What makes a supply chain so important?
Supply Chain Management addresses the fundamental business problem of supplying product to meet demand in a complex and uncertain world. Shorter product life cycles, greater product variety, outsourcing and globalization make it imperative that this issue be tackled from the point of view of the entire supply chain rather than the more limited view of an individual company. Supplying product to meet demand goes well beyond the question, “Did we ship what the customer wanted today?” It encompasses all the processes from product generation through end-of-life recycling and disposal. It also includes strategically focused questions such as, “How well do we work with our partners?” and “Can we use logistics to create strategic advantage?”
The Baker School of Business’ Supply Chain Management degree introduces students to career opportunities within the supply chain field by way of academic study, extracurricular activities and internships. Students pursuing this specialization are encouraged to join and explore networking opportunities with The Citadel Supply Chain Management Club (affiliated with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and The Citadel Port Club (affiliated with the Charleston Propeller Club and the International Propeller Club.
what can I do with a supply chain management degree?
Whether you would like your focus to be on the product/service itself or on how it will be distributed, supply chain offers a wealth of positions in many functional areas from which to choose. Forecasting/planning, purchasing/procurement, logistics, operations, inventory management, transportation, warehousing, distribution and customer service are many of the career areas covered under the Supply Chain Professional Pathway.
If you would like more details about the Supply Chain Professional Pathway, please click the following links for printable summary and course planning information: Supply Chain Pathway Academic Process Map
Those students curious about earnings potential with a supply chain career, can refer to the Institute of Supply Management’s recently published a breakdown of average salaries based on career level. Also, students may review the current U.S. Department of Labor Statistics for detailed information regarding specific careers via the following link: US Dept of Labor Supply Chain Career Outlook. While salary is not the only reason to choose a career, these links provide valuable information for students who are just beginning to plan their career path.
The Citadel Port Club: As a student offshoot of the Charleston Propeller Club, The Port Club meets to discuss maritime matters and domestic and foreign commerce as well as other related topics through monthly meetings, networking and guest speakers. To find out more about joining this club and the next scheduled meeting, please contact Dr. Carl Betterton at bettertonc1@citadel.edu.
For more details about the Supply Chain Pathway, please contact Dr. Bob Riggle, Department Chair.