Blended Intensive Programmes

International Railways

International Railways – Connected Europe: Logistics and Intermodal Systems

The BIP International Railways – Connected Europe: Logistics and Intermodal Systems explores the European Union's strategic initiatives to foster a seamless and sustainable railway network across the continent. It provides an overview of how national railway systems are interconnected, highlighting the collaborative efforts made by individual countries to align with a shared vision of efficient and eco-friendly transport. Moreover, the BIP focuses on sharing global expertise and operational experience to address challenges, explore opportunities, and advance railway and freight logistics development. Students will examine the role of logistics and intermodal systems in enhancing freight mobility and reducing bottlenecks, alongside the energy implications and environmental advantages of rail transport compared to other modes. Through group exercises and practical case studies, participants will analyse Europe's integrated transport system and develop a comprehensive understanding of the vital role that railways play in the continent’s future.

Course Contents

  • Advancing railways and freight logistics: challenges, opportunities, and development perspectives
    • Sharing global experiences and operational engagement in railway and freight logistics development
  • Introduction to international railway systems and their interconnections at the EU level
  • EU strategies
    • TSI (Technical Specifications of Interoperability), TEN (Trans-European Transport Network)
  • National strategies and efforts aligned with EU objectives
    • Countries: Austria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Lithuania, Romania
    • Best practices in national strategies
  • Intermodal logistics 
  • Excursion to a railway company
  • There will also be a variety of engaging side events, including a social programme, a campus tour, and a city tour.

Methods and Outcome

  • Lectures, group exercises, individual assignments, and excursions to railway companies
  • Participants understand how EU strategies aim to create an integrated and sustainable European railway network.
  • They gain knowledge of global efforts and operational practices to support the development and improvement of railway and freight logistics systems.
  • They gain knowledge of the international supply chain and logistics as well as current international research activities and their applications in the field. 
  • They will be able to critically analyse how national rail systems connect and how intermodal logistics improve freight mobility.
  • They gain knowledge of the application of concepts through case studies to evaluate challenges and propose improvements to Europe’s transport systems.
  • They will be able to collaborate effectively in groups to assess real-world mobility scenarios and present solutions.

Programme

TBD

BIP Partners