Study supply chain management abroad

In an increasingly globalized world, the ability to manage long and complex supply chains is a vital skill. As a supply chain management student you’ll learn all about the planning, sourcing, financing, manufacturing and logistics that are needed for a successful supply chain.

Effective supply chain management is essential to the performance of retailers and manufacturers, and your skills will be valued in a range of industries when you graduate. You’ll get the opportunity to use your knowledge on real-world examples, and many programs include the option of spending time in placement gaining hands-on experience.

You can study supply chain management all over the world. Managing supply chains often means dealing with multiple organizations and working with people across borders. By studying abroad you’ll get a better understanding of how other countries work which will stand you in good stead when you start your career.

It’s possible to study supply chain management at a range of degree levels including foundation, certificate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels.

One of the most popular options is to study a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management as a BA or BSc. There is very little difference between the two options, but a BSc program often includes more technical or math-based modules. Supply chain management is often taught with business management or logistics and can include a sandwich year spent working on placement.

If you already have a related bachelor’s degree, you can study a master’s in supply chain management. These are often designed for current professionals looking to increase their knowledge or achieve a management role.

Supply chain management programs will be taught through lectures and seminars, and many universities will arrange talks and workshops with industry professionals. Your progress will be assessed through things like essays, coursework and written exams, but this will vary for each module you study.

Exactly what modules and subjects you study will differ for each supply chain management program, but some of the common core modules include:

• Introduction to supply chain and logistics
• Procurement
• Managing performance in operations
• Accounting for business
• Facilities and systems
• Tools for supply chain planning
• International business Research skills

Supply chain management is a relatively new discipline, but the skills you’ll develop will be valued by a wide range of businesses around the world. Some of the roles you’ll be well suited for after graduation include:

• Supply chain manager
• Procurement manager
• Logistics analyst
• Business development executive
• Management consultant
• Supply coordinator
• Distribution manager

Many supply chain management programs include working on a placement, which is a great way to build up real-world experience. This will help you work out what role you might want to pursue after graduation, and will also look good on your resume.