Online MBA in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
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“The most important aspect that I wish the public to understand is that ERP is more than just a software solution—it is the enabler of digital transformation that holds the key to a company’s competitive advantage and a country’s economic strength.”
Bih-Ru Lea, PhD, Associate Professor of Business & Information Technology, Missouri University of Science & Technology
The term enterprise resource planning (ERP) refers to the integrated management of core business functions like marketing, human resources, inventory, business intelligence, client databases, and more. Specialized software and hardware now allow employees or consultants to utilize ERP to improve an organization’s overall efficiency and performance.
Effective ERP goes deeper than simply managing a database better; it aims to streamline all of a company’s key systems so all departments can operate smoothly and contribute to the overall functioning and profitability of the business. It can include projections of future activity and analytics of past and current initiatives.
ERP is certainly complex but in the right hands, it can help businesses remain competitive. That means well-trained ERP specialists are increasingly essential for extracting and making sense of data. Although ERP is relatively new, many master of business administration (MBA) programs have adopted an ERP concentration to impart the skills of this in-demand discipline.
Online MBA programs are on the rise to accommodate a growing number of professionals seeking more flexible scheduling for class times and assignments. Earning an online MBA in ERP can pay off. In fact, these degree-holders can use this expertise to advance in the workforce as managers, consultants, or even database administrators, three of the many roles seeking candidates with ERP skills.
Read on to discover what to expect from an online MBA-ERP program.
Ask the Expert: Bih-Ru Lea, PhD
Dr. Bih-Ru Lea is an associate professor of business & information technology, director of the Center for ERP, and SAP campus coordinator at Missouri University of Science & Technology. She has taught courses such as supply chain management systems in an ERP environment; data modeling & visualization prototyping for enterprise decision dashboards; introduction to enterprise decision dashboard prototyping; and enterprise resource planning: systems config and integration.
Her research interests are in the areas of supply chain management, ERP architecture, enterprise resource planning (ERP), ERP implementation, and management accounting systems, among others. She completed her PhD and master’s degrees from Clemson University and a bachelor’s from Tamkang University.
BSchools.org: What is something you wish the public understood about ERP?
Dr. Lea: The most important aspect that I wish the public to understand is that ERP is more than just a software solution—it is the enabler of digital transformation that holds the key to a company’s competitive advantage and a country’s economic strength. It is important to acknowledge the shortage of skilled and knowledgeable ERP workforce and the need for more ERP education programs in universities.
A company’s ERP system controls its business operations and holds all types of sensitive data, such as intellectual properties, product designs, financial information, and customer data. As a result, a company’s ERP system often becomes a prime target of cyberattacks. With the shortage of skilled and knowledgeable ERP workers, many companies outsourced their ERP system hosting, configuration, and maintenance to a third-party vendor or, worse, a third-party vendor located in a foreign country. As a result, the risk of cyberattacks, theft of intellectual property, data privacy and compliance, and geopolitical uncertainty could severely hinder a company’s competitive advantages. When more companies lose their business competitive advantage, it weakens a country’s economic strength.
I wish the public could understand the strategic importance of ERP and begin investing in ERP education to mitigate the workforce shortage and allow companies to maintain and operate their ERP systems in-house.
BSchools.org: What advice would you give to prospective MBA candidates interested in ERP?
Dr. Lea: It is important to choose an MBA program that offers an ERP specialization option and strong industry partnerships. The ERP specialization should balance both technical and business skills and provide hands-on experience with leading ERP solutions such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics. Business concepts such as accounting, operations, and marketing are essential to understanding the intricacies and integration aspects of ERP systems. Hands-on experience not only improves the concept understanding but can also lead to many career opportunities.
Gaining some relevant work experience in core areas of an ERP system will allow MBA students to see the practical aspect of business processes and how technology interacts with them as well as to understand the strategic role of an integrated ERP system in a company’s operations. Look for positions where you can work with ERP software, assist with ERP implementation projects, or help analyze and improve business processes using ERP systems.
Networking with professionals in the ERP field can provide valuable insights into additional ERP specialization areas, and help candidates stay current on industry trends and identify career paths and additional career opportunities.
BSchools.org: What does the future of ERP look like to you?
Dr. Lea: The future of ERP will continue to embrace emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) to provide real-time data integration and insights, optimize production planning and scheduling, predictive machine maintenance, support rapid innovation cycles, and data-driven decision-making, becoming the backbone of a smart manufacturing ecosystem.
The future of ERP will integrate with robots and machines to further automate repetitive tasks to free up human workers for higher-level activities and decision-making.
The future of ERP will enable organizations to track and report on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics, comply with sustainability regulations, and provide features to support ethical practices and positive social impact.
Future ERP systems will continue to improve user experience (UX) through intuitive and simplified interface design, equipping users with intelligent and personalized dashboards and analytics tailored to their job roles, providing fluid and seamless transitions across devices.
Admission Requirements for Online MBA Programs
Every institution may vary in its standards, but there are often similar requirements for students seeking ERP programs, including:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related program, especially business
- A certain GPA, often a 3.0
- Letters of recommendation
- GMAT scores (which can be waived if a person has a certain amount of professional or academic experience, such as another master’s degree)
- Personal statement/essay describing interest and background
- TOEFL, STEP, or IELTS scores for international students
Online MBA in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Programs
Lamar University’s MBA in enterprise resource planning provides core business skills focused on data analytics and technology platforms that integrate all business functions. The fully online program features six specialized courses as well as standard MBA courses. Students also have the opportunity to complete a two-week SAP ERP Academy to gain a certification in business process integration.
The curriculum, which comprises 30 credits, includes core courses such as managerial accounting, managerial decision making, managerial economics, financial management, and an ERP overview. Courses in enterprise resource planning include ERP E-commerce, business intelligence, data mining and predictive analytics, and enterprise systems/CRM.
Applicants to the program must submit an online application along with official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended and hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum grade point average of 2.5. GMAT or GRE scores are waived if students have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Applicants with undergraduate degrees in a non-business area may be required to take two leveling courses: financial accounting and foundations of finance.
| Location: Beaumont, TX |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The University of Scranton MBA includes an enterprise resource planning concentration in partnership with SAP, the world’s largest ERP software company, providing real-world experience and educational training. After completing the program and another ERP class, students can participate in the SAP Boot Camp, an intensive two-week certification session.
The MBA course includes core classes in accounting, economics, finance, operations, information management, management, and marketing. The ERP specialization also features nine credits of electives, including integrated enterprise management systems; business intelligence; customer relationship management; production planning & control; treasury management; and accounting integration and configuration. Students may complete this MBA degree fully online.
Admission requirements to the program include a completed application, an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0, official transcripts from all previously attended universities and colleges, a professional resume, three years of professional or supervisory experience, a statement of intent, and three letters of reference. GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admission.
At the end of the program, graduates can pursue roles such as management consultants, audit managers, hospital directors, SAP business analysts, business development directors, certified public accountants (CPA), and directors of operations.
| Location: Scranton, PA |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Full-time (24 months); part-time (36 months) |
Boston University offers an online MS in enterprise risk management (MSERM), which introduces students to the essential theories and tools needed to think strategically in complex business situations, provide technological and analytical solutions that mitigate risk across entire enterprises, and lead change. Students in this program are provided with the concepts and tools necessary to plan for, prevent, and successfully respond to disruptions in business operations.
Students can also take graduate certificate programs that serve as building blocks to a master’s degree. Boston University’s graduate certificate in enterprise risk management shares courses with the master’s in ERM program, giving students the option to take this certificate on their path to a master’s degree.
Made up of 40 credits, the MS program includes courses such as financial concepts; quantitative and qualitative decision-making; project management; developing new products and services; business continuity management; disaster management; and enterprise risk planning and compliance.
| Location: Boston, MA |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 20 months |
Widener University’s online MBA program prepares students for leadership roles and allows them to tailor the curriculum to career goals. The 33-credit program includes core academic coursework in information systems and data analytics, marketing, accounting and managerial decision-making, and strategic financial management. It also connects with industry partners like DuPont, Thomson Reuters, and Comcast.
A concentration within the program focuses on business process innovation. Students in this BPI specialization will be prepared to lead organizations to greater efficiency and superior outcomes by developing skills in process innovation, data design, modeling and analysis, project management, and more. Coursework covers business process management: modeling to monitoring; business process analysis and process automation; and business process strategy and innovation.
To get accepted into the program, applicants must submit a completed application, a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 2.7, a personal statement, one letter of recommendation, official transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended, and GMAT or GRE scores (waivers available).
| Location: Chester, PA |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
The Missouri University of Science & Technology offers an online graduate certificate in ERP. This program includes instruction in ERP systems design and implementation; ERP systems configuration and integration; enterprise application development and software security; the use of business intelligence; and the essentials of data warehouses, among other courses.
This certificate is open to applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree and offers opportunities to enter into the school’s MBA or MS in information science and technology programs.
| Location: Rolla, MO |
| Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 months |
Missouri University of Science and Technology’s online MBA program includes 15 credits of electives in a 36-credit program. Ideal for working executives and professionals, this AACSB-accredited program is focused on developing disciplined leaders. Applicants to the MBA program must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and submit GRE or GMAT scores.
Working professionals who wish to earn their master’s degree but don’t have time to take the GRE or GMAT can start with a graduate certificate program. The GRE is not required to enter a certificate program, and credit earned may be applied toward a master’s degree. One such graduate certificate is available in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
The 21-credit core MBA curriculum includes courses such as team building & leadership; international marketing; managerial accounting & control; and supply chain and project management.
| Location: Rolla, MO |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 24 to 36 months |
Central Michigan University’s master of business administration degree with an ERP emphasis and an information systems concentration requires completing 36 credits. In addition to core MBA coursework, students study topics like enterprise systems for management using SAP enterprise software, business intelligence, and enterprise system configuration. Students also attend a two-week SAP TERP 10 Boot Camp, including an MBA project.
The university also offers a graduate certificate in enterprise systems, which allows students to learn more than just how to use SAP software. This certificate comprises 16 credits including courses in enterprise systems for management using SAP software; enterprise analytics using SAP software; enterprise system configuration using SAP software and integration of business processes for management using SAP software.
After completing this certificate, credits successfully earned with this certificate program may be used towards the information systems (SAP emphasis) concentration in the MBA program.
| Location: Mount Pleasant, MI |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 12 to 24 months |
The University of North Alabama’s 34-credit MBA program offers regular and executive MBAs for those with significant business experience. This MBA program can be completed online and is ideal for working professionals in various careers and life stages. Providing maximum flexibility, the program allows two options for ERP aspirants: create their MBA degree plan by choosing three electives instead of a concentration or choose the information systems concentration.
Core courses in the curriculum include accounting information for strategic decision making; information systems design and project management; analytical tools for strategic decision making; corporate financial strategy; and strategic management and competitive analysis.
In addition to 25 credits of core MBA foundation courses, students pursuing the information systems concentration can take courses such as software engineering for the enterprise; information systems management; business process integration with ERP systems; and electronic commerce.
| Location: Florence, AL |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: Full-time (12 to 18 Months); part-time (24 to 30 Months) |
Enterprise Resource Planning Graduate Certificate Programs
Some universities also offer graduate ERP certificate programs, presenting similar coursework to the MBA concentration. Students wanting to enter the workforce with some training but not an entire degree can save time and money by pursuing an ERP certification for fewer credits and a shorter period of time, usually under a year. Two standout online ERP certificate programs include:
UNC Greensboro’s Bryan School of Business and Economics offers an online graduate certificate in enterprise resource planning providing students with a process-oriented and integrative understanding of ERP systems within distributed and global organizations. Offering concepts and theories in ERP, the curriculum of this program provides students with hands-on experience in tools like SAP.
The curriculum of this 12-credit program includes courses such as principles of enterprise resource planning using SAP; principles of supply chain management; analytics for logistics and distribution management; and information systems management.
| Location: Greensboro, NC |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Expected Time to Completion: within 12 months |
The online graduate certificate program in enterprise resource planning is offered by the University of Scranton’s Kania School of Management, which has a long-standing partnership with SAP (the world’s largest business software company). This fully online program consists of four courses that utilize SAP’s ERP software. It is ideal for working professionals who wish to enhance their technical and managerial skills without having to leave their homes or interrupt their careers.
All applicants to the program must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to apply. This 12-credit curriculum includes courses such as integrated enterprise management systems; production planning and control; treasury management; and accounting integration and configuration.
After successfully completing this program, graduates will be eligible to participate in a week-long boot camp offered through the SAP University Alliances Program.
| Location: Scranton, PA |
| Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International); Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Expected Time to Completion: 8 months |
Career Outlook for ERP Professionals
While the BLS does not have a specific category dedicated to ERP professionals, they will typically fall into one of these broader groups: computer systems analysts; management analysts; and computer and information systems managers. All groups in this listing are expected to grow much faster than the national average of 3 percent between 2022 and 2032.
In fact, computer systems analysts may specialize in analyzing and implementing ERP systems to meet business requirements. Jobs in this area are expected to grow 10 percent between 2022 and 2032 (BLS 2023).
Management analysts can include ERP Consultants who advise businesses on how to improve efficiency through ERP systems. Jobs in this area are expected to grow 10 percent between 2022 and 2032 (BLS 2023).
Computer and information systems managers include roles like ERP Project Managers, who oversee ERP implementation projects. Jobs in this area are expected to grow 15 percent between 2022 and 2032 (BLS 2023).
