Executive Master of Science in Automotive Supply Chain Management

The Ilitch School's Executive Master of Science in Automotive Supply Chain Management (EMS-SCM) provides students from automotive and related industries with the theoretical understanding, applied practical knowledge, and skills to manage complex manufacturing supply chains.

This 31-credit program is offered in two modalities: traditional and online. Both options are designed for working professionals with a bachelor's degree who are ready to advance their supply chain management career in the automotive industry. Those wishing to immediately pursue graduate studies after earning a bachelor's degree will also benefit. The program can be completed in three semesters of full-time study, or approximately two years of part-time study. Courses are taught by both academic and industry experts.

The curriculum is designed to address the specific needs of the auto industry, covering procurement, manufacturing planning, operations management, logistics, customs administration, supply chain analytics, lean management, quality control, enterprise resource management, sustainability, and risk management.

Active collaboration with industry

In addition to classroom education, students benefit from the Ilitch School's strong connections to Detroit automotive companies and with the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), whose members include leading companies throughout the vehicle industry. The WSU/AIAG partnership has been formalized in a network called the Global Automotive Purchasing and Supply Chain Network and includes joint efforts in executive education and research. These company and industry relationships will provide students with the benefit of cutting-edge research, specialized training modules, realistic industry case studies, and access to real-world professionals in and outside the classroom.

Both traditional and online students benefit from the Ilitch School's location in Detroit. Michigan is home to three major automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and dozens of OEM assembly and component plants. Additionally, more than half of the top 100 automotive suppliers in the world are headquartered in Michigan. Including suppliers, Michigan has more than one thousand automotive-related manufacturing establishments. This results in Southeast Michigan having one of the largest concentrations of supply chain professionals.