MSc International Transport Trade and Logistics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Liverpool John Moores University

Program Overview

The MSc International Transport, Trade and Logistics at LJMU is a one-year, full-time program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge of global logistics, maritime transport, and international trade systems. It suits graduates and professionals aiming to build careers in shipping, logistics, and supply chain management, offering a curriculum informed by world-leading research and strong industry links with the Mersey Maritime cluster.

Curriculum Structure

Year of Study (1 year full-time)
In this intensive year, you’ll develop both theoretical insight and practical expertise across transport, trade, and logistics. Core modules include International Trade and Global Transport Systems, where you’ll analyze freight flows and intermodal transport, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management, which explores global supply chain strategies. You’ll also strengthen your professional toolkit through Project Management and Research Methods, preparing you for industry-focused problem-solving and academic inquiry.

Optional modules allow you to tailor your learning to your career ambitions. You may choose Maritime Economics and Management to understand chartering, finance, and operational considerations, or Port Management to explore governance and security issues in global ports. Other options include Law and Marine Insurance, Chartering and Carriage of Goods Law, and Operations Research. Finally, you’ll complete either an Industrial Consultancy Project or an MSc Project, applying your learning to real-world challenges and producing a dissertation that demonstrates advanced research and professional relevance.

Focus Areas

Global logistics, maritime transport, supply chain management, port operations, international trade law, project management

Learning Outcomes

Critical analysis of transport and trade systems, advanced logistics management, applied research skills, industry problem-solving

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), the chartered body for professionals in the movement of goods and people. Graduates benefit from exemptions from the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers’ membership examinations, enhancing long-term professional recognition.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

LJMU has an excellent employability record, with 97% of postgraduates in work or further study within fifteen months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). The university is recognized as one of the UK’s leading maritime higher education providers, with nearly 125 years of expertise in professional maritime education and strong partnerships across the UK-wide maritime industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the most exciting aspects of the MSc International Transport, Trade and Logistics at LJMU is how it immerses students in real-world practice. You won’t just learn theories of global trade and logistics — you’ll apply them through consultancy projects, industry-linked research, and access to Liverpool’s thriving maritime cluster. The program is delivered by the Department of Maritime and Mechanical Engineering, a faculty with over 125 years of maritime education history, and benefits from LJMU’s strong partnerships with Mersey Maritime and the UK-wide shipping industry. Students gain hands-on experience with professional-standard tools, case studies, and opportunities to work on projects that mirror the challenges faced by global transport and logistics firms.

Here’s how LJMU ensures you graduate with practical, employable skills:

Industrial Consultancy Project: Instead of a traditional dissertation, you can choose to work on a consultancy project with a real industry partner, applying your knowledge to solve live transport and logistics challenges.
Specialist software and digital tools: Modules such as Operations Research and Logistics and Supply Chain Management train you in quantitative modelling and decision-making using industry-standard analytical software.
Group projects and collaborative learning: The program includes team-based assignments where you’ll design solutions for complex logistics problems, simulating the collaborative environment of global supply chains.
Mersey Maritime cluster engagement: LJMU’s close ties with Mersey Maritime — one of the UK’s largest regional maritime networks — give students access to networking events, guest lectures, and potential internship opportunities.
Field trips and site visits: Based in Liverpool, one of the world’s most historic port cities, you’ll have opportunities to visit ports, logistics hubs, and shipping companies to see transport systems in action.
Maritime and Mechanical Engineering facilities: You’ll study within LJMU’s specialist maritime faculty, with access to modern learning spaces, simulation tools, and the university’s extensive library and digital resources.
Professional exemptions: Experiential learning is reinforced by professional recognition — graduates enjoy exemptions from the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers’ membership examinations, directly linking your studies to industry standards.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of LJMU’s MSc International Transport, Trade and Logistics are well-prepared to step into leadership roles across the global maritime and logistics industries. Typical career paths include Logistics Manager, Port Operations Specialist, International Trade Analyst, and Maritime Consultant, with many alumni progressing into senior positions in shipping companies, logistics providers, and government agencies. The program’s strong industry links and professional accreditation ensure that graduates are highly competitive in the job market.

Here’s how LJMU supports your career progression:

University services for employability: LJMU’s Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service provides tailored support, including one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, and exclusive access to employer networks through the Mersey Maritime cluster.
Employment stats and salary figures: LJMU reports that 97% of postgraduates are in work or further study within fifteen months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). Maritime and logistics graduates typically enter roles with starting salaries in the £28,000–£35,000 range, with rapid progression as they gain chartered status.
University–industry partnerships: The program benefits from LJMU’s close ties with Mersey Maritime, Peel Ports, and the wider UK shipping industry, offering students networking opportunities, guest lectures, and consultancy projects with real employers.
Long-term accreditation value: Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), the program also provides exemptions from the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers membership examinations, giving graduates a clear pathway to professional recognition.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work in international shipping firms, logistics consultancies, and port authorities, contributing to global trade and transport innovation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, students may continue into doctoral research (PhD) in Maritime Studies, Logistics, or International Trade at LJMU or other leading universities. The program’s strong research foundation within the Department of Maritime and Mechanical Engineering provides an excellent platform for advancing into academic careers, policy research, or specialized professional qualifications such as full Chartered Membership of CILT.