Why Veterans and MS in Supply Chain Management Are A Great Fit
Thursday, March 16, 2023
Supply chain management skills are in demand more than ever before.
The University of Minnesota Carlson School–the #1 Military Friendly® graduate business school in the nation–provides an environment for veterans to hone these skills in a highly-ranked specialty master’s program. Designed by working professionals for working professionals, the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (MS SCM) is attainable in just 12 months.
Learn why a MS SCM is a natural fit for those with a military background.
Q: How do military skills translate to this degree?
Whether you worked directly in a supply chain or logistics function while in the military, we all work in operations–which is the heart and soul of supply chain. In the military, we work in a challenging, dynamic environment half a world away and have to come up with creative solutions to keep operations going. We’re constantly coming up with contingency plans, so that you’re prepared for any unexpected issue that comes up. Those same decision-making skills and adaptability we possess are needed within the supply chain discipline at companies.
Q: What’s the difference between the MS SCM and the MBA program?
Choosing a graduate program is all about finding the best fit for you. The MBA covers multiple business topics. The MS SCM has a specific supply chain focus and goes into much greater depth in this area than an MBA. With demand soaring for supply chain management skills, the MS SCM holds incredible value. Having a deep understanding of these skills makes you versatile for any industry, whether it’s medical device manufacturing, healthcare, food, retail, manufacturing, and more.
The length of time to complete each program also varies and some may be better suited to your schedule. For example, a Full-Time MBA takes two years to complete and a Part-Time MBA takes about four years. The MS SCM is specifically designed for working professionals looking to earn a graduate degree in one calendar year. Classes are held three nights a week with a mix of in-person and remote learning. Our program is highly relevant and designed to elevate students to reach their career goals.
Q: Does the Carlson School help me find a job and with funding my degree?
The MS SCM attracts veterans who are currently working full-time in the National Guard or Military Reserves as well as veterans transitioning to the civilian world. We actively work with transitioning veterans and our corporate partners to get them placed in relevant, meaningful positions so they can both earn and learn while in the program. Since the MS SCM program is approved by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, full tuition is covered under the post-9/11 GI Bill. Additionally, U.S. military members/veterans are automatically eligible for a 15% tuition discount or are welcome to apply for a limited number of 50% merit-based scholarships.
Q: How does the Carlson School foster the military community in the program?
The Carlson School has a strong commitment to the military community, both in the classroom and beyond. In fact, military veterans made up 35% of the MS SCM Class of 2021. Having the opportunity to relate to other veterans during this process is incredibly important. You’re surrounded by others who have faced similar experiences and are now also committed to this program. We foster an environment where other non-veteran students in the supply chain cohort can learn from your great military experiences.
Those classroom connections extend to the many Carlson School alumni thriving in business. Student veterans can network with organizations through the Carlson Veterans’ Club and also receive tailored career guidance through the Graduate Business Career Center. Through these networks, student veterans from the Carlson School have accepted jobs at Fortune 500 companies like Target, 3M, Medtronic, Ecolab, Boston Scientific, and more.
At the Carlson School, faculty members–some of whom are also veterans–know how to help student veterans adapt their military knowledge to the business world. Getting a MS SCM will provide you with a competitive advantage in your professional career to become a stronger leader and strategist.