Logistics Degree Length – What to Expect

Thinking about a career in logistics? One of the first things you’ll wonder is how long you’ll be in school. The good news is there’s a path for almost every schedule and budget.

Full‑time bachelor’s programmes

A standard BSc in Logistics, Supply Chain Management or Transport usually takes three years in the UK if you study full‑time. Some universities add a fourth “placement year” where you work for a courier or warehouse, turning the degree into a four‑year program. That extra year can be worth it because you graduate with real‑world experience and often a job offer.

If you’re in Scotland, bachelor’s degrees are typically four years, with the first year covering general business topics and the later years focusing on logistics and supply‑chain tech.

Master’s, part‑time and fast‑track options

Got a bachelor’s already? A Master’s in Logistics or Supply Chain Management usually runs one year full‑time. Many schools also let you spread it over two years part‑time, which is handy if you’re working while you study.

For people who want to jump in quickly, there are one‑year postgraduate diplomas and intensive “accelerated” courses that cram the same material into 9‑12 months. These are often offered by professional bodies or private training providers and focus on practical skills.

Apprenticeships are another route. A Level 3 apprenticeship in logistics can take two to three years and lets you earn while you learn. You’ll split time between classroom learning and on‑the‑job training with a courier, warehouse, or transport firm.

Online programmes add even more flexibility. A fully online bachelor’s can still be three years, but you can stretch it out to five if you need to balance work or family commitments.

So, what’s the shortest path? If you already have some credits or a relevant diploma, you might finish a bachelor’s in two years by testing out of certain modules. Otherwise, expect at least three years for a full‑time bachelor’s and one year for a master’s.

Keep in mind that the logistics field moves fast. Many employers value certifications—like CIPS or APICS—just as much as the length of your degree. Adding a short‑course certificate after you graduate can boost your job prospects without adding years of study.

Bottom line: you can spend as little as three years to get a solid logistics qualification, or you can stretch it out with part‑time study, apprenticeships, or online options to fit your life. Choose the route that matches your career goals and how quickly you want to start working in a fast‑growing industry.