International Logistics and Supply Chain Management (Distance Learning) - MSc

The module aims to provide you with a foundation for academic research skills employed in all modules, but particularly the master’s dissertation. This will enhance your learning experience providing a research output which is both industrially relevant, and contributes academic value to the research base of your chosen industry.

This module will focus on resource management and its effective deployment and allocation to achieve sustainable competitive advantage for organisations. Two main resources will be considered: HUMAN and FINANCIAL; without which, organisational success cannot be guaranteed.

You will be introduced to theoretical concepts underpinning resource development and deployment such as, human capital development, change management, motivational theories, learning organisations, financial methods, investment appraisal, budgeting, alongside financial and management accounting.

All organisations need input of good and services from external suppliers or providers. This module will examine the developing role of purchasing and procurement within the supply function, in managing these inputs in which the activity can contribute to the efficiency of the organisation or project. Using contract law and its relevant legal duties, rights and processes, you will understand the underpinning contractual obligations for individuals and organisation.

This module will provide you with the opportunity to undertake a critical evaluation of supply chain management and its links to the marketplace, the distribution networks, the manufacturing process and the procurement activity required; ensuring that customers are served at high levels by lowering operational costs through effective logistics and supply chain operations.

Organisations are embracing computing technology in daily operations to enable integration, collaboration, interaction, and the processing needs of the entire organisation. One of these computing technologies that has become an essential part of an organisation's IT portfolio is Enterprise Systems (ES), which incorporates ERP, CRM, SCM, and so forth.

The module will consider in depth the effect of increasing competitive demand on all parts of the supply chain, how companies can gain competitive advantage by aligning both their internal and external supply chains to enhance customer satisfaction, product profitability, customer-supplier partnership and manufacturing and distribution efficiencies.

The purpose of the module is to enable you to undertake a sustained, in-depth and research-informed Level 7 project exploring an area that is of personal interest to you. In agreement with your supervisor, you will decide upon your topic which will take the form of a practical outcome (artefact) with accompanying contextual material. The main consideration when choosing your topic is that it must be aligned to the programme you are studying and informed by the research strategy of your school, and you should consider the relevance of this topic to your future academic or professional development.