Supply Chain Management and Logistics MSc

Study level: Postgraduate
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This course aims to introduce the most current practices and concepts of supply chain management and logistics (SCML), combining them with a solid grounding in core management subjects.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

1 year full-time
2 years sandwich

Course code

EECT046

Start date

September 2023
January 2024

How to apply
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Course overview

Developed in collaboration with industry, this MSc in Supply Chain Management and Logistics addresses the growing demand for highly trained individuals by seeking to develop professionals with up-to-date knowledge, skills and capabilities in the key areas of strategic supply chain management, logistics, distribution, sourcing, procurement, finance, contracts, project management, forecasting and environmental management.

  • This course aims to introduce the most current practices and concepts of supply chain management and logistics (SCML), combining them with a solid grounding in core management subjects. You should develop the skills and expertise to think critically, analyse problems and make informed recommendations.
  • We aim to teach you how to implement and oversee SCML strategies across a broad range of functions, involving multiple organisations and locations.
  • You will be required to look at the wider aspects of business, to be able to integrate supply chain and logistics strategy and operations within the overall business strategy. This includes understanding the associated ethical and legal aspects, together with different models of change management and their relevancy and efficacy within organisations.
  • To create and sustain competitive advantage, organisations need highly trained individuals capable of developing diverse, bespoke and innovative supply chain and logistical solutions.
  • You will have the option to apply for a 'work placement' opportunity2 designed to further develop your skills and knowledge with the aim of maximising your employability prospects. See modules for more information.
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Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022
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5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings
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Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2023

Why you should study this course

  • High quality learning environment4, including a modern £50m Engineering and Computing Building, university library and advanced e-learning digital infrastructure.
  • A large team of expert and industry experienced teaching staff (staff are subject to change).
  • The course is developed with industry, designed to equip you with the skills that employers may demand, for example career planning, interviews, communication, team working, leadership, critical thinking, time management, resilience, cultural awareness and digital literacy skills.
  • Strong connection with SCML professionals and industrial collaborators.
  • International study field trips available2 to UK, Europe, India, China, Dubai, and USA via and subject to membership of our Global Leadership Programme. All international study trips are subject to change, availability, additional costs and meeting visa conditions.
  • Interactive and hands-on seminars with lectures based on activity-led learning/flipped classroom teaching.
  • Leadership skills developed through practical/first-hand opportunities to deliver solutions to real life problems.
  • Solve real-life management problems both individually and as part of a group.
  • Diverse international student community.
  • Teaching is located within the heart of Coventry, a historically and contemporarily relevant city with good transport infrastructure to Birmingham and London.

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited1 and recognised by the following bodies:

Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

As part of this course, you will undertake a professional development module which is currently accredited by the Chartered Management Institute for the 2023-24 intake. Upon successful completion of this module, you will gain the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice at no additional cost.

Coventry University’s accreditation with CMI is currently ongoing for the relevant modules, and is frequently reviewed and monitored by the CMI through their quality systems. If any changes occur with respect to our accreditation related to these modules, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)

Supply Chain Management and Logistics MSc is accredited by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) for 2023-24 entry, as suitable for exemption from the academic requirements for Chartered Membership (CMILT) of the CILT (UK).

The valuable experience, knowledge, and skills I gained from studying this course enabled me to secure a role at Caterpillar as a Procurement Analyst upon graduation. I really enjoyed the course; despite its fast-paced nature, it equipped me with everything I ever needed to start a professional career.

Weronika Ryzewska, Supply Chain Management and Logistics MSc student, 2021
Weronika Ryzewska in graduation robes

What you'll study

Modules

  • We review the nature, role and contribution of supply chain management and its application to business supply chains in an international context from both a customer and supplier perspective.

    Compulsory

  • Takes a practical approach to the economics of logistics and supply chain businesses from a management perspective. You will become familiar with a range of economic frameworks and concepts, using them within mathematical, statistical and software tools to calculate the cost and price of logistics services, forecast activities and allocate resources, while taking economic factors into consideration. Many of these quantitative tools can be used for management decision making, forecasting and as predictive models.

    Compulsory

  • Aims to develop an in-depth knowledge of procurement management and a critical understanding of how effective purchasing may be applied with international supply chains.

    Compulsory

  • Provides an awareness of the relevant legal duties, rights, and processes relevant to SCML projects. This is not intended to replace the need for professional advice and services but will make you aware of the potential causes of disputes, liabilities, breaches of contract, means of resolving a dispute and the basics,of contract law.

    Compulsory

  • You are taught how to develop and implement business models and strategies within the appropriate frameworks to comply with future requirements for sustainability, studying various aspects of sustainability (economic, social, environment), sustainable operations, and sustainability challenges and green logistics.

    Compulsory

  • Teaches how to manage organisational change through projects. We focus on projects involving major changes, including issues related to new products, new plant and equipment and new operating systems, which will affect the lives of people both within and without the organisation. We take a high level, critical and evaluative view of the subject, emphasising managerial and strategic use of the tools and techniques of project management.

    Compulsory

  • This module reflects the CMI’s professional standards for Strategic Management and Leadership as well as the QAA’s Subject Benchmark Standards (Master’s Level) in developing core behaviours and skills in for example: leadership and performance management; problem-solving and decision making; critical and creative thinking; effective communication and influencing change; managing risks; sensitivity to diversity in people and situations; critical self-awareness; working inclusively.

    Compulsory

  • Considers various modes of operating international distribution networks, preparing you to choose appropriate networks based on the physical characteristics of goods and the expectations of customers. Will look at different logistics operating systems, including how to optimise various modes of transport such as trains, aircraft, ships, and road vehicles.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to introduce the key concepts involved research to enable you to carry out taught master’s projects. The module will develop the understanding of key research techniques and methodologies and will give you the opportunity to consider examples of relevant research methods. You will be engaged in practical exercises to develop your knowledge and choice of research skills and methods.

    Compulsory

  • Your learning will culminate with a research project/dissertation, giving you the opportunity to do in-depth research in your preferred area of SCML alongside an experienced academic supervisor who will guide and advise you.

    Compulsory

With work placement pathway

The ‘With work placement’ opportunity2 enables you to apply in semester 1 for an optional work placement of up to 12 months, extending the duration of your master’s to 24 months. The placement provides an opportunity for you to develop expertise and experience in your chosen field with the aim of enhancing your employability upon graduation. The work placement would take place in semesters 3, 4 and 5.

Please note that the optional placement modules incur an additional tuition fee of £4,000. Placement opportunities may also be subject to additional costs, visa requirements being met, subject to availability and/or competitive application. Work placements are not guaranteed but you will benefit from the support of our Talent Team in trying to find and secure an opportunity. Please note that the optional placement modules incur an additional fee of £4,000. Find out more about the work placement option.

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Teaching and learning methods may include:

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Workshops
  • Individual and group exercises and projects

We incorporate a wide range of learning and teaching methods as part of our innovative activity-led learning, such as a team-based projects, problem solving scenarios, case study analysis and enquiry led research. We also provide training in research methods and study skills, improving your research capabilities to enable you to undertake investigations, identify business opportunities and make recommendations in different operational settings.

Teaching contact hours

Actual teaching contact hours will vary depending on the requirements of a particular semester. You will study two taught semesters and one project semester over the course of the year. For taught semesters, in a typical week your contact hours will be divided amongst personal tutorials, medium group teaching in tutorial sessions, workshops activities as well as large group teaching in lectures.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study approximately 30-35 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules. The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the taught semesters. Your project-based semester will be largely supervisor supported, self-directed study in the region of 45 hours per week as well as supervisor meetings around one hour per week and optional workshops supporting your project which can add up to 10 additional hours across your project third semester.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include in-class tests, written reports, and presentations.

Assessment methods may include:

  • Formal examinations
  • Phase tests
  • Essays
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Coursework
  • Exams
  • Individual Assignments

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes of each course.

International experience opportunities

The university is committed to providing a global educational experience, which is reflected throughout the teaching experience. The course has previously recruited diverse international graduates and promotes multicultural experiences.

The course itself focuses on supply chain management and logistics within a global context, drawing on case studies and experience from around the world.

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities2 and that any such opportunities referred to on this webpage may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

To apply for this course, you should have a first- or second-class honour’s degree in any relevant cognate discipline, for example business, engineering, management, marketing, economics, entrepreneurship, international trade, commerce, logistics, manufacturing, operations, science, mathematics, construction, electronics, computing, IT, communications, education, design or administration.

Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by the course director.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international pre-master's. Upon successful completion our International Pre-Master's - Engineering or International Pre-Master's - Engineering Management will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this postgraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £11,200 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year Not available
International £20,050 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees3 and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our aim is to offer you sector-leading facilities4:

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The Library

The Lanchester Library is open 24/7, 364 days a year and has 1,400 study spaces, including group and silent areas. It also currently offers more than 550 computers and an additional 120 free-to-loan laptops within the library.

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Jaguar Centre

Our refurbished Jaguar Centre has been specifically designed to provide facilities and services to support our postgraduate students including: social spaces, computer suites and separate areas for small group study.

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The Hub

The Hub is the centre of student campus life. It's also home to: The Health and Wellbeing Centre, The Spirituality and Faith Centre, The Tank Studio, The Careers and the Enterprise Hub.

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you will have knowledge of:

  • The theory and practice of supply chain management and logistics and their potential contribution to business performance.
  • The key economic and financial concepts appropriate to supply chain management and logistics.
  • A range of advanced business, analytical, supply chain management and logistical techniques to achieve competitive advantage.

You will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate the current body of knowledge in supply chain management and logistics and apply it to the analysis of supply chain problems across a wide variety of scenarios in a global industry.
  • Evaluate and apply the most appropriate supply chain management tools, techniques, and theories to formulate practical solutions.
  • Critically explore the different ways that supply chain management and logistics can significantly contribute to wealth creation, competitive advantage, and the advancement of society.
  • Critically assess the feasibility of a supply chain project integrating the technical, financial, contractual, and human resource elements.
  • Apply and manage supply chain and logistics practice by combining skills, theory and experience, and the use of other relevant knowledge to new developments, taking account of commercial, technical and resource constraints.
  • Assess and evaluate the environmental impact and community contribution of Supply Chain management and Logistics decision making.
  • Apply transferrable skills and knowledge for personal global professional development, teamwork, and intercultural engagement.
  • Apply study, research, and communication skills to support the analytical, critical, ethical and reflective requirements of written, oral and team-based assignments.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of consultancy and the theories and practices found in leadership.

The course should prepare you for roles in areas such as supply chain management, logistics management, distribution, procurement, purchasing management, retail management, air transport management, manufacturing management, inventory management, warehousing management, passenger transport management, consultancy and many others.

Every organisation has a supply chain, so this is an area where there could be multiple opportunities for employment; someone equipped with comprehensive and integrated knowledge of supply chain and logistics is a strong candidate in the job market.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university's Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates work with leading organisations worldwide such as Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, Airbus, Brose, Infosys, Unipart, Lear Corp, Vinci, O2, Nando’s and Contechs Consulting to name but a few.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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