Master of Science in Procurement and Logistics

Today’s life is characterized by globalization, a phenomenon that should be understood as the free movement of goods, services and people across many borders without hindrances. Factors such as religion, culture, race, gender, nationality, trade tariffs and quotas make it difficult for such a movement; however, advances in technology, especially in communications, have helped to advance globalization. The consequence of this is a global village that is characterised by a common taste in the type of goods and services that people consume.

The resultant business environment is highly competitive as many companies and producers vie for the customer. This competition is not localised but has a global character meaning companies can compete on any market through the openness that has come with globalization. This means that in today’s world, competition is not only local but includes foreign players offering the same or similar products and services.

To thrive in this environment, business leaders and entrepreneurs should understand both local and global issues that affect their businesses. It is against this background that ZCAS University has introduced this tailor-made MSc programme that applies global concepts in a local environment.

AIM

The aim of the MSc in Procurement and Logistics programme is to equip students with the procurement skills required in today’s rapidly changing procurement landscape. The programme develops a conceptual, systematic and mature approach to the identification, analysis and development of solution to procurement problems in the private and public sector. Students shall be equipped with the knowledge and critical understanding of the interrelationships between the different procurement activities within an organization.

OBJECTIVES

By the end of the programme, candidates should be able to:

• describe the fundamental theories, concepts, principles and practices of procurement and logistics;

• show ability to conduct critical of analysis, interpretation, evaluation and judgement as applied to the procurement theory, taking into consideration the different cultural and global needs of the procurement environment;

• evaluate the strategic procurement operations, financial planning and logistics performance in organizations, including group companies;

• evaluate and recommend strategies for addressing organisational challenges in the areas of procurement, supply chain, human resources and operations; and

• undertake procurement research to help in solving organizational and logistical challenges.

ADMISSION CRITERIA

To qualify for admission to the Master of Science in Procurement and Logistics degree programme an applicant must have any of the following qualifications:

• Five credits at ‘O’ Level including English and Mathematics; and

• a degree from a recognised institution; or

• a relevant professional qualification from a recognised awarding body

DURATION OF STUDY

The programme of study for the award of the Master of Science in Procurement and Logistics qualification shall be completed in a period of not less than 18 months and not more than three academic years.

For the purpose of computing the maximum period of study where a person undertakes the study for the Master of Science in Procurement and Logistics qualification, partly as a part-time/evening/distance education and partly as a full-time student, three (3) courses successfully completed by the student shall count as one academic semester (one half year).