Global Supply Chain Management (M.Sc.)
Manage Global Supply Chains – Your Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management!

Your Master of Science in Supply Chain Management – A Gateway to an International Career in Logistics and Procurement
With a Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management, you will prepare for high-level leadership roles in international companies. This four-semester programme combines comprehensive business knowledge with specialised expertise in logistics and supply chain management. The fourth semester is dedicated to your Master’s thesis, which can be completed as part of an internship or a semester abroad. The English-taught curriculum ensures that you are well-equipped for global projects, leading to an M.Sc. qualification.
The Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management provides you with a well-rounded skill set, combining strategic knowledge, hands-on experience through business projects and simulations, and interdisciplinary electives. At CBS, we place a strong emphasis on soft skills, which are crucial in this field. As a supply chain manager, you will collaborate with multiple business sectors and diverse international teams—whether at a company’s headquarters or on-site at global supply networks.
This Master of Science in Supply Chain Management is ideal for those aiming for senior management positions in supply chain management. For working professionals looking for a more flexible study model, CBS also offers a part-time logistics Master’s programme in German. Take advantage of career opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, and become an expert in sustainable, digital, and global supply chains!
*Tuition fees differ for EU and non-EU students. For the specific fees please check the tuition fees information page. Status: April 2025.

Curriculum
1
Business Economics
3
ECTS
- Analysis of demand, supply, and market equilibrium
- Theory of consumer choice
- Theory of the firm, production and cost analysis
- Market structures: perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, contestable markets
- Game theory
- Pricing strategies
- Factor markets, labor economics
- Economics of information
- Industrial organization
- Limitations of markets and interventions by the government
- Econometric techniques related to these topics
Business Economics
3
ECTS
- Analysis of demand, supply, and market equilibrium
- Theory of consumer choice
- Theory of the firm, production and cost analysis
- Market structures: perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, contestable markets
- Game theory
- Pricing strategies
- Factor markets, labor economics
- Economics of information
- Industrial organization
- Limitations of markets and interventions by the government
- Econometric techniques related to these topics
Empirical Research Methods
3
ECTS
- Development of a research question
- Primary vs. secondary data
- Steps of research process
- Research designs
- Quantitative and qualitative data
- Structured methods of data collection: questionnaire and structured interview
- Un- and semi-structured methods: qualitative interview and focus group
- Quantitative and qualitative content analysis
- Ethical considerations of data collection
- Sampling
- Data analysis using statistical software programs (SPSS)
- Univariate analysis, bivariate analysis (crosstab and correlation), multiple linear regression
- Writing a research report – structural and other formal requirements
Empirical Research Methods
3
ECTS
- Development of a research question
- Primary vs. secondary data
- Steps of research process
- Research designs
- Quantitative and qualitative data
- Structured methods of data collection: questionnaire and structured interview
- Un- and semi-structured methods: qualitative interview and focus group
- Quantitative and qualitative content analysis
- Ethical considerations of data collection
- Sampling
- Data analysis using statistical software programs (SPSS)
- Univariate analysis, bivariate analysis (crosstab and correlation), multiple linear regression
- Writing a research report – structural and other formal requirements
Strategic Analysis & Management
3
ECTS
- Strategy making process and strategic reasoning: cognitive process of strategy
creation through the prism of logic and intuition - Setting strategic purpose in the context of responsible stakeholder management
- Advanced external environment analysis: markets, industries and competitive
landscapes in static and dynamic perspective in the domestic and international
context - Diagnosing and managing strategic capability through national borders over time
- Cultural and institutional context of strategic management: concepts, frameworks
and analytical tools - Generic and interactive business strategies, inside-out and outside-in perspective on
achieving and sustaining competitive advantage internationally - Network-level strategies
- Corporate development and configuration: strategic options and portfolio matrices
- Strategy formation
- Strategic change and corporate restructuring
- Strategic renewal
- Strategy evaluation and strategic controls: tools and methods
- Organizing for success
Strategic Analysis & Management
3
ECTS
- Strategy making process and strategic reasoning: cognitive process of strategy
creation through the prism of logic and intuition - Setting strategic purpose in the context of responsible stakeholder management
- Advanced external environment analysis: markets, industries and competitive
landscapes in static and dynamic perspective in the domestic and international
context - Diagnosing and managing strategic capability through national borders over time
- Cultural and institutional context of strategic management: concepts, frameworks
and analytical tools - Generic and interactive business strategies, inside-out and outside-in perspective on
achieving and sustaining competitive advantage internationally - Network-level strategies
- Corporate development and configuration: strategic options and portfolio matrices
- Strategy formation
- Strategic change and corporate restructuring
- Strategic renewal
- Strategy evaluation and strategic controls: tools and methods
- Organizing for success
Innovation Management & Digital Transformation
3
ECTS
- Diagnosing the change context: diffusion and dynamics of innovation
- Sources & types of innovation
- Product/service, process & business model innovation
- Individual and corporate creativity
- Strategic innovation management & the innovation process incl. New Product Development (NPD)
- Introduction to digitalization, digital age & digital divide
- Digital drivers & disruptive forces
- Technological drivers of digital transformation
- Socio-technological change associated with the adoption of the mentioned drivers
- Introduction to the digital organization & digital business models
- Impact of digitalization on the value chain (Industry 4.0)
- Digitalization-related innovation theories & technology management
- Digitalization leadership & organisational transformation concepts
- Change management & transformational leadership
- Agility and VUCA world
- SCRUM and Design Thinking
Innovation Management & Digital Transformation
3
ECTS
- Diagnosing the change context: diffusion and dynamics of innovation
- Sources & types of innovation
- Product/service, process & business model innovation
- Individual and corporate creativity
- Strategic innovation management & the innovation process incl. New Product Development (NPD)
- Introduction to digitalization, digital age & digital divide
- Digital drivers & disruptive forces
- Technological drivers of digital transformation
- Socio-technological change associated with the adoption of the mentioned drivers
- Introduction to the digital organization & digital business models
- Impact of digitalization on the value chain (Industry 4.0)
- Digitalization-related innovation theories & technology management
- Digitalization leadership & organisational transformation concepts
- Change management & transformational leadership
- Agility and VUCA world
- SCRUM and Design Thinking
Global Supply Networks
3
ECTS
- Classification in Supply Chain Management
- Classification in Supply Chains or Networks
- Opportunities and risks within supply chains or networks
- Differentiated consideration of production and service networks
- Basics of logistics outsourcing and contract logistics
- Basics of outsourcing
- Development of contract logistics, characteristics of contract logistics
- Potentials of contract logistics
- Phases of contract logistics relationships
Global Supply Networks
3
ECTS
- Classification in Supply Chain Management
- Classification in Supply Chains or Networks
- Opportunities and risks within supply chains or networks
- Differentiated consideration of production and service networks
- Basics of logistics outsourcing and contract logistics
- Basics of outsourcing
- Development of contract logistics, characteristics of contract logistics
- Potentials of contract logistics
- Phases of contract logistics relationships
Strategic Planning in Supply Chains
3
ECTS
- Design and structure of supply chains and networks
- Basics of global supply chains
- Analysis of supply chain players
- Human behavior in organizations and supply chains (asymmetric information, game theory)
- Organizational Development
Strategic Planning in Supply Chains
3
ECTS
- Design and structure of supply chains and networks
- Basics of global supply chains
- Analysis of supply chain players
- Human behavior in organizations and supply chains (asymmetric information, game theory)
- Organizational Development
Purchasing & Distribution in the Supply Chain
3
ECTS
Purchasing
- Differentiation between Purchasing, Procurement, Sourcing
- Make or buy analysis, outsourcing
- Sourcing strategies
- Value-added partnerships
- Supplier selection
- supplier evaluation
- Ordering procedures, quantitative methods of order optimization
- Bullwhip effect
- Procurement risks
- Digitalization in procurement, blockchain
- Trends, challenges and levers (trade offs)
Distribution
- Classification, demarcation
- warehouse structures
- Transport concepts, last mile
- Quantitative transport optimization, route planning models
- Transport modes, innovations (cityloop, platooning)
- Sustainability through innovative concepts and alternative transport modes and drives
- Digitalization in distribution
- Trends, challenges and trade offs in distribution
Purchasing & Distribution in the Supply Chain
3
ECTS
Purchasing
- Differentiation between Purchasing, Procurement, Sourcing
- Make or buy analysis, outsourcing
- Sourcing strategies
- Value-added partnerships
- Supplier selection
- supplier evaluation
- Ordering procedures, quantitative methods of order optimization
- Bullwhip effect
- Procurement risks
- Digitalization in procurement, blockchain
- Trends, challenges and levers (trade offs)
Distribution
- Classification, demarcation
- warehouse structures
- Transport concepts, last mile
- Quantitative transport optimization, route planning models
- Transport modes, innovations (cityloop, platooning)
- Sustainability through innovative concepts and alternative transport modes and drives
- Digitalization in distribution
- Trends, challenges and trade offs in distribution
Operations Management in Supply Chains
3
ECTS
- Strategic, tactical and operational management tasks in a global environment
- Differentiation between operations, finance and marketing
- Intralogistics goals and key figures
- Site planning, layout planning
- Basics of warehouse logistics, warehouse design, warehouse management strategies
- Storage, conveying (innovations and trends)
- Material flow analyses, process thinking
- Picking methods, identification systems
- Quantitative methods of inventory management and planning, lot size optimization
- Packaging systems, closed loop aspects, sustainability
- Digitalization, digital twin, trends and innovations
- Lean management, Kanban, use of JIT/JIS
- Levers of push and pull principles
- Principles and support systems of production planning and control
- Circular economy, disposal processes
- Value recovery stages, redistribution logistics, reprocessing logistics, reuse logistics
Operations Management in Supply Chains
3
ECTS
- Strategic, tactical and operational management tasks in a global environment
- Differentiation between operations, finance and marketing
- Intralogistics goals and key figures
- Site planning, layout planning
- Basics of warehouse logistics, warehouse design, warehouse management strategies
- Storage, conveying (innovations and trends)
- Material flow analyses, process thinking
- Picking methods, identification systems
- Quantitative methods of inventory management and planning, lot size optimization
- Packaging systems, closed loop aspects, sustainability
- Digitalization, digital twin, trends and innovations
- Lean management, Kanban, use of JIT/JIS
- Levers of push and pull principles
- Principles and support systems of production planning and control
- Circular economy, disposal processes
- Value recovery stages, redistribution logistics, reprocessing logistics, reuse logistics
International Project Management
2
ECTS
- Social competence: Communication, motivation, groups and team structures, leadership, conflict management
- Methodological competence: Structural aspects, time management, cost management, human resource management, creativity and problem solving
- Organisational competence: Quality management, documentation, risk management, project start and closure
International Project Management
2
ECTS
- Social competence: Communication, motivation, groups and team structures, leadership, conflict management
- Methodological competence: Structural aspects, time management, cost management, human resource management, creativity and problem solving
- Organisational competence: Quality management, documentation, risk management, project start and closure
Language & Communication Skills
2
ECTS
The “Scholarly Writing and Analysis” course is offered for German native speakers. German as a foreign language is offered as an obligatory course for Non-native German speakers.
Language & Communication Skills
2
ECTS
The “Scholarly Writing and Analysis” course is offered for German native speakers. German as a foreign language is offered as an obligatory course for Non-native German speakers.
Career Opportunities with a Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management
A Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management opens diverse career pathways. You could work for industrial and retail companies, overseeing and optimising global supply chain and logistics processes or managing cross-functional teams.
Alternatively, you could enter the logistics industry, where companies are constantly seeking highly qualified supply chain professionals. A third major career option is consulting: large corporate consultancies and specialised boutique firms offer exciting opportunities for supply chain strategists.
Below, you’ll find top career opportunities with your Master’s in Global Supply Management.
Why CBS UNIVERSITY

Your path to CBS
Starting your studies at CBS University of Applied Sciences is as unique as you are – and at the same time, completely hassle-free. With our user-friendly online application process, you can apply from anywhere, with no numerus clausus restrictions. Instead of rigid admission requirements, we focus on a personal selection process that highlights your strengths and potential.
Whether you choose a dual, part-time, or full-time programme, CBS University offers the perfect combination of theory and practice.

Admission requirements
The Zugangsvoraussetzungen für dein Master-Studium an der CBS University of Applied Sciences variieren je nach Studiengang . into your studies at CBSSciences is so Like yourself — and at the same time designed. With our easy to use Can you yourself apply, completely without . Instead of staring Waiting for you with us is a that is your strengthsand focuses on potential. Regardless of whether you opt for dual, part-time or full-time study, the CBSUniversity offers you the of
Deadlines
The application deadline is year round open, even before you graduate from high school. For dual study programs, you should sufficient lead time Plan so that we can find your suitable practice partner. The start of studies is flexible: in the winter semester or, for selected programs, also in the summer semester. One early candidature is particularly important for limited study places secure and apply for any necessary visas in good time.
funding
A dual or part-time study Is often used by the Practice partner financed, which is also a valuable occupational provides accompaniment. A full-time study On the other hand, can be achieved by numerous Funding opportunities like BAföG or stipends Personalize to give you an optimal connection of personal Development and academic To make the future possible.
HANDS-ON LEARNING AT ITS BEST
At CBS, we are committed to seamlessly integrating theory and practice, allowing you to apply your knowledge directly and gain valuable insights into the real working world.
Business Projects
Im Rahmen der Business Projects an der CBS International Business School haben Studierende die Möglichkeit, gemeinsam mit renommierten Unternehmen an realitätsnahen Projekten zu arbeiten. Diese praxisorientierte Lehrform verbindet theoretisches Wissen mit konkreten wirtschaftlichen Fragestellungen und gewährt tiefe Einblicke in berufliche Abläufe.
Unternehmenskooperation
Dank eines Netzwerks von über 1.300 etablierten Unternehmen aus diversen Branchen profitieren Studierende von exklusiven Einblicken in die Arbeitswelt. Diese Kooperationen eröffnen nicht nur spannende Perspektiven, sondern fördern auch die Entwicklung wichtiger Kontakte und bieten nachhaltige Karrieremöglichkeiten.
Praktikum/Berufserfahrung
Ob in Form von Pflichtpraktika, die fester Bestandteil vieler Studiengänge sind, oder durch die Integration von Berufserfahrung in duale und berufsbegleitende Programme: Du kannst dein Fachwissen direkt in der realen Arbeitswelt anwenden.
HOW DO I FIND MY PERFECT CAREER PATH?
The Career Service and Talent Development team at CBS support you in finding your ideal partner company. With 1:1 coaching, workshops, and a wide network of corporate partners, we guide you throughout your entire time at university. Together, we’ll develop a strategy that matches your strengths and career goals.

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Inspiration and Impact – What Our Alumni Say
Let yourself be inspired by the experiences of our alumni and discover how the Master’s degree at CBS has shaped their professional and personal development.
FAQ: The most important questions about studying Global Supply Chain Management
Here you can find answers to all important questions all around your Global Supply Chain Management master's degree. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us at any time.
What is Global Supply Chain Management?
The Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management provides a comprehensive understanding of the planning, coordination, and optimisation of global supply chains. Students learn to tackle complex logistics challenges and develop sustainable and efficient supply chain strategies.
Why should you study the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme?
Dieses SCM Master-Studium bietet dir die Möglichkeit, deine Fähigkeiten in globaler Logistik und Supply Chain Management gezielt weiterzuentwickeln. Du erhältst praxisorientierte Kenntnisse, die dich optimal auf eine Karriere in multinationalen Unternehmen, global agierenden Logistikdienstleistern oder Beratungsfirmen vorbereiten.
Ein Studium in Global Supply Chain Management qualifiziert dich für verantwortungsvolle Positionen als Supply Chain Manager, Logistikexperte oder Beschaffungsspezialist. Du lernst, internationale Lieferketten effizient zu steuern, Beschaffungsstrategien zu optimieren und innovative Logistiklösungen zu entwickeln, um Unternehmen erfolgreich in einer global vernetzten Wirtschaft zu positionieren.
How long does the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme last?
The Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management typically lasts 4 semesters (2 years) and concludes with the award of a Master of Science (M.Sc.).
Does the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme have a Numerus Clausus (NC)?
There is generally no NC for the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme. Admission is based on your academic background and relevant professional experience.
What are the admission requirements for the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme?
Applicants need a recognised Bachelor’s degree in business, IT, or a related field. Since the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme is taught entirely in English, strong English skills are required.
How is the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme structured?
The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical case studies and industry projects in collaboration with logistics companies.
Where can I study the Global Supply Chain Management undergraduate programme?
The Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme is offered at the Cologne campus.
What will I learn in the Global Supply Chain Management Master’s programme? What are the core subjects?
Key study areas include Supply Chain Strategy, Transport & Logistics Management, Digital Supply Chain Technologies, Sustainable Logistics and International Procurement Strategies.
How much can you earn after completing your Global Supply Chain Management studies?
Graduates typically earn between €50,000 and €70,000 per year, depending on industry and company size.
Can I write my Master’s thesis in collaboration with a company during the Global Supply Chain Management studies?
Yes! In the final semester, you can either spend a semester abroad or complete a corporate internship, providing the perfect opportunity to write your Master’s thesis with a business focus.
Any questions? We're here to help
Do you have any questions about our bachelor's or master's degree programs? Our Student Advisory team is here to support you! Schedule your personal consultation—online or in person—for tailored, non-binding guidance on finding the right study program for you.
