supply chain management phd

At the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics

MIT PhD Opportunities in Logistics and Supply Chain

Mit interdisciplinary scm phd study opportunities.

MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL) researchers advise select students in the  Interdepartmental Doctoral Program in Transportation  led by MIT’s Mobility Initiative, a cross-disciplinary graduate program in transportation which provides graduate degrees for students interested in transportation studies and research. 

The Interdepartmental Doctoral Program in Transportation provides a structured and follow-on doctoral program for students. The interdepartmental structure of the degree allows students flexibility in developing individually tailored paths of study that cross both disciplinary and departmental lines. The student’s research is performed at, and is supervised by faculty at the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics. Detailed requirements for the program can be found  here .

Additionally,  The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE)  and  The Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS)  offer PhD research opportunities in Logistics and Supply Chain as a part of their degree programs.

Students are encouraged to apply to the  Interdepartmental Program  or may apply directly to the CEE or IDSS departments and indicate on their application their interest in pursuing research in Logistics and Supply Chain. Students must apply through either CEE or IDSS and indicate on their application their interest in pursuing research in Logistics and Supply Chain. Students would then develop an  interdisciplinary degree proposal  with their department committee and submit to the Office of Graduate Education for approval.

Application deadlines to doctoral programs vary by department.

MIT SCALE Network Doctoral Study Opportunities

University of zaragoza phd in logistics and supply chain management.

This full-time program follows the highest international quality standards for doctoral studies, from the intensive admissions process to the comprehensive exam and thesis defense. Students in their second year can spend a semester or longer at MIT and have the opportunity to study at other leading business and engineering schools. The ZLC PhD degree and MIT-Zaragoza certificate enable graduates to take faculty positions at leading universities around the world or to become innovation leaders for international companies.

MIT Logistics & Supply Chain PhD Program Links:

• Interdepartmental PhD Program in Transportation and application info
• CEE PhD program and application info
• I DSS PhD program and application info

MIT SCALE Network Logistics & Supply Chain PhD Info:

• ZLC’s Doctorate program

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SupplyChainGuide.org

Guide to Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Programs

On This Page:

Earning a DBA or Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics can take your SCM career to the highest of heights! While exploring cutting-edge theories and tools, you’ll have the opportunity to work on practical research projects that will prepare you to become a supply chain professor, executive, or consultant. Use our guide to learn more about doctoral programs in SCM/L, including curricula, career paths, and the differences between the DBA & Ph.D. Or leap ahead to our degree directory to find a supply chain doctorate that works for you. 

What is a Doctorate in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Programs?

A Doctorate in Supply Chain Management and Logistics (SCM/L) is a research-intensive degree that is designed for students who are interested in working in academia or high-level SCM positions within the industry. Students who choose to pursue a Ph.D. or DBA in Supply Chain Management typically have a passion for pushing the boundaries of SCM and logistics through innovation and research. They seek to make a difference in the field of supply chains by asking “what is possible?” rather than “what is standard practice?”

If this sounds like the right fit for your goals, take a moment to explore the opportunities in our listings . As a doctoral student in SCM/L, you’ll tackle courses in business, operations research, marketing, and quantitative methods. You’ll study everything from the ins & outs of consumer behavior to the complexities of global logistics management. In the second half of the degree, you will also be required to complete a dissertation on an SCM/L topic of your choosing.

Types of Supply Chain Management and Logistics Doctorates

Many types of doctorate programs in our listings focus on SCM/L fields, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs. Standard offerings include:

• Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management: This program focuses on the strategic and operational aspects of supply chains, from planning and procurement to delivery and final consumption. In addition, it teaches students how to optimize supply chains through data analysis and modeling.
• Ph.D. in Logistics: A Ph.D. in Logistics is a degree that helps you learn about how companies operate on a global scale. Coursework covers a broad range of topics, including theory development and research methods.
• DBA in Supply Chain Management and Logistics: The DBA in SCM/L is a graduate program that mixes fundamental business subjects with a concentration on supply chain research and management. This degree is best-suited to students who wish to work as supply chain executives.

Your choices don’t end there! A variety of specialty Ph.D. programs in Supply Chain Management and Logistics are also available, including:

• Ph.D. in Operations Management: This program is designed for students who want to work as operations executives or consultants. A Ph.D. in Operations Management will teach you about how businesses operate and how to optimize operations to improve performance.
• Ph.D. in Global Supply Chain: This Ph.D. will focus on the management of global supply chains, including elements such as cultural differences and international logistics. You’ll learn about how to conduct research in a global setting.
• Doctor of Engineering (DE) in Logistics: A DE in Logistics is a degree that investigates how companies operate on a global scale. The coursework covers a broad range of topics, including theory development and research methods.
• Ph.D. in Supply Chain Engineering: This Ph.D. focuses on the design and optimization of supply chains. It is perfect for students with a background in engineering and offers an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore a variety of topics in the field.
• Ph.D. in Supply Chain Analytics: A Ph.D. in Supply Chain Analytics will teach you how to use data analytics to improve supply chain performance. The program provides students with a strong foundation in quantitative methods and research skills that can be used in a variety of industries.

DBA vs. Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics

Both the DBA and Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics programs will teach you about the research and management of supply chains. However, there are a few key differences between these programs:

Decision Factors

• The DBA in SCM/L focuses specifically on professional and real-world applications, while the Ph.D. focuses more on research & theory.
• The DBA in SCM/L is designed for students who want to work in the supply chain industry, while the Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management is designed for students who want to work in academia or research.
• DBA programs are designed for working professionals, while Ph.D. programs are full-time.
• DBA programs typically take less time to complete (three years), while a Ph.D. is expected to take three to five years.
• Expect 60 credit hours to complete a DBA program and more than 90 credit hours for a Ph.D. program.

Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management Overview

Most Ph.D. programs in Supply Chain Management and Logistics take three to five years to complete. You’ll be required to take advanced-level coursework in supply chain management and logistics, complete a range of research projects and academic papers, and write a dissertation. Credit hours for a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics will vary, but you can expect to complete a minimum of 90 credit hours.

Admissions Requirements

To be accepted into a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics program, prospective students must have a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or the international equivalent). GRE or GMAT scores are frequently required. Some programs will also expect you to have prior work experience in the field of supply chain management.

We’ve included links to admissions requirements in our listings so you can assess whether you’re ready to apply. Be prepared to provide the following items:

• Master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Professional résumé
• Letters of recommendation
• GRE or GMAT scores
• Statement of purpose
• Application fee
• Financial guarantee form
• TOEFL scores (international students)
• Relevant background experience

Note: If you only have a bachelor’s degree, you may be able to apply for a streamlined bachelor’s-master’s-doctorate pathway within the university. Ask the Ph.D. program coordinator about your options.

Universities are at liberty to develop their own plans of study for a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics. A doctorate founded on business administration is not going to have the same focus as a doctorate in engineering. However, most SCM/L doctoral programs will offer a range of intriguing courses that will teach you about the research and management of supply chains.

Here are some subjects you can expect to encounter in a standard SCM/L doctorate in our listings :

• Supply Chain Management Theory
• Strategic Sourcing
• Logistics Management/Systems
• Business Analytics
• Supply Chain Strategy
• Organizational Research Methods

During this time, you could also be writing up academic papers for submissions to journals & conferences and working on industry-related projects.

Comprehensive Exam

Ph.D. coursework is frequently completed in the first few years of your doctorate. Before you’re allowed to write your dissertation, you’ll usually be expected to pass a Comprehensive Exam. This exam will test your knowledge of the material covered in your Ph.D. program in Supply Chain Management and Logistics. It’s typically a written exam, although departments often have the discretion to make it an oral exam as well.

Dissertation & Defense

Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Programs almost always include a five-chapter dissertation. (DBA programs could contain a doctoral thesis.) Here’s how the Ph.D. dissertation process works:

• Choose a Dissertation Topic: You’ll collaborate with a faculty advisor to find a topic of interest. A dissertation should be a deep-dive into a specific realm of research. Examples of real-life SCM dissertation titles include: “A Study of the Relationship Between Lean Manufacturing Practices and Supplier Performance;” “A Diagnosis of Supply Chain Integration in the Health Sector;” and “Product-Service Bundling in Manufacturing Firms.”
• Defend Your Proposal: Once you’ve selected your dissertation topic, you’ll be expected to develop a research proposal and gain departmental approval to write your dissertation. For example, you might be asked to deliver an oral presentation about your proposed topic.
• Write Your Dissertation: If your dissertation proposal is accepted, you can begin gathering data and pursuing research avenues. A Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics dissertation is typically around 100-120 pages long, so be prepared to spend a few years in writing up your work.
• Defend Your Dissertation: Before you can graduate, you will need to defend your dissertation in front of a committee. The committee will usually consist of three to five members, including a chairperson. The committee will ask you questions about your research and dissertation. You may also have to answer questions from an audience.

What Can You Do with a Doctorate in Supply Chain Management and Logistics?

A doctorate in SCM/L can provide you with the skills & knowledge to work in a range of high-paying fields, including academia, research, and logistics management. Most Ph.D. graduates secure positions as university professors, but the right DBA or Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management & Logistics can also open doors to various executive & consultancy positions.

Possible career paths for doctoral graduates include:

• University Professor or Lecturer: Many Ph.D. in SCM/L programs are explicitly designed to prepare you for a career in academia. Upon graduation, you’ll be qualified to teach undergraduate and graduate students about the research and management of supply chains. Look for Ph.D. programs that include teaching assistantships, opportunities to submit academic papers to journals, and conference presentations.
• Research Scientist: A doctorate could also help you secure a position as a top-level researcher in numerous SCM/L fields. Take a look at recent job postings for titles such as Senior Operations Research Analyst, Research Scientist, Senior Technical Analyst, and the like. High-paying research jobs may be available within global companies and the federal government.
• Supply Chain Executive: Earning the right doctorate in SCM/L can qualify you to become a supply chain executive. Doctoral programs like WashU’s DBA in Supply Chain Management are designed for this kind of purpose. If you’re considering Ph.D. programs, check if the curriculum is relevant for consultants & executives and ask about career paths for alumni.
• Consultant: Graduates of SCM/L doctoral programs are also in a prime position to become supply chain management consultants. As an industry freelancer with extensive research experience, you’ll be qualified to step in and help companies improve their supply chain operations through various initiatives.

Ready to start assembling a shortlist of Ph.D. and DBA options? Use these listings to narrow down your choices. Keep in mind that many Ph.D. programs will be full-time, campus-based, and fully funded by the university. DBA programs will have more flexibility in scheduling and may be available online. But you will also have to pay quite a bit for tuition.

All Doctorate in Supply Chain Management Programs

The university of alabama.

Culverhouse College of Business

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Ph.D. in Operations Management

Arizona state university.

W.P. Carey School of Business

Tempe, Arizona

PhD in Supply Chain Management

University of arkansas.

Department of Supply Chain Management

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management

University of california-riverside.

School of Business

Riverside, California

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Operations & Supply Chain Management

University of miami.

Herbert Business School

Coral Gables, Florida

PhD in Business - Operations Management

Phd in operations management, georgia institute of technology.

Stewart School of Industrial & Systems Engineering

Atlanta, Georgia

PhD in Industrial Engineering - Supply Chain Engineering

University of illinois at urbana-champaign.

Gies College of Business

Champaign, Illinois

PhD in Business Administration - Operations Management Emphasis

Indiana university bloomington.

Kelley School of Business

Bloomington, Indiana

Purdue University

Krannert School of Business

West Lafayette, Indiana

PhD in Supply Chain and Operations Management

Iowa state university.

Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business

Capitol Technology University

Department of Doctoral Programs

Laurel, Maryland

Doctor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management

Offered Online

University of Maryland-College Park

Robert H. Smith School of Business

College Park, Maryland

PhD Program - Supply Chain Management Specialization

Massachusetts, university of massachusetts amherst.

Isenberg School of Management

Amherst, Massachusetts

PhD in Management Science - Supply Chain Management

Michigan state university.

East Lansing, Michigan

Ph.D. in Logistics

Ph.d. in operations and sourcing management, university of minnesota-twin cities.

Supply Chain & Operations Department

Minneapolis, Minnesota

PhD in Business Administration - Supply Chain and Operations

University of missouri-st louis.

College of Business Administration

Saint Louis, Missouri

PhD in Business - Logistics and Supply Chain Management Emphasis

Washington university in st louis.

Olin Business School

DBA in Supply Chain, Operations, and Technology

University of nebraska-lincoln.

College of Business

Lincoln, Nebraska

Ph.D. in Business - Supply Chain Management And Analytics Specialization

Rutgers university.

Rutgers Business School

Newark, New Jersey

Ph.D. in Management - Supply Chain Management Concentration

Cornell university.

SC Johnson College of Business

Ithaca, New York

PhD in Management - Operations, Technology, and Information Management

New york university.

Leonard N. Stern School of Business

New York, New York

Syracuse University

Whitman School of Management

Syracuse, New York

North Carolina

Duke university.

Fuqua School of Business

Durham, North Carolina

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kenan-Flagler

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

North Dakota

North dakota state university-main campus.

Department of Transportation, Logistics, and Finance

Fargo, North Dakota

Ph.D. in Transportation and Logistics

Air force institute of technology-graduate school of engineering & management.

Graduate School of Engineering & Management

Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio

Doctor of Philosophy in Logistics

Kent state university at kent.

Ambassador Crawford College Of Business And Entrepreneurship

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Supply Chain Concentration

Ohio state university-main campus.

Fisher College of Business

Columbus, Ohio

University of Toledo

Operations and Technology Management Department

Toledo, Ohio

PhD in Manufacturing and Technology Management - Operations and Supply Chain Management

University of oklahoma norman campus.

Michael F. Price College of Business

Norman, Oklahoma

University of Oregon

Lundquist College of Business

Eugene, Oregon

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania state university-main campus.

Smeal College of Business

University Park, Pennsylvania

Business Ph.D. with Supply Chain and Information Systems Emphasis

Temple university.

Fox School of Business

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

PhD in Business Administration - Operations and Supply Chain Management

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

PhD in Business Analytics and Operations

Rhode island, university of rhode island.

Kingston, Rhode Island

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Supply Chain Management Specialization

Ph.d. in operations and supply chain management specialization, south carolina, clemson university.

Department of Management

Clemson, South Carolina

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Supply Chain Management

University of south carolina-columbia.

Darla Moore School of Business

Columbia, South Carolina

Ph.D. in Production/Operations Management

The university of tennessee.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Texas A & M University-College Station

Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering

College Station, Texas

Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Engineering - Supply Chain Management Focus

Ph.d. in business administration - operations & supply chain management, the university of texas at austin.

McCombs School of Business

Austin, Texas

IROM PhD in Operations Management

University of houston.

Bauer College of Business

Houston, Texas

University of North Texas

G. Brint Ryan College of Business

Denton, Texas

University of Utah

David Eccles School of Business

Salt Lake City, Utah

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Operations Management

Liberty university.

Lynchburg, Virginia

DBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Old dominion university.

Strome College of Business

Norfolk, Virginia

Ph.D. in Business Administration - Information Technology/Supply Chain Management Concentration

Virginia tech.

Pamplin College of Business

Blacksburg, Virginia

Ph.D. in Business Information Technology - Operations Management, Supply Chain, Management Science

University of wisconsin-madison.

Madison, Wisconsin

PhD in Operations and Information Management

University of wisconsin-milwaukee.

Lubar School of Business

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

PhD in Management Science - Supply Chain and Operations Management

Online Doctorate in Supply Chain and Logistics

Online Supply Chain and Logistics Ph.D.: An Overview

Jobs for supply chain management and logistics ph.d. holders , degree requirements, prerequisites for a supply chain and logistics ph.d., online coursework.

• Logistics. 
• Total quality management.
• Operations management. 
• Strategic allocation of financial resources.
• Managing human resources.
• Managerial accounting and firm performance. 
• Supply chain strategy.

How Long Does a Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management and Logistics Take to Complete?

Cost and roi, how much does a supply chain logistics ph.d. cost, how to estimate the return on investment (roi) of your degree, example courses.

• Strategic supply chain management
• Contemporary issues impacting organizational success
• Designing a global operations and supply chain network
• Business strategy and innovation for competitive advantage
• Seminar in multicultural management

Job Outlook and Salaries for Graduates

Ph.d. in supply chain management and logistics salary.

Supply Chain Operations

The Department of Supply Chain and Operations was recently rated the top research program in the nation. This program trains scholars to conduct theoretically-grounded, methodologically-rigorous research that addresses relevant problems facing operations and supply chain managers within and across organizations that are embedded in global supply chains. The success of this program stems from its globally-recognized and widely-cited faculty. The program provides a uniquely rigorous and rewarding experience for students that prepares them for a successful research-driven academic career in PhD-granting business schools. 

Field-leading Research

Eleven tenure-track faculty bring diverse expertise to the department and publish their research in numerous leading journals. Faculty expertise spans various topics, including:

• Behavioral Operations
• Data Analytics
• Design of Experiments
• Emerging Market Operations
• Empirical Research Methods
• Environmental Operations
• Global Supply Chain
• Healthcare management
• Humanitarian Operations
• Management of Technology
• Innovation and Knowledge Management
• Process Improvement, Lean, and Six Sigma
• Product Recalls
• Public Sector Operations
• Quality Management and Safety
• Retail Operations
• Service Operations
• Socially Responsible & Sustainable Operations
• Supply Chain and Operations Strategy
• Supply Chain Coordination

About the Program

The University of Minnesota was one of the first schools in the United States to conduct empirical research in supply chain and operations. It is ranked 11th according to the UT Dallas Ranking for productivity in top-tier journals in Supply Chain and Operations for the years 2014 - 2018.

Carlson School of Management Supply Chain & Operations PhD faculty are world-renowned scholars and teachers, with research published in top academic journals.

Carlson School of Management Supply Chain & Operations PhD requires 22 credits coursework, including SCO seminars and supporting courses.

Carlson School of Management PhD program has 83 students pursuing PhDs in Business Administration with specializations in various fields.

Juran Research Center

PhD students enjoy strong support from department faculty and regular interaction with distinguished speakers from around the world. Guest lecturers present at bi-monthly seminars and other events hosted by the department and it related research center, the Juran Research Center.

Graduates of the PhD program in Supply Chain and Operations have continued their teaching and research careers at Indiana University, Penn State University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and other respected institutions.

Alumni Perspectives

Suvrat Dhanorkar

"I was surrounded by faculty and staff who were always eager to help...every effort is made to make sure that the students are protected and nurtured, so they can focus on doing what they are expected to do - excellent research! The Supply Chain & Operations (SCO) Department has a prolific group of dedicated scholars, working on groundbreaking research with a widespread impact on business and society. From healthcare to manufacturing and from analytical modeling to data-driven empirical research, SCO faculty and PhD students work on a diverse array of problems that have direct relevance for practitioners. As I reflect back on my years in the program, it feels amazing to know how much the Carlson PhD develops your abilities as a thinker, scholar, and teacher."

Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management Smeal College of Business at University Penn State

More about Suvrat Dhanorkar

Get in touch

PhD Coordinator

612-624-8566 | [email protected]

Department Chair

612-624-7058 | [email protected]

Our Community

A Community of Scholars The Supply Chain and Operations department offers a highly successful Master of Science in Supply Chain Management, which is ranked 6th by Gartner, and various MBA and undergraduate courses. PhD students are exposed to these curricula via teaching opportunities that will help jump-start their own careers in business education.

Collaboration with Industry The Twin Cities area is home to a dynamic business community that includes 17 Fortune 500 company headquarters as well as start-ups and entrepreneurs. The Carlson School is closely connected with the local industry, providing many opportunities for research collaboration with industry partners. Our faculty engages with industry to conduct relevant, cutting-edge, problem-driven research. PhD students have a unique opportunity to engage in a vibrant ecosystem of problem-driven research where we bring together theory and practice.

In a Vibrant, Modern Metro The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul offer lakes, parks, bike trails, great dining, professional sports, world-class theaters and museums, and many other amenities. The Twin Cities are routinely ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. The University's lively urban campus overlooks the Mississippi River, with convenient rail connections to both downtown districts and the airport.

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No. 1 in supply chain

U.S. News & World Report ’s 2024 Best Business Schools ranking places the Broad College at No. 1 for graduate supply chain/logistics programs for eight consecutive years. See the numbers .

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Ph.D. in Logistics

Break new ground through leading supply chain research..

Our competitive Ph.D. program prepares doctoral candidates to become productive researchers and educators at top research universities.

Logistics Doctoral Student Manual

Ph.D. in Logistics Program Overview

Our logistics and supply chain doctoral program is designed to prepare its graduates for success in academic positions at top-tier research institutions around the world. The Ph.D. in Logistics program is designed for students with solid work experience who are able to commit to a full-time program with the goal of an academic career in research and teaching supply chain logistics. The coursework covers a broad range of topics, including theory development and research methods. Logistics doctoral students are assigned as teaching and/or research assistants at various phases of the program. Upon completion of coursework, students are required to pass a comprehensive examination in logistics and then complete a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to conduct and lead an original research project.

A doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree signifies that the candidate has demonstrated the required high level of scholarship to lead an academic career at the university level as well as to conduct independent scholarly research.

Simone Peinkofer

• Logistics Doctoral Program Director

From the Director

The Department of Supply Chain Management offers a Ph.D. concentration in logistics and one in operations and sourcing management. Our programs focus on preparing students for academic positions at top-tier research universities. As such, we are interested in prospective students who desire to become highly recognized as scholars in the field of logistics and supply chain management.

Our logistics doctoral program is a small, but elite program focusing on theory and research that advances the logistics and supply chain management discipline. From the start of the program, our outstanding faculty provides training and mentorship to our Ph.D. students to ensure the best preparation for a career in academia. By working closely with our faculty, Ph.D. students are exposed to different thought leadership and expertise and will be able to develop a unique skill set throughout the duration of the program. Our Ph.D. students will collaborate with faculty on faculty and student led research projects that eventually will lead to publications in top-tier academic journals. In addition to research skills, our Ph.D. students will also develop superior teaching skills. Overall, our program will equip students with the necessary skills to become a well-rounded scholar in the logistics and supply chain management field.

As the director of the logistics Ph.D. program, I am happy to answer any questions you have about our program, academic careers and/or the application process. Please review our program information online and contact me via email at [email protected] if I can be of assistance.

Dive Deeper

• How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Ph.D. in Logistics and Supply Chain Management students are admitted for the fall semester only and a full-time basis. Learn more about admission requirements and the application process.

Faculty-student collaboration is a significant part of the Broad experience. Logistics doctoral students have the opportunity to work with some of the top researchers across multiple disciplines. Find out more about the research opportunities for logistics doctoral students at MSU.

The supply chain management faculty at the Michigan State University Broad College of Business are among the best in the world. Find out more about our faculty currently working with doctoral students.

See a roster of current doctoral students in the program as well as a listing of our graduates’ placements at research institutions across the globe.

Get answers to common questions regarding the Ph.D in Logistics program at Broad.

Tuition and Financial Aid

At the present time, all doctoral students receive financial support from the department, the college and/or various external organizations.

Our goal is to provide every student admitted to the program with a graduate assistantship and/or a fellowship. The assistantship is usually at a half-time level, although some students may be appointed quarter time. A half-time appointment requires that the student be a teaching assistant and/or a research assistant for 20 hours a week.

Renewal of financial assistance is contingent on the student making satisfactory progress in the program. Assistantships include a nine-credit-hour tuition waiver for each of the fall and spring semesters, a waiver for the out-of-state portion of tuition for non-Michigan residents, and health insurance. The waiver does not include registration fees or other fees.

Financial support is assured for the first four years of the program. Further support is provided subject to the available of financial resources and the candidate making satisfactory, significant progress in the doctoral program.

Fellowship aid is available from the university, the department and external sources.

For more information about funding sources, visit the MSU Graduate School .

Contact Information

• Department of Supply Chain Management
• Business College Complex
• 632 Bogue St Rm N370
• East Lansing, MI 48824
• Phone: (517) 355-2241

Program Overview

No. The program is strictly a full-time program and we are not able to accommodate part-time students. Aside from coursework, research and independent study require students to be on campus on a full-time basis.

No. A degree from a U.S. school should exempt you from the TOEFL requirements.

These programs are designed for students to complete in four years.

The university deadline for applications is March 1. To be eligible for the full range of university fellowships and funding, it is important to have applications by early December. However, most applications are reviewed between January and April for an August admission.

One of the requirements most often questioned by applicants is that of the need for a GMAT/GRE as part of the admissions process. Let’s begin by being clear on one point – we cannot admit nor can we offer a place in our doctoral program to any student who fails to provide the doctoral committee with such documentation. If you do not offer it, then your application will be considered incomplete and you will not be considered.

There are several reasons for this requirement. First, it is a good independent indicator of the candidate’s capabilities in terms of analytical, quantitative and verbal areas – areas considered critical to success. Second, it allows us to compare candidates. Third, we use the results of this test as a screen – it helps us identify candidates who do not have the necessary skills. Finally, we are required to have an admissions process that is both visible and fair. The requirement for a GMAT/GRE score is critical to meeting this demand.

Consequently, we have taken a position that clearly states that all candidates must submit a GMAT/GRE score from a qualified test center in order for their application to be considered. We hope that you understand the reasons for this position.

No. We do not have minimum cut-off scores on the GMAT or GRE. However, admission to the doctoral program is extremely competitive, and our current students have averaged in the 90th percentile on the verbal and 80th percentile on the quantitative portions of the GMAT and/or GRE. An applicant with any score below the 70th percentile or a cumulative score below the 75th percentile is unlikely to be admitted. However, regardless of test scores, each applicant is fully reviewed by the admissions committee.

International students are required to take the TOEFL. The Broad Graduate School of Management specifies a minimum total score of 600 for the paper version or 250 total for the computer version. Scores at or above this minimum will not guarantee admission.

Logistics: 1331.

Operations and Sourcing Management: 1350.

Use the following school codes for test givers to route your test scores online to Michigan State University:

GMAT Scores: QH0-5P-02. GRE and TOEFL: 1465.

Financial Aid

Most of our students are supported by teaching assistantships or research assistantships. Entering students are generally awarded a teaching assistantship, provided they meet basic language qualifications. There is no separate application for teaching assistantships. Research assistantships are generally awarded to advanced graduate students.

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Ph.D. in Supply Chain Management

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PhD in Supply Chain Management

Program description.

At the University of Oklahoma, the substantive emphasis of the doctoral program in Supply Chain Management focuses on nurturing and shaping independent scholars in supply chain management.  The doctoral program places a high emphasis on formal and informal mentoring of students. Faculty. work closely with PhD students training them to become great scholars, educators, and colleagues. Our faculty is renowned within the field of supply chain management and have extensively published their research in top academic supply chain journals. They also are active in industry research with several years of field experience in top global companies around the world.

All domains within supply chain management including procurement, operations and logistics are emphasized.

The University of Oklahoma doctoral program will help you develop an in-depth knowledge of supply chain management topics. Since research in supply chain management takes place at the intersection of many underlying “foundation” disciplines, you will be encouraged to also study concepts and principles in organizational theory, industrial engineering, psychology, health sciences, and economics.  For the methods training, students are encouraged to upskill not only in advanced statistical techniques but also in econometrics, panel data analyses, structural equation modeling, meta-analysis and systems dynamics (to name a few). Rigorous and scientific method based qualitative techniques such as ethnographic studies, case study research, design science and action research are also encouraged.  Our doctoral program provides you with the necessary skills for a successful career of research and teaching in top notch research-oriented universities.

The program’s objectives are:

• to provide a strong foundation in supply chain management concepts for research and teaching
• to prepare students for academic careers in supply chain management

The doctoral program in Supply Chain Management focuses on competence in strategic aspects of supply chain management, supply chain management theory, and behavioral concepts in supply chain management. Students receive rigorous training in many research methodologies that are important to conduct rigorous supply chain management research. Most doctoral candidates are appointed to a research assistantship early in their program to encourage interaction with faculty members.  In addition, many summer research and research related-travel opportunities are provided for students. It is expected that Oklahoma supply chain management specialization doctoral students be intimately involved in activities that prepare them for their careers as academics such as PhD program consortiums in key supply chain management conferences, presenting papers at reputed national and international conferences and working with faculty and industry partners to attract research grants that will enable students to pursue and conduct cutting edge research in supply chain management.

For more information contact Professor Qiong Wang at   [email protected]

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Supply Chain Management

Specialization areas.

The program provides students with the ability to customize their training based on their research interests.

Recent Graduate Placements

• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Mert Hekimoglu) 
• Siena College (Shahryar Gheibi) 
• Pepperdine University (John Park) 
• Chulalongkorn University, Thailand (Tim Noparumpa) 
• Florida A&M University (Dwayne Cole) 
• Pennsylvania State University (Heather Lutz) 
• Tongji University, China (Sidong Tongji Zhang) 
• SUNY Buffalo (Charles Wang) 
• Microsoft (Supriya Mitra)

Supply Chain Faculty & Ph.D. Directory 

Aral, Karca

Kazaz, Burak

La Point, Gary

Niederhoff, Julie

Penfield, Patrick

Tucker, Frances

Wu, Zhengping

Research highlights.

• Managerial Flexibility, Capacity Investment, Inventory Levels
• Racial Discrimination in Sourcing: Evidence from Controlled Experiments
• Buyer's Bankruptcy Risk, Sourcing Strategy, and Firm Value: Evidence from the Supplier Protection Act
• Agricultural cooperative pricing of premium product
• Analytics for Wine Futures: Realistic Prices
• Surface versus air shipment of humanitarian goods under demand uncertainty
• Multi-Period Channel Coordination in Franchise Networks: The Necessity of Internal Inventory Trading and Franchiser Involvement
• Fight Inventory Shrinkage: Simultaneous Learning of Inventory Level and Shrinkage Rate
• Information Disclosure Structure in Supply Chains with Rental Service Platforms in the Blockchain Technology Era
• Effective and necessary: Individual supplier behavior in revenue sharing and wholesale contracts
• Humans are not machines: impact of queuing design on service time.
• Generous, spiteful, or profit maximizing suppliers in the wholesale price contract: A behavioral study
• Assessing the Adoption of Cross Laminated Timber by Architects and Structural Engineers within the United States
• Sustainability: BNY Mellon’s LEED Certification Journey
• How They Did it: Purchasing Competency Procurement Innovation at Molson Coors
• When do firms benefit from joint price and lead-time competition?
• "Responsive" Teaching: Addressing COVID-19 Pandemic-Inflicted Online Teaching Challenges
• Price Discount and Capacity Planning under Demand Postponement with Opaque Selling

Honors & Leadership

View recent acknowledgments for our faculty research and teaching achievements. Many of our leading-edge faculty play prominent roles in shaping perspectives on relevant professional issues.

• Whitman-Innovation-Analytics 2018 Roadmap Grant
• MetLife Foundation-Lender Center for Social Justice Grant
• Chair of the Best Paper Selection Committee
• Elected EVP and President-Elect of MSOM Society
• Organizer of the Workshop for Doctoral Students in Supply Chain Analytics
• Best Faculty/Class Marshal
• Chancellors Award for Public Engagement and Scholarship
• Edward Pettinella Associate Professorship
• 2019 M&SOM Meritorious Service Award
• Dean's Citation for Research
• Whitman Research Award
• Outstanding Reviewer
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• Oberwager Award
• 2008-2009 Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Teaching Recognition Award
• Advisory Board member of “AWESOME”
• Named a CSCMP “Pioneer” and participated in the CSCMP “FoundersPanel,” Nov. 2012 in Orlando, FL.
• Oberwager Award for student mentoring
• Marshall for LOGTECH students
• Dean’s teaching honor list
• Excellent Teacher award

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PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management

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• Doctoral Programs
• Current: PhD in Supply Chain Management

Your path to a career in research and teaching

Our PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management is designed primarily for aspiring Tenure Track faculty in Carnegie Research 1 institutions. This program is for individuals who are

• interested in being a highly engaged, research-active Assistant Professor at a PhD granting institution,
• focused on Supply Chain scholarship with an empirical focus,
• driven and would like to publish their scholarship in the very best global journals in the field,
• interested in conducting research with some of the best supply chain management scholars in the academy, and
• passionate and desire to work on interesting problems that can have an immediate and long-term impact on the global supply chain industry.

Requirements

See if you meet the prerequisites and have what you need to apply the PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management program.

Apply for the PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management program

Begin your application today to become a PhD student of the nationally ranked Harbert College of Business.

Why Choose a PhD in Business from the Harbert College of Business?

Become a cutting edge scholar.

This program has one focus - train individuals to become cutting edge scholars in Supply Chain Management. By the end of this program, students will have learned

• skills needed to identify “sticky” problems in supply chain management,
• established and emergent theories in the field, and
• latest methodological skills needed to address such problems.

Additionally, most students will already have published at least one empirical study in a leading supply chain management-related journal, thereby understanding the publication process at these journals.

The biggest hallmark that sets this program apart from others is the individualized attention that the faculty will provide to every student in the program. The cohort size will be small (we anticipate no more than 2 admits per year), so that they can have the full and undivided attention of the Auburn Supply Chain Management faculty - a group that ranks in the top 10 in the world for empirical supply chain management research productivity.

Get Involved

The Harbert College of Business gives you the opportunity to meet other graduate students and gain professional skills through student organizations. Learn more about the Association of Graduate Business Students .

Program Overview

View the required and elective courses for the PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management program.

Expert Educators

Meet the faculty who will guide you throughout your PhD in Business, Supply Chain Management program.

Tuition and Financial Assistance

Find out how much it costs to earn your degree and how financial assistance can help.

Graduate Program Officer

For information on the Supply Chain Management Systems Specialization, contact Dr. Rao.

Take Your Next Step!

Become a student of the nationally ranked Harbert College of Business.

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Supply Chain Management

An academic career in supply chain management (SCM) focuses on the creation and dissemination of research. A supply chain consists of suppliers/vendors, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers interconnected by transportation, information and financial infrastructure with an objective of providing value to the end consumer in terms of products and services, and for each channel participant to garner a profit in doing so. A supply chain also requires financial and information flows between channel members. Managing all these flows effectively and efficiently requires a systems approach to successfully identify, analyze and coordinate the interactions among the entities. Integrated management of these flows given the often-conflicting objectives of the channel members and the continuously evolving dynamic structure is the main focus of SCM. Supply chain core areas include logistics, operations management, supply and distribution management.

The PhD program is designed as a full-time in-person degree program to train students for academic faculty positions at leading research universities. After degree completion, students will be able to identify supply chain research problems that are managerially relevant, analyze them in a scholarly way and provide solutions for addressing them. This training is accomplished through the doctoral seminars, research methodology courses and completion of research projects and a dissertation. Students are also prepared to assume the role of educators by serving as instructional/teaching assistants and course instructors and faculty mentorship.

Supply Chain Management Specialization

The doctoral specialization in supply chain management (SCM) prepares students to successfully publish scholarly research in the fields of logistics, purchasing, transportation, and operations management. The purpose of the program is to place graduates into leading academic positions in the United States and abroad.

As a student in the SCM specialization, your career preparation will include:

• doctoral coursework in the major, a related minor, and research tools/methods
• joint research projects with SCM faculty
• doctoral dissertation research supervised by the SCM faculty and funded by the college

Doctoral students are also required to teach undergraduate courses in supply chain management.

For more information about the  supply chain management specialization curriculum  and research opportunities, contact  Yoshi Suzuki .

Important quick links

• Department of Supply Chain Management
• PhD job placement
• Request information
• Apply today

One of the best parts of the Supply Chain Management program is the opportunity to work with the incredible faculty. They have consistently dedicated their time to enhancing my research skills and nurturing my enthusiasm for supply chain management.

Haley Paluzzi, supply chain management PhD student, Ivy College of Business

Meet our faculty

David Cantor

Ruan chair in supply chain management, professor.

Haozhe Chen

Walker professor in logistics & supply chain management and interim chair, department of supply chain management, professor.

Meltem Denizel

Associate professor.

Frank Montabon

Dean's professor of supply chain management, espeland international fellow, professor.

Robert Overstreet

Assistant professor.

Peter Ralston

Director of supply chain forum, associate professor.

William Rose

Henrik Sternberg

Yoshinori Suzuki

Land o’lakes, inc. endowed professor in supply chain management, professor, meet our doctoral students.

Michael Dwyer

Phd student.

Md. Rezaul Karim

Haley Paluzzi

Phd candidate.

Joshua Schumm

Research at Ivy

Faculty members across every department at the Ivy College of Business consistently contribute to their respective fields by regularly publishing in top journals. Researchers are vital to finding solutions to today’s business challenges.

• Learn more about research at Ivy

Apply to the Ivy PhD program

Please select Business and Technology as your major in the online application.

• Start your application here

Connect with us

Phd student services.

1420 Gerdin Business Building 2167 Union Drive Ames, IA 50011 [email protected] 515-294-2474

PhD Student Services Specialist

• Connect with the PhD Program on LinkedIn

Doctoral Programs

Mit phd in logistics and supply chain.

The MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL) works with two other departments to offer the PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain: The interdepartmental Transportation Education Committee hosted by Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) and The Institute for Data, Systems, and Society (IDSS). The interdepartmental structure of the program allows students flexibility in developing individual programs of study that cross both disciplinary and departmental lines. The student’s research is performed at, and is supervised by faculty at the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics. Students must apply for this program through either CEE or IDSS and indicate on their application their interest in pursuing a PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain. Apply for the PhD degree through CEE Apply for the PhD degree through IDSS Learn More about the CTL Cohort of Research Postdocs & Students (CTL CORPS)

University of Zaragoza PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

This full-time program follows the highest international quality standards for doctoral studies, from the intensive admissions process to the comprehensive exam and thesis defense. Students in their second year can spend a semester or longer at MIT and have the opportunity to study at other leading business and engineering schools. The ZLC PhD degree and MIT-Zaragoza certificate enable graduates to take faculty positions at leading universities around the world or to become innovation leaders for international companies.

Read more about ZLC's Doctorate program

Specialized Master’s Programs

Find your degree program, get a graduate degree in one year or less from one of the nation's most respected business schools, master of professional accounting.

A Degree and CPA Exam Prep in 9 Months A comprehensive accounting curriculum and training on essential business ethics taught by a nationally recognized faculty of experts in the field.

• 9-month full-time program
• 100% employment rate
• 67% of students chose to work for top 5 accounting firms

Master of Science in Business Analytics

A top 5 Business Analytics Program A 12-month program that combines complex data, business strategy, and impactful storytelling.

• 1 year program with a work-compatible schedule
• #5 ranked program in the nation (QS 2023 ranking)
• $114k average starting salary

Master of Science in Entrepreneurship

Your Start-Up Starts Here Combining the best of an MBA and an accelerator into a program that empowers entrepreneurs to successfully launch their startup businesses.

• Full-time schedule
• Includes 5 annual entrepreneurial competitions
• Extensive career support, including a dedicated mentorship program

Master of Science in Information Systems

Succeed in an In-Demand Field A one-year, work-compatible, accelerated master’s program designed to train current and future business leaders to be at the forefront of technological innovation.

• Work-compatible schedule
• 94% of graduates were promoted or took new roles within three months of graduation with $120k average starting salary
• Core curriculum topics include cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more

Master of Science in Taxation

Innovative Training in Taxation A top-ranked masters degree that prepares students with a strong foundation of relevant taxation skills taught by expert faculty.

• #6 taxation Program in the U.S. (MIM-Guide)
• 100% of 2023 graduates received job offers before graduation

Master of Supply Chain Management

Hands-On Experience with Real-World Interaction A one-year program that blends end-to-end supply chain concepts with big data analytics, cross-functional business knowledge, and hands-on, industry experience.

• $109,000 average starting salary
• 93% international students

School of Business

A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management

Four Reasons To Study Supply Chain In California

This story was originally published on  BusinessBecause .

There’s more to California than leafy palm trees, golden-sand beaches, and the Kardashians. It’s also a major supply chain hub. California is home to two of the US’s largest ports in LA and Long Beach and a key operations base for delivery companies such as UPS and Amazon.

It was a location that appealed to Nigerian-born Aniedi Effiong (pictured right), who had spent five years working in various telecommunication roles across Africa before feeling the need for a career change. 

In order to switch paths, Aniedi began to search for the right business program that could provide him with the necessary tools to upskill. 

So, when his brother suggested the STEM-designated MBA program at the University of California, Riverside—which offers a specialization in Operations and Supply Chain Management—he leapt at the opportunity.  

“[Riverside] is one hour away from Los Angeles, which coming from Nigeria, it's like the City of Angels,” he jokes. “So, it was just a dream location.” 

Now an operations manager for the multi-billion-dollar tech conglomerate Amazon, his supply chain-focused MBA at Riverside has indeed proved to be a career blessing. 

But what are the four ways that studying in California helped him get there?   

1. Experience a campus catered for international students

Moving halfway around the world is no easy feat. Finding accommodation, organizing travel, and preparing to leave your home are all stressful endeavors. But when Aniedi stepped off his 11-hour flight from Nigeria to LAX, he was met with a more-than pleasant surprise. 

“An associate director of admissions actually came to the airport to pick me up,” he says. 

Having driven over an hour and a half to collect him and taxi him to his new room on-campus, the UCR faculty and staff immediately made clear their dedication to making each student feel at home. 

It’s an ethos that is maintained within the MBA program, where about half of the cohort are international. While at UCR, students can receive counseling from student advisors on everything from adjusting to US culture to improving their English.

“[UCR] was a family for me,” Aniedi says. 

Plus, the university also provides over 450 clubs for students to get involved with, from hiking, to art, to organizations for underrepresented groups. These provide a great way to build friendships.  

2. Learn from state-of-the-art experiential teaching

During the program, one aspect that really impressed Aniedi was the high quality of the UCR teaching staff, which consists of renowned business professors from fields such as finance and management. 

Since students don’t specialize until their second year, attending a diverse range of classes helps broaden their career outlook.  

“Just hearing my professors talk exposed me to different areas of business,” Aniedi says.

High quality teaching is compounded upon by practical core courses, such as a professional development workshop requiring students to learn key skills that include networking, interviewing, and salary negotiation. 

They are then able to put this into practice by participating in a summer internship of their choosing, helping to prepare them for a chosen career path.

Aniedi was offered the opportunity to work with one of his professors in program management for the World Food Organization. Unfortunately, the opportunity fell through due to Covid travel restrictions, however, with travel now open again, students can intern with top companies such as IBM and Deloitte.   

3. Explore different areas of supply chain

While to some, supply chain may seem like a niche area, the field encompasses a wide range of skillsets. 

Once studying the supply chain specialization, students have the opportunity to pick from a wide selection of courses, which include Business Analytics for Management and Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

One optional course that Aniedi found particularly useful was Spreadsheet Modelling for Decision Making.

“Even today, I think of a problem and the first thing that comes to my head is how can I model this in Excel,” he says.

Equally, there are also plenty of opportunities to incorporate more innovative sustainability practices, such as ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles, into supply chain. 

According to the supply chain technology company Sedex, ESG practices are becoming increasingly popular in the industry in 2024—however, there is room for further innovation with regards to using data and analytics to improve companies’ environmental impact. 

“It’s a field where there's a demand for talent,” Aniedi adds.   

4. Access top job opportunities 

Undoubtedly, one of the top benefits of studying supply chain in California is the wealth of industries that use it as a major distribution hub. 

UCR endeavors to expose students to these nearby companies by hosting key industry speakers and organizing networking events, as well as offering students one-on-one career coaching through the Student Success Center.

Aniedi attributes the interview practice he was able to undergo while in the program to landing his Amazon Pathways role straight after graduation.

“The skills I gained my first year were sufficient that I was able to get a job just as I was finishing my internship,” he says. 

After moving to Dallas, Texas, for his role, he was quickly promoted to a senior manager position, where he now uses several key skills that he learned during his MBA in his day-to-day—including supply management, capacity planning, and people management.

“It's multifaceted,” he says. “You use people skills, organizational behavior, your understanding of yourself, and emotional intelligence.”

Other popular companies that supply chain specialization graduates go on to work with include Walt Disney, KPMG, and eBay. 

Reflecting on his decision to apply to UCR, Aniedi feels that for anyone considering a role in supply chain, California is a great place to launch their career. 

“UCR, especially, is the in the heart of the Inland Empire, so you're in a prime location for keeping your options open.”

Supply Chain Management PhD Thesis

03 Jan 2024 - 29 Dec 2024

Hamilton, Tauranga

To see available locations for each teaching period, view the teaching periods and locations table .

Teaching Periods and Locations

If your paper outline is not linked below, try the previous year's version of this paper .

Indicative Fees

You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment - please see the  Table of Fees and Charges for more information.

Available subjects

Supply chain management, additional information.

Subject regulations

• Paper details current as of 27 Jan 2024 23:51pm
• Indicative fees current as of 9 Apr 2024 01:30am

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