Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

This Graduate Diploma focuses on the intersection of supply chain management and data analytics. Teaching blends theory, quantitative methods and hands-on applications using real-world datasets and supply chain software. Typical modules include:

• Supply Chain Strategy and Design – network design, strategic sourcing, make-or-buy decisions and service-level trade-offs.
• Supply Chain Analytics – descriptive and prescriptive analytics applied to logistics, demand planning and inventory control.
• Forecasting and Demand Management – time series methods, causal models and forecast accuracy evaluation.
• Inventory and Distribution Optimisation – EOQ, multi-echelon inventory, safety stock calculation and distribution routing basics.
• Machine Learning for Operations – supervised and unsupervised methods tailored to forecasting, anomaly detection and predictive maintenance.
• Data Management and Visualisation – data pipelines, cleaning, integration of ERP/WMS data and dashboarding for operational decision making.
• Simulation and Advanced Optimisation – discrete-event simulation, stochastic optimisation and heuristics for complex problems.
• Digital Supply Chains and Industry 4.0 – IoT, blockchain, digital twins and the impact of automation on supply chain processes.
• Applied Project / Capstone – team-based project with an industry dataset or company partner to solve a practical supply chain problem.

Teaching methods combine lectures, computer labs, case studies and project work. Students gain experience with statistical software, optimisation solvers and dashboard tools commonly used in industry.

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree – a recognised bachelor’s degree in business, economics, engineering, information systems, mathematics or a related discipline.
• Quantitative background – prior coursework or demonstrable competence in statistics, calculus or quantitative methods is expected. Applicants without a strong quantitative background may be asked to complete preparatory modules.
• Work experience – relevant professional experience in logistics, procurement, operations or analytics is advantageous but not always mandatory; many applicants are early-career professionals seeking upskilling.
• Application documents – curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a motivation letter outlining your interest in data-driven supply chains and one or two academic or professional references.
• Language proficiency – applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction; proof of language ability may be required if the applicant’s prior education was in another language.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for analytical and managerial roles across manufacturing, retail, logistics service providers and consulting firms. Typical job titles include:

• Supply Chain Analyst / Data Analyst (Supply Chain)
• Demand Planner / Forecasting Specialist
• Inventory Planning Manager
• Logistics and Distribution Analyst
• Procurement Analyst / Sourcing Specialist
• Operations Research Analyst / Optimisation Specialist
• Supply Chain Consultant

Alumni commonly move into roles where they bridge business and data teams, implementing analytics-driven improvements in cost-to-serve, service levels and operational resilience.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

• Applied, business-focused teaching – Corvinus has a long tradition in economics and management education with modules that emphasise practical problem solving and industry relevance.
• Strong industry links – close connections with Central European manufacturing, retail and logistics companies provide opportunities for applied projects, guest lectures and recruitment.
• Experienced faculty – the programme draws on academics and practitioners with expertise in operations research, supply chain management and data analytics.
• Location – studying in Budapest offers access to a dynamic regional business environment and a large pool of multinational and regional firms active in logistics and supply chains.
• Career support – Corvinus provides career services, employer events and networking opportunities that help graduates transition into analytical and operational roles.