What You Will Study-Curriculum

Deree students can complete a dual degree, that is, a Deree US degree together with an Open University validated award (a UK degree), in just four years. Students begin their studies (first year) by selecting among liberal education courses. In subsequent years, they attend courses in their major.

The Program is structured to provide coherent and progressive development of knowledge, skills, and professional competencies in operations and supply chain management. 

Initially, students acquire foundational knowledge of core business theories and functions, establishing the basis for subsequent study. Courses in Finance, Business Law, Economics, Principles of Management and Marketing provide a comprehensive grounding in the principal domains of business activity. In addition, Introductory courses in Supply Chain Management and Operations introduce students to the fundamental concepts of operations and supply chain management, thereby contextualizing business functions within broader organizational processes. The program also incorporates Applied Statistics, equipping students with essential quantitative and analytical skills.  

In the next stage, students extend and deepen their knowledge across core business disciplines, thereby developing a coherent and integrated understanding of organizational functions and their interdependencies. More advanced courses in Management, Financial issues, and Business Ethics establish a balanced foundation in organizational behavior, financial decision‑making, and ethical responsibility. Moreover, courses in Technology and Computer Systems provide critical insights into the IT infrastructure that underpins contemporary business operations. Operations-related courses like  Business Operations Management and Procurement advance students’ comprehension of operations and supply chain concepts, fostering analytical and applied skills for managing complex processes. Business Research Methods equips students with essential research competencies, enabling them to frame, investigate, and address managerial problems with methodological rigor and relevance to professional practice. 

Finally, the program prioritizes advanced specialization through courses that enable students to apply their knowledge in complex, interrelated contexts and engage directly with professional practice. Courses such as Project Management, Total Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations Strategy provide in‑depth expertise in their respective domains, while the quantitative and analytical foundation essential for operations and supply chain decision‑making is developed through Management Science. A suite of optional modules further broadens intellectual and professional horizons, ensuring students cultivate a well‑rounded and critically informed educational experience. 

 The Capstone Project is offered during the final year, allowing students to synthesize the knowledge gained throughout the entire curriculum. This project involves conducting small-scale research on a topic related to operations and supply chain management, providing a comprehensive learning experience that prepares students for both professional careers and postgraduate studies. At this level, students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking, independent research skills, and the ability to integrate knowledge across multiple domains. 

 Distinctive aspects:

• Adapt business strategies to the ever-changing external environment, ensuring the competitiveness and responsiveness of their organizations to market and technological shifts.
• Identify business opportunities, devise appropriate business plans, and communicate these plans effectively to gain support and generate resources.
• Apply business analytics to support decision-making, critical for solving complex business challenges and optimizing operational performance.
• Apply principles and theories of logistics and supply chain management to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service delivery in global supply chains.
• Apply ethical principles and practices related to social responsibility and sustainable development in decision-making processes.
• Implement strategies for effective team collaboration, communication, and decision-making across diverse contexts.

Take advantage of study abroad and international internship opportunities.

The duration of studies is 4 academic years. The maximum period of registration for an Open University-validated award is 10 years.

The definition of full-time study is 60 UK credits/semester. 40 UK credits/semester or less is considered part-time.