Which one is the right choice for logistics managers: MBA or Master in Logistics?

Filed in archive Education on September 14, 2007

This might be the question in the minds of many logistics managers: "Which one should I go for: MBA or Master in supply chain?" The answer is the first one if you are shooting for a C-level position.

The type of the knowledge which master programs in logistics provide is more technical. They teach you tools and techniques, while as a senior manager (after graduation!) you need to understand the whole business, not just the in-depth supply chain processes. As I have seen in the industry, the logistics managers have already learned those tools during their first 4-5 years of their career. Therefore, I think an MBA would be more appropriate. One way to combine the two world would be to choose topics for research and papers based on supply chain management.

Another alternative (in the case you're willing to spend a lot of money) is to apply for the Dual Degree Program of IE Business School in Spain (which is actually a good one) and within 2 years, you can get an MBA from IE plus a master in supply chain from MIT or MIT Lab in Zaragoza, Spain. I will write more about this subject but I would like to know about your thoughts too, so all comments are welcomed.