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What is Economics in Global Logistics?

Week 1 Week 2 Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is for business professionals aiming to improve their logistics, supply chain or distribution skills, especially in costing and pricing of logistics services. Please note that the staff described in the ‘Who will you learn with?’ section below may be subject to change.

Topics Covered

Outline a definition of economics and the issues of scarcity
Recognise the importance of opportunity cost economics
Identify factors of production and types of markets
Recognise the operation of a simple economy
Recognise transport’s role in economic development
Explain the importance of profit maximisation and markets
Recognise different economic markets
Recognise how market structures influence transport markets

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Reviews summary

Economics in global logistics: foundational for professionals

According to students, 'What is Economics in Global Logistics?' is a strong foundational course, particularly valuable for business professionals new to the economic aspects of logistics. Learners highlight its clear explanations of core economic concepts like scarcity, opportunity cost, and market structures, and how these directly apply to global logistics and supply chain scenarios, including costing and pricing services. However, a significant portion of reviews suggests that while it provides a solid introduction, it can be too theoretical or lack sufficient depth and practical application for more experienced professionals seeking advanced strategies or detailed methods.

Economic concepts are clearly explained and applied to logistics.

"The concepts of scarcity, opportunity cost, and market structures were explained very clearly, making them directly applicable to real-world supply chain scenarios."

"The coverage of costing and pricing of logistics services was a highlight, giving me a good framework."

"I found the explanation of profit maximization and different economic markets spot on, making it concise yet comprehensive."

"The instructor did a good job explaining complex ideas, and I found the section on how market structures influence transport markets very relevant."

Provides a strong base in economics for logistics professionals.

"This course provided a fantastic foundational understanding of economics specifically tailored for global logistics."

"Excellent course! ... This course helped me understand the underlying economic drivers with much more clarity."

"This course is a must for anyone in distribution or logistics who wants to understand the economic forces at play. It really helped connect the dots between macro trends and operational decisions."

"I found it valuable for understanding the economic landscape of logistics and how it clarified concepts like opportunity cost in a business context."

Some found the course delivery dry or slow-paced.

"While relevant, it seemed to focus more on theoretical explanations rather than practical application or advanced strategies for specific logistics challenges."

"The content was solid, but I felt the pace was a bit slow at times, making it more suitable for a review."

"The course covers the basics well, but it felt a bit dry and didn't really capture my attention; more of a knowledge transfer than an engaging experience."

May be too basic or theoretical for seasoned professionals.

"My only minor critique is that I wished for more in-depth case studies or practical exercises to solidify the concepts further."

"For someone already familiar with basic economics, much of the initial content felt repetitive. It seemed to focus more on theoretical explanations rather than practical application or advanced strategies."

"I expected more depth for a 'professional' course, but it felt too basic and like a primer rather than a deep dive."

"I expected detailed methods for costing and pricing in logistics, but it was mostly high-level economic theory. Very basic and not practical for experienced professionals."

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Learners who complete What is Economics in Global Logistics? will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 48 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in What is Economics in Global Logistics?.

Principles of Economics

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This widely used introductory textbook in economics programs. It provides a comprehensive overview of both microeconomics and macroeconomics, making it excellent for gaining a broad understanding. It's often used as a core textbook in undergraduate economics courses and valuable reference for fundamental concepts.

What is Economics in Global Logistics?

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Economics in global logistics: foundational for professionals

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Reading list

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