pros and cons, they all aim to equip aspiring practitioners and procurement leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the fast-paced world of supply chain management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, there is a supply chain management course that can help you take your career to the next level. So keep learning!

About the Author – Dr. Muddassir Ahmed

Dr. Muddassir Ahmed is the Founder & CEO of SCMDOJO. He is a global speaker, vlogger, and supply chain industry expert with 19 years of experience in the Manufacturing Industry in the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and South East Asia in various Supply Chain leadership roles. Dr. Muddassir has received a PhD in Management Science from Lancaster University Management School. Muddassir is a Six Sigma black belt and has founded the leading supply chain platform SCMDOJO to enable supply chain professionals and supply chain teams to thrive by providing best-in-class knowledge content, tools, and access to experts.
You can follow him on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram