Postgraduate MSc

Operations Management and Business Analytics

Salford Business School

Attendance

Full-time

With placement

Course

One year

Next enrolment

September 2024

Introduction

In a nutshell

This programme will run from September 2024. For earlier intakes, please speak to our Enquires team.

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

In a world of increasing globalisation, so too increases the need for world class operations managers who can work effectively in an international business environment and utilise data to drive valuable insights to make informed business decisions.

On this programme, you will study in depth the function of operations management and its role within a successful organisation. You will look at managing operations and complex situations while developing the skills and knowledge to leverage data effectively and drive strategic business decisions. You will become competent to effectively improve operational efficiency, while exploring cutting-edge developments and applying predictive analytics to streamline global supply chain operations, managing the procurement processes and developing the skills to deliver complex projects.

There is a high level of technical input throughout this programme and your learning will be informed by examples from numerous manufacturing and service settings. You will acquire knowledge of the tools required to support businesses when planning and scheduling their resources and streamlining their processes.

Salford Business School is at the forefront of preparing the next generation of business managers. You will look at how technology such as automation and artificial intelligence is driving Industry 5.0 and the opportunities and challenges provided by big data analytics, the internet of things, the digital economy, drone applications, additive manufacturing 3D printing, robotics, augmented reality and more.

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

You will:

  • critically analyse theory and concepts of operations management and business analytics when managing complex operations with the utilisation of data
  • explore cutting-edge developments and apply predictive analytics and planning control tools to support businesses
  • analyse and evaluate the ways in which effective procurement processes can enhance operational efficiency for global organisations
  • utilise a range of project management tools to plan and deliver complex projects while exploring key roles of value management and operations methods
  • develop knowledge and experience of the main technology drivers of Industry 5.0 and their ability to redesign and transform operations
  • have the opportunity to complete additional professional qualifications that enhance your employability
Placement

options available

International

students accepted

This is for you if...

1.

You have an interest in the challenges and opportunities technology creates.

2.

You want to learn how to achieve operational efficiency via data analytics and effective planning.

3.

You enjoy critically examining complex issues.

4.

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

5.

You want to foster a new vision of innovation and entrepreneurial leadership of a sustainable future.

6.

You want to enhance your employability within the operations management industry.

Course details

All about the course

To make this programme accessible for all, this course has three entry points per year. The course is delivered over three twelve-week trimesters. You will also undertake independent study in your own time with online support through the University’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

You will first complete the below core modules, for which you will earn 135 credits towards the full 180 credits. You will then choose one of the following elective modules as your final piece of work:

  • Business Dissertation: you will select a particular aspect of project management that you are interested in for further in-depth study.
     
  • Business Internship: this is a three month experiential opportunity within an organisation, focusing on real-world project management issues.
     
  • Entrepreneurial Development Project: in this project, you will have an experiential learning opportunity to conduct market and business environment research to identify a new business idea or venture and develop a business plan.
     
  • Business Consultancy Project: in this project, you will work with clients to solve live business problems.
     
  • Work Placement: this is a full-time placement in a project management role within a workplace of up to 12 months (subject to availability and visa compliance).
Modules

Procurement, Risk, and Contract Management

Procurement Risk and Contract Management will provide you with an overview of project risk and helps develop the skills you will need to effectively manage procurement processes in a multitude of environments. You will consider current problems and, using the theory and practice of project risk and procurement management, learn to solve them by applying systematic analysis and a creative synthesis of ideas.

Managing Project Deployment and Delivery

Managing Project Deployment and Delivery focuses on developing an understanding of the approaches, skills, and methods of project management and the tools and techniques of planning, control, teamwork, leadership, and other processes in order to develop your ability to plan, develop, and deliver complex projects. This module will cover essential skills required from the conception to developing a value-driven business case in deploying fundamentals step to increase the predictability of delivering a successful project. You will develop key practical skills underpinned by theory such us stakeholder management, scheduling of resources and time, risk assessment, quality assurance, and overall contribution to the value proposition of a project’s product or service outcome. 

Business Data Insights and Analytics

Business Data Insights and Analytics focuses on the utilisation of data to drive valuable insights and make informed business decisions. In this module, you will learn about various data analytics techniques, tools, and methodologies to extract meaningful information from large datasets. You will explore the data lifecycle, the use of data analytic tools, and the role they play in contemporary organisations. Through hands-on exercises and real-world case studies, you will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to leverage data effectively and drive strategic business decisions.

Planning and Control Systems

Planning and Control Systems focus on developing the tools that are required to support businesses with planning and the scheduling of their resources. In this module, you will evaluate a range of planning and control activities in relation to systems, procedures, and decisions that bring different aspects of supply and demand together and contribute to implementing sustainable production and service practices. You will develop key skills and knowledge of capacity management in loading, sequencing, scheduling, monitoring, and control and will appreciate the employment of key tools in ERP and MRP for products and services.

Industry 5.0

This is an interdisciplinary and practical module that delivers an in-depth evaluation of the need for progression from industry 4.0 to industry 5.0 for global markets and supply chains. Industry 4.0 denotes the requirement for data management and control and the need for interchange with machines and automated systems. Industry 5.0 takes this a step further to also consider the importance of the interaction of the key integrated components of industry 4.0 with humans. In industry 5.0, the emphasis is on sustainable and environmentally robust methods and manufacturing processes in combination with human interaction, integration, and collaboration. This module will equip leaders and managers with the essential skills and critical thinking capacity to evaluate the above interactions and execute to deliver the exceptional products and services of the future, while fully respecting the pertinent environmental, social, and job satisfaction components.

Global Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain Optimisation

Global Operations, Logistics, and Supply Chain Optimisation will enhance your understanding of advanced inventory management and forecasting, enabling you to optimise supply chain operations and logistics internationally. You will explore cutting-edge developments in supply chain integration, confront the complexities of cross-border logistics, and apply predictive analytics to streamline global supply chain operations.

You will integrate the transformative principles of industry 4.0 and 5.0, connecting procurement and operations and highlighting the critical intersection of technology and innovation in supply chains. By the end of this module, you will have a comprehensive grasp of supply chain optimisation, equipped to innovate and lead in the technologically driven and interconnected global marketplace.

LeAgile Operations and Value Management

LeAgile Operations and Value Management has a strong focus on the leagile framework for operations management and the key roles of value management to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction. This module is designed to enhance your skills and help you understand how leagile operations management can help companies in both industrial and service sectors to successfully face volatility of markets and gain competitive advantage. This module will help you acquire in-depth knowledge on key improvements of cost, quality, response time, and service level that can be obtained through leagile operations and value management.

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, and to prepare you for your final elective module and future workplace research.

 

    Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running 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 are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

    What Will I be Doing?

    85%

    Pass rates, 2020-21

    44%

    Merits

    33%

    Distinction

    TEACHING

    The course’s teaching and learning strategies are based on the following principles:

    • Global thinking
    • Sustainable practice
    • Professional success

    We aim to develop the next generation of managers and leaders who can identify and define the information required on a given topic, use research skills to identify relevant information resources, and manage and critically evaluate the information found and reference appropriately.

    We use a wide range of approaches to teaching to help you learn. Typically, a module will include a mixture of:

    • Lectures - you will be introduced to and gain understanding of key concepts and learning points, allowing interactivity, encouraging questions, enabling you to engage in discussion, and offering examples from your own personal and professional experiences.
    • Seminars and workshops - you will have the opportunity to apply and reflect upon the knowledge gained in lectures to a range of scenarios, enabling you to develop your critical thinking and problem solving and to receive tutor feedback. Seminars may also include the use of simulations and skills development courses that have micro-certification where available.

    ASSESSMENTS

    Assessment is 100% coursework, with no exams. The types of assessment used may vary according to each module, but you can expect to undertake a combination of:

    • Individual and group written reports
    • Individual and group simulation modelling reports
    • Presentations
    • Posters
    • Podcasts/video recordings
    • Portfolios
    • Project reports

    SUPPORT AND MENTORING

    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.

    Why Choose Salford Business School?

    Salford Business School aims to foster the next generation of leaders and create a new vision of innovative and entrepreneurial leadership. We are integrated into the local business community as a hub for knowledge creation and exchange.

    This means that our teaching is highly practical and your learning is informed by our industry partners. Every postgraduate course includes a work placement or work experience project in the UK or internationally so you can put your learning into practice before you graduate. We are proud that our industry collaborations and partnerships benefit students, businesses and the community.

    With multiple start points for our degrees, you can choose when to start your studies so that they fit with your life priorities. We want you to succeed in your studies and in your profession so we provide the support you need to achieve your aims.

    Our goal is to prepare you for a fulfilling life and professional career. Along the way, you’ll learn to be curious, adaptable and confident, ready to meet the digital, ethical and sustainability challenges of the 21st century.

    Is Business a Science or an Art?

    At Salford Business School, our postgraduate degree award is the Masters of Science (MSc) to reflect our approach to business knowledge. We believe that business decisions should be data-driven and evidence-based – even when the outputs are innovative and creative.

    At the beating heart of it

    You will study at our green Peel Park campus, just a short five-minute journey from central Manchester with close transport links, and our state-of-the-art campus at MediaCity is just a short bus ride away. 

    Our dedicated student hub on the sixth floor of the Maxwell Building provides areas for collaborative and independent study and break-out spaces. Additionally, here you can find our in-school progression and careers teams to support your journey. 

    Getting here

    Our campuses are easily accessible, with Salford Crescent train station at the centre of our Peel Park campus. Whether travelling to us by bus, rail, bike, car, or plane, our campus is easily reached from all over Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and beyond. For international students, Manchester Airport is a short ride away and offers regular flights from London and many international airports. 

    Dedicated support

    Starting or continuing to study at university is a big decision, and we are committed to supporting you throughout your time with us. 

    Our in-school Student Progression Assistants address programme and workload matters, whilst the Careers and Employability team, along with in-school advisors, offers personalised career support. The Library provides diverse learning support beyond your course, and for non-course matters, our university-wide support service, askUS, assist with topics from financial management to wellbeing. 

    If entrepreneurship appeals to you, Launch @Salford, our start-up incubator, offers expert insight and support. Additionally, our Business School's Postgraduate Mentoring Scheme connects new master's students with existing ones, providing valuable guidance during your transition. 

    These integrated support methods aim to help you seamlessly transition into your postgraduate course and ensure success during your time with us. 

    A global community

    Salford Business School is home to a diverse global student-staff community. Our teaching team consists of active researchers, academics, and industry experts who offer the latest in theory, research, and industry expertise. 

    Furthermore, our diverse student community brings together individuals from various backgrounds and experiences, providing you with a well-rounded perspective, knowledge, and friendships that will shape you into a future leader and global citizen. This equips you to thrive in life and your career, instilling curiosity, adaptability, and confidence to confront the digital, ethical, and sustainability challenges of the 21st century. 

    Programme leader

    Dr Kostas Chaldoupis

    Kostas Chaldoupis is a Lecturer in Procurement and Logistics at Salford Business School and the programme leader for the MSc in Operations Management and Business Analytics. Kostas joined Salford Business School after an industrial career in management consultancy and marketing. He has conducted business plans and projects for private and public sector for research and innovation funding, competitiveness, and further investment.

    Kostas has supervised a number of postgraduate internship and placements projects. His research is within the fields of Supply Chain and Operations Management. Kostas has a particular interest in innovative technologies and additive manufacturing - 3D printing. He currently examines implementation issues and new business models of the technology within manufacturing and healthcare sector.

    Employment and stats

    What about after uni?

    You will have developed the necessary skills and knowledge to become an Operations Manager or Business Analyst. Operations Management graduates that are equipped with data analytics skills are in high demand across the public, private, and third-sector.

    You will have developed key skills in the fields of procurement, supply chain, and project management and you will be confident to apply for a variety of roles in both large and smaller organisations.

    This course also offers great opportunities if you are looking to develop a consultancy or business.

    Requirements

    What you need to know

    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).

    How much?

    Type of study Year Fees
    Full-time home 2023/24 £8,550.00per year
    Full-time international 2023/24 £16,560.00per year
    Full-time home 2024/25 £8,550.00per year
    Full-time international 2024/25 £16,560.00per 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.

    Apply now

    All set? Let's apply

    Still have questions? Register for one of our Open Days or contact us:

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

    Enrolment dates

    September 2024

    September 2025