SCMT050 - Introduction to Marine Supply Chain Operations
Course Description
Marine transportation systems are a vital link in global supply chains. This introduction to the structure, function, and strategic importance of key marine logistics players—including ports, shipping lines, and regulatory agencies—will allow learners to explore core concepts such as order fulfillment, customer service, and supply-demand balancing in maritime environments. Through case discussions and applied activities, learners connect classic supply chain management principles to the unique operational realities of ocean freight and port operations in both the Canadian and international context.
Course Outline
- Become familiar with global marine trade routes and transportation systems, with real-world and Canadian examples
- Analyze major marine industry players: ports, shipping lines, terminal operators, and regulators
- Engage in case studies of marine freight operations and end-to-end fulfillment
- Explore the balance of supply and demand in unpredictable ocean logistics settings
- Examine the role of ports as logistics hubs, including intermodal connections to inland transportation
- Discover how trade policy and global events impact marine supply chain performance
- Recognize customer service concepts specific to marine transportation and freight forwarding
- Apply classroom knowledge with scenarios involving port congestion, capacity management, and compliance with international regulations.
Learner Outcomes
- Describe the structure and function of global and Canadian marine transportation systems
- Identify and explain the roles of ports, shipping companies, and marine terminals within supply chains
- Apply basic supply chain management concepts to marine and port logistics contexts
- Analyze the impact of marine operations—such as vessel scheduling and cargo flow—on supply chain efficiency
- Examine the influence of international trade policies and geopolitical events on marine logistics
- Assess fulfillment and customer service challenges unique to marine transport networks
- Interpret operational marine logistics data to support decision-making
- Compare and contrast marine logistics strategies with those of other transport modes
Notes
Required Textbook:
Langley, C. J., Novack, R. A., Gibson, B. J., & Coyle, J. J. (2025). Supply chain management: A logistics perspective (12th ed.). Cengage
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Marine Supply Chain and Logistics Micro-credential : Core Courses