Who is the Master’s degree in International Logistics & Supply Chain Management suitable for?
The Master's degree programme International Logistics & Supply Chain Management is aimed at university graduates who aspire to a career in logistics or supply chain management in an international environment. It particularly addresses individuals with a background in economics, engineering, or logistics-related fields who wish to specifically expand their knowledge and gain international practical experience. The programme is ideal if you plan the next career step in globally operating companies, consultancies, or industrial enterprises and value an English-language course of study with an integrated semester abroad.
What formal admission criteria apply?
To be admitted, you need a completed Bachelor’s degree with at least 180 ECTS credits. Related or suitable economic, technical, or logistics degrees from a recognised university are accepted. In addition, you must provide evidence of English skills at least at level B2 (according to the European Framework of Reference). Applications are submitted digitally: You submit complete application documents and successfully participate in the ISM selection process, which includes a personal interview. A Numerus Clausus (NC) is not applied for this degree programme. If your Bachelor’s degree comprises fewer than 210 ECTS, you can make up the missing credits through a pre-master’s programme.
You should have a strong interest in international logistics and value creation processes and be willing to further your professional training in English. Analytical thinking, intercultural competence, and strong communication skills are essential, as you will be confronted with practical projects, consulting tasks, and stays abroad during your studies. Self-responsibility and organisational talent are just as necessary for managing projects and compulsory internships as teamwork skills to work in international groups.
What expertise does the Master’s degree in International Logistics & Supply Chain Management provide?
In the Master’s degree International Logistics & Supply Chain Management, you acquire comprehensive specialised knowledge regarding the planning, control and optimisation of logistical value chains in a global context. You will engage intensively with the following subject areas:
- Logistics processes and global supply chain structures
- Process optimisation and cost control within complex supply chains
- Sustainable logistics and future trends in the industry
- Capacity planning as well as the management of international goods flows
- E-commerce supply chains and digital business models
- Performance measurement and key figures for controlling logistical systems
- Financing models and the economic efficiency of logistical activities
- Consulting projects with practical partners from the logistics and consulting sectors
The programme is designed to be 100 % taught in English. This means you will perfect your foreign language skills and learn to lead international teams and projects. Additionally, the course promotes intercultural competencies through the integrated semester abroad as well as optional double degree programmes with international partner universities.
How is the Master’s degree structured and organised?
The course is organised as a full-time, on-campus programme lasting 4 semesters and starts each year in September. The structural course flow combines theoretical knowledge transfer with numerous practical elements:
- 1st–2nd semester: Deepening of core logistics and management topics, planning and simulation of supply chains, case study work
- 3rd semester: Integrated semester abroad at one of approximately 190 partner universities worldwide or double degree option
- Practical phase: 12-week compulsory internship in companies in logistics, industry or consulting as well as an extensive consulting project
- 4th semester: Preparation of the Master’s thesis on a practice-relevant topic, often in cooperation with companies
All courses are conducted in English. A particular highlight is the close connection to practice: Many lecturers are industry-experienced experts. Projects and workshops are carried out in cooperation with renowned companies. Through ISM, you become part of the “House of Logistics & Mobility”, the international research centre for sustainable logistics.
- Fast track option for a degree in 3 semesters possible
- Optional: international double degree at a partner university
In which professional fields do career prospects open up after the Master’s?
With a Master’s degree in International Logistics & Supply Chain Management, you qualify for responsible roles in the international logistics and supply chain industry. Typical positions include:
- Supply Chain Manager: Design, control and optimisation of global supply chains
- Logistics Controller: Cost analysis, key figure management and process controlling
- Project Manager for international logistics projects
- Consultant in management consultancies focusing on logistics and transport
- Executive in transport, industrial and trading companies
- Expert in sustainable logistics, digital transformation and mobility solutions
Graduates work in global companies such as automotive corporations, international freight forwarding companies, consulting firms or e-commerce giants. Moreover, there is the possibility to pursue a PhD in cooperation with international partner universities.
What are the location and campus life like in the Master’s programme?
You can optionally complete the programme at the ISM campus Frankfurt/Main or Hamburg:
- Campus Frankfurt/Main: Central location in the Sachsenhausen district near Südbahnhof, modern infrastructure, international network in a European business hub.
- Campus Hamburg: Situated in the heart of HafenCity, modern learning environment with a maritime atmosphere, immediate proximity to logistics companies worldwide.
Both locations offer an international and practice-oriented learning environment with direct access to corporate networks and research projects. The course progression is identical at both locations.
How high are the tuition fees and what financing options are available?
The tuition fees for the Master’s programme amount to €6,480 per semester, a total of €25,920 for the entire 4-semester duration. Additional costs may arise for the semester abroad (e.g. travel expenses).
- Scholarships: ISM awards its own scholarships to financially support motivated students.
- Discounts and bonuses: For example, bonuses are available as part of the “Bring a Friend” programme (up to €500).
- Installment payments or financing: Tuition fees can be paid per semester. Additionally, student loans from external providers are possible.
- Funding programmes: Participation in national and international funding programmes is possible, for example through the Deutschlandstipendium.
Another financing option is to receive a salary during the integrated internship or to partially cover study costs through working as a working student or taking on part-time jobs.
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