Supply chain design courses can help you learn how networks are structured to balance cost, service, and operational resilience. You can build skills in facility planning, sourcing strategies, transportation modeling, and evaluating trade-offs across supply chain configurations. Many courses introduce tools such as optimization models, analytics platforms, and scenario-based methods that support planning and improving supply chain design decisions.
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Sourcing, Lean Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Demand Planning, Procurement, Supplier Relationship Management, Forecasting, Lean Methodologies, Process Improvement, Supplier Management, Operations Management, Purchasing, Production Process, Supply Management, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management, Supply Chain Planning, Inventory and Warehousing, Inventory Management System, Logistics
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

IIMA - IIM Ahmedabad
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Systems, Transportation Management, Digital Transformation, Transportation Operations, Logistics Management, Logistics, Business Technologies, Inventory and Warehousing, Business Analytics, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Order Fulfillment, Warehouse Management, Warehouse Operations, Operational Efficiency, Process Optimization, Strategic Thinking, Customer experience improvement
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Relationship Management, Procurement, Supplier Management, Purchasing, Supply Management, Vendor Relationship Management, Supply Chain, Supplier Performance Management, Vendor Management, Decision Making, Risk Management, Cost Benefit Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Inventory Management System, Supply Chain Planning, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Supplier Management, Logistics, Business Metrics, Cost Reduction, Performance Measurement, Business Technologies, Forecasting, Demand Planning, Risk Mitigation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Macquarie University
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain, Supply Chain Planning, Supply Chain Management, Strategic Sourcing, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Procurement, Logistics Management, Supplier Management, Corporate Sustainability, Risk Management, Business Technologies, Sustainable Design
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

L&T EduTech
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Regulations, Reliability, Industrial Design, Plant Operations and Management
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Logistics, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing Operations, Strategic Sourcing, Operations Management, Warehouse Management, Forecasting, Supply Chain Planning, Business Operations, Materials Management, Financial Statements, Supply Chain, Inventory Management System, Transportation Management, Procurement, Supply Chain Systems, Case Studies, Cash Flows, Warehouse Operations
Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Competitive Intelligence, Demand Planning, Strategic Sourcing, Competitive Analysis, Customer Demand Planning, Data Storytelling, Procurement, Supplier Management, Supply Chain, Regression Analysis, Supplier Performance Management, Inventory Control, Business Analytics, Data Collection, Supply Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Intelligence, Materials Management, Strategic Decision-Making, Data Analysis
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Unilever
Skills you'll gain: Data Governance, Descriptive Analytics, Data Storytelling, Supply Chain Management, Demand Planning, Presentations, Data Visualization, Supply Chain Systems, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Planning, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Process Improvement, Data Management, Data Lakes, Predictive Analytics, Forecasting, Data Analysis, Data Analysis Software, Real Time Data, Problem Solving
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Multiple educators
Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Design, Corporate Sustainability, Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Sustainable Business, Sustainability Reporting, Sustainable Engineering, Sustainable Development, Business Ethics, Sustainability Standards, Sustainable Systems, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Supply Chain, Manufacturing Operations, Strategic Sourcing, Supply Chain Systems, Procurement, Supplier Relationship Management, Product Design
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Planning, Performance Measurement, Transportation Management, Operational Efficiency, Operations Management, Business Operations, Transportation Operations, Supply Chain Systems, E-Commerce, Systems Thinking, Business Planning, Market Analysis, Process Design, Supplier Management, Business, Business Administration
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Airbus Beyond
Skills you'll gain: Procurement, Order Management, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Inventory Control, Production Planning, Contract Management, Supply Management, Sustainability Reporting, Supplier Performance Management, Sustainability Standards, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Systems, Environmental Management Systems, Environmental Social And Corporate Governance (ESG), Logistics, Risk Management, Negotiation, Billing & Invoicing
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
Supply chain design refers to the strategic planning and structuring of a supply chain to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. It involves determining how products are sourced, manufactured, and delivered to consumers. Effective supply chain design is crucial because it directly impacts a company's operational performance and competitiveness. A well-designed supply chain can lead to improved service levels, reduced lead times, and increased flexibility in responding to market changes.
In the field of supply chain design, various job opportunities are available. Positions may include supply chain analyst, logistics manager, supply chain planner, and operations manager. These roles often involve analyzing data to improve supply chain processes, managing logistics operations, and collaborating with suppliers and customers to ensure efficient product flow. As businesses increasingly focus on optimizing their supply chains, the demand for skilled professionals in this area continues to grow.
To excel in supply chain design, several key skills are essential. These include analytical skills for data interpretation, problem-solving abilities to address supply chain challenges, and knowledge of logistics and inventory management. Familiarity with supply chain software and tools is also beneficial. Additionally, understanding concepts such as demand forecasting, procurement strategies, and risk management can enhance your effectiveness in this field.
There are numerous online courses available for those interested in supply chain design. Some highly regarded options include the Supply Chain Digitization: Strategy and Design course, which focuses on integrating digital technologies into supply chain processes. The Supply Chain Management Specialization offers a comprehensive overview of supply chain principles, while the Supply Chain Analytics Specialization emphasizes data-driven decision-making.
Yes. You can start learning supply chain design on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in supply chain design, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn supply chain design, start by exploring foundational courses that cover key concepts and principles. Engage with interactive content, participate in discussions, and apply what you learn through practical exercises. Consider enrolling in specialized programs that focus on specific aspects of supply chain design, such as analytics or logistics. Consistent practice and real-world application will reinforce your understanding and help you build confidence in your skills.
Typical topics covered in supply chain design courses include supply chain strategy, logistics management, inventory control, demand forecasting, and supplier relationship management. Courses may also address the impact of technology on supply chains, including automation and data analytics. Understanding these topics will provide a solid foundation for effectively designing and managing supply chains.
For training and upskilling employees in supply chain design, courses like the Unilever Supply Chain Data Analyst Professional Certificate can be particularly beneficial. This program equips learners with essential data analysis skills tailored for supply chain applications. Additionally, the Machine Learning for Supply Chains Specialization offers insights into leveraging advanced technologies to enhance supply chain efficiency.