Business Process Control and Supply Chain Management, Master Programme

She was also attracted by the university’s international environment and the fact that it is located in Växjö, the focus on sustainability, and Sweden’s reputation for high-quality education. She feels that her experience as a student in Växjö has been all that she hoped for.

The best thing about the programme, she thinks, is the interdisciplinary combination of management accounting and supply chain management.

”This approach not only expands our knowledge but also applies it in solving real-world business challenges. The dynamic and supportive community at the university further enhances this experience. Engaging closely with professors and peers in a collaborative environment does not just trigger learning; it ignites a passion for innovation and excellence in the field.”

However, what truly sets the programme apart from others, Kiana says, is the collaboration with industry giants such as IKEA and Scania; she feels that this aspect of the programme isnot just educational, but also inspiring, in that it provides a unique insight into the inner workings of world-leading companies.

“Observing these titans in action, understanding their strategies and ethos, and seeing theoretical knowledge come alive in such impactful settings is absolutely fascinating”, Kiana says.

The programme runs two courses per semester. Kiana thinks that this contributes to a deeperunderstanding and allows students to acquire knowledge on a more profound level, since they can focus on one course at a time. She also appreciates the programme’s diversity in teaching perspectives.

”A single course would often be taught by multiple professors, sometimes two to four. This approach provided us with a multifaceted view of the subject matter, as each professor brought their unique professional and academic insights into the classroom”, she says.

She also feels that the courses used a dynamic mix of different learning methods, including traditional lectures where professors shared their knowledge, assignments that challenged students to apply what they learned, and seminars that encouraged in-depth discussions and collaborative learning.

”This variety not only kept the academic experience engaging but also deepened our understanding of the topics through practical application and peer interaction”, Kiana continues.

According to Kiana, Linnaeus University provides an exciting international environment, with teachers and students from many different countries. She thinks that this diversity improves the educational experience, allowing for a broader understanding of different cultures and perspectives without even having to leave campus. She also feels that the university focuses on student progress.

”The faculty and staff here are incredibly supportive, always available to guide and assist in our academic and personal growth. They encourage an atmosphere where there is always an opportunity to learn more and excel in our fields. Their commitment to student success is evident in every interaction”.

“Moreover, Linnaeus University has excellent facilities, including a large library that is not just a resource for books but a hub of information, making it an ideal place for learning and research. The dynamic environment and supportive community make it an exceptional place to study and grow”, Kiana continues.

Although the programme does not include a placement, Kiana still believes that she has had several opportunities to apply her theoretical knowledge in practice.

”I have actively participated in a variety of hands-on learning experiences that have been equally enriching. For instance, in one of the courses, we engaged in detailed simulations that represented real-world business scenarios. These simulations were crucial in helping us understand how theoretical concepts apply in practical settings. Additionally, we collaborated on projects directly with companies, which allowed us to gain firsthand experience of the business environment and interact with industry professionals.”

Soon, it is time for Kiana to begin the next phase of her career journey. Her goal is to find a professional role that matches her skills and ambitions, and she would love to stay and work in Sweden.

”I aspire to roles such as a Business Process Developer, Business Development Planner, or Business Analyst. These positions appeal to me because they involve both strategic thinking and practical implementation, areas where I believe I can make a significant impact. I am excited about the potential to contribute to and grow within these roles, continuously striving for personal and professional advancement”, she says.

Kiana is very happy with both life and student life in Växjö.

”The city exudes a calm and peaceful atmosphere, perfectly integrated with nature, promoting a lifestyle of harmony and respect between man and the environment. Living here has not just been about pursuing academic goals but also about enjoying a peaceful and healthy lifestyle among stunning natural scenery”.

“Student life at Linnaeus University has been amazing. It’s a vibrant community where I’ve made friends from different countries and cultures. We help each other out both academically and personally, creating a supportive and friendly atmosphere. The diversity enriches our daily interactions and broadens our perspectives, helping us learn not just from our courses but also from each other’s experiences.”

Kiana thinks that the main reason why someone should study the programme in business process control and supply chain management is that it helps them become competitive.

”This program equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills that are highly sought after in the industry. Businesses are actively seeking professionals who can integrate modern management techniques with effective supply chain practices to drive success. By joining this program, students gain a comprehensive understanding that prepares them to meet the current and future challenges of the business world, making them invaluable assets to any organisation”, Kiana concludes.

What do you work with today, Lars?

“I work in the German sales division of the carrier Maersk. More precise, I sell our services to global freight forwarders, such as Kühne+Nagel, DHL, Schenker, and DSV”.

How has the knowledge you acquired and the experiences you gained at Linnaeus University helped you in your career?

“I developed a lot as a person by being in a foreign country, with international students, in the safe environment that Linnaeus University provides. I also learned that there are different ways of dealing with problems, in for instance Sweden, compared to other places. This insight has given me the ability to tackle issues in different ways”.

What made Lars apply to the programme, was a combination of wanting more in-depth knowledge in supply chain management and the international perspective offered at Linnaeus University. He also knew people who had had a great stay in Sweden, both for holidays and studies. A combination of factors that made him apply, and later also register on the programme.

“I liked the teachers on the programme. I also enjoyed the Swedish way of studying where you have more time for individual studies than in Germany. Lectures normally took place two days a week, on Mondays and Fridays. Between classes, we had to prepare presentations, essays, or other smaller assignments. We worked in international groups and could manage our time almost completely as we saw fit. In my opinion, this is an important skill and responsibility one should learn at university”.

Lastly, how did you enjoy student life?

“I can, without a doubt, say that I had one of the best times of my life at Linnaeus University. It was so nice to get to know the Swedish culture – especially the concept of ‘fika’. During my time as a student in Sweden, I visited cities like Gothenburg, Stockholm, Karlskrona, Kalmar, Norrköping, Tallinn (Estonia), and Helsinki (Finland). We also travelled to Finnish Lapland, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Student life felt somewhat like at U.S. colleges, I must say. You also have great opportunities to engage in sports! If I would describe student life at Linnaeus University with one word it would be: Amazing”.