University of Salford lecture podium with students in the background

MSc Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Course type
Postgraduate
Course qualification
MSc
Subject area
Business Management
Delivery mode
Full-time
Course length
One year
Placement
Available with placement year

Develop your knowledge and skills in global procurement, logistics, and supply chain management.

Course summary

What is the fee?

For all course options, see fees and funding

Where will I study?

Salford Business School

How long will I study?

One year

Placement year available?

View our placement year option

Overview

International applicants: please check the international intakes page for the latest information and application dates.

This interdisciplinary MSc Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management programme will encourage and challenge you to develop your knowledge and skills. You will learn the latest industrial practices and implications in areas such as automation and artificial intelligence. You will also look at the opportunities and challenges provided by big data analytics, the Internet of Things, additive manufacturing, 3D printing, machine learning and more.

Additionally, the programme offers substantial context and input of demand forecasting, inventory management, process/supply chain/logistics optimisation and analytics.

You will be encouraged to broaden your horizons by going beyond the academic literature to look at the very latest developments published in the relevant trade press. You will also be challenged to consider the ethical implications of global sourcing, looking at critical global events in relation to supply chain resilience and management of risk, for example.

  • Develop knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and principles applicable to management of national and global supply chains, procurement and logistics & projects.
  • Evaluate the fast-changing nature of the business environment at local, national and global levels.
  • Apply a socially responsible approach to information, data and decision making.
  • Utilise a range of management tools and techniques to develop creative solutions. 
  • Have the opportunity to complete additional professional qualifications that enhance your employability, in areas such as Carbon Literacy, Microsoft etc. 
  • Be exposed to numerous industrial simulations and tools such as the Beer Game, Monte Carlo simulation and more.

Why Salford Business School?

Situated at the heart of Greater Manchester's business, finance and digital sector, Salford Business School is perfectly placed as a dynamic hub for the development and exchange of knowledge. 

We combine cutting-edge learning with strong industry connections, preparing you to lead change in the fast-paced world of business and management.

Find out more about our school and community

To find out more, register for a Postgraduate Open Days or learn more about our master's courses in business, finance and law.

This programme is accredited by CILT and CIPS.

This is for you if...

1.

You want to learn about creating value when planning and delivering products and services via effective procurement practices, resilient supply chains and customised logistical propositions.

2.

You want to become effective and efficient practitioner using the latest technology advancements and techniques underpinned by research in the subject area.

3.

You want to develop impeccable organisational competences and enhance your interpersonal communication and people skills.

How you learn

What Will I be Doing?

Teaching

Our teaching team is comprised by research active academics with extensive industrial experience and world-wide engagement. Our expertise is supported by input from industry partners, such as Jaguar Land Rover, Brother International, Manchester Airport, Barrett Construction, NHS UK, and more.  

As well as learning from academics, you will have the opportunity to learn from other students, expert guest lecturers, and from your interaction with the two professional bodies, Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) and Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) at conferences, workshops, invited events and more.  

Assessment

Assessment is 100% coursework, with no exams. Assessments may include individual and group written reports, individual and group simulation modelling reports, presentations, posters, podcasts/video recordings, portfolios and project reports.

Student support

Taking the leap from undergraduate study? Returning after a study break? Joining us as an international student? Whatever your circumstance, we’re committed to supporting you throughout your studies. Find out more about our support for postgraduate students.

Future careers

Because procurement, supply chain management and logistics are essentially transferable skills across industries and continents, you could go on to work in a range of organisations and roles. These include procurement and contract management, project management, operations management, distribution, planning, forecasting, risk management, supplier relationship management, commercial and more.

Full programme accreditation by both professional bodies - CIPS and CILT - will equip you with leverage during job hunting, interviewing and salary negotiations. 

A taste of what you could become

A supply chain manager

A shipping manager

A warehouse controller

A procurement officer

A commercial manager

and more...

Career Links

Our alumni includes individuals currently employed in influential posts within very well-known organisations but also small-medium enterprises scattered all over the globe. Many of our alumni are regular speakers and lecturers on the programme. Examples include Global Head of Supply Chains for Jaguar Land Rover, European Planner for Brother International, Head of Supply Chain Development for British Nuclear, Procurement Manager for Rolls Royce, and many more. 

Modules

You will complete 180 credits in total, comprising core and optional modules. Following completion of the core modules listed below, you will select one elective module as your final piece of work.

Core modules
Global Supply Chain Management

This module will cover key topics in GSCM. You will gain knowledge on managing a SC with a focus on time, cost, and quality, as well as the impact of digitalisation on SCM, Including omnichannel strategies and marketplaces. You will also learn emerging technologies in SCM, such as impact of Industry 4.0, and develop skills in creating a fast and ultra-fast supply chain, implementing lean and agile methodologies, and managing risks and resilience in supply chains. This module will also cover logistics and reverse logistics, demand planning and inventory management, supply chain operations and developing sustainable and human-centric supply chains that align with Industry 5.0 principles.

Managing Operations and Project Environments

Managing Operations and Project Environments is an interdisciplinary and practical module that brings together two well sought out industrial skills: operations and project management. A systems thinking approach is utilised to critically stipulate the complementary nature of the two disciplines and their application to a multitude of industrial settings. Areas covered include complexity and standardisation in operations and project environments, performance management, forecasting and estimation, capacity management, optimisation, and process management. Ultimately, the emphasis of this module is to equip students with the necessary skills to manage operational and project capabilities in unison, to achieve the best possible outcomes for organisations performing in national and global business settings. 

Sustainable and Ethical Supply Chains

Sustainable and Ethical Supply Chains will develop your understanding of supply chains by providing a deeper focus on how they can be managed in sustainable and ethical ways and in doing so considers the pertinent carbon literacy components. Adopting a global perspective, it emphasises the need for considering how supply chains affect the economy, society, and environment in organisational decision-making.  You will be introduced to the concepts of the triple bottom line, business ethics, corporate social responsibility, sustainable and resilient supply chains, circular economy v. closed-loop supply chains, humanitarian logistics, green/environmentally friendly product development, carbon literacy/reduction, and the role of governments and associated frameworks/models. This will involve developing an understanding of the long-term and strategic importance of dealing with complex ethical, inclusive and sustainable decisions across various organisational functions (procurement, manufacturing, distribution) and the wider supply chain.    

Procurement Risk and Contract Management

Procurement Risk and Contract Management provides you with an in-depth analysis of the multidisciplinary nature of procurement risk and contract management. It addresses the critical importance of the reciprocal relationship between the two disciplines. The module equips you with the skills you need to effectively manage procurement processes in a multitude of environments, in public sector, NGOs, not-for-profit and private organisational settings. You will consider current global challenges, and by using the theory and practice of procurement risk and contract management, learn to resolve problems and deliver value in complex environments. 

Digital Transformation and Supply Chain Management

Digital Transformation and Supply Chain Management provides students with critical awareness of digital transformation within the context of procurement and supply chain management, focusing on transformation and innovations in supply chains driven by different technologies such as augmented reality, IoT, big data, AI and machine learning The students will systematically interpret and apply theories, skills, and research aiming to make defendable judgements about complex issues in supply chain management, taking into account organisational settings and cognitive biases in contexts of uncertainty, disruption and volatility. The students will critically evaluate and advise on supply chain management issues at a strategic level of organisations and analyse the impact of digital transformation on different interconnected supply chain elements e.g., facilities, inventory, transportation, sourcing and information exchange. 

Research and Practice in Projects and Logistics Management

This module will challenge you in evaluating contemporary research developments and best practices in Logistics and Project management considering the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. You will critically analyse the latest in project, programme, and logistics management focusing on the current trends in project management applications in logistics by adopting best practices such as agile, lean, and benefits management. Furthermore, this module will prepare you in developing innovative ideas and formulate meaningful conclusions regarding the issues of a chosen case study. The aim will be to develop a clear plan for recommended practical action and future research regarding a specific case and a contemporary theme. 

Research Methods for Managers

This is an applied module that focuses on practical research methodologies and techniques for preparing you to conduct research within the workplace, in order to prepare you for your final elective module and future workplace research. 

Following completion of the core modules, you will select one of the following elective modules as your final piece of work.

Work Placement

A full time placement of up to 12 months in a project management related role within a workplace (subject to availability and visa compliance). 

Business Consultancy Project

An experiential opportunity where you will work with clients to solve live business problems.   

Entrepreneurial Development Project

An experiential learning opportunity where you will conduct market and business environment research to identify a business idea or venture and develop a business plan.  

Business Internship

A 3-month experiential opportunity within an organisation, focusing on real-world project management issues.  

Business Dissertation

You will select a particular topic you are interested in for further in-depth study.   

We take a flexible approach to our course delivery that promotes diversity and inclusivity and provides a blended learning experience, which will vary to meet specific programme requirements. This learning time includes formal lectures and interactive activities such as seminars, tutorials, practical sessions, laboratory and studio learning. Smaller classes may be used to support collaborative activities such as project and group work and presentations. A range of different assessments and feedback is offered to meet the needs of both our diverse student body and specific subject needs.

Our postgraduate taught courses are normally made up of 30 credit modules which are equal to 300 hours of learning time, or 15 credit modules which are equal to 150 hours of learning time. A Master’s degree typically comprises 180 credits, a PGDip 120 credits, and a PGCert 60 credits.

Please note that exact modules and content offered may vary in order to keep content current and, for courses that offer optional modules, may depend on the number of students selecting particular options. When accepting your offer of a place to study on a programme with optional modules, you should be aware that optional modules may not all run each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you can undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

Entry requirements

English language requirements

International applicants will be required to show a proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element below 5.5) is proof of this. If you need to improve your written and spoken English, you might be interested in our English language courses.

Find out about dedicated support for international applicants.

Standard entry requirements
Undergraduate degree

Normally a minimum 2:2 honours degree or equivalent. A wide range of professional qualifications are also accepted, either in partial or complete fulfilment of entry requirements.

International students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.

Alternative entry requirements
Accreditation Of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

Fees and funding

2025/26

Type of study Fees
Full-time £8,550 per year

2026/27

Type of study Fees
Full-time £8,820 per year

2025/26

Type of study Fees
Full-time £16,560 per year

2026/27

Type of study Fees
Full-time £16,980 per year

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. For more information please see our funding section.

International applicants 

If you are applying from overseas and are accepted onto the programme with placement, there will be additional costs associated with visa extensions. These include:

  1. Extending your student visa fee (visit gov.uk for more information). Please note, this is in addition to your original student visa fee.
  2. Tier 4 biometrics enrolment fee.
  3. Immigration Health Surcharge 12 month fee (visit gov.uk for more information).

Visit Immigration and Visa FAQ and read the section on extending your Tier 4 visa for further information.

International scholarships

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our international scholarships.

How to apply

Still have questions? Contact us:

By email: enquiries@salford.ac.uk
By phone:  +44 (0) 161 295 4545

Enrolment dates

June 2026

September 2026

January 2027

June 2027

September 2027

Student information

Terms and conditions