Supply Chain Management MSc

Designed in collaboration with industry experts, our MSc Supply Chain Management prepares you for key roles in the dynamic field of supply chain management. You'll graduate ready to make strategic decisions, optimise complex operations, and use data analytics to drive business impact. Our graduates take on roles as supply chain analysts, logistics managers, procurement specialists, and operations consultants across industries from manufacturing to technology, retail to healthcare.

Throughout the programme, you’ll build expertise in supply chain strategy, operations planning, inventory and logistics management, risk and resilience, and performance improvement. You’ll also explore emerging developments such as digital supply chain systems, data analytics, automation, and sustainable supply chain design. Alongside technical skills in data analytics and systems, you’ll develop essential soft skills in negotiation, communication, and relationship management - the leadership attributes that employers value in supply chain professionals.

Industry-Recognised Professional Development and Accreditation

Your degree opens direct pathways to professional credentials that accelerate your career:

• MCIPS Pathway: pathway to becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (MCIPS) membership including exemptions from exams subject to successful completion of the programme and meeting all other requirements of CIPS.
• MCILT Pathway: pathway to becoming a Member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (MCILT including exemptions from exams subject to successful completion of the programme and meeting all other requirements of CILT.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification: opportunity to gain Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification issued by the International Lean Six Sigma Institute (ILSSI).

Employer Engagement and Field Trips

• Chartered Institute for Procurement and Supply (CIPS): Engage with a two-part speaker series featuring CIPS Chartered Fellows addressing contemporary supply chain challenges, plus free student membership and MCIPS pathway support. CIPS also sponsors our Overall Academic Excellence Award.
• Dubai International Field Trip: Gain cross-cultural industry experience through our partnership with the University of Birmingham Dubai Campus.
• UK Industry Site Visits: Tour world-class operations. Examples from previous years include the Daventry International Rail and Freight Terminal (DIRFT) - the UK's premier intermodal logistics park - and Jaguar Land Rover's advanced manufacturing facility in Solihull.

Digital Skills Development

• SAP University Alliance Partnership: Gain hands-on experience with SAP S/4HANA, the enterprise platform used by leading global companies, through the SAP University Alliance Partnership.
• RealGame Digital Business Simulations: Manage virtual companies, make strategic decisions, and collaborate in teams using industry-leading simulation technology that builds real-world competencies.

The Company Project

Beyond taught modules, high-performing students can compete for Company Projects - an opportunity to work with industry partners using real data to address genuine business challenges. These 3-month projects develop key employment capabilities while helping organisations resolve critical issues. Past project hosts include Costa, Aldi, Royal Mail, NBrown, NHS, and the UK Department of Transport.

Students can alternatively complete a standard Research Dissertation Project, allowing you to pursue deep academic investigation in an area of supply chain management that interests you most.

Taught modules – these include lectures, seminars, interactive class discussions and business simulation.

Assessments - these will include individual and group reports, group presentations, examinations and academic essays.

Dissertation Project - you will have the opportunity to work with industry partners using real data to address a problem or opportunity facing a real company or to undertake a standard academic dissertation.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2026/27 Session

You will complete the following core modules:

You will choose one of the following optional modules:

You will complete one of the following modules:

Alternative professional entry requirements

We will also consider candidates without an Honours degree who have obtained a Level 6 professional qualification (e.g., Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), or Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM)) in any logistics and supply chain-relevant subject. In this case, the following two points will be applied:

1. Two years relevant industry experience, Such as in logistics, business management, supply chain management, or related fields (e.g., operations, purchasing and procurement, warehousing). Roles should involve responsibilities such as supply chain processes, inventory management, quality management, project management, or operations that align with the MSc SCM curriculum’s focus. 
2. Industry reference letter: A reference letter from a current or previous employer is required to demonstrate the candidate's relevant professional experience.

Candidates who hold one of these certifications (e.g., Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), or Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM)) and relevant 2 years of work experience will have their qualifications accepted as meeting the entry requirements.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we have put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Business School Masters Scholarships

Birmingham Business School Masters Scholarships are designed to empower the next generation of leaders who are passionate about advancing responsible business and driving positive change.

For 2026, we are offering several scholarships to invest in future leaders who will set new global standards for responsible business leadership through challenging the status quo to seek progressive solutions to complex global challenges.

• Supply & Demand Planner
• Operations Coordinator
• Procurement Officer
• Retail Manager
• Senior Procurement Manager
• Director of Business Development and Research
• Sustainability and Operations Roles within Corporate Sustainability Offices

These roles span planning, sourcing, operations, sustainability, and strategic decision-making, reflecting the diverse and evolving nature of the supply chain profession across sectors and regions.

Careers support for Business School students

From day one through to graduation and beyond, you'll access specialist careers guidance tailored to the global business landscape. Our dedicated Business School careers consultants combine deep industry knowledge with personalised support, helping you navigate everything from securing graduate roles at leading corporations to launching your own venture.

You'll benefit from targeted career coaching, exclusive employer networking events, business-focused careers fairs, and direct connections to top graduate recruiters. Through tailored workshops, one-to-one consultations, and our extensive alumni network spanning the globe, you'll develop the professional skills and relationships that give you a competitive edge in the international job market.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.