

MBA in Logistics And Shipping Management at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)


Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Logistics and Shipping Management at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This Logistics and Shipping Management program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on equipping students with expertise in global supply chains, port operations, and international trade. India''''s burgeoning logistics sector, driven by e-commerce and infrastructure development, demands skilled professionals. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights crucial for navigating complex logistics ecosystems in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into the dynamic logistics and shipping industry. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in supply chain strategies or maritime operations, and career changers transitioning into the fast-growing Indian logistics sector. A bachelor''''s degree in any discipline is the primary prerequisite, complemented by an aptitude for analytical and operational challenges.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles as Logistics Managers, Supply Chain Analysts, Port Operations Executives, or EXIM Specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA in Indian companies. The program aligns with professional certifications from bodies like CII-IL or FIEO, offering growth trajectories in a critical economic sector.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Business Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core management principles, economics, accounting, and organizational behavior. These subjects form the bedrock for advanced specialization. Regularly review concepts, solve case studies related to Indian business scenarios, and actively participate in classroom discussions.
Tools & Resources
VELS University Library resources, NPTEL courses on basic management, The Economic Times, Business magazines for current affairs
Career Connection
A solid foundation ensures a comprehensive understanding of business operations, essential for any management role in logistics, enabling effective decision-making and problem-solving.
Develop Effective Communication and Networking Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in group presentations and communication assignments. Focus on improving both written and verbal communication, especially for professional correspondence. Start building a professional network by attending orientation sessions, connecting with seniors, and leveraging LinkedIn.
Tools & Resources
VELS University communication labs, Professional writing guides, LinkedIn for initial professional connections
Career Connection
Strong communication is vital for client interactions, team collaboration, and conveying logistics strategies, while early networking can open doors to future opportunities.
Understand Business Statistics and Analytical Thinking- (Semester 1)
Master the concepts of Business Statistics and begin to apply them to basic business problems. Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing case studies and industry reports. This early analytical grounding is crucial for all subsequent quantitative courses and decision-making.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Excel for data practice, Online tutorials for statistical concepts, Business case studies
Career Connection
Analytical skills are fundamental for interpreting logistics data, optimizing processes, and forecasting demand, directly supporting data-driven management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Industry Research and Operations Observation- (Semester 2)
Beyond textbooks, actively research the Indian logistics and shipping industry. Read reports from bodies like CRISIL, EXIM Bank, and maritime associations. Seek opportunities for site visits to local ports, warehouses, or logistics hubs to observe operations firsthand and connect theory with practice.
Tools & Resources
Industry journals, Government reports on shipping/logistics, Company websites of major logistics players, Faculty guidance for industry contacts
Career Connection
Direct industry exposure provides context, helps identify potential career paths, and builds practical understanding essential for excelling in specialization subjects and internships.
Deepen Financial and Marketing Acumen for Logistics- (Semester 2)
Relate concepts from Financial Management and Marketing Management to the logistics sector. Understand how financial decisions impact supply chains and how marketing strategies influence distribution. Participate in finance/marketing clubs or competitions to apply knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Business simulations, Financial news analysis, Marketing case studies focusing on logistics companies, VELS University clubs
Career Connection
A holistic business understanding, including financial viability and market demand, is crucial for strategic roles in logistics and supply chain management.
Prepare for Summer Internship- (Semester 2)
Start preparing for your Summer Internship by refining your resume, practicing interview skills, and researching potential companies in the logistics and shipping domain. Leverage the university''''s placement cell for guidance and opportunities. Identify specific areas within logistics that align with your interests.
Tools & Resources
VELS placement cell, Online resume builders, Mock interview platforms, Company research databases
Career Connection
A successful internship provides invaluable practical experience, industry contacts, and often leads to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Master Specialization Electives and Software Tools- (Semesters 3-4)
Dive deep into your chosen Logistics and Shipping Management electives. Beyond theoretical understanding, learn to use relevant industry software or platforms (e.g., ERP modules for SCM, freight management software, basic port operation simulators if accessible). Focus on case studies and problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
SAP SCM modules (basic exposure), Oracle WMS, Industry-specific simulation tools, Professional webinars on logistics technology
Career Connection
Proficiency in specialization subjects combined with relevant software skills makes you highly employable and proficient in roles like Logistics Analyst, SCM Consultant, or Port Manager.
Excel in Dissertation and Project Work with Industry Focus- (Semesters 3-4)
Choose a dissertation topic that addresses a current challenge or opportunity in the Indian logistics and shipping sector. Work closely with faculty mentors, conduct thorough research, and if possible, collaborate with an industry partner for data or insights. Aim for a high-quality research output and presentation.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Scopus, Google Scholar), Statistical software (SPSS, R), Academic writing guides, Industry contacts
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases your research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, which are highly valued by employers for roles requiring strategic thinking and in-depth analysis.
Active Placement Preparation and Mock Interviews- (Semesters 3-4)
Engage fully with the placement cell, attend all career readiness workshops, and participate in mock interviews tailored for logistics and supply chain roles. Refine your resume and cover letter to highlight your specialization and internship experiences. Network continuously with alumni and recruiters.
Tools & Resources
VELS placement cell, Online interview practice platforms, Professional networking events, Alumni mentorship programs
Career Connection
Thorough preparation directly impacts your success in securing desired placements in top logistics companies, port authorities, or shipping firms, launching your professional career effectively.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in any discipline from a recognized University. Valid scores in MAT/XAT/CAT/CMAT/ATMA/VELS Entrance Exam.
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 108 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20MMBC01 | Management Principles and Practices | Core | 4 | Management Process, Planning and Decision Making, Organizing and Staffing, Directing and Leading, Controlling and Ethics |
| 20MMBC02 | Managerial Economics | Core | 4 | Demand Analysis, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structure and Pricing, Capital Budgeting, Macroeconomic Environment |
| 20MMBC03 | Accounting for Management | Core | 4 | Financial Accounting Principles, Cost Accounting, Management Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis, Budgeting and Variance Analysis |
| 20MMBC04 | Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources Management | Core | 4 | Individual Behavior, Group Dynamics and Team Building, Leadership and Motivation, HRM Functions, Performance Management and Training |
| 20MMBC05 | Business Statistics | Core | 4 | Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability and Distributions, Sampling and Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression |
| 20MMBC06 | Business Communication | Core | 4 | Oral Communication, Written Communication, Presentation Skills, Report Writing, Non-Verbal Communication and Etiquette |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20MMBC07 | Marketing Management | Core | 4 | Marketing Environment, Consumer Behavior, Market Segmentation, Product and Brand Management, Pricing, Promotion, and Distribution |
| 20MMBC08 | Financial Management | Core | 4 | Financial Decisions, Working Capital Management, Capital Budgeting, Capital Structure, Dividend Policy and Valuation |
| 20MMBC09 | Research Methods for Management | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Design, Data Analysis Techniques, Report Writing and Ethics |
| 20MMBC10 | Operations Management | Core | 4 | Production Systems, Inventory Management, Quality Management, Supply Chain Management, Project Management |
| 20MMBC11 | Legal Aspects of Business | Core | 4 | Indian Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act, Consumer Protection Act, Company Law, Environmental Laws and Ethics |
| 20MMBC12 | Operations Research | Core | 4 | Linear Programming, Transportation Problem, Assignment Problem, Network Analysis (CPM/PERT), Queuing Theory and Simulation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20MMBC13 | Strategic Management | Core | 4 | Strategic Planning Process, Environmental Analysis, Strategy Formulation, Strategy Implementation, Strategy Evaluation and Control |
| 20MMBC14 | Project Management | Core | 4 | Project Life Cycle, Project Planning and Scheduling, Project Risk Management, Project Control and Monitoring, Project Closure and Evaluation |
| 20MMBC15 | Summer Internship | Core | 2 | Industry Exposure, Practical Application of Concepts, Report Writing, Problem Identification and Resolution, Presentation Skills |
| 20MMBD01 | Logistics Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Logistics Systems Design, Transportation Planning, Warehousing and Distribution, Inventory Control Models, Reverse Logistics and Green Logistics |
| 20MMBD02 | Supply Chain Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Supply Chain Strategy, Demand Forecasting and Planning, Supplier Relationship Management, Global Supply Chains, SCM Technology and Analytics |
| 20MMBD03 | EXIM Operations | Elective - Specialization | 4 | International Trade Procedures, Export-Import Documentation, Customs Clearance, Trade Finance and Payment Terms, EXIM Policies and Regulations |
| 20MMBD04 | Shipping Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Maritime Industry Structure, Types of Shipping, Port and Terminal Operations, Containerization and Logistics, Shipping Laws and Regulations |
| 20MMBD05 | Port Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Port Operations and Services, Terminal Management, Port Logistics and Connectivity, Port Security and Safety, Port Infrastructure and Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20MMBC16 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 4 | Entrepreneurial Process, Business Idea Generation, Business Plan Development, Funding and Venture Capital, Legal Aspects for Start-ups |
| 20MMBC17 | Dissertation and Viva Voce | Core | 6 | Research Methodology Application, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Viva Voce Examination |
| 20MMBD06 | Transportation Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Modes of Transportation, Freight Forwarding, Route Optimization, Fleet Management, Transport Regulations and Policy |
| 20MMBD07 | International Logistics | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Global Supply Chain, Cross-Border Logistics, International Trade Terms (Incoterms), Customs and Compliance, Logistics Outsourcing (3PL/4PL) |
| 20MMBD08 | Maritime Economics | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Shipping Market Analysis, Freight Rates and Factors, Liner Shipping Economics, Tramp Shipping Operations, Port Economics and Competition |
| 20MMBD09 | Multi Modal Transport | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Intermodal and Multimodal Concepts, Container Logistics, Multimodal Transport Operators, Documentation in Multimodal Transport, Legal Aspects of Combined Transport |
| 20MMBD10 | Warehousing and Inventory Management | Elective - Specialization | 4 | Warehouse Design and Layout, Storage Systems and Equipment, Material Handling, Inventory Control Models, Demand Forecasting and Safety Stock |




