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Supply Chain

Supply Chain & Operations Management

Boost your supply chain expertise with in-demand business and leadership skills. This 65-week diploma program prepares you to manage logistics, purchasing, and operations. Graduates earn industry-recognized certifications, including the CIFFA Certificate and Introductory Dispatch and Operations Software Certificate, to strengthen their credentials.

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Type

Diploma

Duration

Remote: 65 Weeks
On-Campus: 65 Weeks

Internship

Remote:12 Weeks
On-Campus: 12 Weeks

About Supply Chain & Operations Management

In just 65 weeks, you will develop the business, logistics, and leadership skills needed to excel in the growing supply chain industry. The program combines in-depth learning with practical training in procurement, operations, inventory management, and logistics coordination. You will also complete a 12-week internship, giving you valuable hands-on experience in a real supply chain or logistics environment. 

With small class sizes and experienced instructors, you will receive personalized guidance and mentorship every step of the way. 

The program is delivered online through live, instructor-led sessions, providing the flexibility of virtual learning while maintaining the engagement and support of a traditional classroom experience. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Supply Chain & Operations Management program will be prepared for a variety of roles in logistics, procurement, and operations across private, public, and non-profit sectors. 

Career paths include: 

  • Purchasing Agent 
  • Purchasing Clerk 
  • Inventory Clerk 
  • Material Management Officer 
  • Warehouse Operations Supervisor 
  • Procurement Specialist 
  • Logistics Coordinator 
  • Shipping and Receiving Supervisor 

Employers Who Have Hired Eastern Grads

  • Atlas Cargo 
  • Bombardier 
  • Ryder Logistics 
  • Challenger Motor Freight Inc. 
  • DHL Global Forwarding 
  • Canadian Customs Brokers Inc. 

Salary

$ 35

Average Wage/hr**

$ 57

High Wage/hr**

*Employment Rate based on 2023 contactable Eastern graduates employed in a related field within 12 months.

Source: workingincanada.gc.ca

NOC Code: 12013- **Wage data rounded down to the nearest dollar and based on Nova Scotia data. Average wage doesn't reflect the starting salary but represents the middle value between lowest to highest wages. Local (or regional) income may vary. Last updated in Mar 2025.

Program Details

Are you organized, analytical, and ready to take on a leadership role in one of Canada’s fastest-growing industries? The Supply Chain & Operations Management diploma program at Eastern College provides you with the business, technical, and managerial skills needed to coordinate, analyze, and optimize supply chain processes from production to delivery. 

Through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training, you will gain a strong foundation in procurement, logistics, transportation, and operations management. You will also develop valuable leadership, data analysis, and project management skills that are essential in today’s competitive business environment. 

Key course topics include: 

  • Purchasing and Procurement 
  • Operations Management 
  • Integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) 
  • Business Project Management 
  • Foundational Competencies for Managers 
  • Advanced Excel and Analytics 
  • Risk and Quality Management 
  • International Freight Forwarding 

This 65-week program includes a 12-week (300-hour) internship, giving you hands-on experience in a real business or logistics environment and the opportunity to apply your skills directly within the industry. 

Upon successful completion, graduates will receive: 

  • A Registered and Approved Diploma 
  • Certificate in International Freight Forwarding (CIFFA) 
  • Certificate of Recognition in Introductory Dispatch and Operations Software 
  • Advanced Standing toward the Certified Supply Chain Management Professional (CSCMP) designation program 
  • Access to Microsoft Project and Oracle NetSuite ERP software 
  • Career services and job search assistance 
Course Listings: New Brunswick
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Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Business Communication
This course is designed to provide a basic understanding of communication skills in business environments. Focus will be placed on both written and spoken communications. You will review the basic writing process with emphasis on the mechanics of writing. You will also learn the importance of effective spoken communication, deliver an oral presentation, and participate in a mock meeting.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Business Negotiations
In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of business negotiations, focusing on best practices for achieving successful outcomes. You will explore key concepts, tactics, and strategies for effective negotiation, emphasizing how these skills create value within an organization. Special attention will be given to common negotiation scenarios within supply chain management. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to apply and demonstrate the negotiation techniques you learn.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Essentials of Freight Forwarding
Define roles of all parties involved in the successful execution of a letter of credit. Follow step-by-step procedures for successful insurance claims handling, including timing and documentation requirements. Complete a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, export declaration, and other documents. Prepare a quotation for multimodal movements. Calculate the profit/loss on a shipment.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. International Transportation and Trade
This course is one of two offered as part of the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association's (CIFFA) professional standards program. You will learn the foundations of freight forwarding in the context of international trade, how to manage risks by selecting the appropriate Incoterm® for a shipment, how to calculate freight charges and load shipments, and the types of equipment and documentation used to move goods by land, air, and ocean modes of transport.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Fundamentals of Contract Law
This course provides an overview of Canadian business practices and how Canadian businesses relate to the global marketplace. You will learn about the operations and management structure of businesses. You will also explore human resources management and the finance functions of a business. Additonally, you will analyze the effects of globalization on the Canadian business sector.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Career Planning and Preparation - Level 1
This course will introduce you to and provide practice in using the tools required for a successful job search. The concepts covered in this course will help you maintain a career-focused approach throughout your studies so that you are better prepared to conduct a job search after graduating. Specifically, you will learn how to identify your soft and hard skills and how to articulate your abilities in a clear and concise Elevator Pitch that will appeal to employers and resonate with industry contacts. You will learn about the job search resources available to you including using career websites, creating LinkedIn profiles, accessing the “hidden” job market, and networking. You will examine sample résumés and cover letters and begin the process of creating your own professional résumés and cover letters that align with current conventions for content, organization, and formatting. You will also learn about the role of references, thank you letters, workplace philosophies, and strategies for success including maintaining a professional image and using proper etiquette when communicating with potential employers and industry contacts. An introduction to Occupational Health and Safety is also provided with specific focus on employees’ rights and responsibilities, workplace health and safety policy and programs, and hazard identification and control.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Career Planning and Preparation – Level 2
This course builds on concepts and skills introduced in the Career Planning and Preparation Level 1 course. In this subsequent course, you will update and refine your résumé and LinkedIn Profile. You will continue writing cover letters and learn the value of customizing cover letters to specific job postings. You will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge as you conduct a job search and write a cover letter tailored to an ideal job post. Through research, you will create a list of top employers and target current industry opportunities. You will learn about current methods for applying to job postings using technology. You will also gain an understanding of the job interview process, typical interview questions and possible responses, and expectations of both the interviewer and interviewee. In addition, you will engage in practical application of the interview process through role-play. Topics such as negotiating salary, self-management, and on-the-job success for placements and post-graduate employment will be also covered.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Customs Administration and Procedures
This course will provide you with a detailed overview of how the importation and exportation of goods are administered in Canada. It emphasizes essential practices for understanding key legislation, ensuring regulatory compliance, and preparing trade documentation. Additionally, you will explore the significance of customs administration in maintaining an efficient and well-organized supply chain.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Digital Literacy for Professionals
This course introduces essential concepts and principles for navigating and working in a digital environment. Key topics include using devices, managing information, creating and editing content, communicating and collaborating with digital tools, and ensuring online safety and responsibility. You will also apply best practices for folder organization and file naming conventions.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Enterprise Resource Planning Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems provide the backbone of organizational data and process integration. When Supply Chain Management functions are integrated into an ERP system, businesses can achieve greater efficiency, better decision-making, and improved visibility across their entire supply chain and operations. In this course, you will explore key planning systems used in Supply Chain Management, including Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP), Distribution Requirements Planning (DRP), Master Production Scheduling (MPS), Material Requirements Planning (MRP), Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS), and Capacity Planning. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how these systems optimize supply chain processes and improve organizational efficiency. You will gain practical, hands-on experience using Oracle NetSuite through the Oracle Academy student hub using interactive learning modules, allowing you to apply ERP concepts and functionalities directly within a leading enterprise resource planning software.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Microsoft Excel
This Microsoft Office Excel course is created to help you build and validate the skills needed to succeed in today's economy. It will also provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to use Microsoft Office Excel effectively in all aspects of your personal and professional lives. Excel is the world's most popular spreadsheet software. Whether you are managing a household or running a small business, Excel will help you develop useful techniques to help business processes. This course is computer intensive and demands basic computer proficiency and a basic understanding of spreadsheet software. You are expected to make arrangements to meet proficiency needs as necessary.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Advanced Excel and Data Analysis
This course is designed to enhance your Excel skills. You will learn advanced techniques to analyze, visualize, and manage data effectively, with a focus on supply chain and logistics applications. By working through hands-on projects, you will master tools like PivotTables, charts, and advanced formulas to solve problems and make data-driven decisions. By the end of the course, you will be equipped to use Excel to streamline processes, create insightful reports, and improve business performance.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Introduction to Databases (using Microsoft Access)
This course covers the basic functions and features of Microsoft Access. You will learn how to design and create databases; work with tables, fields, and records; sort and filter data; and create queries, forms, and reports.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Introduction to Canadian Business in the Global Marketplace
This course provides students with an overview of Canadian business practices and how Canadian businesses relate to the global marketplace. Students will learn about the business and management structure of businesses. They will also explore human resources management and the finance functions of a business. Students will also analyze the effects of globalization on the Canadian business sector.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Introduction to Logistics and Transportation
This course builds on your knowledge of supply chain concepts by focusing on logistics and transportation and their role in effective supply chain management. Topics include a global perspective on logistics and transportation, multimodal freight, containerization, and the application of Transportation Management Systems (TMS). You will also explore the significance of third-party logistics (3PL), Incoterms 2020, and the impact of information flow across the supply chain.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Introduction to Supply Chain Management
This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of supply chain management. You will explore the basic components of a supply chain and examine its strategic importance to organizations. Topics include an introduction to procurement, logistics and inventory management, and other vital supply chain activities. Additionally, you will review career paths, professional training opportunities, and the skills and knowledge required for success in the field.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Inventory Control and Materials Management
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the basics of materials management, emphasizing its critical role in supply chain operations. You will delve into topics such as manufacturing planning and control systems, inventory control, and physical distribution. You will also examine the relationships with other operational functions within the supply chain.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Foundational Competencies for Managers
In this course, you will develop the foundational management competencies needed to succeed in supply chain management roles. You will explore the core functions of management - planning, organizing, leading, and controlling - and learn how to apply them to drive organizational success. Through practical tools and strategies, you will enhance your ability to align with company goals, work effectively as part of a team, and prepare for future management opportunities. This course is designed to help you become a valuable resource in any organization and position yourself as a strong candidate for leadership roles.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Introduction to Operations Management
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the field of operations management. You will explore key decision-making areas, including quality management, location strategy, plant layout design, and the principles of lean manufacturing. Additionally, you will gain insights into corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustainability, and project management tools, which are critical for managing operations effectively in today's dynamic business environment.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Microsoft Outlook
This Microsoft Outlook course builds and validates the skills businesses need to succeed in today's information economy. It will also provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to use to effectively manage emails, contacts, calendars, and tasks. Outlook has become the corporate standard electronic personal organizer. These are the foundational skills needed to communicate using Outlook in a variety of positions within an organization. This course is computer intensive and demands basic computer proficiency and a basic understanding of email software. You are expected to make arrangements to meet proficiency needs.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Microsoft Powerpoint
This course will show you how to create and modify basic presentations by using Microsoft Office PowerPoint. You will explore the PowerPoint environment and create a presentation; you will format text on slides to enhance clarity and visual appeal; and you will also add and modify graphical objects in order to finalize and deliver a presentation. This course is computer intensive and demands basic computer proficiency and a basic understanding of PowerPoint software. You are expected to ensure you meet proficiency requirements for working in this environment.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Professional Purchasing
This course offers a specialized introduction to contract law, emphasizing its application in supply chain management. You will explore the foundational principles of contract formation, performance, and enforcement. Key topics include offer and acceptance, consideration, capacity, legality, and remedies for breach of contract, with a focus on how these concepts are applied in supply chain agreements and transactions.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Supply Chain Security Principles and Loss Prevention
This course will equip you with knowledge of supply chain security. You will learn about navigating the compliance landscape. You will also gain insights into recognizing how to prevent against loss and damage due to these threats against the supply chain.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Supply Chain and Operations Management Internship
At the completion of the in-class portion of this program, you are required to complete a 12-week field placement at a business or organization within the supply chain and operations industry.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Business Project Management
In this course, you will learn the essential tools and processes for successful project management. You will explore key concepts and skills used by managers to propose, plan, secure resources, budget, and lead project teams to achieve their goals. The course emphasizes the importance of formal project management processes in helping organizations maintain a competitive advantage. You will gain the skills to handle common challenges that arise during projects and understand how projects contribute to an organization’s mission. Key topics include defining project scope, analyzing tasks and risks, building and managing teams, and creating comprehensive project plans based on industry-standard project management principles. Additionally, you will be introduced to the basics of Microsoft Project, a software tool designed to help track project progress and organize key project elements.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Student Success Strategies
This course stresses the importance of developing non-technical skills to enhance personal, academic, and career success. The course will address strategies that are important for all adult learners, such as managing finances, maintaining health and wellness, understanding learning styles, setting goals, and honing practical study skills (such as memory, reading, and test-taking techniques). In addition, this course emphasizes strategies needed to succeed in your program, such as navigating technology efficiently, interacting and engaging with peers and facilitators/instructors, and managing learning time and space.
Icon-Quiz-Small Created with Sketch. Microsoft Word
This Microsoft Office Word course is created for you to build and validate the skills businesses need to succeed in today's information economy. It also provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to use Microsoft Office Word effectively in all aspects of your personal and professional lives. Word is the world's most popular word processing software. Learning how to create, edit, format and print documents, enhance work with formatting, use bullets and numbering, add simple borders, tables, headers/footers, organizing data columns, and styles, are the foundational skills needed to perform in many positions. This course is computer intensive and demands basic computer proficiency and a basic understanding of word processing software. The course combines Theory/demonstration by an instructor with readings, trainings, projects, and a final exam for you to work on in a simulation-based environment. You are expected to ensure you meet proficiency requirements for working in this environment.
Admission Requirements
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  • Student has Grade 12 or equivalent or meets criteria for Mature Student Status.
  • Mature students must be 19 years of age, pass a qualifying test, and provide a Letter of Intent OR resume that supports their skills and aptitudes to be successful in the program.
  • The approved qualifying test for this program is the Wonderlic test. A passing score for this program is 18.

Successful graduates of the program who meet the requirements outlined by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) will achieve a Certificate in International Freight Forwarding. The certificate is nationally recognized within the international transportation and international trade logistics industries. 

Career Quiz

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Instructor Quote

Supply Chain activities can add value to products and services in every functional responsibility area and can contribute positively to profitability and sustainability. Increasingly recognized for these contributions in the corporate world, Supply Chain offers opportunities from entry-level positions to the upper ranks of corporate management. Skills acquired in preparation for and during supply chain functions are highly transferable to other functions, making this career path a gateway to almost limitless future directions.

Bill O'Donnell

Supply Chain & Logistics Instructor

Success Stories

“Experienced staff, small classes, content filled lectures, visitation to course relevant companies and extremely knowledgeable Supply Chain instructor.”

Olugbenga

2019

Frequently Asked Questions About Supply Chain and Logistics

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Supply Chain and Logistics

Is Supply Chain Management a Good Career?
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Canada has a strong and diverse economy with various industries that rely on efficient supply chain management. Supply chain management professionals are in demand across industries such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and logistics. Canada's growing e-commerce sector has increased the need for supply chain experts. Supply chain management offers various career paths, from entry-level positions to management roles. As you gain experience and skills, you can advance in your career.
What Is Supply Chain Management and Why Is It Important?
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Supply chain management integrates various procedures and a network involving manufacturers, freight forwarders, and distributors. Each entity plays a distinct role in the conversion of raw materials into finished products and their distribution to the points of sale. The primary aim of supply chain management is to enhance competitive advantage, ultimately leading to increased cost efficiencies and profits for the organization.