AMR Rates University Supply Chain Programs

In a report released today, AMR Research identified the top U.S.-based supply chain programs, highlighting Pennsylvania State University and Michigan State University as the leaders in terms of industry value, program depth, and program scope.

In the study, AMR Research surveyed 126 companies and 19 academic institutions to determine which U.S. programs do the most effective job of preparing students to manage today's supply chains, which have become increasingly global. The report measured universities across a total of 13 metrics, including the number of recruiting mentions, supply chain courses and program offerings, and best program mentions.

Most academic institutions are only partially meeting the most pressing needs from industry, the report concludes. On average, supply chain programs teach only 5 of 11 academic areas needed, inconsistently applying supply chain technology, and not ensuring sufficient applied knowledge transfer.

Other highlights from the report include:
-- Graduates of the programs at MIT and University of Michigan had the highest average base salaries at $116,000 and $100,000, respectively.
-- Penn State has more than 800 students involved in the program, as well as 29 full-time professors focused on supply chain management.
-- Michigan State offers over 39 supply chain courses and requires an average of eight courses to graduate from the program.

"Our assessment showed many strong programs, with innovative teaching approaches and relevant research being conducted," said David Aquino, research director at AMR Research and lead author of the report. "The best programs create a more fully formed supply chain professional that allows a quick transition from recruit to being a productive member of their new organization."

Contact Alan Field at afield@joc.com.