Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management (MSc)

This interdisciplinary programme will encourage and challenge you to develop your knowledge and skills in global procurement, logistics, and supply chain management. You will learn the latest industrial practices and implications in areas such as automation and artificial intelligence. You will also look at the opportunities and challenges provided by big data analytics, the Internet of Things, additive manufacturing, 3D printing, machine learning, and more.

Additionally, the programme offers substantial context and input in the areas of demand forecasting, inventory management, process/supply chain/logistics optimisation, and analytics. For example, Procurement Risk and Contract Management brings together two very important complementary skills, widely sought after in the industry.

You will be encouraged to broaden your horizons by going beyond the academic literature to look at the very latest developments published in the relevant trade press. You will also be challenged to consider the ethical implications of global sourcing, looking at critical global events in relation to supply chain resilience and management of risk, for example.

Our teaching team is comprised by research active academics with extensive industrial experience and world-wide engagement. Our expertise is supported by input from industry partners, such as Jaguar Land Rover, Brother International, Manchester Airport, Barrett Construction, NHS UK, and more.  

As well as learning from academics, you will have the opportunity to learn from other students, expert guest lecturers, and from your interaction with the two professional bodies, Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) at conferences, workshops, invited events, and more.  

There is an emphasis in all our courses on understanding, responding to and shaping the dynamic and changing nature of business, including consideration of the future of organisations within the global business environment, the responsible adoption of AI and other emerging technologies, and environmental sustainability. Throughout the programme, you will be provided with opportunities to apply your theoretical knowledge to real-world problems and live business projects in collaboration with external partners. You will also develop a range of skills and attributes particularly relevant to business and management such as commercial acumen, analytical thinking and problem solving, critical thinking, entrepreneurial mindset, ability to innovate, awareness of risk, and the ability to influence and work with others. In doing so, you develop into enterprising and responsible leaders who are globally, socially, and ethically aware of the contemporary business environment within which businesses operate.

Why choose Salford Business School?

• We provide practical teaching, informed by our industry partners, so you develop the skills employers are looking for.
• You can make the programme fit around your life priorities with multiple start dates and a choice of full or part-time study.
• We're based on a beautiful, green campus, just minutes from Manchester city centre.
• We have excellent industry links with the dynamic Greater Manchester business community.
• We focus on the digital, ethical, and sustainability business challenges of the 21st century.

You will:

• Develop knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and principles applicable to management of national and global supply chains, procurement, and logistics & projects
• Evaluate the fast-changing nature of the business environment at local, national, and global levels
• Apply a socially responsible approach to information, data and decision making
• Utilise a range of management tools and techniques to develop creative solutions
• Have the opportunity to complete additional professional qualifications that enhance your employability, in areas such as Carbon Literacy, Microsoft etc.
• Be exposed to numerous industrial simulations and tools such as the Beer Game, Monte Carlo simulation, and more

Core modules

• Global Supply Chain Management
• Managing Operations and Project Environments
• Sustainable and Ethical Supply Chains
• Procurement Risk and Contract Management
• Digital Transformation and Supply Chain Management
• Research and Practice in Projects and Logistics Management

Following completion of the core modules, you will select one of the following elective modules as your final piece of work.

• Work Placement
• Business Consultancy Project
• Entrepreneurial Development Project
• Business Internship
• Business Dissertation