This is a list of schools that focus on the Most Affordable Accelerated Online Masters Operations Management:
- Online MS in Project Management and Operations
- Online MS in Management Science
- Online MS in Management with a specialization in Operations Management
- Online MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management
In light of what’s going on in the world today, it’s clear that there’s a need for people in managerial positions who can create smooth operating processes for businesses. That’s where a quick online Master’s degree in Operations Management comes in. If you’re looking for a job that will help you design and oversee production processes, OM is your field. Below, we’ve ranked the top 11 Master’s in Operations Management online.
Methodology:
In order to rank the easiest online Master’s in Operations Management programs, we scored the schools based on 3 criteria: their Student/Faculty ratio, the school’s graduate/in-state graduate tuition, and the duration of the program. We used the school’s website for information, as well as the National Center for Education Statistics. If any information didn’t fit within the parameters of the scoring, zero points were awarded for that category. In the case of a tie, the school with the lower tuition pulled the higher rank.
Student/Faculty ratio:
- 13:1 or less- 3 points
- 14:1 to 20:1- 2 points
- 21:1 and above- 1 point
Average Graduate Tuition Rate:
- Less than $8,000- 5 points
- $8,000 to $18,000- 3 points
- Greater than $18,000- 1 point
Minimum Time to Completion:
- 12 months or less- 5 points
- 13-18 months- 3 points
- 19-24 months- 1 point
Now, let’s take a look at some of the best Master’s in Operations Management online out there.
11. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers a fast online Master’s in Operations Management. The Master of Science in Project Management and Operations is 36-credits. Classes include Topics in Operations Management, Quantitative Analysis for Decision Making, and Project Management. Earn your degree faster by earning credits for prior learning. Students can complete the degree in as little as 15 months. Graduates will be ready to sit for the PMP exam.
Points: 5
10. University of Texas Dallas
The University of Texas – Dallas’ Master’s in Operations Management offering is an online MS in Management Science. The program is 36 credits in length and features 12 courses. Students can choose from 4 different areas of concentration: business analytics, information technology management, project management, and consulting. Classes include Database Foundations or Database Foundations for Business Analytics, Spreadsheet Modeling, and Analytics, and Business Analytics with SAS or Business Analytics with R. The online degree can be completed from anywhere, whenever you choose. A GMAT or GRE waiver is available.
Points: 5
9. Indiana University – Bloomington
At Indiana University, students can pursue a Master’s in Operations Management through their online MS in Global Supply Chain Management. Sample classes include Sustainable Operations, Supply Chain System Distribution and Inventory Management, and Managing Accounting Information for Decision-Making. This program is unique because it is also a dual degree. Students can choose to add-on an MBA for 66 additional credits. Graduates will be ready for careers as a Chief Manufacturing Officer, Operations Manager, Logistics Analyst, or Supply Chain Manager.
Points: 6
8. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
For students seeking managerial positions, a quick online Master’s in Operations Management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is worth checking out. Students will earn a Master of Science in Management that will focus more on managerial leadership than a traditional MBA. Next, students will pursue a specialization in Operations Management, which will utilize a hands-on approach. Core courses include Planning and Execution of Strategy, Theory and Application of Managerial Communications, and Social Responsibility, Ethics, and Law. The Master of Science in Management program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools Programs.
Points: 6
7. Saint Vincent College
At Saint Vincent College, students can pursue a Master’s in Operations Management online through their online MS in Management. Students can choose a concentration in Operational Excellence, which focuses on the three interrelated areas that help managers in this field become successful: people, organizations, and processes. Courses include Strategic Management of Complex Organizations, Six Sigma Lean Green Belt Certification Prep Course, Strategic Management of Complex Organizations, and Supply Chain Management. In these synchronous courses, students will sign-in at specific times and participate in discussions, allowing for “real-time technology-facilitated interaction” (according to the program website). No GMAT is required for admission unless your undergraduate GPA is less than 3.0.
Points: 7
6. The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama’s Bama by Distance sector offers a graduate degree in Operations Management through its Master of Science program. Among the 30-credit hours are classes like Manufacturing Scheduling and Control Systems, Systems Simulation, and Management Science and Spreadsheet Modeling. Students can complete the program in 18-24 months. The online MS in Operations Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and is ranked in the top 10 of online business schools by the US News and World Report. No thesis is required.
Points: 7
5. Johnson and Wales University
The operations management Master’s degree online at Johnson & Wales University will focus on a career-focused curriculum. Courses include core classes like:
- Operations Management
- Designing & Managing Supply Chains
- Global Logistics
- Financial Management
- Lean Production and Quality Control
Classes will be presented in an 8-week format, and the program can be completed in as little as 18 months. Students can expect an experiential, real-world curriculum. Add in the partnerships with industry experts and students will be ready to be leaders in the business world.
Points: 8
4. Kettering University
The operations management Master’s degree at Kettering University will consist of 40-credit hours and 10 courses. The culminating project will be a capstone course that encourages students to provide a solution to a problem (from the perspective as a senior-level manager!) As a bonus, students can choose a graduate certificate in Global Leadership, Healthcare Management, Operations Management, or Supply Chain & Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). The best part? The certificate is a part of the program; no need to add any more classes to your plate. No GMAT is required for admission. The program can be completed in 18-24 months.
Points: 8
3. University of Wisconsin-Stout
The University of Wisconsin – Stout offers a fast online Master’s in Operations Management. Students will earn a Master of Science in Operations and Supply Management can also choose from 6 areas of concentration:
- Engineering Technology Management
- Industry Occupation Safety and Hygiene
- Operations Management
- Project Management
- Quality Management
- SAP ERP Business Analytics
Benefits of the program include a designated program director, student advisor, and flexible courses designed for working professionals. Graduates will be for ready careers as Supply Chain Analysts, Project Managers, Quality Managers, and more. Related programs in Sustainable Management and Risk Control and Safety Management are available.
Points: 8
2. Colorado Technical University
If you’re looking for a customizable Master’s in Operations Management, take a good look at Colorado Technical University’s online MBA in Operations Supply Chain Management. The 48-credit program features courses like Logistics/SCM Inventory and Distribution, Applied Managerial Decision-Making, and Strategic Management in Dynamic Environments. Students will also take a business core as a part of the MBA. The program can be completed in as little as 12 months. The fast online Master’s in Operations Management is accredited by ACBSP.
Points: 9
1. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas offers an operations management Master’s through their online MS in Operations Management. Classes are presented in an 8-week format and are offered 5 times per year. The program is 30 credits in length and can be completed in 1.5-2 years. Note that up to 4 classes can be waived, as well as the GRE.
Points: 10
What is a fast online Master’s in Operations Management?
Operations Management is a subfield of business that focuses on creating the most efficient operations practices within an organization. OM focuses on strategically streamlining and optimizing the processes in a business, which turns goods and labor into a product–and ultimately drives a profit. In other words, the field is concerned with producing the best possible outcome for the customer using the least amount of resources, all while running a smooth operation.
Therefore, a graduate operations management degree will prepare students for managerial or supervisory roles in related careers.
Types of Degrees in the Easiest Master’s in Operations Management Online Programs:
When researching which operations management master’s degree online to choose, first take a look at the degree types available. Students can generally choose from a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science (MSOM).
Both degrees will prepare you for managerial roles in the fields, and both will help you become successful. They even have the same prerequisites. So, then you might be thinking? What’s the difference? And which one is right for me?
The main difference between the MBA and the MSOM is that the MBA will have a general business core, focusing more on finance, global perspectives, and international business.
Most students who pursue the MSOM are professionals in the field and need additional schooling to advance their careers within an organization. Students wanting to change jobs or keep options open might pursue an MBA.
Coursework for the Operations Management Degree Programs:
In the field of Operations Management, students will take coursework that drives them towards supervisory roles in business processes. The programs are typically research-based and help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in business operations positions. Students will take advanced coursework in areas like Finance, Managing People and Processes, Quality Management, Cost Analysis, Ethics and Leadership, Human Behavior, Marketing, and more.
Specific coursework we explored in this ranking include:
- Logistics/SCM Inventory and Distribution
- Applied Managerial Decision-Making
- Strategic Management in Dynamic Environments
- Operations Management
- Designing & Managing Supply Chains
- Global Logistics
- Financial Management
- Lean Production and Quality Control
- Manufacturing Scheduling and Control Systems
- Systems Simulation
- Management Science and Spreadsheet Modeling
- Database Foundations for Business Analytics
- Spreadsheet Modeling and Analytics
- Business Analytics
- Project Management
- Sustainable Operations
- Supply Chain System Distribution and Inventory Management
- Managing Accounting Information for Decision-Making
Areas of concentration for operations management gradate degrees:
In your specific program, you might have the chance to specialize in a particular sub-area of operations management. Adding an area of concentration can help you dig digger into a more specific area of your field and make you more marketable for a desired position. Coupled with your professional experience, your specialization could help you be viewed as an expert in your field.
Concentration options could include:
- Engineering Technology Management
- Industry Occupation Safety and Hygiene
- Operations Management
- Project Management
- Quality Management
- SAP ERP Business Analytics
- Information Technology Management
- Project Management and Consulting
- Operations managers
Your area of concentration could determine your career direction, so choose wisely! For example, a concentration in community resilience would be a good fit for the person who wants to work directly with the local community, its people, and its organizations in times of crisis. On the other hand, a concentration in logistics could lead to a career in creating systems and rules for people in times of crisis.
Related Master’s in Operations Management degree options:
While you’re searching for programs that interest you, you could find some degrees that are similar programs that offer coursework in the same realm as operations management degree online programs. Some options could include Master’s degrees in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or Business Administration.
Prerequisites for an accelerated Master’s degree in Operations Management:
Students pursuing an online operations management Master’s will first need a Bachelor’s degree in a related business field. If you don’t have a related degree, you might be required to take some prerequisite coursework. Make sure to check the details of your desired program before you apply.
Length of the quickest Online Master’s in Operations Management programs:
Most operations management graduate programs will take anywhere from 18 months to three years, depending on how fast you pursue the degree and the program details. However, it is possible to find shorter programs. For example, Southern New Hampshire University has a program that can be completed in as little as 15 months.
Factors the can affect how long it takes to earn your OM degree:
- whether you are a full-time or part-time student
- whether or not you are working full-time, too
- family, personal, work obligations
- extracurricular life
Internships and Fieldwork for the Easiest Online Master’s in Operations Management:
Because the study of Operations Management is research-based, we found that not many of the programs include an internship experience. In addition, most enrolled students are also working professionals in the field, so the programs are designed to help graduates excel in their careers and promote within their organization.
Culminating Work:
Some programs might require a thesis, but many include a culminating project instead. This allows students to work to find solutions to problems in the OM field.
Admission details for the fastest Master’s degrees in Operations Management online:
To get admitted to an online Master’s in Operations Management degree program, you might need some or all of these requirements:
- a Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field
- possible additional prerequisite coursework
- a minimum GPA requirement
- standardized test scores, if required
- letters of recommendation
- entrance essay
Some graduate programs will require a standardized test for admission (like the GRE or GMAT), but some schools are test-optional or do not require them at all. Check your school’s admission requirements for details.
*Remember, entrance to all programs will vary. Check your school’s program details to make sure you can meet the requirements before applying.
Do I need to take a standardized test like the GRE to be admitted?
A: This will depend on your school’s requirements. Some programs require standardized testing scores, but a lot on this list actually offer GRE/GMAT waivers. Waiver eligibility is usually tied to undergraduate GPA or work experiences. Remember, each school is different, so make sure to research what schools match your personal requirements.
What kind of online services will I expect?
A: The good news about online programs is that you have the convenience and flexibility of online learning, but you still get support. Earning your degree online doesn’t mean you will be completely alone. Student services could include similar services to on-campus students, just online: advisors, libraries, tutoring, career services, and more.
How will the courses be delivered?
Classes will be presented in one of two ways:
- synchronously (at a specific day/time)
- asynchronously (on your own time/schedule)
You will need to decide what delivery method works best for your life obligations and personality. Check out your program’s details before you commit.
How long do the online courses last?
A: Depending on your program’s requirements, online classes sometimes last 7.5 weeks, 8 weeks, 10 weeks, or even 15 weeks.
Is a Master’s in Operations Management worth it?
A: Getting the right degree matters. If you’re going to spend time and money on it, it needs to be a good career path. So, when considering whether or not a degree is worth it, consider two questions. What is the growth potential of this field? (meaning: is this a dying field? or a growing field?) And does the job itself match up with what I want for my life?
One example is a career as an Operations Research Analyst. The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that this career is expected to grow by 26% by 2028. Likewise, management roles are expected to grow by 7%.
Are there doctoral degrees in Operations Management?
Yes, there are. PhD degrees in OM are primarily for students who want to work in academics and research.
Fast Online Master’s in Operations Management Career Information:
What will I be doing in my operations management job?
A: According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, duties could include “formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources.”
Master’s in Operations Management jobs will contain careers in:
- Supply chain management
- Logistics and transportation
- Purchasing and quality control
- Production lines
- Manufacturing
- Operations analysis
- Operations managers
Sample careers include:
- Operations Research Analyst
- Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- Quality Control Manager
- Materials Manager
- Business Analyst
Master’s in Operations Management Salary:
Salaries for these positions will range, but here is what you can expect as an operations manager:
*information gathered from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Numbers are the mean average wage as of 2019.
Operations Manager: $123,030 per year
Licensure, Certification, and Professional Organizations:
Getting your Master’s in Operations Management won’t automatically mean you will be certified in certain areas. Most programs prepare you for exam eligibility so that you can take the exams you need to take, such as the PMP exam for project managers, etc. Exams may not be necessary for your job promotion, but they might. Make sure to understand what your job requires.
A few professional organizations in operations management to check out include Production and Operations Management Society, American Production and Inventory Control Society, and Manufacturing and Service Operations Management Society.
