Why this programme expand_more
Work-integrated learning
University West is Sweden’s leading university in work-integrated learning (WIL). We were tasked with the development of WIL by the Swedish government 17+ years ago and continue to lead the field today. This approach focuses on problem-based learning for industry and gives you access to real projects from partner companies and research centres.
Your courses and teachers are connected to the active research of Production Technology West (PTW), internationally recognised for work in production systems and processes in the manufacturing industry.
We built your programme in close collaboration with corporate partners – and your programme can also include an optional internship. The skills you’ll develop make you very valuable to employers. The programme also offers a pathway to doctoral studies with a Work-Integrated Learning approach or a focus within the area of Production Systems.
Prepare to make an impact
This master’s programme shows you how to build smart production and logistics systems that serve the needs of society and contribute to sustainable development. It is uniquely holistic, giving you insights into both the technical and organisational aspects of management, design, planning and development of industrial operations and supply chains. You’ll learn how to use information technology (including data mining and machine learning) to help control, design, plan and develop competitive and sustainable production and supply chain systems. You’ll also gain a solid foundation across logistics and operations management, preparing you to improve a business’s strategies, organisations and operational work in a more sustainable way.
Advanced laboratories and access to experts
You will have access to our Production Technology Centre (PTC) during your studies. PTC is one of the largest and most updated manufacturing laboratories in Sweden.
The PTW has been supporting the work of experts in production technology for over 15 years. This collaborative platform offers a unique collection of research technologies related to logistics and operations. It also provides opportunities for collaboration within a new research group for operations management and supply chain management.
Academic and corporate connections
The PTC is home to University West’s research area, Production Technology West (PTW). Here you will have the opportunity to do research together with experienced researchers, engineers and technicians in the field of production engineering. There are many companies linked to our research environment. As a student, you will have the opportunity to be part of cutting-edge research and come into contact with future employers.
Project of your own design
You will have the freedom to define your own master’s thesis project to match your career goals; examples you may pursue include but are not limited to:
- Collaboration with a multinational, regional or specialised local manufacturing company
- Collaboration with Production Technology West
- Collaboration with other partner companies of University West
- Collaboration with a company of your own personal interest
- In-depth research of your own
Your master’s thesis project will include:
- Joint supervision from one industry expert and one university expert (one supervisor if your project is within the PTW)
- Degree project with scientific questions based on the needs of the company/centre
- Regular meetings for discussion of project progress and supervisor feedback
- Oral presentation on methods, technical outcomes of data processing and conclusions of the project, discussed with supervisors and classmates
- Critical response including a peer review of a colleague’s project
- Written scientific report reviewed by supervisors before final submission
A strong job market
After completing the programme, you’ll be prepared to create value and increase resilience within your company and across the wider supply chain – even when disruptive events strike, such as pandemics, political unrest and more.
Key industry data points (Source: Zippia.com):
- The global supply chain market is valued at $15.85 billion, and it is expected to experience a CAGR of 11.2% from 2020 to 2027 (increasing from $15.85 billion to $37.41 billion in eight years)
- The Transportation Management System is expected to have a CAGR of 11.7% from 2021 to 2028 (increasing from $120.70 billion to $261.89 billion in seven years)
- The Global Logistics Automation Market has the highest CAGR of any supply chain market, at a predicted rate of 12.4% (increasing from $50.9 billion to $82.3 billion in six years)
As a result, graduates of this programme can anticipate having their choice of jobs across many industries and in many countries – from a career in industry to advanced research in academia, both in Sweden and abroad.
Specialised and personal
University West offers an intimate campus environment without the usual barriers between academic staff and students. Here, your professors are easily accessible to answer questions, hold discussions and provide individual feedback. The teacher-to-student ratio is higher than at most comparable programmes at other universities.
While large universities have several focus areas, University West’s small size and high quality allow us to focus on and dedicate resources to a few prioritised/selected areas, such as production technology and processes. This ensures a high-quality programme as well as a warm and friendly atmosphere.
International environment
Students from around the globe come together to create a unique and international environment. Your programme is fully taught in English, and you will study together with students from Sweden as well as international students from countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and North and South America.
Most of your instructors also have international experience in both research and education. This will enhance your cultural experience and English-language proficiency.