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The ever-growing demand for efficient supply chains is shaping our world. From coast to coast, Canada’s economy thrives on the smooth flow of goods. Supply chain management (SCM) professionals are the masterminds behind this intricate dance, ensuring everything arrives on time and within budget.
Consider attending one of the best colleges for supply chain management in Canada if you’re seeking a dynamic and in-demand career path. The Government of Canada predicts that the number of job openings for Supply Chain Managers will exceed the number of applicants for the 2022-2031 period. This surge highlights the growing need for skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of the supply chain.
Choosing a supply chain management college in Canada can equip you with the knowledge and expertise to thrive in this exciting field. Discover the best schools and programs, as well as how to choose the right program for you.
The 10 Best Colleges for Supply Chain Management in Canada
College | Best For |
---|---|
1. Robertson College | Real-world work experience |
2. Concordia University | Research-focused studies |
3. York University | International students |
4. Langara College | High student satisfaction rate |
5. HEC Montréal | Master of Science |
6. Fanshawe College | Paid co-op opportunities |
7. Seneca College | Hybrid learning |
8. Red River College | A truck transportation-focused curriculum |
9. University of Alberta | Part-time studies |
10. Humber College | Professors with real-world experience |
This list was compiled using data from school rankings, such as Yocket, Top Universities, and Get My Uni. These rankings are based on multiple factors, such as their overall rankings among schools in Canada and around the world, reputation, research, practicum placements, and student success rates.
Our list was influenced by those rankings while also including both career colleges and larger universities to showcase a variety of program types. This is not an exhaustive list and we encourage you to explore options further to find the best fit for you.
1. Robertson College
Best for real-world work experience
Robertson College’s programs are focused on helping students learn the skills they need to quickly enter the workforce and gain meaningful careers. The Logistics and Supply Chain Management Diploma program is 12 months, including a four-week practicum.
This supply chain management certification adheres to the high standards set by Alberta’s Private Vocational Training Act (PVTA) and Manitoba’s Private Vocational Institutions Act (PVIA). These provincial acts ensure programs meet rigorous criteria for quality education.
This means Robertson students can be confident they’re receiving a valuable education that will give them the tools they need to start a rewarding career in the growing field of logistics and supply chain management in Canada.
Best Features
- Included practicum
- Online learning options
- Licensed program
Average Tuition: $$$
2. Concordia University
Best for research-focused studies
Based out of Montréal, Québec, Concordia University is a public research-focused post-secondary school. One of the university’s main focuses is on being next generation, looking at trends to inform their curriculum. Concordia offers flexible and experiential learning options.
Part of Concordia’s John Molson School of Business, the Department of Supply Chain and Business Technology Management offers undergraduate programs in Supply Chain Operations Management and Business Technology Management, among other areas of study.
With hands-on co-op opportunities, the program prepares students to tackle real-world business challenges and become a strategic asset to any organization.
Best Features
- Co-op opportunities
- Up to $4,000 worth of funding available to out-of-province students
- Alumni have gone on to work at Fortune 500 companies
Average Tuition: $$$$
3. York University
Best for international students
With campuses across the greater Toronto area, York University is a top university in Canada and ranks highly worldwide. York offers students a variety of undergraduate, certificate, and graduate programs. Their focus is on providing a well-rounded, research-based education with a focus on international students.
York’s Schulich School of Business offers a Master’s in Supply Chain Management. The program is offered both full and part time, with full-time programs finishing in about one year and part time in as little as two years. The program focuses on providing both hands-on business experience and the technical knowledge required to succeed in the supply chain management industry in Canada.
Best Features
- Full- and part-time studies
- Study abroad options
- Good for international students
Average Tuition: $$$$
4. Langara College
Best for high student satisfaction rate
Based out of Vancouver, British Columbia, Langara College focuses on career and continuing studies. They offer a variety of certificate, diploma, micro-credential, and associate degree programs. Langara provides students with a quality education at a low cost.
Langara has a post-degree Supply Chain and Logistics Diploma program. The full-time, two-year program includes a term work placement, which Langara provides. Classes are predominantly in-person, with some online components. The curriculum is a combination of specific supply chain-focused materials and more general business teachings.
Best Features
- Included term work placement
- Additional designations, such as Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP), may be obtained through the program
- 95% student satisfaction rate
Average Tuition: $$$
5. HEC Montréal
Best for Master of Science
A leader in Canadian business education, HEC Montréal offers nearly 150 management programs, from Bachelor’s to Ph.D., with flexible online and in-person options. Their research prioritizes solutions to current societal issues, solidifying their place as a top management school.
HEC offers full- and part-time studies toward a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management. The program is conducted on-site at the Côte-des-Neiges campus. Students are equipped to master logistics planning, coordination, and continuous improvement in the supply chain management industry.
Best Features
- Top-ranked business school in Canada
- Management-focused research
- Various scholarship options available
Average Tuition: $$$$
6. Fanshawe College
Best for paid co-op opportunities
With campuses across Ontario, Fanshawe College is one of the largest Canadian colleges. Their focus is on offering a wide range of programs students can complete either full or part time at their own pace. They offer apprenticeships, certificates, diplomas, degrees, and continuing education programs.
Fanshawe has a two-year Business – Supply Chain and Operations Diploma program as well as a co-op option. Students have the opportunity to work a paid co-op term with supply chain professionals in their area in addition to learning business and supply chain best practices.
Best Features
- Paid co-op opportunities
- Full- and part-time study options available
- One of the largest colleges in Canada
Average Tuition: $$$
7. Seneca College
Best for hybrid learning
Seneca College, or Seneca Polytechnic, has campuses across the greater Toronto area. The school offers respected degrees, diplomas, and certificates that prepare graduates for success. Their programs combine rigorous academics with hands-on learning led by expert faculty and featuring the latest technology.
The Seneca College Supply Chain Management program is an eight-month certificate program. Students can choose from full- or part-time studies, and the course is hybrid, with both in-person and online components. Program graduates are equipped with not just the essential skills to launch their supply chain career but also the technical and analytical expertise to influence strategic decisions.
Best Features
- Hybrid courses
- Work terms available
- Free counseling and one-on-one tutoring
Average Tuition: $$$$
8. Red River College
Best for a truck transportation-focused curriculum
Red River College (RRC) is a polytechnic school located in Manitoba — the province’s largest research and applied learning institute. The school offers more than 150 full- and part-time degree, diploma, and certificate programs. Students are able to access both hands-on, in-person learning and online courses.
RRC has a 12-month certificate program in Transportation, Logistics, and Supply Chain Management. The course can be taken either as a full- or part-time student and is completely in-person at Red River’s Notre Dame campus. The unique program emphasizes truck transportation, giving students the opportunity for co-op experience at a dealership or service station.
Best Features
- Unique curriculum
- Co-op opportunities
- Both full- and part-time study options
Average Tuition: $$$
9. University of Alberta
Best for part-time studies
Located in Edmonton, the University of Alberta (U of A) is one of the top four universities in Canada and top 100 in the world. Their mission is to bridge the gap between theory and practice by offering co-ops, international study, and community service placements. They have continuing study courses, as well as undergraduate and graduate programs.
U of A has a number of supply chain-focused courses, as well as a part-time Supply Chain Management Diploma program, with the diploma granted by Supply Chain Canada. Students can also elect to take individual courses. U of A also offers several micro-credentials focused on supply chain management, technologies, and distribution.
Best Features
- Top-ranked university
- Part-time program
- Option to take individual courses and micro-credentials
Average Tuition: $$
10. Humber College
Best for Professors with real-world experience
Humber College, Canada’s largest polytechnic school, boasts a wide variety of courses across various disciplines. Campuses throughout Ontario offer options for online, in-person, or blended learning. Collaboration with local businesses allows students to gain practical experience alongside their academic studies.
Humber College has a Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management and a certificate course. For the Bachelor’s program, students are required to complete a paid work placement between their sixth and seventh semesters. Supply chain management Professors at Humber have real-world experience within the industry.
Best Features
- Professors with real-world experience
- Both degree and certificate options
- Canada’s largest polytechnic school
Average Tuition: $$$$
Why Study Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management is an in-demand job field in Canada. Obtaining an SCM education can lead to a rewarding career in a variety of industries, such as retail, manufacturing, and food and beverage.
However, starting a career in supply chain management doesn’t necessarily require a degree. Those thinking of going to school for SCM can also pursue a certificate or diploma, which can take as little as six months.
Careers and Salaries
You can go into many roles within supply chain management. Salaries for the industry vary but can start anywhere from $56,000 and go as high as $103,000 or more, depending on education and experience. Here’s an overview of some common roles, their requirements, and salaries.
Popular Supply Chain Careers To Pursue | ||
---|---|---|
Role | Required Education | Average Salary per Year |
Warehouse Manager | Combination of education and experience | $56,066 |
Inventory Manager | Combination of education and experience | $58,901 |
Supply Chain Specialist | Bachelor’s Degree | $65,938 |
Purchasing Manager | College diploma or degree | $75,913 |
Distribution Manager | Bachelor’s Degree preferred | $78,249 |
Supply Chain Manager | Bachelor’s Degree preferred | $80,932 |
Procurement Manager | Bachelor’s Degree | $103,191 |
Factors To Consider When Choosing the Best College for SCM
With many options across the country, it can be challenging to choose the right program for you. From location to cost and reputation, there are a number of factors to explore. Here are some key considerations when choosing the best supply chain management school for you.
- Cost: Depending on your budget, some schools may not be an option. You’ll also want to look into what funding is available, such as grants, student loans, and bursaries.
- Reputation: You’ll want to pick a school that has a good reputation, both for its SCM program and overall. You’ll also want to confirm that the school is accredited.
- Course options: Each school offers different courses with different focuses. Depending on your specific goals, you’ll need to decide if you’re interested in a degree, diploma, or shorter micro-credentials.
- Support services: What type of support does the school offer its students? Robertson College provides students with lifelong career support through our Workforce Team.
- Work placement opportunities: One of the most critical aspects of a supply chain management program is the opportunity to work within the field during your education. Explore what this looks like for the specific programs you’re considering, including whether they help you find a placement, if it’s typically paid, and how long it is.
FAQ
Which College Is the Best To Study Supply Chain Management in Canada?
Top schools for supply chain management in Canada include Robertson College, Concordia College, and York University.
Is Supply Chain Management a Good Career in Canada?
Yes, supply chain management is a good career option in Canada. The field is growing, with demand for skilled professionals in various roles. Supply chain jobs provide competitive salaries, as well as good opportunities for career advancement.
How Much Does It Cost To Study Supply Chain Management in Canada?
The cost of studying supply chain management in Canada varies depending on the specific program and institution. Generally, college diplomas tend to be more affordable — around $15,000 to $44,000 — while university degrees can range from $20,000 to $47,000 per year for domestic tuition.
Is Canada Good for Studying Supply Chain Management?
Yes. Supply chain management courses in Canada for international students are a great option. Generally, the criteria for admittance are straightforward, and the majority of programs accept international students.
How Long Is the Supply Chain Management Course in Canada?
Depending on the level of study desired, a course can take anywhere from a year to five years or more. Robertson’s Logistics and Supply Chain Management Diploma program takes 12 months to complete.
How Can I Start a Career in Supply Chain Management in Canada?
Launching a successful career in supply chain management starts with the right education. By carefully considering factors like program focus, reputation, and work placement opportunities, you can find the best college for supply chain management in Canada for you.
Learn more about Robertson’s School of Business and become a vital link in Canada’s ever-evolving supply chain network.