MBA in Supply Chain Management Syllabus & Subjects: A Complete Learning Guide

Supply chain management is imperative in industries like manufacturing and retail. Emerging trends, such as AI in predictive analytics, automation, and sustainability practices, are transforming logistics and procurement. With global markets expanding, the demand for skilled professionals rises, as 55% of manufacturing businesses prioritize supply chain visibility.

An MBA in Supply Chain Management covers key subjects like Marketing, Logistics, and Operations Management, blending lectures, case studies, and group projects to develop practical skills. This guide explores the syllabus, career opportunities, and entrance exam details.

Overview of MBA in Supply Chain Management Course Syllabus

Supply chain management experts are in high demand due to the globalization of businesses, increasing variety of products, and supply network uncertainties. Companies are continuously looking for professionals and experts who can navigate complex logistics, optimize resources, and improve efficiency.

The MBA supply chain management syllabus covers crucial aspects such as procurement, logistics, operations, and risk management. 

Below, you will find comprehensive details about the syllabus, including semester-wise subjects, entrance exam topics, and career opportunities.

MBA Supply Chain Management Syllabus: Program Overview

This section outlines the core details of the MBA program, including eligibility criteria, duration, admission process, and fees. The following table details provide a clearer understanding of the program.

Also Read: What is Supply Chain Strategy: Everything You Need to Know

Advance your supply chain management and leadership skills with an Online MBA from top global business schools. Gain the expertise to innovate and optimize operations in today’s dynamic market landscape.

Now that you have an overview of the MBA Supply Chain Management program, let’s dive deeper into the complete syllabus and the subjects you’ll study each semester.

MBA Supply Chain Management Complete Syllabus

The MBA supply chain management complete syllabus is structured semester-wise to ensure a step-by-step understanding of the subject. The subjects mentioned below provide an overview of what you will study across four semesters.

Also Read: Difference Between Logistics & Supply Chain Management

Having explored the complete MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus, let’s now break down each semester’s subjects in detail to understand what you’ll be learning.

MBA Supply Chain Management Syllabus: Semester-wise Subjects

Take a closer look at what you'll be learning. Below are the detailed descriptions of the subjects covered each semester, giving you a clear roadmap of your learning journey ahead.

• Semester 1:
  • Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management: Learn about key supply chain components, such as procurement, logistics, and inventory management, and understand how they work together to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Managerial Roles and Functions: Understand leadership skills, strategies, and decision-making processes critical for resolving logistics bottlenecks, improving team performance, and driving supply chain efficiency.
  • Financial Accounting and Budgeting: Gain insights into financial planning, cost allocation, and budgeting techniques, helping you manage supply chain budgets, control expenses, and maximize profitability.
  • Business Economics and Analysis: Explore economic principles like demand forecasting, cost optimization, and market analysis, which play a key role in making informed supply chain decisions and managing risks effectively.
• Semester 2:
  • Operations Management and Research: Study advanced techniques such as process optimization, lean management, and data analytics to streamline supply chain operations and improve productivity.
  • Cost Management and Control: Learn cost-cutting methods like inventory optimization, resource allocation, and waste reduction to improve operational efficiency and boost the bottom line.
  • Import-Export Procedures: Understand global trade policies, customs regulations, and documentation processes to effectively manage cross-border logistics and ensure compliance with international standards.
  • Project Planning and Execution: Develop practical skills in planning, scheduling, and managing supply chain projects, ensuring timely delivery and successful implementation of supply chain initiatives.

Also Read: Finance Vs Accounting: Which one should you choose?

• Semester 3:
  • Business Law: Understand the legal framework governing business activities, including contracts, intellectual property, and regulations, to ensure compliance and protect business interests in the supply chain.
  • Supply Chain Risk Management: Get comprehensive exposure to the risks involved in supply chain processes, such as supplier disruptions, market volatility, and cybersecurity threats, and learn strategies to mitigate them.
  • Managerial Communication and Soft Skills: Develop strong oral and written communication skills to effectively manage teams, negotiate with suppliers, and handle client relationships, ensuring smooth business operations and professionalism.
• Semester 4:
  • Project Training or On-job training (4 to 5 months): Get exposure and hands-on experience about the supply chain processes in logistics or allied industries in different technical, functional and managerial roles.

Also Read: What is Supply Chain Analytics? Why is it Important?

After understanding the semester-wise subjects in the MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus, let’s now focus on the key entrance exam topics to help you prepare effectively.

MBA Supply Chain Management Syllabus: Entrance Exam Topics

To secure admission to an MBA in Supply Chain Management program, you need to prepare well for entrance exams like CAT, MAT, and XAT. Below are the key areas you should focus on.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to the End-To-End Process of Supply Chain Management

Want to sharpen your problem-solving skills? Join upGrad’s free Complete Guide to Problem Solving Skills course today and start building practical strategies to tackle challenges with confidence!

Now that you’re familiar with the entrance exam topics, let’s explore the syllabus for the Online MBA in Supply Chain Management offered by upGrad, designed for a flexible learning experience.

Online MBA Supply Chain Management Syllabus from upGrad

Explore the online MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus offered by upGrad. Download the brochure to get the complete syllabus: upGrad MBA Supply Chain Management

Also Read: Top 10 Supply Chain Management Books To Increase Your Horizon

By understanding these modules, you can effectively plan your career and enhance your knowledge in supply chain management. Now, let’s explore the learning path that will guide you to success in this field.

MBA Supply Chain Management: Learning Path to Success

Pursuing an MBA in Supply Chain Management offers a structured pathway to gaining the skills necessary to excel in the field. Your learning journey begins with core concepts like logistics and inventory management, eventually advancing to global supply chain strategies.

Here is a learning path you can follow, along with recommended courses, books, and project ideas which will help you gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills.

Start with the Basics: Understanding Core Supply Chain Concepts

At the beginning of your MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus, it is crucial to build a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of supply chain management. This includes understanding the role of supply chains, logistics, procurement, and distribution systems.

• Courses: Look for introductory courses in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, and Business Economics. These will help you grasp the essentials.
• Books:
  • "Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and Operation" by Sunil Chopra
  • "The Essentials of Supply Chain Management" by Michael H. Hugos
• Project Ideas:
  • Create a case study on a company’s supply chain operations and identify areas for improvement.
  • Analyze a local business’s procurement strategy and suggest optimization methods.

Also Read: 6 Types of Supply Chain Models To Know

Once you’ve grasped foundational concepts, delve into advanced topics like operations and logistics management.

Dive Deeper into Operations and Logistics Management

Once you have a solid grasp of the basics, focus on operations and logistics management. These areas will form the core of your expertise as you move forward in your MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus.

• Courses: Enroll in advanced courses on Operations Research, Logistics Management, and Inventory Control.
• Books:
  • "Operations Management" by William J. Stevenson
  • "Logistics and Supply Chain Management" by Martin Christopher
• Project Ideas:
  • Develop a supply chain optimization plan for a company using operations management tools.
  • Create an inventory control model for a business to improve stock management.

Also Read: What Is Inventory Management? A Guide to Benefits, Careers, and Challenges in 2025

Building on your understanding of operations and logistics, the next step is to gain expertise in managing costs and assessing risks effectively.

Master Cost Management and Risk Assessment

As you progress further in the MBA Supply Chain Management Complete Syllabus, understanding cost management and risk assessment becomes crucial. Managing costs effectively while anticipating and mitigating risks is key to successful supply chain operations.

• Courses: Explore courses on Cost Management, Financial Analysis, and Supply Chain Risk Management.
• Books:
  • "Cost Management: A Strategic Emphasis" by Edward J. Blocher
  • "Managing Risk in the Global Supply Chain" by Donald Waters
• Project Ideas:
  • Perform a cost analysis of a company’s supply chain and suggest cost-cutting strategies.
  • Assess risk factors in a real-world supply chain and propose solutions to minimize disruptions.

After mastering cost management and risk assessment, you’ll deepen your knowledge by exploring global supply chain strategies and advanced topics.

Specialize in Global Supply Chain Strategies and Advanced Topics

The final stages of the MBA Supply Chain Management syllabus focus on global supply chain strategies and advanced topics, such as sustainable supply chains, e-commerce logistics, and the impact of technology on supply chains.

• Courses: Take advanced courses in Global Supply Chain Management, E-commerce Logistics, and Supply Chain Strategy.
• Books:
  • "Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management" by John Mangan
  • "Supply Chain Strategy: Unleash the Power of Business Integration to Maximize Financial, Service, and Operations Performance" by K. S. C. Murthy
• Project Ideas:
  • Analyze the logistics strategy of a global company and propose improvements to enhance efficiency.
  • Create a sustainable supply chain model for a multinational corporation, focusing on reducing carbon footprints and improving efficiency.

Also Read: Different Types and Methods of Demand Forecasting Explained

With a strong foundation in global strategies, you’ll now gain practical exposure through internships and real-world projects to apply your learning.

Practical Exposure: Internships and Real-World Projects

In addition to completing your coursework, practical experience is essential for gaining hands-on knowledge. Completing an internship or working on real-world supply chain projects can provide you with invaluable insights into how businesses operate in the field.

• Courses: Many institutions offer practical training, capstone projects, and internships in supply chain management. Participating in these will enhance your understanding of real-life challenges.
• Project Ideas:
  • Work on a supply chain optimization project for a local company.
  • Analyze and improve the logistics strategies of an e-commerce platform or retailer.

Also Read: 28 Innovative Supply Chain Management Project Ideas & Topics For Beginners [2025]

Now that you know the learning path to success in MBA Supply Chain Management, let’s see how upGrad can support you throughout your journey.

How does upGrad support your MBA supply chain management journey?

upGrad is a trusted online learning platform with 200+ courses, helping over 10 million learners globally. Offering flexible learning, it supports upskilling, career transitions, and expertise in fields like supply chain management.

Here are some relevant programs from upGrad that can support your MBA supply chain management journey:

• Executive Program in Supply Chain Management
• MBA in Supply Chain Management
• Advanced General Management Program
• Post Graduate Diploma in Management (BIMTECH)
• MBA from O.P. Jindal Global University
• Advanced General Management Program

Want personalized guidance to take your career forward? Get personalized career counseling with upGrad to shape your career, or visit your nearest upGrad center, where you can get tailored advice, career counseling, and hands-on training. 

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