MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Programme Specification Primary Purpose Course management and quality assurance. Secondary Purpose Detailed information for students, staff and employers. Current students should refer to the related Course Handbook for further detail. Disclaimer The University of Portsmouth has checked the information given in this Programme Specification Supplement. We will endeavour to deliver the course in keeping with this Programme Specification Supplement; however, changes may sometimes be required arising from annual monitoring, student feedback, review and update of units and courses. Where this activity leads to significant changes to units and courses, there will be prior consultation of students and others, wherever possible, and the University will take all reasonable steps to minimize disruption to students. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a unit or course for reasons outside of its control, for example; the absence of a member of staff or low student registration numbers. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform applicants and students as soon as possible. Where appropriate, the University will facilitate the transfer of affected students to another suitable course. Copyright The contents of this document are the copyright of the University of Portsmouth and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the University of Portsmouth.
Contents Course Details...1 1. Named Awards...1 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable)...1 3. Awarding Body...1 4. Teaching Institution...1 5. Accrediting Body...1 6. QAA Benchmark Groups...1 7. Document Control Information...1 8. Effective Session...1 9. Author...1 10. Faculty...1 11. Department...1 Curriculum...1 12. Educational Aims...1 13. Reference Points...2 14. General Learning Outcomes...3 15. Learning Outcomes...3 A. Knowledge and Understanding of:... 3 B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to:... 3 C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to:... 4 D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to:... 4 16. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods...4 17. Assessment Strategy...4 18. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements...5 19. Employability Statement...5 Course Management...5 20. Support for Student Learning...5 21. Admissions Criteria...6 A. Academic Admissions Criteria... 6 B. Disability... 6 22. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching...6 A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation... 6 B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation... 6 C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback... 6 D. Staff Development Priorities... 6 23. Assessment Regulations...7 24. Role of Externals...7 25. Indicators of Standards and Quality...7 A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition... 7 B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent)... 7 C. Quality Assurance Agency... 7 D. Others... 7 26. Further Information...7 i
Course Details 1. Named Awards MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable) C2377F 3. Awarding Body University of Portsmouth 4. Teaching Institution University of Portsmouth 5. Accrediting Body CILT, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transportation in the UK 6. QAA Benchmark Groups Mathematics, Statistics and Operational Research Business and Management 7. Document Control Information Update 1.3 August 2016 Update 1.4 July 2017 8. Effective Session 2017/2018 9. Author Dr Graham Wall, Dr Djamila Ouelhadj 10. Faculty Faculty of Technology 11. Department Department of Mathematics Curriculum 12. Educational Aims The course aims to equip students to work in the area of Logistics or Supply Chain Management. In addition, and more generally, the course aims to: Provide a challenging, stimulating and self-rewarding study environment. Develop a range of keys skill by means of opportunities provided in the study units. Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 1 of 8
Accommodate student needs in relation to maximising their career potential by enabling them to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the subject area. It is expected that students graduating from this course will be well placed to enter a variety of careers in Logistics and Supply Chain Management as well as more widely in industry, commerce, applied research, and education. 13. Reference Points The major reference points are: The University of Portsmouth Curricula Framework Document 2014. The Subject Benchmark Statements. Framework for Higher Education Qualifications The QAA UK Quality Code for Higher Education. In particular the programme has been designed with the following benchmark elements in mind: Mathematics, Statistics, and Operational Research (MSOR) A graduate who has reached the threshold level should be able to: (M1) Demonstrate a reasonable understanding of the main body of knowledge for the programme of study; (M2) Demonstrate a reasonable level of skill in calculation and manipulation within this basic body of knowledge; (M3) Apply core concepts in well-defined contexts, showing judgement in the selection and application of tools and techniques; (M4) Understand logical arguments, identifying the assumptions and conclusions made; (M5) Demonstrate a reasonable level of skill in comprehending problems, formulating them mathematically and obtaining solutions by appropriate methods; (M6) Present straightforward arguments and conclusions reasonably accurately and clearly; (M7) Demonstrate appropriate transferable skills and the ability to work independently and under guidance. Business and Management It is therefore expected that graduates will gain knowledge and develop understanding in the following areas: (B1) Operations - the management of resources and operations; information systems; the development, management and exploitation of information systems and their impact upon organisations (B2) Communication and information technology (CIT) - comprehension and use of relevant CIT for application in business and management (B3) Business policy and strategy - the development of appropriate policies and strategies within a changing environment, to meet stakeholder interests (B4) Pervasive issues - these would include sustainability, globalisation, corporate social responsibility, diversity, business innovation, creativity, enterprise development, knowledge management and risk management. Being able to think critically and be creative: manage the creative processes in self and others; organise thoughts, analyse, synthesise and critically appraise. This includes the capability to identify assumptions, evaluate statements in terms of evidence, detect false logic or reasoning, identify implicit values, define terms adequately and generalise appropriately Being able to solve complex problems and make decisions: establish criteria, using appropriate decision-making techniques including identifying, formulating and solving business problems; and the ability to create, identify and evaluate options; the ability to implement and review decisions Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 2 of 8
The ability to conduct research into business and management issues either individually or as part of a team through research design, data collection, analysis, synthesis and reporting Using information and knowledge effectively: scanning and organising data, synthesising and analysing in order to abstract meaning from information and to share knowledge Numeracy and quantitative skills including the development and use of relevant business models 14. General Learning Outcomes Level 7 Master's degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated: a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline conceptual understanding that enables the student: to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to: deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and nonspecialist audiences demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level And holders will have: the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development 15. Learning Outcomes A. Knowledge and Understanding of: A.1 General principles and techniques in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (B1, M1). A.2 Current practice in logistics and supply chain planning and operation (B1). A.3 Quantitative modelling of real-world logistics problems and systems (M5). A.4 The range of criteria used in making logistics decisions (M3). A.5 Computing principles, software processes and computer packages relevant to logistics (B2). A.6 Logistics Technology and its impact on current practice (B1). A.7 Codes of Practice and the ethical conventions that underpin practice. B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to: B.1 Develop general and critical abilities of an intellectual, analytical, creative and problem-solving nature (M3, M4, M5, and M6). Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 3 of 8
B.2 Use judgement in the application of quantitative methods and techniques in the solution of logistics problems (M3). B.3 Analyse a strategy, idea or problem and make recommendations (M6). B.4 Combine techniques from multiple disciplines in order to formulate logistics strategies (B1). B.5 Develop critical skills with regard to literature searching, appraising and evaluating from a variety of sources and synthesising the results (B1). B.6 Plan and execute a significant project at Masters level and report on it (B1). C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to: C.1 Reflectively formulate quantitative models for the resolution of problem or requirement specifications (B1, M5). C.2 Give critical advice on the use of a given logistics model or technique (M6). C.3 Use computer packages to solve problems in logistics and supply chain management (B2). C.4 Use professional judgement in the selection and use of software for specific purposes (M3). C.5 Produce reports critically evaluating logistics systems (B1). C.6 Improve logistics system by application of methodologies or techniques (B3, B4). D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to: D.1 Communicate effectively in appropriate forms of presentation/communication (B2). D.2 Use information technology to handle data for simulation and analysis (B1, B2). D.3 Application of number in the understanding and interpretation of data before and after processing (M2). D.4 Use problem-solving techniques to formulate appropriate problem solving strategies (M3, M4). D.5 Improve learning and performance by building on previous experience in order to generalise ideas and skills (M7). D.6 Work with others to achieve goals but nevertheless be distinctively individual (M7). 16. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Core knowledge is acquired mainly through lectures, tutorials and practical computer laboratory work. Individual learning is supported by directed reading, study guides, and careful selection of worked examples and case studies. These skills are acquired by reading books, articles, and case studies in learned journals, problem solving and appropriate use of material. Particular emphasis is placed upon practice of the techniques and processes in order to make recommendations and describe results. Tutor supported computer laboratory work, case studies, tutorials, and seminars will be used to develop appropriate skills. These skills are developed by a mixture of small examples in the lectures, computer based tutorials, classroom based tutorials, and seminars. The emphasis is generally in building skills and confidence in their use, coupled with the ability to apply appropriate skills. 17. Assessment Strategy Testing of theoretical knowledge and application of techniques is through a mix of written examinations and coursework. Testing is through a mix of examinations and coursework. The project is assessed by dissertation and oral presentation. Through coursework including the development of solution techniques and report writing. These skills will be assessed through the various courseworks and through the final project. Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 4 of 8
18. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements See Unit Web Search 1 for full details on the course structure and units This is a 1 year programme for September intake students and 17 months (including a summer break) for January intake students. For September intake students, the classroom-based units are taught during the standard academic year and the project unit taking place over the summer (June to September) period. For January intake students, the classroom-based units are taught from January to May and from September to December with the project unit taking place between January and May the following calendar year. A total of 180 credits are required to achieve the award. Standard University Regulations apply. The course (expect the project) is constructed from 30 credit point year-long units, where 30 credits represent 300 hours of study time and includes 48 hours of time-tabled activities. The project unit is a 60 credit unit representing 600 hours of study time. 19. Employability Statement The course is aimed at the students who wish to undertake careers in the logistics sector. The examples and case studies used in the course are all designed to increase the students knowledge of the theory and practice of logistics and hence enhance their employability The final project allows students to investigate a significant logistics problem and propose results. This may (subject to availability) use data from a real-world logistics situation or involve liaison with companies with logistics problems. Seminars from logistics experts from academia and industry will, subject to availability, be arranged during the academic year and students will be encouraged to attend. All units have aspects which contribute to the development of employability skills and/or research skills for further study. Course Management 20. Support for Student Learning A Course leader manages the course. An extensive induction programme at the beginning of the year introduces the student to the University and their course. Each student has a personal tutor, responsible for pastoral support and guidance. University support services include - careers, financial advice, housing, counselling etc. A dedicated Student Services Centre. The Academic Skills Unit. The Additional Support and Disability Advice Centre (ASDAC). Excellent library facilities. Student course and unit handbooks provide information about the course structure and University regulations etc. Key Skills opportunities are incorporated into all units. Feedback is provided for all assessments. Personal Development Planning (PDP) for all awards. The Maths Café provides a high level of additional support for all units. A group working area is accessible within the same building as the department in close proximity to the Maths Café. 1 www.port.ac.uk/unitwebsearch Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 5 of 8
21. Admissions Criteria A. Academic Admissions Criteria Standard University rules apply but in addition an undergraduate degree of at least lower second class honours with a quantitative element is normally required. Equivalent qualifications and/or experience are considered on a case-by-case basis by the admissions officer. B. Disability The University makes no distinction in its admissions policy with regard to disability and will endeavour to make all reasonable adjustments in order to make it possible for students to study at Portsmouth on a course of their choice. 22. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation Course Leader s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review Head of Department s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. Unit and Course Level student feedback considered at Board of Studies. Unit Assessment Board consideration of student performance. Annual Standards and Quality Reports to Board of Studies, including consideration of Subject and Award External Examiner Reports. Department Learning and Teaching Committee Periodic Programme Review. Student Representatives and Student/Staff Consultative Committees. National Student Survey. Staff Performance and Development Review. Peer Review and Development Framework. Faculty Learning and Teaching Committee. B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation Unit Co-ordinators for unit content and delivery. Course Leader for day-to-day running of course. Board of Studies with overall responsibilities for operation and content of course. Head of Department. Associate Dean (Academic). Associate Dean (Students). Quality Assurance Committee. Unit, Award and Progression Board of Examiners. C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback Student Representation on Board of Studies. Student Staff Consultative Committees. Unit and Course level student feedback questionnaires. University participates in external student surveys, e.g. National Student Survey (NSS), Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) and International Student Barometer (ISB). D. Staff Development Priorities Academic staff undertake activities related to research, scholarship, teaching and learning and student support and guidance. Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 6 of 8
Annual staff performance and development reviews match development to needs. Managers undertake a variety of management development programmes. All academic staff expected to work towards Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy. Support Staff are encouraged to attend short courses in areas such as minute taking, and specific IT packages. 23. Assessment Regulations The current University of Portsmouth academic regulations will apply to this programme (see Assessment and Regulations 2 ). 24. Role of Externals Subject External Examiners who will: Oversee unit assessment and usually attend Unit Assessment Boards Review unit assessment strategy Sample assessment artefacts Present report to Unit Assessment Boards Award External Examiners (usually also a Subject External Examiner) who will: Oversee and attend Award/Progression Boards Scrutinise and endorse the outcomes of assessment Ensure that the standard of the award is maintained at a level comparable with that of similar awards elsewhere in the United Kingdom 25. Indicators of Standards and Quality A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition Accredited by the Chartered Institute for Logistics and Transportation (CILT) B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent) Periodic Programme Review in February 2014 confirmed fitness of purpose for the course and effectiveness of annual review processes. C. Quality Assurance Agency QAA Higher Education Review, March 2015, judgements about standards and quality meet UK expectations (for full report see Higher Education Review of the University of Portsmouth, March 2015 3 ). D. Others The University of Portsmouth submitted a new unit to the REF2014 Panel 10 Mathematical Sciences, comprising work from two main research clusters: Nonlinear and Complex Systems, and Logistics and Operational Research. The work spanned the spectrum from theoretical advances in these subjects, through to applications addressing specific challenges in collaboration with academic and industrial partners. Eleven staff were submitted by the University of Portsmouth. The submission included two impact case studies illustrating our impact on healthcare logistics and the management of financial risk. 2 www.port.ac.uk/departments/services/academicregistry/qualitymanagementdivision/assessmentandregulations/ 3 www.qaa.ac.uk/en/reviewsandreports/documents/university%20of%20portsmouth/university-of-portsmouth-her- 15.pdf Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 7 of 8
9.8% of our research outputs were rated world-leading (4*) and 61% either world-leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*) 80% of our impact was rated as having very considerable reach and significance (3*) Out of 53 institutions across the UK submitting in this Unit we were ranked 24th for impact at world-leading (4*) and internationally excellent (3*) level, and ranked joint 1st among post-1992 universities 62% of our submission overall was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent Among post-1992 universities, we were ranked 2nd for overall performance 26. Further Information Further information may be found in: Student Handbook University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework Document University of Portsmouth Prospectus University of Portsmouth 4 and School/Department 5 websites 4 www.port.ac.uk/ 5 http://www.port.ac.uk/department-of-mathematics/ Programme Specification for MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Page 8 of 8