University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This degree combines core business foundations with specialised study in procurement, logistics and supply chain management. You will cover topics that prepare you to design, operate and optimise supply chains across local and global contexts.

• Core business foundations: introductory units in accounting, economics, management, marketing and business statistics to build essential commercial literacy.
• Procurement and sourcing: strategic sourcing, category management, supplier selection, contract management and ethical procurement practices.
• Operations and logistics: operations management, transport and distribution, warehouse design, inventory control and last‑mile delivery strategies.
• Supply chain analytics and systems: demand forecasting, data analytics for supply chains, modelling and simulation, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Risk, sustainability and compliance: supply chain risk management, sustainable and circular supply chains, regulatory compliance and procurement law.
• Professional practice: negotiation and supplier relationship management, project work, and a capstone or industry project that integrates theory with workplace practice.

The program is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials, case studies, industry projects and practical labs. Many students undertake work‑integrated learning or industry placements to gain hands‑on experience and build employer networks.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on completion of an Australian senior secondary qualification (or recognised equivalent) or prior tertiary study. Applicants are assessed on academic achievement and, where applicable, subject prerequisites. Mathematics (or quantitative methods) at senior secondary level is recommended because of the data and analytics content.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or recognised qualification. Applicants with relevant work experience or vocational qualifications may be eligible for alternative entry or credit towards the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates work across private, public and non‑profit sectors in roles that plan, procure, move and manage resources. Typical career paths include:

• Procurement officer / buyer
• Category or contract manager
• Supply chain analyst or planner
• Logistics and distribution manager
• Inventory or demand planner
• Operations manager or production planner
• Consultant in supply chain, logistics or procurement systems

With experience, graduates can move into senior roles such as head of procurement, supply chain director, or specialised advisory roles in sustainability, risk and supplier governance. The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study in business, logistics or management for those wishing to develop advanced specialist expertise.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers business education grounded in industry relevance and practical skills development. Students benefit from a metropolitan campus with access to industry partners in manufacturing, agribusiness, defence, healthcare and logistics, enabling workplace projects and placement opportunities.

The program emphasises applied learning, analytics and contemporary procurement practice so graduates are well prepared for the operational and strategic challenges employers expect. Support services, career advising and alumni networks help students transition from study to professional roles in the supply chain sector.