University of Portsmouth United Kingdom

Operational Research and Logistics

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree PhD
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative research journey with the PhD in Operational Research and Logistics at the University of Portsmouth. This postgraduate research degree is designed for ambitious individuals keen to address complex global challenges through advanced analytics and strategic planning. You will delve into critical areas such as the electrification of transportation, optimising freight delivery, and developing intelligent port logistics, contributing to more efficient and sustainable systems. If you possess a strong analytical aptitude and a passion for problem-solving, this PhD offers a unique opportunity to advance knowledge in a field vital to modern industry and society.

Your doctoral research will be conducted on campus, full-time, over three years, allowing for deep immersion in your chosen specialism. You will have the opportunity to explore pre-approved research projects or propose your own innovative ideas, working alongside leading academics. The programme encourages the development and application of methodologies like Goal Programming and Clustering, and may involve optimising vehicle ferry loading or real-time drone routing for medical logistics. You will graduate with advanced research skills and a significant contribution to the field, prepared for academic careers or leadership roles in logistics and operational research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course focuses on advanced topics within operational research and logistics, particularly as applied to complex real-world problems. Students will explore cutting-edge research through a series of PhD and MPhil projects, covering areas such as goal programming, clustering, transportation electrification, freight consolidation, remanufacturing, port logistics, vehicle ferry loading, and drone routing for medical logistics. These projects highlight the development and application of sophisticated methodologies to address contemporary challenges in efficient and sustainable operations.

1 PhD and MPhil projects

Development and application of a combined Goal Programming and Clustering methodology
Electrification of transportation in Smart Cities: A multi-objective approach to design and locate charging facilities
Freight micro-consolidation for last mile delivery in the Solent region
Incorporating remanufacturing in a periodic review inventory system: Optimal and heuristic inventory control policies
Intelligent port logistics
Optimising the Vehicle Ferry Loading
Real-time drone routing and scheduling for medical logistics in the Solent region

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,952.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,857.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 912.00 - USD 2,400.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Portsmouth Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Brokerage & Trading & SecuritiesDefense & Military AviationDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringFisheries & AquacultureForestry & LoggingHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRestaurant & Food ServiceSupply Chain & Food LogisticsWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BAE System

HSBC Bank

IBM

National Farmers'​ Union

Tesco

Why Study Operational Research and Logistics at University of Portsmouth

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Life at University of Portsmouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Operational Research and Logistics at University of Portsmouth

Can I work while studying?

As an international student, your work permission depends on your study level: up to 20 hours per week for degree courses and full-time during breaks. You cannot set up your own business or be self-employed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores vary by test, so ensure you check the minimum requirements for your chosen exam.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Data Analyst, Operations Research Analyst, Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Coordinator, and Business Analyst.

What will I actually study in this course?

If you're ready to take your existing qualifications and expertise in Operational Research and Logistics into a postgraduate research degree, Portsmouth is the perfect place for you.

We're showing how better analytics for healthcare, risk and security can have a positive impact on the lives and wellbeing of people around the world.

From how to make renewable energy cheaper and how to use new tech to make transport smarter, faster and greener, our Operational Research and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start your postgraduate research degree in Operational Research and Logistics in February, April, or October. Choose the month that best fits your schedule.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️