Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme covers core business functions while placing particular emphasis on the design, management and improvement of operations in an international context. You will study modules that develop your understanding of how products and services are planned, produced and delivered across borders, and how organisations respond to complexity, risk and sustainability challenges.

• Core business foundations: principles of management, marketing, organisational behaviour, financial and management accounting, and business economics.
• Operations and supply chain: operations management, supply chain and logistics management, procurement and supplier relationship management, production planning and inventory control.
• Global and strategic perspectives: international business, global operations strategy, cross‑cultural management and trade considerations.
• Technical and analytical skills: operations research methods, project management, quality management, data analysis for operations and digital technologies in operations (including automation and e‑commerce impacts).
• Sustainability and ethics: responsible supply chains, circular economy principles and regulatory/compliance issues affecting international operations.
• Professional practice and project work: employer‑linked projects, case studies, a consultancy or dissertation project in your final year and opportunities for a placement year or study abroad to gain practical experience.

Teaching typically combines lectures, seminars, workshops and practical simulations, with assessment by coursework, group projects, presentations, exams and a substantial independent project in the final year.

Entry requirements

Bournemouth University accepts a range of qualifications. Typical applicants hold general qualifications such as A‑levels or vocational qualifications (for example BTEC), the International Baccalaureate, or recognised international secondary school qualifications. Mature students and those with relevant work experience are also encouraged to apply.

All applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirement, demonstrated by an approved test or recognised qualification. Additional requirements or interview/portfolio for selection may apply in some cases; check the university's entry guidance for the specific expectations for this programme.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across operations and supply chain functions in private, public and third‑sector organisations. Typical career paths include operations or production supervisor, supply chain and logistics coordinator, procurement officer, inventory planner, operations analyst, and project manager. With experience, graduates can progress to senior roles such as operations manager, supply chain manager, head of procurement or consultant specialising in operations improvement.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for professional qualifications in supply chain and procurement, membership of professional bodies, and further study at postgraduate level such as MSc programmes or MBAs for those aiming at strategic leadership roles.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University combines teaching that is closely linked to industry with an emphasis on professional practice and hands‑on learning. The university's applied learning approach helps you develop practical skills valued by employers, and the Business School maintains links with local, national and international organisations to support placements, live projects and guest input from practitioners.

Students benefit from focused employability support, opportunities for a placement year or study abroad, and access to facilities that support collaborative project work. Bournemouth's location offers connections to regional business, logistics and tourism sectors, while the university provides pastoral support and career services to help you transition from study into the workplace.