A word from the programme director – Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Joakim Kembro, Associate Professor
Our programme has a cross-functional focus, providing the students with an education in the broad spectra of logistics and supply chain management. Ranging from production planning and purchasing to warehouse, packaging and distribution, the programme provides understanding of how different functions interlink and how they are affected by decisions made in other parts of the value chain. The programme gives strategic and inter-organisational perspectives as well as operational skills. We work with both practical and theoretical coursework and we have a strong emphasis on making our courses interesting and hands-on.
Examples of courses
In the first year, we focus on core logistics and supply chain management knowledge. One of the first courses, Warehousing and Materials Handling, gives the students an opportunity to visit companies and to work in groups to solve a real industry case. A student taking the course in 2019 commented: “It helps a student become more successful in teamwork and to understand the importance of critical thinking and conducting in-depth analysis.” Another course that we offer is Industrial Purchasing, where the students work with major companies such as Tetra Pak, Sony, Gambro, Skanska or NCC, just to name a few. The students map and analyse the companies’ purchasing processes, strategies and organisation, and then write a report pointing out gaps and similarities between theory and practice.
In the course Supply Chain Management, students work interactively with a cross-functional business case study through a computer ‘game’ simulation called 'Fresh Connection'. The students learn to bridge theory and practical application and the goal is to increase profitability by making strategic and tactical decisions. “Although the case study is simulated, the challenge is very real and the winning team receives a real award, just to make it more competitive and more fun! It really is a great way of learning”, says Professor Andreas Norrman and continues: “It is important to us to have students from all over the world to create a global classroom. Not only for the dynamics of the group setting, but also to learn from each other in our increasingly globalised world, not least when it comes to negotiating skills, cultural differences and international perspectives in our field. Regardless of whether you are interested in working within the industry, or continuing on with doctoral studies, you will be well prepared and make many new connections during your studies on this programme."
In the second year, students can choose between a number of courses to specialise in a certain area. One of the elective courses is called Humanitarian Logistics, which is a very unique course focusing on the special logistical needs that occur in humanitarian aid and disaster situations. The lecturers on this course have experience working for the UN and the Red Cross, and students who choose this course are likely to have a great advantage in their future careers within this field. Other unique elective courses are in the field of Packaging Logistics.
*Courses are subject to change, please see the curriculum at kurser.lth.se for updated information.
Joakim Kembro
”The classes are challenging, interesting and very rewarding”
Alexandra from the USA.
A testimonial from the industry
Alumni and guest lecturer Stefan talks about his role at IKEA.