Study logistics abroad

Logistics refers to the sourcing and delivery of products and services. It’s a subject that blends elements of engineering, procurement, IT, business, and marketing.

As a logistics student, you’ll study the theoretical and practical aspects of successful supply chains. You’ll be challenged to apply what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios by improving the operations and productivity of existing supply chains. The skills you’ll gain in planning, negotiation, management, and distribution will equip you for a successful career in the field, anywhere around the world.

Logistics is a booming area of international business that has undergone rapid global expansion. By studying abroad, you’ll see first-hand how the industry operates across borders, make useful professional connections, and boost your employability. You’ll also grow in confidence and independence as you travel the world and forge new friendships.

Two-year associate degrees provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the field of logistics and are a useful stepping stone into entry-level employment or enrollment on a bachelor’s course.

A BSc in logistics is studied over three years or four years, depending on your university and country of study. Most universities will also recommend that you undertake a placement year to gain hands-on industry experience and improve your employability.

If you’re still keen to learn more about logistics after finishing your bachelor’s, you can enroll in a research-based postgraduate qualification. An MSc can be studied over one or two years, depending on if you choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis. After this, you can study a PhD which takes between four and seven years to complete.

Logistics programs are mainly taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and one-to-one tutorials. Some universities will also arrange regular field trips to logistics companies and guest lectures from industry professionals.

Methods of assessment will vary from module to module, but you’ll probably be asked to complete exams, essays, written assignments, presentations, and research projects.

No logistics program will cover exactly the same content because universities around the world offer different specialist elective modules. However, the following core areas of study will feature on most programs:

• Principles of logistics
• Logistics of business
• Warehousing and distribution
• Logistics management
• Transport and traffic
• Materials handling
• Supply chain strategy
• Supply chain modeling

Thanks to the increasingly global nature of the field, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to achieve international success and work smoothly across borders. Some of the most popular jobs pursued by logistics graduates include:

• Logistics manager
• Supply chain manager
• Procurement executive
• Supply analyst
• Distribution manager
• Inventory planner
• Purchasing and materials manager
• Customer demand planner

Employers are always on the lookout for graduates with experience and insight in the sector. As such, it’s a good idea to try and secure a placement or internship with a logistics organization. Your university’s career service can point you in the direction of opportunities and help you approach companies.