Logistics with Supply Chain Management

Course overview

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport this course will allow you to develop a strong understanding of the strategic, operational, and technological aspects of supply chain management, understanding key principles such as procurement, inventory management, transportation and global logistics. Through our industry partnerships, you will develop the necessary analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills to excel in this dynamic field which offers diverse opportunities.

"The quality of teaching and student support at Aston helped me to complete necessary goals, and I found my time at Aston challenging and very exciting.”

Turarbek Tokenov

Logistics Specialist

Why Logistics with Supply Chain Management at Aston University?

Accredited

Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport

Gold standard teaching

Aston University was awarded Gold- the highest possible rating for Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2023)

Excellent student experience

Building was ranked 1st in the UK for student experience 2023 Sunday Times

A Day in the life

As a supply chain management student on placement

Logistics with Supply Chain Management at Aston University

Modou talks about the highlights of studying logistics with supply chain management at Aston.

Careers and Placements

Whatever your Aston University journey, we're here to help. Discover what's possible with Careers and Placements.

Course description

BSc (Hons) Logistics with Supply Chain Management

Throughout this course, you will develop a thorough understanding of supply chain management and logistics, developing the techniques used to make processes work effectively, in order to meet strategic objectives such as minimum cost, maximum service level, and shorter cycle times.

What we will provide
Designed in collaboration with industry experts and incorporating real-world case studies and projects, will provide you practical knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career. This degree is also linked to the NOVUS Trust, the scheme supports students through professional mentoring, industry seminars, site visits, and access to placement opportunities with their sponsor companies. You will have the opportunity to apply to join the NOVUS scheme in the second semester of your first year. Find out more about the NOVUS Trust here.

We are an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry. To find out more, visit here.

What you will provide
We encourage our students to be adaptable, flexible with the ability to find innovative solutions which will ensure you optimise supply chain operations efficiently in a dynamic industry. With dedication, continuous learning, and practical experience, you will be encouraged to strengthen your abilities to analyse data, identify patterns and make strategic choices. It is also essential you have strong critical thinking skills, to make sound decisions in challenging situations.

What skills we teach
You will learn a comprehensive set of skills necessary for success in the field, including strategic sourcing, procurement, and supplier relationship management. You will also develop an understanding of information systems and build awareness of sustainability and ethics issues.

Placement year
The placement year is invaluable, offering you the experience to apply practical knowledge, gain networking opportunities, and enhance your employability prospects after graduation. Upon completion of your placement year you will be eligible to apply for the Chartered Fellow Membership. Previous students have successfully completed their placement year at renowned companies including Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover and Clipper Logistics.

Career prospects
People with knowledge and skills in logistics and supply chain are in high demand as customers want more from retail and manufacturing companies. You will have the skills and knowledge to work in a variety of roles including Supply Chain Planner, Logistics Specialist, Operations Manager and Category Manager. Through this course you could be part of the NOVUS scheme, which could guarantee you employment on graduation with one of 27 NOVUS partner companies including Wincanton, Arla, Sainsbury’s, DHL or Nestlé. Students on similar programmes have secured positions with companies such as DHL, Jaguar Land Rover, Kuehne Nagel, Dascher, Wincanton ,Unilever and GSK.

How you will learn

We encompass a variety of approaches to provide you with a comprehensive learning experience, this includes a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies, group projects, and practical exercises within laboratories. To complement your academic journey you can get involved in a variety of student societies including the transport society providing you with opportunities for networking, skill development, and social engagement. Our accreditation with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport and close relationship with the president of West Midlands has given our students the opportunity to get involved in projects, events and engage with the local community.

What you will learn

Driven by the needs of industry, our course provides you with a comprehensive understanding of key logisitcs and supply chain management concepts and an ability to critically analyse these, alongside the opportunity to specialise in areas of supply chain management that interest you.

First Year

You will understand the fundamentals of science and mathematics required for
logistics and supply chain management, including concepts such as technology and
principles of logistics and supply chain management. You will develop your
knowledge in business, management and legal principles to an organisation and its
operating environment, whilst understanding the role and responsibilities of the
professional logistics and supply chain manager within their organisation, their
industry and broader society.

Second Year

You will delve deeper into the field with a focus on advanced topics and enhance
your knowledge and analytical abilities to effectively address complex supply chain
issues and make strategic decisions.You will be able to apply core theories of
resource management and understand the political, social, environmental, economic
and business environment within which the logistics and supply chain industry
operates.

Placement Year

Undertaking a placement year will enrich your degree and knowledge, this immersive industry experience establishes connections and gains you a competitive edge for your career.

Final Year

You will further refine your skills and knowledge in the field, exploring advanced
topics such as leadership and human resource management, international trade law
and supply chain planning. The emphasis is on developing a strategic mindset and
the ability to design and manage complex supply chain networks. You will be able to
recognise and evaluate leadership in a professional and ethical manner.

aston_supplychainmanagement_coursepage_montserrat_lopez_heroimage

My Journey at GE Aviation Wales

My placement as a BSc Logistics with Supply Chain Management student

Find out more

Facilities

You will have access to our lecture theatres and seminar rooms, where theoretical content will be delivered. Students on this course will also have access to our computer facilities which you will be using for data analysis, modelling, and software projects. Our library will also provide you with digital and print resources to elevate your learning such as textbooks, reference materials, academic journals, and online databases.

Course objectives

Provides you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through appropriately conceived learning experiences.
Provides an understanding of the physical and managerial processes involved with logistics generally, with specific reference to the integrated management of the end-to-end supply chain.
Provides you with appropriately structured curricula, combining teaching in theoretical and knowledge-based principles with practical training skills.
Prepares you to able to respond appropriately to the rapidly changing industrial environment.
Provides you with the specific academic and professional skills that are in demand by employers in UK and international business.
Provides you with the generic transferable skills to enable you to make valuable contributions to business and society.
Offers you with the opportunity to obtain relevant industrial experience by providing the option of a sandwich year.
Introduces you to the principles of the research process and their relevance to modern methods of management within the contexts of transport and the supply chain.
Prepares you to maintain professional accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.
Creates an awareness of self development as a component of education and to develop the skills and attributes of lifelong learning.
Ensures that entry qualifications are the highest possible consistent with the applicant pools in the UK, EU and international markets.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Study and Research Skills	15
Building Professional Relationships	15
Introduction To Supply Chain Management	15
Transport and Engineering Economics	15
Law for Engineers	15
Introduction to Business Management	15
Introductory Accounting for Business	15
Facilities and Systems	15
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Understand the basic principles of science and mathematics required for logistics and supply chain management.
Understand the fundamental concepts, technology and principles of logistics and supply chain management.
Be able to apply basic legislation and relevant management principles relevant to commercial logistics and supply chain management.
Understand the role and responsibilities of the professional logistics and supply chain manager in society.

Year 2 modules

In your second year you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Land Transport	15
Air and Maritime Transport	15
Quantitative Tools for Supply Chain Planning	30
Managing Engineering Projects	15
Service Marketing	15
Operations and Process Management	15
Purchasing Principles for International Supply Chains	15
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Be able to source, organise and analyse relevant data to understand the current situation, predict how systems might change, and recommend appropriate responses for the logistics and supply chain sector.
Be able to analyse a problem, select appropriate analytical process(es), tools and techniques for problem solving and decision making.
Understand the political, social, environmental, economic and business environment within which the logistics and supply chain industry operates, evaluate and make appropriate decisions.

Placement year modules

If you opt for an integrated placement year, you will spend your third year on placement. You will be fully supported throughout the process by our award-winning Careers and Placements team.

Placement Year

Module Title	Credits
Placement Year	120

Placement year outcomes

On successful completion of the placement year, you will be able to:

Understand the relevance of the programme's discipline-specific and generic content to the world of work.
Understand the relevance of logistics and supply chain management and the environment within which it operates to the world of work.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Final Year Project	30
Leadership and Human Resource Management	15
Supply Chain Planning	15
International Trade Law	15
Strategic Management and Finance	15
Contemporary Issues in Supply Chains	15
Supply Chain and Procurement Strategy	15
Total	120

Final Year Outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Plan, conduct and report on a substantial programme of original research, collecting and analysing data, finding and synthesising material, leading to an end outcome where conclusions are supported by appropriate evidence
Integrate and apply knowledge and methods from a variety of sources
Apply the tools and techniques gained

We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.

Entry requirements

A Levels
Any subjects:
BBC (standard offer)
BCC If the student is also presenting either Core Maths* or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) grade B
BCC (contextual offer)

Including a science or technical subject:
BCC (standard offer)
CCC If the student is also presenting either Core Maths or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) grade B
CCC (contextual offer)
Science or technical subjects include: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Biology Further Maths, Design Technology, Engineering Science and Electronics, Geography and Geology.

*List of core maths qualifications we accept: AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies, City & Guilds Certificate in Using and Applying Mathematics, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics for Everyday Life, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Problem Solving, OCR (MEI)* Certificate in Quantitative Reasoning, Pearson Edexcel Certificate in Mathematics in Context, WJEC Eduqas Certificate in Mathematics for Work and Life and Level 3 Core Maths.
Contextual offers
Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

Extended Diploma and National Extended Diploma: DDM
National Diploma and Diploma: DM plus 1 A-level at minimum Grade B
Foundation or 90 credits Diploma: DM plus 2 A-levels at minimum grade B
Extended Certificate or Subsidiary Diploma: M plus 2 A-level minimum Grade B
Certificate/ National Certificate Level 3: Not accepted

29 points and above with 5, 5, 4 in higher level subjects if no science or technical subject studied.
28 overall points with 5, 4, 4 in higher level subjects including a science or technical subject.

Access (science or technical subject preferred but not essential) with at least 30 Distinctions and 15 Merits at level 3.

Non-standard qualifications

Degree:

Year 1 entry: We may consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a 1st year degree elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.
Year 2 entry: Please note that second year transfers are not part of the standard admissions process and is up to the discretion of the admissions team and tutor. Applications are only considered if there is space on that year of the programme.
Typically, applicants for second year entry must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have gained (or be expected to gain) 65% overall and 120 credits on an equivalent programme at another recognised university. The equivalency of the programme is reviewed by the Admissions Tutor and you will be required to provide an official copy of the programme specification of this. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications and this must include an academic reference.
Year 3: We will not be able to consider any application for Year 3

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and the whole application is reviewed which includes previous and predicted qualifications, any experience, references and motivation.

The following T levels are accepted qualifications for this course:

Accounting Grade D
Agriculture, Land Management and Production Grade D
Animal Care and Management Grade D
Building Services Engineering for Construction Grade D
Catering Grade D
Craft and Design Grade D
Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing Grade D
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction Grade D#
Digital Business Services Grade D
Digital Production, Design and Development Grade D
Digital Support Services Grade D
Education and Childcare Grade D
Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control Grade D
Finance Grade D
Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy Grade D
Legal Services Grade D
Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing Grade D
Management and Administration Grade D
Media, Broadcast and Production Grade D
Onsite Construction Grade D
Health Grade D
Healthcare Science Grade D
Science Grade D

Additionally to our Level 3 requirement, you will also need to have achieved:

GCSE Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 and above.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

International students can enter at Year 2 of this course having completed an undergraduate year one programme at the required academic level with approved teaching partners ONCAMPUS Aston or NCUK.

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,250
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2024/25)

Annual tuition fees:	£18,150
During placement year:	£2,500

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

You will have a diverse teaching and learning approach and we place significant importance on project-based learning. You will have regular visits from guest lecturers industry who will contribute their real-world expertise to enhance your learning journey. You will be assessed with a combination of coursework, presentations and exams.

Career prospects

The practical skills you learn will place you at a competitive advantage with, opportunities in diverse industries, including logistics, operations management, procurement, and consulting, offering competitive salaries and advancement potential. Our graduates have gone on to pursue successful careers in roles such as supply chain managers, transport analysts, operations, and consultants both nationally and internationally employed by companies including DHL, Jaguar Land Rover, Kuehne Nagel, Dascher, Wincanton ,Unilever and GSK.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Why study Logistics with Supply Chain Management at Aston?

Graduates with skills in these areas are in high demand in a growing industry. If you’re part of the NOVUS scheme and achieve a 2:1 you’ll be guaranteed a job on graduation.

How will a placement year benefit me?

We think that the knowledge you gain through your studies are best applied to real life and the most effective way to do this is by working in a company. As well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, you’ll also gain invaluable communication and team skills.

We have excellent links with industry and will help to arrange this placement for you.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham