MSc Strategic Procurement Management (Online) (Fast Track)
This course is designed to allow experienced supply chain professionals (as evidenced by MCIPS status) to “top-up” their existing qualifications and experience to a Masters Degree by completing two taught modules and an independent dissertation project.
The focus of this course is the development of advanced analytical and communication skills that allow graduates to critically engage with theory at the leading edge and apply it to their practice.
As this is a fast-track course, it can be completed in 12-18 months.
Please note that the fast track route does not attract government student finance as you will need to be sitting the whole course, not a lesser amount of credits due to previous study/experience.
Contemporary Procurement
To explore the potential strategic impact and contribution of Purchasing and Supply towards the overall competitiveness of the organisation operating in the public, private and non-profit sectors
To identify how procurement and purchasing and supply communities could be organised and utilised in relation to its strategic contribution, including the strategic make/buy question
To explore the appropriate strategic internal and external relationships required to manage procurement and purchasing and supply at the strategic level
To explore new and innovative cutting-edge edge procurement and purchasing principles and philosophies impacting the field and business organisations
Research Methods
The aims of this module are to develop the students understanding and skills of research in a management subject discipline.
To critically review a range of research methodologies and select one most appropriate to address a research need.
To critically review a range of research methods and select the one(s) most appropriate to address the research design and to equip students with the skills required for the practical aspects of planning, conducting and producing a Masters level work.
Dissertation:
The Dissertation is a significant piece of student-directed learning, based on a detailed investigation into a business-related phenomenon. The dissertation requires students to demonstrate the following:
- Originality.
- A clear definition of the issue under investigation and a clear statement of the aims of the study.
- An understanding and use of appropriate research methodology indicating skills in data collection and analysis.
- If appropriate, an analysis of existing practice within the organisation(s) in terms of the theoretical framework established for the study and in terms of comparative practice.
- The extent to which all of the above result in a set of conclusions which are consistent with the research. The setting out of clear recommendations for action, adoption or otherwise.
Teaching
Each of the taught modules are delivered over a 12-week period. The modules are taught using pre-recorded material which is supported by and a series of 8 online synchronous sessions which last approximately an hour each. The total recommended study time for a 20-credit module is 200 hours.
The dissertation is an individual research project which is supported by a dissertation supervisor who is assigned to each student to guide and mentor them through the research process.
Students are supported with:
- Regular touchpoints
- Open door policy
- Email/ Teams/ Zoom meetings
Assessment
The course is assessed entirely by coursework.
Lecturers
We regularly revalidate courses for quality assurance and enhancement
At USW, we regularly review our courses in response to changing patterns of employment and skills demand to ensure we offer learning designed to reflect today’s student needs and tomorrow’s employer demands.
If during a review process course content is significantly changed, we’ll write to inform you and talk you through the changes for the coming year. But whatever the outcome, we aim to equip our students with the skillset and the mindset to succeed whatever tomorrow may bring. Your future, future-proofed.
MCIPS or equivalent.
The course welcomes international applicants and requires an English level of IELTS 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component or equivalent.
Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee will remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course.
August 2023 - July 2024 Fees
Part-time UK: TBC
August 2024 - July 2025 Fees
Part-time UK: TBC
Student Perks
At the University of South Wales, you’re investing in so much more than a degree. We strive to provide our students with the best possible experience, no matter what you chose to study. Whether it’s access to top of the range mac books and PCs, state-of-the-art facilities packed with industry-leading equipment and software, masterclasses and events led by industry experts, or a wide range of clubs and societies to meet likeminded people, better tomorrows start with extra perks.
Each course also has their own unique student benefits to prepare you for the real word, and details of these can be found on our course pages. From global field trips, integrated work experience and free course-related resources, to funded initiatives, projects working with real employers, and opportunities for extra qualifications and accreditations - at USW your future, is future-proofed.
Click here to learn more about student perks at USW.
Additional Costs
As a student of USW, you’ll have access to lots of free resources to support your study and learning, such as textbooks, publications, online journals, laptops, and plenty of remote-access resources. Whilst in most cases these resources are more than sufficient in supporting you with completing your course, additional costs, both obligatory and optional, may be required or requested for the likes of travel, memberships, experience days, stationery, printing, or equipment.
Funding
Funding to help pay for (or cover) course tuition fees and living costs
Whilst you’re studying, you’ll have two main financial obligations – tuition fees and living costs. There’s lots of financial help available from the University of South Wales and external funding sources, that may provide loans (which have to be paid back) and grants, scholarships and bursaries (that don't).
To learn about course fees, funding options, and to see if you are eligible for financial support, visit our Fees and Funding pages.
UK and EU students
Apply via UCAS if you are a UK/EU residing applicant, applying for year one of a full-time undergraduate degree, Foundation Year, Foundation Degree or HND and you have not applied through UCAS before. If you are applying to study part-time, to top up your Foundation Degree or HND, or to transfer to USW from another institution, please apply directly.
International students
Apply directly to the University if you live outside the UK.
The course is aimed at experienced procurement and supply chain professionals who are likely to be in full-time positions.
The types of roles and careers graduates could go on to attain:
- Head of Procurement
- Procurement Manager
- Supply Chain Director
It’s the community and friendships you’ll build that make this place special. Outside your studies you can experience our amazing sport facilities and Students’ Union.
Living in Halls is a great way to meet new people and make friends. We have high quality accommodation in Treforest, Cardiff and Newport.