Global Operations and Supply Chain Management

Our MSc Global Operations and Supply Chain Management focuses on improving organisational performance in a global context. You’ll develop the skills, knowledge and insight to design, manage and optimise supply chains for maximum efficiency and impact.

• Gain one year’s free student membership of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and exemptions towards Chartered Membership (CMILT)
• Develop a strategic, end-to-end understanding of global supply chains
• Apply practical problem-solving to improve efficiency, performance and profitability
• Explore specialist areas such as global operations, procurement, warehousing, transport and logistics
• Learn from industry-experienced academics and strong employer networks in a major UK logistics hub
• Harness emerging technologies - from RFID to enterprise systems - to drive organisational performance
• Enhance your career prospects in a fast-growing global industry

Keeping business moving

Efficient supply chains are critical to business success. On this applied and dynamic programme, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the systems, processes and modelling techniques that drive innovation and competitiveness.

Using real-world scenarios from your own or other organisations, you’ll learn to identify inefficiencies, develop strategic solutions and improve performance. You’ll be intellectually challenged while gaining practical experience - applying theory directly to business problems.

You’ll also have the opportunity to tailor your learning towards areas such as procurement or warehousing and distribution, aligning the course with your career ambitions.

Industry connections and real-world insight

You’ll learn through case studies, consultancy projects, guest speakers and company visits to organisations such as Wincanton, Pladis Global, CEVA Logistics and Boots.

Our experienced teaching team and strong industry links mean you’ll connect with key players across the sector.

A highlight of the year is Logistics Week, bringing together leading organisations and professional bodies to explore the latest trends and technologies. Previous contributors include DHL, Toyota, Kuehne + Nagel and others.

Professional credibility

We’re committed to helping you meet the highest professional standards. Our course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK (CILT UK), ensuring your learning is aligned with industry expectations.

As part of your studies, you’ll receive one year’s free CILT student membership, giving you access to professional networks, resources and events. You’ll also gain exemptions from the academic requirements for Chartered Membership (CMILT), strengthening your CV and professional standing.

At the heart of a logistics network

Studying in Derby places you at the centre of a major UK logistics hub, with strong links to organisations such as Rolls-Royce and Toyota.

With developments such as HS2 and new freight corridors shaping the future of logistics, you’ll engage with the key debates influencing the industry.

A global perspective

Supply chain professionals operate on a global stage. This MSc reflects that reality, with international case studies, diverse student cohorts and globally experienced tutors.

You’ll study alongside peers from across the world, building networks and perspectives that support international career opportunities.

Research that pushes boundaries

At the Derby International Business School, our Centre for Supply Chain Improvement drives innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence and RFID.

This research feeds directly into your learning - ensuring you stay up to date with the latest thinking and emerging trends.

The course is delivered in three stages - Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and Masters - comprising seven core modules and a 40-credit independent study dissertation.

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

You’ll develop strong analytical skills to evaluate and improve supply chain performance. Teaching combines academic expertise with input from industry professionals, ensuring your learning is both relevant and applied.

How you are assessed

On the MSc Global Operations and Supply Chain Management programme, assessment is designed to help you apply theory to real business challenges across modules such as operations management, supply chain strategy, logistics, procurement, sustainability, digital transformation and independent research.

Assessment methods vary by module and may include essays, management reports, presentations, group work, live briefs, consultancy-style projects and research-based assignments. The programme uses both formative and summative assessment to support your learning, develop your confidence and help you demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving and professional decision-making.

As an applied MSc, our assessments are closely linked to professional practice and employability. You will have opportunities to engage with real-world business scenarios, including live briefs set by external organisations.

The global supply chain sector continues to grow rapidly, creating strong demand for skilled professionals.

Graduates go on to roles in:

• Operations and supply chain management
• Business analysis and consultancy
• Logistics, distribution and procurement
• Strategic and project management

If you’re already working in the sector, this MSc will help accelerate your progression into senior and strategic roles.

Careers support

You’ll benefit from Personal Development Planning (PDP) throughout your studies, helping you refine your goals and career direction.

Our Careers and Employment Service also supports you for up to three years after graduation.

You will normally hold:

• a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline at 2:2 level or above, or
• an international or professional programme equivalent (eg CIPS or CILT level 6) qualification
• If English is not your first language, you will also need IELTS 6.5 with 5.5 in each skills area.

Applicants with a lower classification qualification may still be considered for entry to the programme if you can demonstrate a relevant level of work experience and/or knowledge to work at the required level.

Please note fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase after one year of study.

* UK full-time fees paid within one academic year are rounded down to the nearest £50 if applicable

Additional costs and optional extras

About postgraduate awards

Please note at postgraduate level, you'll need to gain the following number of credits in total to obtain the respective awards. If you have any questions please contact us.

This means you will gain 180 credits in total to complete the full MA or MSc.

Funding your studies

Find out more about fees, postgraduate loans and support you may be entitled to.

Find out about funding your studiesFind out about funding your studies

Alumni discount for Derby graduates

We offer a discount on postgraduate course fees for all Derby alumni.

Find out about the Alumni discountFind out about the Alumni discount

Additional information about your studies

The MSc Global Operations and Supply Chain Management can be completed full-time in one year, or part-time over 2–4 years (typically completed within three years), giving you the flexibility to fit your studies around work and other commitments.

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.