Supply Chain Management II, 7.5 Credits

Contents

Supply chain management has evolved from an operational issue, focusing on the optimization of an organization's incoming goods, to a strategic issue of understanding effects of logistical systems on the overall supply chain. This supply chain typically encompasses multiple organizations interlinked locally, regionally and globally. Supply chain management II is an advanced course on supply chain issues with considerations not only for the immediate organization, but also for the overall industrial network, society in general and the environment. This means that sustainable development is of high importance in the course. In this context, climate change and transportation are given particular attention and are related to global, national and local circumstances and commitments. Among other important areas treated in the course are reverse logistics and outsourcing  In reverse logistics, organizations need to cater for not only products produced but also incorporate waste management. In outsourcing, organizations has a direct and indirect moral and contractual obligation to handle the environmental footprint and labor rights issues created by the overall supply chain.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing this module, the student should be able to:

• demonstrate analytical and integrative skills on issues of the efficiency and effectiveness, of supply chain networks using different theoretical and value perspectives
• apply acquired knowledge to enable strategic decision-making based on supply chain considerations, including stakeholder dialogue
• analyze the impact of challenges in supply chain management networks, including resource constraints, environmental risks and labor rights
• analyze the increased role of reverse logistics and outsourcing on supply chain management
• demonstrate skills in the evaluation of the need for adaptation within retail and logistics due to climate change
• demonstrate skills in working with and presenting advanced and integrative real-world supply chain problems in organizations.

Required Knowledge

90 credits with a minimum of 7,5 hp  Supply Chain Management I or the equivalent.

Form of instruction

The learning is supported by a case-study. Students will work with one large case where conventional issues of supply chain management, such as localization, transportation, cost efficiency, customer orientation and optimization, will be at the core together with issues of environmental sustainability and global responsibility. Students' basic understanding in supply chain management will now extend to a strategic level. In essence, students will work on a scientifically based evaluation report where they are to use their own prior knowledge of the subject matter together with contemporary research in the field of supply change management with a distinct environmental perspective.

Examination modes

The examination consists of a project assignment, an individual written examination and seminar participation. A larger case will be used throughout the course where each student will fulfil a specific assignment within the overall case structure. A passing grade is required for each part of the module.

The following grading system is used:

Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd, VG, 75% or more),
Pass (Godkänd, G, 50% or more)
Fail (Underkänd U, less than 50%).

Grades on the course are awarded when the student has passed all examinations and compulsory course elements. The course is given and examined in English.
To receive the grade Pass with distinction (VG) in the 30 credits course consisting of four modules of the same size, the student must have achieved Pass with distinction (VG) in at least three out of four modules. In shorter courses for example 7,5 credit courses, 15 credit courses or 22,5 credits courses Pass with distinction (VG) is given when the student has achieved at least 75% of the total weighted points.

A student who does not pass at the time of the written examination will be offered an opportunity to sit a further examination within two months. Beyond that, additional examination opportunities normally arise every academic year, one week prior to the start of the autumn term. If required by specific circumstances, the Director of Studies may decide on other forms of examination

In case of failure on seminar participation or individual and group assignments, compensating assignments must be completed in accordance with instructions given, no later than two weeks after the completion of the module. Mandatory assignments (seminars, written assignments, cases, computer assignments etc.) that have not been handed in within stipulated time must be done the next time the course is offered. If the form of examination does not permit repetition other forms of re-examination may be used.

Exceptions from examination form as stated in the syllabus can be made for a student who has a decision on pedagogical support for disabilities. Individual adaptations of the examination form should be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form shall be adapted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes stated in the course syllabus. At the request of the student, the course responsible teacher, in consultation with the examiner, must promptly decide on the adapted examination form. The decision must then be notified to the student.

When a student has failed an examination on two occasions, he or she has a right to have another grading teacher. A written request for an alternative examiner should be handed to the director of studies no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity.

A student who has passed an examination cannot redo the examination to get a higher grade.
If a student fails to present a photo ID at the occasion of a written exam in an exam room will not be allowed to take the exam.

Disciplinary action may be taken against students who uses unauthorized help aids or in some other way tries to mislead on a test or when another type of task is being evaluated. Rules and regulations concerning the production of academic texts and correct referencing will be applicable to all written assignments. (See instructions in the thesis manual, Thesis Writing in Business Administration). Urkund records may be used for control. In addtion, Umeå University rules and regulations for education and research applies.

Educational activities are designed to facilitate students towards achieving expected learning outcomes and can explain, supplement and provide contrast to the course literature and other relevant course materials.

Other regulations

Academic credit transfers is done in accordance with the University credit transfer regulations.