MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Business Performance

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

This MSc is designed for ambitious graduates and professionals who want to master the complexities of global logistics while also learning how to measure and improve business performance. It suits those aiming for careers in supply chain strategy, procurement, and operations management, offering a curriculum that blends technical expertise with management insight.

Curriculum Structure

Year One (Semester 1)

Students begin with core modules such as Operations Management and Business Logistics, gaining a strong foundation in how organizations deliver products and services efficiently. Alongside this, Performance Measurement and Management introduces the tools and frameworks used to evaluate and enhance organizational effectiveness.

Year One (Semester 2)

The second semester deepens expertise with Global Purchasing and Supply, Freight Transport and Warehouse Management, and Strategic Supply Chain Management. These modules emphasize international competitiveness, sustainability, and the integration of logistics with overall business performance.

Dissertation (Summer)

The program culminates in a Master’s Dissertation, where students conduct independent research on a logistics or supply chain topic of their choice. This project develops advanced research skills and often involves collaboration with industry, ensuring graduates leave with both academic and applied expertise.

Focus Areas

Operations management, supply chain strategies, procurement, freight transport, warehouse management, performance measurement.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will demonstrate expertise in logistics and supply chain management, the ability to evaluate global procurement and transport systems, competence in designing efficient supply chain strategies, and advanced skills in measuring and improving business performance.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)
Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Heriot-Watt University is ranked among the top 250 universities worldwide for Business and Management Studies (QS World Rankings 2025).
The university has a strong reputation for graduate employability, with logistics and supply chain alumni progressing into roles at multinational companies across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the most distinctive features of Heriot-Watt’s MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Business Performance is its strong emphasis on applied, hands-on learning. You’ll not only study the theory of logistics and supply chains but also practice it through case studies, simulation exercises, and industry-linked projects. The program is designed to mirror the challenges faced by professionals in procurement, transport, and operations, ensuring you graduate with both academic knowledge and practical confidence.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into the MSc at Heriot-Watt:

Case Studies & Applied Projects – Modules such as Global Purchasing and Supply and Freight Transport and Warehouse Management use real-world case studies and applied projects, helping students connect theory with practice.
Simulation & Digital Tools – Students engage with logistics modelling and supply chain simulation exercises, learning to apply analytical methods and digital platforms widely used in industry.
Group Work & Collaborative Learning – Team-based projects encourage collaboration, problem-solving, and professional communication, reflecting the teamwork required in logistics and operations careers.
Industry Engagement in Dissertation – The Master’s Dissertation often involves collaboration with logistics and supply chain companies, giving students exposure to current industry practices and challenges.
Access to Edinburgh Business School Facilities – As part of Heriot-Watt’s Business School, students benefit from modern teaching spaces, research centers, and access to specialist supply chain resources.
Library & Digital Resources – Full access to Heriot-Watt’s library system, including logistics and operations databases, journals, and e-resources that support advanced research.
Professional Accreditation Links – Accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) ensures students gain professional recognition and access to industry networks.

This blend of case-based learning, simulation tools, and industry collaboration makes Heriot-Watt’s MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Business Performance a truly immersive experience. You’ll graduate not only with advanced knowledge but also with the practical skills and professional connections to thrive in global supply chain careers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Heriot-Watt’s MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Business Performance are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in global supply chains. Many move into positions such as Supply Chain Analyst, Procurement Manager, Logistics Coordinator, or Operations Consultant, applying both technical expertise and performance management skills to complex business environments. The program’s strong industry links and professional accreditation ensure graduates are highly employable:

University Career Services – Heriot-Watt’s Careers and Graduate Futures Service provides tailored support, including CV workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive internships and placements.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures – Heriot-Watt consistently ranks highly for graduate employability, with postgraduates reporting strong employment outcomes and competitive salaries across logistics and supply chain roles.
University–Industry Partnerships – Students benefit from Heriot-Watt’s close ties with logistics and supply chain companies, with opportunities to collaborate on dissertation projects and applied case studies.
Long-Term Accreditation Value – The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), offering exemptions from professional exams and enhancing career mobility worldwide.
Graduation Outcomes – Alumni progress into leadership positions in procurement, logistics, and operations, while others pursue consultancy or doctoral research, reflecting the program’s strong academic and professional reputation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, students can continue their academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Logistics, Operations Management, or Business Performance at Heriot-Watt. This pathway allows graduates to deepen their expertise, contribute to cutting-edge research, and prepare for academic careers or advanced consultancy roles.