Supply chain analytics courses can help you learn how data is used to forecast demand, improve inventory planning, and evaluate supplier performance. You can build skills in statistical modeling, dashboard creation, and interpreting operational metrics across supply chain stages. Many courses introduce tools such as spreadsheets, analytics platforms, and visualization software that support analyzing patterns and informing supply chain decisions.

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Competitive Analysis, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Benchmarking, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Customer Analysis, Supply Chain Planning, Customer experience improvement, Analytics, Financial Analysis, Inventory Management System, Data Analysis, Cost Estimation, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Cost Reduction, Spatial Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Unilever
Skills you'll gain: Data Governance, Descriptive Analytics, Data Storytelling, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Demand Planning, Presentations, Data Visualization, Supply Chain Systems, Supply Chain Planning, Process Improvement, Data Management, Data Lakes, Predictive Analytics, Forecasting, Data Analysis, Inventory and Warehousing, Data Analysis Software, Real Time Data, Problem Solving
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Competitive Intelligence, Demand Planning, Strategic Sourcing, Competitive Analysis, Customer Demand Planning, Data Storytelling, Procurement, Supplier Management, Supply Chain, Regression Analysis, Supplier Performance Management, Inventory Control, Business Analytics, Data Collection, Supply Management, Supply Chain Management, Inventory Accounting, Business Intelligence, Strategic Decision-Making, Data Analysis
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Process Improvement, Capacity Planning, Logistics Management, Sustainable Business, Analytics, Corporate Sustainability, Scheduling, Inventory Management System, Forecasting, Data Analysis, Security Management, Expense Management, Operating Expense, Risk Management, Data Visualization, Problem Solving
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Unilever
Skills you'll gain: Descriptive Analytics, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Systems, Supply Chain Planning, Predictive Analytics, Forecasting, Inventory and Warehousing, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Business Analytics, Advanced Analytics, Analytics, SQL, Data Presentation, Data Analysis, Technical Communication, Data Storytelling, Statistical Reporting, Python Programming
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of California, Irvine
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Planning, Demand Planning, Customer Demand Planning, Inventory Control, Inventory Management, Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain, Inventory Accounting, Capacity Planning, Production Planning, Materials Management, Inventory Management System, Process Optimization, Forecasting, Operations Management, Operations Research, Resource Allocation, Capacity Management, Microsoft Excel, Performance Measurement
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Inventory Control, Inventory Accounting, Materials Management, Supply Chain, Financial Statement Analysis, Data Analysis, Case Studies
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Strategic Sourcing, Lean Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Demand Planning, Procurement, Supplier Relationship Management, Forecasting, Lean Methodologies, Process Improvement, Supplier Management, Operations Management, Purchasing, Production Process, Supply Management, Supply Chain, Warehouse Management, Supply Chain Planning, Inventory and Warehousing, Inventory Management System, Logistics
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Management, Strategic Decision-Making, Working Capital, Data Analysis, Operational Efficiency, Performance Measurement, Job Analysis, Case Studies, Financial Analysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Exploratory Data Analysis, Model Evaluation, Data Transformation, Data Analysis, Data Cleansing, Data Manipulation, Data Import/Export, Predictive Modeling, Data Preprocessing, Regression Analysis, Data Science, Statistical Analysis, Pandas (Python Package), Scikit Learn (Machine Learning Library), Data-Driven Decision-Making, Matplotlib, Data Visualization, NumPy, Python Programming
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Skills you'll gain: Supply Chain Management, Supply Chain Planning, Supply Chain, Inventory Management System, Demand Planning, Supply Chain Systems, Materials Management, Forecasting, Customer Demand Planning, AI Enablement, Supplier Management, Risk Mitigation, Transportation, Supply Chain, and Logistics, Risk Analysis, Business Risk Management, Automation, Risk Management, Business Process Automation
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

IBM
Skills you'll gain: Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Storytelling, Dashboard, Data Visualization Software, Plotly, Data Visualization, Data Presentation, Interactive Data Visualization, Generative AI, Model Evaluation, SQL, Data Transformation, Data Analysis, Statistical Visualization, IBM Cognos Analytics, Excel Formulas, Professional Networking, Data Import/Export, Microsoft Excel, Python Programming
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
Supply chain analytics refers to the use of data analysis techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain operations. It involves collecting and analyzing data from various sources, such as inventory levels, supplier performance, and customer demand, to make informed decisions. The importance of supply chain analytics lies in its ability to enhance visibility across the supply chain, optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. By leveraging analytics, organizations can respond more swiftly to market changes and make data-driven decisions that lead to better outcomes.‎
A career in supply chain analytics can lead to various job opportunities, including roles such as Supply Chain Analyst, Data Analyst, Operations Manager, and Logistics Coordinator. These positions often involve analyzing data to identify trends, improve processes, and support decision-making within the supply chain. Additionally, professionals may find opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, retail, and logistics, where the demand for skilled analysts continues to grow as companies seek to enhance their supply chain efficiency.‎
To excel in supply chain analytics, you should develop a blend of technical and soft skills. Key technical skills include proficiency in data analysis tools and software, such as Excel, SQL, and data visualization platforms. Understanding statistical methods and supply chain management principles is also crucial. On the soft skills side, strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential for conveying insights and recommendations to stakeholders. Familiarity with supply chain concepts and operations will further enhance your effectiveness in this field.‎
There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in supply chain analytics. Notable options include the Supply Chain Analytics Specialization, which provides a comprehensive overview of the field, and the Implementing Supply Chain Analytics course, which focuses on practical applications. Additionally, the Supply Chain Analytics Essentials course offers foundational knowledge for beginners.‎
Yes. You can start learning supply chain analytics on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in supply chain analytics, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning supply chain analytics involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Start by enrolling in foundational courses to understand key concepts and tools. Engage with hands-on projects or case studies to apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios. Additionally, consider joining online forums or study groups to discuss insights and challenges with peers. Continuous practice and staying updated with industry trends will further enhance your skills and confidence in this area.‎
Typical topics covered in supply chain analytics courses include data collection and management, demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and performance measurement. Courses often explore analytical techniques such as regression analysis, data visualization, and the use of software tools for data analysis. Additionally, students may learn about the integration of supply chain analytics with broader business strategies and the role of technology in enhancing supply chain operations.‎
For training and upskilling employees in supply chain analytics, courses like the Unilever Supply Chain Data Analyst Professional Certificate provide a structured learning path tailored for professionals. Additionally, the Supply Chain Management and Analytics course offers insights into integrating analytics within supply chain management, making it suitable for workforce development.‎