Plymouth Business School

MSc International Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Duration 1 year
Course type Full-time, Part-time route available
Location Plymouth

Greatly enhance your employability in areas of international logistics and supply chain management with a programme that includes options to study abroad, gain a dual award title and join the Plymouth Nautical Degree Association (PYNDA) upon graduation. With this professionally accredited programme you develop commercial focus through our visiting speakers programme and benefit from a research-informed and technology-enhanced curriculum

This programme is available with a January or September start.

International Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Falmouth Docks visit 2016

Careers with this subject
Our graduates are highly employable and currently working globally in various companies as procurement managers, procurement consultants, sourcing analysts, sourcing strategies and supplier managers.

PYNDA

Alumni association for Plymouth's maritime graduates
PYNDA is a thriving group of alumni who have studied marine and maritime degrees at University of Plymouth. PYNDA boasts a membership of around 400 alumni who are in regular contact with the University, and each other, through networking opportunities, communications and international social events.
Our network reaches far and wide across the sector, with PYNDA members occupying all levels within the maritime industries - from new entrants to influential business leaders.

Careers service

The University of Plymouth has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks - working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the Careers Service space within the Student Hub.
We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.

Key features
  •  Stand out to employers with a postgraduate qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS). The programme is also recognised by the Institute of Export (IoE) and and The Nautical Institute. 
  • Benefit from the option of choosing a joint programme with Fontys University of Applied Sciences, School of Business Engineering and Logistics, at Venlo, the Netherlands.
  • Expand your employment opportunities with a dual award title of international logistics and supply chain management, displaying expertise in a range of fields. Gain the specialist skills you need to enter senior management positions in the maritime industry and related fields.
  • Designed to appeal to those already in the workplace, our programme allows you to take the opportunity to enhance your professional competence by building on your existing experiences through a structured programme of study. Our programme offers a learner-centred approach that is responsive to your needs. If you wish, you can choose to complete your studies in three consecutive years.
  • Broaden your horizons by joining a programme with a truly international focus. In any given year our students might hail from over 20 different countries, enhancing one another’s academic experiences and providing excellent opportunities for international networking.
  • Harness the latest technologies to enhance your learning experience – our expertise in simulation-based technology will allow you to enter the work place up to speed with the most contemporary techniques.
  • Position yourself at the leading-edge of the industry thanks to our research-informed programme of study – our staff undertake substantial research in the areas of international shipping, international logistics and supply chain management.
  • Develop a wide-reaching network of industry contacts thanks to our programme of visiting expert industry speakers providing specialist knowledge and insights as well as opportunities to seek internship, consultancy, or research experience.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • This programme offers you an opportunity to pursue dual award titles in that you have the option to study both areas in depth. Our programme is designed to appeal to students and professionals seeking to gain the specialist skills required to enter into mid and senior management positions in international logistics and supply chain management. Students and professionals have the opportunity to pursue a postgraduate programme in international logistics and supply chain management in sufficient depth to merit masters degree, postgraduate diploma or postgraduate certificate awards.The programme also offers an opportunity to enhance the professional competence of individuals who are already experienced and who wish to build on that experience through a structured programme of study.
    Our programme is delivered by research-intensive staff with extensive industry experience and continuous engagement with the industry.
    The design of our postgraduate programmes focuses on four taught modules and a capstone project. We believe that simplicity in programme design provides you with a better learning experience. The dynamic and challenging nature of contemporary business does not isolate concepts into small packages – and neither do our programmes. This approach links concepts together as they are in the real world, and enables you to focus in on what really matters. 

    Core modules

    • Finance and Economics for International Supply Chains (MAR7001)

      This module develops an understanding of supply chain economics and financial risk management with a focus on the maritime sector.

    • International Trade and Data Management (MAR7002)

      This module provides key information to international procurement logistical planning and forecasting.

    • Sustainable Supply Chain Management (MAR7003)

      Sustainable development and social responsibility are fundamental drivers of supply chain practises around the world. This module provides students with an in-depth examination of such issues across the supply chain, taking into account differing perspectives and underlying drivers. The module provides students with a toolkit to effectively manage sustainable supply chains.

    • International Logistics and Supply Chain Management (MAR7006)

      This module provides insight into the critical success components of international logistics and supply chain management.

    • Capstone Project (PBS7000)

      In this capstone project, you will synthesise and apply learning from the taught element of the programme to a project of your choosing. There is scope for you to undertake a broad range of project types, including consultancy, business analysis, business development or academic study.

    • Postgraduate Academic and Professional Development (PBS700PD)

      Developed to enhance students’ academic and employability skills, the Postgraduate Personal and Professional Development module focuses on the core skills required for effective postgraduate study. Linked to the sustainability agenda, the module provides a programme designed to enable the identification of areas for development, the knowledge and skills required to achieve those areas, the ability to evidence success, and the skills to become a responsible, resilient, and reflective practitioner.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc International Logistics and Supply Chain Mgt programme specification 4526

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Introductory video

Dr Stavros Karamperidis, Programme Manager for MSc International Logistics and Supply Chain Management provides an introduction to the programme.

Entry requirements
Normal minimum entry requirements are a Lower Second-Class Honours (2:2) degree or equivalent. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered. Non-standard applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
International
Please view the country specific pages for further information regarding the equivalency of your degree. International applicants will be required to provide evidence of their English language ability, for example by achieving an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent. English language requirements. Pre-sessional English language courses are available if you do not meet these requirements.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for postgraduate taught programmes. Tell me more about scholarships and bursaries.

Fees, costs and funding
Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £10,400 £10,900
International £17,500 £18,400
Part time (Home) £580 £610
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

We offer several scholarships for international students who wish to study postgraduate taught (PGT) degree programmes.

How to apply
When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance.
Disability services
If you have a disability and would like further information about the support provided by University of Plymouth, please visit our Disability Services.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page).
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeksof us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail. 
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

Graduate insight

“I highly recommend to anybody interested in logistics, shipping, procurement and supply chain management to start an adventure with one of the leading universities in the shipping sector in the UK, as it combines a serene environment framed with personnel eager to help international students in their academic journey.”
Georgios Koligiannis, a graduate of MSc International Logistics and Supply Chain Management, speaks to the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport about studying his masters at the University.
Georgios Koligiannis

Discover more from our postgraduate shipping programmes

The future of maritime education event News and events
 Keep up to date with the latest news and events for postgraduate shipping programmes.

Cardiff shipping dinner 2019 Study trips
 Find out more about our past shipping events, visits and socials.

Dr Stavros Karamperidis presenting at the F+L conference in Madrid. Company based projects
 Postgraduate shipping students have the opportunity to engage with industry professionals and partner organisations on the development and resolution of live projects throughout the course.

PYNDA event Greece, shipping graduates PYNDA
 PYNDA is a thriving group of around 400 alumni who are in regular contact with the University, and each other, through networking opportunities, communications and international social events.

Care of Shutterstock - Cargo ships entering one of the busiest ports in the world, Singapore. Research
 The Maritime and Logistics, Business and Policy Group (MLBP) aims to promote excellent research into business and policy issues in maritime business and logistics.

Sarah Liu Alumni
 Our graduates are highly employable and currently working globally in various companies as procurement managers, procurement consultants, sourcing analysts, sourcing strategies and supplier managers.

Meet our experts

  • Lecturer in Maritime Economics
    Extensive experience in industry & professional organisations
  • Lecturer in Operations and Supply Chain Management
    Considerable experience in international research projects
  • Associate Head of School - Postgraduate Programmes
    Comprehensive industry experience in seagoing logistics and procurement
  • Lecturer in Maritime Regulation and Policy
    Expert in maritime law with wide-ranging research interests
  • Lecturer in Operations & Supply Chain Management
    Over 20 years experience in international trade across the world
  • Lecturer in International Supply Chain Management (Education)
    Executive Member of the Logistics Research Network
  • Lecturer in International Logistics
    Research expertise in humanitarian logistics and supply chain management
  • Lecturer in International Shipping and Port Management
    Research expertise in new shipping technology and maritime sustainability
  • Lecturer in Maritime Business
    Master Mariner with 12 years industry and naval experience
  • Lecturer in International Procurement and Supply Chain Management
CILT academic partner logo

We are proud to partner with The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) through our shipping masters degrees. First established in 1919, CILT in the UK is the membership organisation for professionals leading supply chain operations for the movement of goods and people and is part of the CILT international family with over 33,000 members in countries across the world.

Plymouth Business School

  • ?Committed to social, economic and environmental responsibility

  • ?Supporting the internationally recognised focus on sustainability and social purpose of the University

  • ?Leading business ready graduates onto a successful career and happy life

  • ?Supporting graduates to make informed choices based on current economic and market trends

  • ?Building students resilience and confidence

  • ?Promoting practical skills development