MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Lean Six Sigma

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

This MSc is designed for graduates and professionals who want to combine advanced supply chain expertise with the powerful improvement tools of Lean Six Sigma. It suits those aiming to lead in procurement, logistics, and operations management, offering a curriculum that blends global supply chain strategy with process optimization and continuous improvement.

Curriculum Structure

Year One (Semester 1)

Students begin with Operations Management and Business Logistics, gaining a strong foundation in how organizations deliver products and services efficiently. Alongside this, Lean Six Sigma Principles introduces the methodologies of process improvement, equipping students with the analytical tools to identify inefficiencies and drive measurable change in supply chains.

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 Lean Six Sigma into logistics operations, preparing students to manage complex supply chains with a focus on efficiency and quality.

Dissertation (Summer)

The program culminates in a Master’s Dissertation, where students conduct independent research on a logistics or Lean Six Sigma 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, Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

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 mastery of Lean Six Sigma tools for continuous improvement.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)
Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Incorporates Lean Six Sigma methodologies, enhancing graduates’ professional recognition in process improvement and operational excellence.

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 exciting aspects of this MSc is how strongly it emphasizes hands-on, applied learning. You won’t just study supply chain theory—you’ll actively practice Lean Six Sigma methodologies, work on case studies, and apply digital tools to real-world logistics challenges. The program is designed to mirror the complexities of global supply chains, giving you practical experience in process improvement, efficiency, and strategic management.

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

Lean Six Sigma Training – Students are introduced to Lean Six Sigma principles and tools, applying them to logistics and supply chain case studies. This ensures graduates leave with recognized process improvement skills.
Case Studies & Applied Projects – Modules such as Global Purchasing and Supply and Freight Transport and Warehouse Management use real-world case studies, 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 Lean Six Sigma training, case-based learning, simulation tools, and industry collaboration makes Heriot-Watt’s MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management with Lean Six Sigma 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

This program is built to give you real, practical skills that employers value. You won’t just learn Lean Six Sigma in theory—you’ll apply it to real supply chain challenges, using case studies, simulations, and industry-linked projects. The course is structured to mirror the complexities of global logistics, ensuring you graduate with both academic knowledge and hands-on expertise.

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

Lean Six Sigma Training – Students are introduced to Lean Six Sigma principles and tools, applying them to logistics and supply chain case studies to develop measurable improvement strategies.
Case Studies & Applied Projects – Modules such as Global Purchasing and Supply and Freight Transport and Warehouse Management use real-world case studies, 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.