KU Edwards Campus Program is Meeting High Demand for Operations Management Professionals

Operations management is in high demand in Kansas City and nationwide, with employers seeking workers who are proficient in process optimization, supply chain management, data analysis and quality control. In 2024, nearly 4 million U.S. jobs were available in this robust and expanding career field, which grew 12.5% from 2021 to 2024. Professionals in this industry earn a median annual salary of $89,900, reflecting strong demand and competitive compensation.

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Operations Management program through KU’s School of Professional Studies at the KU Edwards Campus (KUEC) provides students with comprehensive training in all aspects of business operations.

Students completing KU’s operations management program become job ready with in-demand workplace skills like streamlining processes, applying data-driven decision-making and fostering innovative solutions.

“Most people think operations management is about manufacturing or warehousing,” said Matt Marshall, a student in KU’s 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.”

The KUEC curriculum focuses on strategic thinking, problem-solving and people management, which can equate to improved efficiency regardless of the student’s industry or workplace.

An in-demand skill
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,” said 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.”

“At its core, operations management is about building systems that work under pressure,” Marshall said. “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.”

Degrees in operations management can lead to multiple career roles, including construction and supply chain manager, logistics and operations specialist and business analyst.

“We’re actively seeking professionals with strong operations management skill sets,” Young said. “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 working professionals’ lifestyles
Flexibility is at the heart of the operations management programs at the KU Edwards Campus.

“Going back to school as a non-traditional student while working full-time in an executive role wasn’t something I took lightly,” said 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 anywhere. 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,” said Gary Broils, Ph.D., professor of the practice for project management and operations management program director. “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, which allows him to balance work duties and his education.

“What’s impressed me most is that online doesn’t mean disconnected,” he said. “The discussions are thoughtful and the faculty are accessible.  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
KU’s School of Professional Studies and KUEC strive to be responsive to and supportive of the greater Kansas City area’s business needs and 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,” Broils said. “Students have access to the KU Edwards Campus network, which includes relationships with regional employers, economic development partners and organizations through JCERT.”

At KUEC, JCERT provides funding for new, high-demand academic programs and scholarships for Johnson County students.

“JCERT has been a foundational partner with the KU Edwards Campus,” Broils said. “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,” Marshall said. “They don't just present the concepts and move on; they make sure you’re actually 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,” Broils said. “Seeing them take something we discussed in class and apply it immediately to a real organizational challenge is incredibly rewarding. I hope they walk away not only understanding operations management but also recognizing the impact they can have on the organizations and communities they serve.”

Learn more about the Operations Management degree.