Supply Chain Management MSc

Birmingham's MSc Supply Chain Management is ranked #26 globally (QS Business Master's Rankings 2026: Supply Chain Management) and is accredited by four leading professional bodies:

1. CIPS - Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport
2. CILT - Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport 
3. IoSCM - Institute of Supply Chain Management
4. ILSSI - International Lean Six Sigma Institute

Industry involvement is built into every stage of the programme, from curriculum design, to live company projects, professional body partnerships, guest lectures, international field trips to Dubai, and site visits to world-class operations.

You’ll build expertise in supply chain strategy, operations planning, inventory and logistics management, risk and resilience, and performance improvement.

You’ll explore developments in digital supply chain systems, data analytics, automation, and sustainable supply chain design. A dedicated module in Digital Transformation, AI and Supply Chain Analytics will develop your understanding of how AI, machine learning, and the internet of things (IoT) are reshaping supply chains. 

Beyond technical knowledge, you'll develop valuable leadership attributes and essential soft skills in negotiation, communication, and relationship 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.

Study in the heart of UK industry

Birmingham isn't just the UK's second city, it's the historic heart of British manufacturing. Home to Jaguar Land Rover and within reach of DIRFT, the region puts you within reach of some of the country's most complex and active supply chains. The industry you'll study is on your doorstep.

Industry-recognised professional credentials

Your degree opens direct pathways to professional credentials that that supply chain employers recognise:

• MCIPS Pathway: become a Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (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 certification from the International Lean Six Sigma Institute (ILSSI)

Industry engagement and field trips

Industry involvement is built into the programme. You'll have opportunities to join field trips and hear from industry experts. These might change each year, however, here's a few examples from previous years:

• Chartered Institute for Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Speaker Series: a two-part series featuring CIPS Chartered Fellows addressing contemporary supply chain challenges, with free student membership and MCIPS pathway support. CIPS also sponsors our Overall Academic Excellence Award
• Dubai International Field Trip: cross-cultural industry experience through our partnership with the University of Birmingham Dubai Campus. Read this student blog to learn more
• UK Industry Site Visits: Tour world-class operations. Past visits 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

You'll put theory into practice: 

• 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.

Company Projects

Beyond taught modules, high-performing students can compete for a Company Project, a three-month engagement working with an industry partner to solve a real business challenge using live data. Past hosts include Costa, Aldi, Royal Mail, NBrown, the NHS, and the UK Department for Transport.

You can alternatively complete a Research Dissertation, pursuing in-depth academic investigation into a supply chain topic of your choice.

Taught modules - lectures and seminars are complemented by interactive business simulations, SAP S/4HANA sessions, and guest lecturers from industry, in a small cohort environment that prioritises discussion and peer learning.

Assessments - a deliberate mix of individual reports, group projects, presentations, examinations, and academic essays reflects the variety of outputs you'll produce in a professional supply chain role.

Dissertation Project - the programme culminates in a 40-credit project. You'll complete either a Company Project working with an industry partner on a live business challenge, or a Research Dissertation pursuing in-depth academic investigation.

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.

• 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.

Your careers toolkit

Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.

Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:

• Careers support services and Careers Network
• Work experience and placements
• Enterprise and entrepreneurship
• Alumni and employer connections
• Global opportunities and life experience
• Careers in the curriculum

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.