MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

The MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Portsmouth integrates business skills with advanced mathematical analysis, preparing you for a modern operational career in logistics and supply chain management. It suits graduates and professionals who want to master quantitative decision-making, logistics modelling, and strategic supply chain design while gaining accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-time or 2 years part-time)

The program is built around four taught modules plus a major project, ensuring a balance of theory, applied practice, and industry engagement.

Logistics Modelling (30 credits): You’ll apply sophisticated modelling to solve complex logistics problems using industry-standard software such as SIMUL8 and Evolver, developing demonstrable software skills and simulation expertise.
Operations Management (30 credits): Learn production planning, operations design, and Material Requirement Planning (MRP) models, applying tools like Excel Solver to real-world case studies.
Strategic Logistics (30 credits): Explore strategic decision-making methods including data envelopment analysis and project management, with guest lectures from industry professionals.
Supply Chain Management (30 credits): Study inventory, alliances, network design, distribution, pricing, sustainability, and forecasting, while engaging in group projects and global case studies.
Project (Masters Logistics, 60 credits): Conduct large-scale research into a logistics or supply chain issue, often with industrial partners, producing professional-level recommendations.

This structure ensures you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and applied skills, ready for leadership roles in logistics and supply chain management.

Focus Areas

Logistics modelling, operations management, supply chain design, strategic logistics, sustainability, quantitative decision-making.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply mathematical models to logistics problems, use industry-standard software for simulation, design sustainable supply chains, and lead strategic operations in global contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).
Graduates with an overall pass mark above 50% are eligible to apply for Chartered Membership (CMILT) after gaining professional experience.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Portsmouth graduates benefit from strong industry links, with applied projects involving companies such as IBM, Boeing, and Hampshire County Council.
Career outcomes include roles such as Logistics Specialist, Supply Chain Buyer, Transport Line Manager, and Quality Inspector, with graduates working across manufacturing, distribution, defence, and emergency services.
The University of Portsmouth is consistently ranked among the UK’s top modern universities for employability and industry engagement.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students don’t just study theory — they actively apply it using industry-standard tools, live case studies, and research projects often linked to real companies. You’ll gain hands-on skills in simulation, modelling, and strategic decision-making, supported by modern computer labs, guest lectures, and professional accreditation.

From practical modules to applied projects, the program is designed to immerse you in the realities of logistics and supply chain management. Here’s how that translates into your learning experience:

Specialist software training: Work with SIMUL8 (simulation software) and Evolver (genetic algorithm solver) to model complex logistics problems and find optimal solutions.
Digital tools in operations: Use Excel Solver for production planning and Material Requirement Planning (MRP) models, applying quantitative methods to real-world logistics challenges.
Group projects and case studies: Collaborate on international case studies and large-scale logistics problems, developing teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Guest lectures and industry input: Learn directly from professionals in logistics, supply chain, and operations management through guest sessions integrated into modules.
Applied research project: Conduct a substantial Master’s project, often with an industrial partner, tackling live issues in supply chain or logistics.
Laboratory and computer-based sessions: Practical classes in labs and computer suites ensure you build technical expertise alongside theoretical knowledge.
Library and learning support: Access Portsmouth’s extensive library resources, plus tailored support like the Maths Café, where tutors help you master quantitative methods.
Accreditation advantage: The course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), giving you exemptions toward Chartered Membership (CMILT).
Career-focused opportunities: Apply your skills in projects with companies such as IBM, Boeing, and Hampshire County Council, supported by the university’s Careers and Employability Centre.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Portsmouth step into diverse, high-demand careers across industries. Within 15 months of graduation, alumni have secured roles such as logistics specialists, supply chain buyers, transport line managers, and quality inspectors.

Here’s how the program supports your progression and future opportunities:

University career services: Access tailored support from the Careers and Employability Centre for up to 5 years after graduation, including CV reviews, interview practice, networking events, and recruitment fairs.
Employment stats and salary figures: Graduate outcome surveys show strong employability within logistics, supply chain, and operations roles at 15 months post-graduation.
University–industry partnerships: Work on applied projects with companies such as IBM, Boeing, and Hampshire County Council, gaining real-world exposure and contacts.
Long-term accreditation value: The course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). Graduates with a pass mark above 50% are eligible to apply for Chartered Membership (CMILT) once they gain the required experience.
Graduate outcomes: Alumni have progressed into roles in manufacturing logistics, distribution, postal and express delivery, emergency services, and even military and defence industries.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, students often continue into PhD research in logistics, supply chain, or operations management at Portsmouth or other leading universities. Alumni stories highlight how MSc graduates have successfully transitioned into doctoral study, supported by the same academic staff who taught them during the Master’s.