There are 2 optional programme choices:*

Master of Science in International Logistics

Master of Science in International Supply Chain Management

*The difference in these 2 programmes, are the modules which can be chosen during stage 2 and the topic / subject of the dissertation in stage 3.

The study is divided into three stages:

• Stage 1; 3 core modules, examined by continuous assessment (Sept. until Dec.). 30 credits

• Stage 2; 3 modules, (1 Core, 1 Specified and 1 Option Module), assessed by coursework and by examinations (Jan. until April). 30 credits

• Stage 3 is a four-month research period, which requires the submission of a thesis. (May until Aug.) 30 credits

Modes of instruction:

Workshops, lectures, group work, guest lecturers, practical assignments, seminars, group discussions, case studies, laboratory work, tutorials, field study, logistic excursions (harbour of Rotterdam and more), research project.

Stage 1 Modules in Venlo:

Supply Chains and Production Control Systems

This module provides students with the ability to:

Analyse an existing production in a global environment (SCM)

Suggest improvements relating to design of a production control system

Research Skills and economics for International Supply Chains
This module is designed to develop and assess research skills which are generic, that is, applicable to as wide a range of research topics as possible. 4 areas of research skills are

a.      Understanding the research environment

b.      Communication Skills

c.       Handling information

d.      Improved learning and performance

Maritime Finance and Business Modelling
This module considers the role of business finance and quantitative analyses in maritime industries including interpretation of traditional accounts and analysing of corporate performance and approaches to investment appraisal. It develops hands-on skills for decision making based on an integrated approach to quantitative decision methods using spreadsheets. Also, modern statistical tools are used to analyse problems in maritime business environments. Descriptive statistics and graphical displays, optimisation and risk analysis will be covered.

Stage 2 Modules in Plymouth:

Logistics, Supply Chains, Systems & Methods
This module equips students to structure complex logistical and supply chain problems using operational tools to explore them, and present a conceptual model for dissertations.

International Logistics & Management
In this module, students analyse the implications of decisions taken by international channel management in the context of international logistics including legal considerations.

International Supply Chain Systems

This module focuses on the supply chain systems that facilitate the international trade and exchange of goods. It considers the international environment within which international trade takes place and broking, electronic and other communications systems which facilitate the management of trade exchanges.

Shipping Finance, management and Law
The students will debate the advanced principles and applications of the law and finance relating to the operation of ships.

Port Policy & Management
The module provides for advanced studies in port policy an management through an analysis of the structure, organisational ownership trends and characteristics that are found in the world. Special attention will be paid to development a policy issues across Europe, the UK, the Far East and elsewhere through a case approach.

Stage 3 Research Project:
The final stage of the course will be the submission of a dissertation. The students are expected to research a topic or problem, related to international logistics or international supply chain management based upon relevant literature and appropriate empirical work. Students may participate in either an established research area of interest to staff members or follow a line of work based on their own interest. This research project, can be undertaken at any appropriate location worldwide.