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.

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

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
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: 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

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Competitive Analysis, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Benchmarking, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Customer Analysis, Supply Chain Planning, Customer experience improvement, Analytics, Financial Analysis, Inventory Management System, Data Analysis, Cost Estimation, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Cost Reduction, Spatial Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Skills you'll gain: New Product Development, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Quality Management, Logistics Management, Supplier Management, Inventory Management System, Corporate Sustainability, Coordination, Value Propositions, Operational Efficiency, Continuous Improvement Process, Consumer Behaviour
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 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

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

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: 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
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
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.