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
Location Plymouth
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Apply via UCASo

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.

You’ll cover environmental issues and the latest regulations and governance, and develop a range of business and management skills to help you launch your logistics career.

International Supply Chain and Shipping Management
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

    • International Supply Chain Management (MAR6004)

      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.

    • Shipping and International Trade (MAR6008)

      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.

    • Strategic Maritime Management (MAR6009)

      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.

    • Researching for Business (STO6008)

      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.

    • Supply Chain Risk and Maritime Security (MAR6011)

      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.

    Optional modules

    • Academic Skills for International Direct Entry Final Year Students (DEAS300)

      This module focuses on the study skills required for the study of business in UK HE for international direct entry final year students, it provides generic skills for students who are new to UK HE, such as information literacy, criticality, different types of assessment, assignment briefs, preparation and planning, and marking rubrics.

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

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

BSc (Hons) International Supply Chain and Shipping Management top-up programme specification_3776

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.

In light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the changeable nature of the situation and any updates to government guidance, we may need to make further, last minute adjustments to how we deliver our teaching and learning on some or all of our programmes, at any time during the academic year. We want to reassure you that even if we do have to adjust the way in which we teach our programmes, we will be working to maintain the quality of the student learning experience and learning outcomes at all times.
Entry requirements
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
Student 2022-2023 2023-2024
Home £9,250 £9,250
International £14,600 £16,300
Part time (Home) £770 £770
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.

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

Real-world challenges 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.

Links with industry 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.

Inspiring maritime location 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 International Supply Chain Management (Education)
    Executive Member of the Logistics Research Network Committee
  • 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

  • ? 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