Studying operations management abroad
What is operations management?
Operations management is the study of how organisations create and deliver goods and services efficiently. It focuses on the processes, systems, and strategies that help businesses meet customer needs while optimising resources and reducing waste. Topics include supply chain management, production planning, quality control, and project management.
The subject combines knowledge from business, engineering, logistics, and analytics. As an operations management student, you will learn how companies organise their workflows, manage resources, and improve performance. Your studies might take you from classrooms to manufacturing plants, service centres, warehouses, and corporate offices.
Why study operations management abroad?
Studying operations management in another country gives you a global perspective on how businesses operate. You might visit production facilities in Germany, logistics hubs in the Netherlands, or service operations in the United States. Seeing real-world processes helps you understand business challenges beyond theory.
Learning in different countries also allows you to experience diverse business cultures and management practices. You will improve your cross-cultural communication skills and build international networks with students, professionals, and industry leaders.
What you will study
Operations management programmes often combine theoretical lessons with practical experiences. Key areas of study can include:
- Supply Chain Management – coordinating the movement of materials, products, and information.
- Production Planning – organising resources to produce goods efficiently.
- Quality Control – ensuring products and services meet high standards.
- Project Management – planning, executing, and closing projects successfully.
- Process Improvement – analysing workflows to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
- Data Analysis and Decision Making – using data to make informed operational decisions.
- Sustainability in Operations – integrating environmentally responsible practices into business processes.
Many courses also include internships, company visits, and practical projects with businesses.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Logistics
- Supply Chain Analytics
- Business Administration
- Industrial Engineering
- Management Information Systems
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Operations Management or a related field. These programmes often combine business theory with practical management skills.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Business Administration (MBA) specialising in operations, supply chain, or project management. Some universities partner with industry for internships or real-world projects.
Careers
A degree in operations management can lead to careers in production, logistics, supply chain, project management, and consulting. Graduates often work as operations analysts, supply chain managers, project coordinators, or process improvement specialists.
Others may pursue roles in manufacturing, service industries, retail, or technology companies, managing operations, optimising workflows, and improving efficiency.
You could also work internationally, helping global companies manage resources, coordinate production, or implement new operational strategies. Research and consultancy opportunities exist in universities, think tanks, and private organisations.
Beyond traditional roles, operations management graduates may become trainers, business analysts, or management consultants. The skills you gain are highly valued worldwide, offering opportunities to work in companies that shape industries and economies.