Ensuring the flow of the future
Ensuring the flow of the future
KU’s operations management program equips professionals with vital skills to improve businesses in Kansas and beyond.
Clear, well-communicated processes are at the heart of success for any business or organization. Employees with these qualities help drive optimization and creativity. By completing KU’s operations management program, you will gain practical expertise in streamlining processes, applying data-driven decision-making, and fostering innovative solutions to position yourself as a skilled asset in the workplace.
As companies strive to become more efficient and sustainable, operations professionals play a crucial role in implementing bold changes and strategic updates. Our Bachelor of Applied Science in Operations Management program and our operations management minor through KU’s School of Professional Studies provide comprehensive training in all aspects of business operations.
“Most people think operations management is about manufacturing or warehousing,” says Matt Marshall, a 2026 graduate of the operations management program. “What they don’t realize is that operations affect almost every experience they have. From how quickly an insurance claim is processed to how smoothly a hospital visit runs to whether a company can deliver on its promises.”
Not only will you improve your efficiency across a variety of workplaces, but you’ll also enhance your skills in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and people management, directly preparing you for leadership roles and boosting your earning potential.
An in-demand profession within your reach
Practical, transferable skills are central to operations management. Proficiency in process optimization, supply chain management, data analysis, and quality control remains in high demand.
“As a growing retail hardware company in the Kansas City area, we face increasing complexity in our supply chain and daily operations,” says Amanda Young, commercial sourcing manager for Ace Retail Group (Westlake Hardware) and KU alumna. “The ability to streamline processes, manage resources efficiently, and adapt to changing market demands is critical to our success.”
Operations management is a robust and expanding career field in the U.S., with approximately 3.96 million jobs reported in 2024 and a 12.5% growth rate from 2021 to 2024. Professionals in this area earn a median annual salary of $89,900, reflecting strong demand and competitive compensation.*
“At its core, operations management is about building systems that work under pressure,” says Marshall. “It’s about resilience and reliability. And in a world where businesses are constantly adapting, that kind of discipline matters more than people may realize.”
A wide range of career opportunities arises from degrees in operations management, including construction and supply chain manager, logistics and operations specialist, and more. The skills you learn and develop are valuable in nearly any organization or industry.
“We’re actively seeking professionals with strong operations management skill sets,” says Young. “Academic programs that emphasize real-world applications of operations management, like KU’s, are essential to preparing the next generation of talent.”
Programs that fit your lifestyle
Flexibility is at the heart of the operations management programs.
“Going back to school as a non-traditional student while working full-time in an executive role wasn’t something I took lightly,” says Marshall, who works for Philadelphia Insurance Companies as an assistant vice president of data strategy and automation.
“KU stood out because of the reputation of the faculty and the structure of the operations management program. It seemed rigorous, practical, and directly applicable to the kind of decisions I make every day.”
Most courses are offered fully online, allowing students to learn from wherever they are. For those who prefer a classroom setting, select courses are also available in person at the KU Edwards Campus.
“Most of our students are balancing careers, families, and community responsibilities, so offering a primarily online program acknowledges the reality of their lives,” says Gary Broils, Ph.D., director and professor of the practice of KU’s operations management program. “At the same time, we maintain a very connected environment, with access to faculty and advisors who help students stay motivated and feel supported.”
Marshall takes full advantage of the online option, stating, “What’s impressed me the most is that ‘online’ doesn’t mean disconnected. The discussions are thoughtful, and the faculty are accessible.”
KU’s program allows Marshall to balance work duties and his education. “I’ve appreciated how understanding the professors are when demands come up. The expectations remain high, but there’s a level of professionalism and mutual respect that makes the learning environment both rigorous and supportive.”
Successful students lead to a thriving community
The operations management program — part of KU’s School of Professional Studies — and KUEC strive to be reactive and supportive of the greater Kansas City metro area by assisting students from all walks of life and serving as a valuable partner to local educational institutions, companies, government, and the public.
“Because we’re a professional program, most students are already working in industry, and they want learning that immediately applies to their current roles,” says Broils. “Students have access to the KU Edwards Campus network, which includes relationships with regional employers, economic development partners, and community organizations through JCERT.”
JCERT — Johnson County Education and Research Triangle — provides funding for new, high-demand academic programs and scholarships for students living in Johnson County. “JCERT has been a foundational partner with the University of Kansas,” says Broils. “Their support ensures that high-quality, workforce-relevant programs like operations management and others are available right here in Johnson County.”
Faculty members focused on student success are the driving force behind the operations management program. They combine practical relevance and academic depth into the coursework.
“They challenge you to think critically but also encourage you to connect the material to your own industry,” says Marshall. “They don’t just present the concepts and move on; they make sure you’re absorbing it and able to translate it into something meaningful in your day-to-day work.”
“What inspires me at KU is watching students arrive with curiosity and leave with confidence,” says Broils. “Seeing them take something we discussed in class and apply it immediately to a real organizational challenge is incredibly rewarding. I hope that they walk away not only understanding operations management but also recognizing the impact they can have on the organizations and communities they serve.”
*Source: Lightcast. The career information provided is not specific to the KU program or its graduates. There is no guarantee of obtaining one of these positions or the income level.
