In the world of business, the goal is still to achieve the highest level of performance and profitability as possible. But the game has changed.

Explosive globalization, outsourcing, and off-shoring has changed the way companies do business with each other. Information technology and the Internet enable organizations to gather vast amounts of information and reach customers and vendors near and far. So industries require professionals with the latest knowledge on managing this virtual supply chain.

Supply chain management is a business process that enables a virtual integration of business partners to achieve new levels of efficiency and productivity as well as extraordinary returns to investors. The effective supply chain is the organizational and operational business model for the information age. 

In order to effectively manage increasingly global and dispersed organizations, supply chain managers must be educated and experienced. With a supply chain management degree, you'll have the knowledge and the practical experience needed to improve the way companies make and deliver products to customers.

Supply Chain Management Programs
Supply chain management programs are typically found as specializations within MBA programs at business schools, though degree programs do exist at the undergraduate level. Those who choose this specialization are often pursuing management or consulting positions in operations, supply chain, manufacturing, purchasing, or related fields.

Supply chain courses provide the tools you need to manage all aspects of a business process, including procurement, strategic partnering and alliances, manufacturing/service development, information flow management, cash-to-cash cycle time management, logistics, distribution, and customer relationship management. In supply chain management schools, you will gain a broad understanding of supply chain concepts and practice essential supply chain skills, including problem solving and judgment, critical analysis, and working effectively in teams.

Supply Chain Management Curriculum
According to AMR Research, an organization that provides research and advisory services for supply chain and IT executives, the 11 key components of an advanced supply chain include seven functional stations: planning, sourcing, making, delivering, managing customers, providing post-sales support, and developing/launching the product; as well as four key enabling stations: strategy and change management, performance measurement and analytics, technology enablement, and governance. These components should be incorporated into the curriculum of supply chain management schools.

Supply chain management curriculum also covers topics such as global supply chain design and management, integrated logistics, global strategic resourcing, knowledge management systems, and international financial management. Successful supply chain management programs deliver applied knowledge through simulation, timed projects, cooperative opportunities, and meaningful internships.

Real-World Connections
The best supply chain management schools incorporate an internship component, which ensures familiarity with work content, time constraints, and communication requirements. This kind of practical, real-world experience enables graduates of supply chain management schools to more easily integrate the wealth of available information and see the big picture in order to effectively manage a global operation.

And be sure the supply chain management schools you're researching are market-driven. That means you should be involved in current, cutting-edge research, developing practical solutions to questions about risk management, sustainable new product development and launch, and effective collaboration in a global environment. Market-driven supply chain programs boast strong corporate partnerships, which ensure the relevance of the curriculum and enhance internship and career placement opportunities.

If you want to be an integral part of the 21^st century global business community, differentiate yourself with a supply chain management degree.