Supply chain management courses can help you learn how goods move from suppliers to customers through planning, sourcing, production, and logistics. You can build skills in demand forecasting, inventory control, procurement methods, and evaluating operational performance. Many courses introduce tools such as spreadsheet models, analytics platforms, and systems used to track inventory and coordinate supply chain activities.
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

Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Process Improvement, Capacity Planning, Logistics Management, Sustainable Business, Analytics, Corporate Sustainability, Scheduling, Inventory Management System, Forecasting, Data Analysis, Security Management, Expense Management, Operating Expense, Risk Management, Data Visualization, Problem Solving
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Request for Proposal, Request For Quotation (RFQ), Strategic Sourcing, Document Management, Supplier Management, Purchasing, Procurement, Business Writing, Cost Benefit Analysis, Vendor Management, Business Communication, Market Research, Cost Management, Risk Analysis, Spreadsheet Software, Financial Analysis, Workflow Management, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Contract Compliance, Data Analysis
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Warehouse Management, Inventory and Warehousing, Inventory Management System, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Logistics, Transportation Operations, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Customer Service, Operating Cost
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Planning, Demand Planning, Customer Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Capacity Planning, Production Planning, Materials Management, Forecasting, Performance Measurement, Microsoft Excel, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Statistical Methods, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Data Analysis, Regression Analysis
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

Unilever
Skills you'll gain: Data Governance, Descriptive Analytics, Data Storytelling, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Demand Planning, Presentations, Data Visualization, Supply Chain Systems, 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

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Lean Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Lean Methodologies, Process Improvement, Operations Management, Production Process, Six Sigma Methodology, Operational Efficiency, Quality Improvement, Supply Chain, Kanban Principles, Inventory Control, Inventory Management System, Logistics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Process Analysis, Business Process, Business Analysis, Workflow Management, Process Management, Process Flow Diagrams, Business Process Modeling, Stakeholder Management, Stakeholder Analysis, Computer Literacy
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Georgia Institute of Technology
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, Logistics, Transportation Operations, Procurement, Inventory and Warehousing, Warehouse Management, Manufacturing Operations
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Management, Procurement, Supplier Relationship Management, Supplier Performance Management, Negotiation, Vendor Management, Contract Negotiation, Request For Quotation (RFQ), Case Studies, Stakeholder Management, Contract Management, Purchasing, Market Analysis, Request for Proposal, Competitive Analysis, Risk Management, Vendor Contracts, Supply Management, Business Ethics
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Demand Planning, Forecasting, Supply Chain Planning, Sales Management, Time Series Analysis and Forecasting, Supply Chain Management, Planning, Estimation, Trend Analysis, Decision Making, Performance Measurement, Microsoft Excel
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Supply chain management (SCM) is the process of overseeing and managing the flow of goods, information, and finances as they move from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer. It is crucial because it helps organizations reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. Effective SCM ensures that products are delivered on time, inventory levels are optimized, and resources are utilized efficiently, which ultimately contributes to a company's competitiveness in the market.
A variety of job opportunities exist in supply chain management, reflecting its importance across industries. Common roles include supply chain analyst, logistics coordinator, procurement manager, operations manager, and inventory control specialist. These positions often involve analyzing data, managing supplier relationships, and optimizing logistics processes. As businesses increasingly rely on efficient supply chains, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow.
To succeed in supply chain management, you should develop a range of skills. Key competencies include analytical thinking, problem-solving, negotiation, and communication. Familiarity with supply chain software and tools, as well as understanding logistics and inventory management, is also essential. Additionally, knowledge of data analysis and forecasting can greatly enhance your effectiveness in this field, enabling you to make informed decisions that drive efficiency and cost savings.
There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in supply chain management. Notable options include the Supply Chain Management Specialization, which provides a comprehensive overview of the field, and the AI in Supply Chain Forecasting and Risk Management course, which focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence in supply chain processes. These courses can help you build a solid foundation and advance your career."
Yes. You can start learning supply chain management on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in supply chain management, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn supply chain management effectively, start by identifying your learning goals and the specific areas you want to focus on. Enroll in online courses that match your interests, such as those covering logistics, procurement, or analytics. Engage with course materials, participate in discussions, and apply what you learn through practical projects or case studies. Consistent practice and real-world application will reinforce your understanding and build your confidence in the subject.
Typical topics covered in supply chain management courses include logistics management, inventory control, procurement strategies, demand forecasting, and supply chain analytics. Courses may also explore global supply chain dynamics, sustainability practices, and risk management. This comprehensive curriculum equips learners with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of modern supply chains and make informed decisions.
For training and upskilling employees in supply chain management, courses like the Global Supply Chain Management and Supply Chain Management Strategy are particularly beneficial. These programs focus on strategic approaches and global perspectives, helping organizations enhance their operational efficiency and adapt to changing market conditions. Investing in such training can lead to improved performance and competitiveness in the workforce.