MSc in International Supply Chain Management

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc Supply Chain Management at the University of Exeter Business School develops the advanced skills needed to design, manage, and improve supply chains in a global context. It suits graduates from business, engineering, or related disciplines who want to specialise in logistics, procurement, and operations strategy, offering training in sustainability, digitalisation, and risk management.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Autumn & Spring – Core Modules):
You’ll begin with Supply Chain Analytics and Operations and Process Management, where you’ll learn how to optimise processes and apply data-driven decision-making. Modules such as Purchasing and Supply Chain Management and Logistics and Transportation Management provide practical insights into procurement and distribution systems, while Global Sourcing and Supply Management explores international supplier networks.

Year 1 (Spring & Summer – Core Modules):
The focus shifts to Sustainable Supply Chains and Strategic Innovation Management, where you’ll apply frameworks to design efficient, low-carbon supply chains and lead innovation in global organisations. You’ll also study Project Management and Research Methods for Management, gaining practical skills in managing complex projects and preparing for your dissertation.

Final Stage (Dissertation/Applied Project):
You’ll complete a dissertation or applied project, often working with industry data or external organisations. This capstone experience allows you to integrate theory with practice, conducting research, analysing data, and presenting solutions to real-world supply chain challenges.

Focus Areas

Supply chain analytics, operations management, procurement, logistics, sustainability, innovation, project management.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to design and optimise supply chains, apply analytics and project management tools, integrate sustainability into operations, and deliver evidence-based recommendations for global organisations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The University of Exeter Business School holds AMBA and EQUIS accreditation, ensuring your qualification is internationally recognised and valued by employers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

University of Exeter is ranked in the Top 150 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2026).
The Business School is recognised for strong links with industry and emphasis on employability-focused teaching.
Exeter is a member of the Russell Group, known for research excellence and global impact.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc International Supply Chain Management at Exeter is built around a “factory-to-classroom” concept, ensuring you gain practical, hands-on skills alongside academic knowledge. You’ll work with advanced digital technologies, industry-standard software, and research-led teaching, while benefiting from Exeter’s £6.5 million investment in teaching labs, workshops, and equipment. The program is designed to immerse you in applied learning, combining engineering principles with managerial decision-making in real-world supply chain contexts.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded into your MSc journey:

Cyber-Physical Systems Integration – The program uses a factory-to-classroom model, where cyber-physical systems simulate real supply chain operations, balancing theory with practice.
Specialist Software and Digital Tools – Modules such as Modelling, Simulation and Machine Learning for Operations Management train you in advanced analytics, optimisation, and digital supply chain technologies.
Industrial Placement Option – Students can choose the MSc International Supply Chain Management with Industrial Placement, adding 9–12 months of professional work experience in the UK to apply classroom learning directly in industry.
Group Projects and Case Studies – Collaborative assignments mirror consultancy-style work, helping you develop teamwork and problem-solving skills while addressing complex supply chain challenges.
Industry Visits and Guest Lectures – Teaching includes industrial presentations, site visits, and case studies, connecting classroom learning with real-world practice.
Laboratory Facilities – Access to Exeter’s engineering labs, including the microscopy suite, aerodynamics and fluids laboratories, additive manufacturing workshop, and vibration testing rigs, supports applied research and experimentation.
Research-Connected Teaching – You’ll complete a 60-credit MSc dissertation project under the supervision of research experts, engaging directly with Exeter’s internationally recognised research culture.
Library and Research Resources – The University’s libraries and databases provide extensive collections of engineering, logistics, and management journals, alongside specialist supply chain resources.
Professional Accreditation Links – Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and offering affiliate membership with the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), giving you exemptions and pathways to professional membership.

This blend of cyber-physical simulations, SAP-style digital tools, industrial placements, laboratory facilities, and professional accreditation ensures you graduate with both academic knowledge and the practical skills to thrive in consultancy, logistics, and global supply chain leadership roles.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Supply Chain Management at Exeter Business School are equipped to take on leadership roles in global operations and logistics. Typical career paths include Supply Chain Analyst, Procurement Manager, Logistics Consultant, and Operations Strategy Specialist. With Exeter’s Russell Group reputation and strong industry connections, you’ll graduate with both technical expertise and international recognition.

Here’s how Exeter supports your career progression and future opportunities:

University Services for Employability: You’ll benefit from the Career Zone, Exeter’s dedicated employability service, which provides one-to-one career guidance, employer networking events, and access to internships and graduate opportunities. The Business School also offers tailored support through its Employability and Placements Team, ensuring your career development is embedded throughout your studies.
Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The University of Exeter is ranked among the Top 150 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2026) and is consistently recognised for strong graduate employability. Supply chain professionals typically earn between £35,000–£55,000 annually, with senior consultancy and management roles exceeding this range.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program integrates applied projects and guest lectures from industry leaders, alongside the option of a 9–12 month industrial placement in the UK, giving you direct exposure to professional practice.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and offering affiliate membership with the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), the program provides exemptions and pathways to professional membership.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have progressed into leadership roles in multinational corporations, consultancy firms, and logistics providers, contributing to supply chain optimisation, procurement strategy, and sustainable operations worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Supply Chain Management at Exeter, students can continue their academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Operations Management, Supply Chain Strategy, or Business Analytics at the University of Exeter. This pathway allows graduates to deepen their expertise, contribute to cutting-edge research, and prepare for careers in academia, consultancy, or high-level industry leadership.