Plymouth Business School

BSc (Hons) International Supply Chain and Shipping Management

UCAS course code N856
Institution code P60
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

International shipping is a vital industry. Whether moving coffee or computers, professional international shipping managers make difficult decisions. The global shipping industry is responsible for the carriage of the vast majority of the world's trade, which provides the lifeblood of the global economy. Our focused top-up degree provides the bridge from your previous academic qualifications or work experience, giving you the skills needed to enter a dynamic, global and growing industry.

Careers with this subject
The shipping, transport and logistics industry is a growing sector that is very important to the UK and global economy. Ship operation companies, port and terminal operators, market analysis agencies and the shipping media all pursue our graduates.

Real experience every step of the way

As well as expert-led teaching, all undergraduate modules within Plymouth Business School have integrated CV building activity, for example, through micro-credentialing, problem-based learning, or embedded direct employer activity.
We have ensured every module contains a real world problem-based exercise. We have reached out to employers directly to involve real business in our assessments. You will experience real world employee engagement every month.
We know this is key to student academic and graduate success.

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
  • Bridge the gap from your previous academic qualifications or work experience and acquire the specialist knowledge and skills needed to enter a dynamic, global and growing industry.
  • Benefit from our International Shipping and Logistics Group’s associations with a number of commercial and international maritime organisations including the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and The Nautical Institute.
  • Develop the critical thinking, communication and problem solving skills that enable international shipping managers to succeed in this ever-changing professional work environment.
  • Our career-focused degree helps to navigate the complexities of the industry. Carry out in-depth analysis of the supply chain and logistics industry, and examine the latest regulations and governance in ports, shipping and supply chain, while developing business and management skills.

Course details

  • Course overview

  • You’ll study a range of topics affecting this global industry and develop the management and business skills it demands. Deepening your understanding of international shipping and supply chain management through a variety of modules.
    Our career-focused degree helps you navigate the complexities and, carry out in-depth analysis of the supply chain and logistics industry. Examine the latest regulations and governance in ports, shipping and supply chain, while developing business and management skills to launch your career.

    Core modules

    MAR6004
    International Supply Chain Management 20 credits

    Through this module, you will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of international supply chain management and the complexities involved in planning, coordinating and operating various business processes in the management of international supply chains.

    100% Coursework

    MAR6008
    Shipping and International Trade 20 credits

    The module provides a practical knowledge of the business of ship owning and management within the context of international trade and the carriage of freight. It also introduces you to the organisation, institutions and key regulations of maritime activities and international trade.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    MAR6009
    Strategic Maritime Management 20 credits

    In this module, you will gain an in-depth knowledge of the strategies, activities and responsibilities related to the management of ships and shipping companies in an international environment.

    60% Examinations

    40% Coursework

    MAR6011
    Supply Chain Risk and Maritime Security 20 credits

    This module explores supply chain risks and considers the theory and practice that underpin their management. Risk and resilience management techniques, strategies and theoretical approaches will be considered for supply chain management and maritime security. You will learn how to identify, assess and manage the strategic, organisational, environmental and technological risks and threats presented by unpredictable situations.

    50% Coursework

    50% Tests

    ECN6009
    Researching for Business

    This module will empower you to understand the practical relevance of research methods for managing businesses by bringing the theory, philosophy and techniques of research to life. It will provide you with a comprehensive overview of research approaches in business to use when planning or undertaking a qualitative and/or quantitative research report.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

All applicants must satisfy the admission requirements of the University of Plymouth. Applicants should possess a commensurate level 5 maritime/logistics/supply chain related qualification equivalent to 120 credits of study at both Levels 4 and 5.
Applicants with other equivalent qualifications will be considered on their merits.
APEL – Applicants for accreditation for prior experience and/or learning will be considered by the Programme Leader on a case-by-case basis in accordance with published University of Plymouth regulations.
IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Please contact the Admissions Team for further information.

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £17,100 £17,600
Part time (Home) £770 £795
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.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs .

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Take your professional development further

Isles of Scilly - Oceanography and Coastal Processes
Real-world challenges

Sustainability and environmental issues are firmly embedded within the programme, increasing your employability and better preparing you for the challenges that climate change presents to the international shipping industry.
Aerial view Crude oil tanker under cargo operations on typical shore station with clearly visible mechanical loading arms and pipeline infrastructure.
Links with industry

Immerse yourself in the industry through regular field trips to regulatory organisations, shipbrokers and ports. Take advantage of our programme of visiting speakers, and gain insider knowledge and important networking contacts.
Sutton Harbour
Inspiring maritime location

Benefit from studying a shipping-related course in a city with a rich maritime tradition and history.

Meet our experts

  • Lecturer in International Logistics
    Programme lead; expertise in humanitarian logistics and supply chain management
  • Lecturer in Maritime Business
    Master Mariner with 12 years industry and naval experience
  • Lecturer in Maritime Regulation and Policy
    Expert in maritime law with comprehensive research interests
  • Lecturer in Operations & Supply Chain Management
    Over 20 years experience in international trade and finance in a global context
  • Associate Head of School - Postgraduate Programmes
    Extensive industry experience in seagoing logistics and commercial procurement
  • Lecturer in International Procurement and Supply Chain Management
    Extensive expertise in logistics and low carbon shipping
  • Lecturer in International Shipping and Port Management
    Research expertise in new shipping technology and maritime sustainability

Plymouth Business School

  • ?Accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

  • ?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

A new home to cultivate business leaders

Our Fitzroy Building has been transformed, becoming the new home of the Plymouth Business School, providing students with specialist facilities and social learning spaces.
Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the Bloomberg Interactive Suite for tracking stock markets and The Cube - support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
Watch our video visualising what the new building looks like.