MSc Strategic Quality Management - Lean Sigma Systems
(On-line/Distance Learning)
Course Overview
The course will create graduates that understand the theory and practical application of quality management tools and techniques, with particular emphasis on the areas of Lean and Six Sigma as they would apply to their own organisation. It will educate and train participants in specific quality management skills in both the lean and six sigma domains and in strategic and transferable business skills. A graduate of the programme will be considered a Master Black Belt in Lean and Six Sigma.
Duration
Course Progression is flexible and students can complete the programme in 2 to 3 years at a pace that suits their work and family commitments. Participants can take 1 to 3 taught modules each semester, until they complete the programme.
For Whom
The MSc is designed for those with a responsibility for/or actively engaged in organisational improvement and development through the use or intended use of quality management, lean or six sigma methodologies. The programme is suited to a variety of industry sectors both in manufacturing and services, including the public sector.
Entry requirements
Applicants require a 2.1 degree (NFQ level 8) in any discipline or equivalent and at least three years relevant work experience.
Applicants who have completed the Specialist Diploma in Lean Systems and/or Six Sigma are eligible for exemptions from those modules on this programme.
Features
- Master Content to Master Black Belt standard
- On-line interactive and non-interactive content
- Flexible course progression
- Moderated e-discussion boards
- On-line & email-tutor support
- Supplement face-to face tutorial sessions
- Peer supported study groups (on-line and off-line)
- Work based project- industrial mentor and academic supervisor
- Professionally designed learning material
Programme Structure
Choose 1 to 3 modules from each semester block until the programme is complete. This can be done in a minimum of 4 semesters but 6 semesters is the suggested duration.
Semester 01 Module Block |
Semester 02 Module Block |
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Thesis is a work based project, applying the tools and techniques of Lean/Six Sigma with the aim of generating a verified saving of significant benefit for the company, in the region of €100,000. |
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Module Descriptions are available here
In Company Project - Thesis
Programme completion requires a substantial industry based project, reported in the form of a thesis. The expectation that the project would realise savings of €100,000 for the participant organisation. The project will require the application of the concepts covered in the course. The output of the project should involve a significant benefit to the company. The Student, Supervisor and Company will agree the success metric for the project as part of the topic selection process.
Examples of success metrics could include:
- the improvement of a specified performance indicator by an agreed amount.
- the quantifiable addition of value to process or service which was the focus of the project.
- a cost saving of the order of €100,000 which must be verified by the company, or in the case of a Small to Medium Enterprises, (SMEs, <250 employees), project savings must amount to 0.3% of annual turnover.
An example could be a plant relay out that could result in cost savings through inventory reduction to the value of €100,000, or an increase in machine efficiency by 5%, or a reduction process cycle time by 10%.
Delivery
Delivery is a hybrid of traditional distance education and online learning together with a number of on-campus tutorials (approx. 3 Saturdays per semester). In addition, there are online discussions moderated by a subject matter expert on elements of each module to reinforce the learning and maximise the benefit of the programme for participants.
Programme Fees
As the number of modules taken each semester can vary, participants are charged €1,250 for each module as they take them. The Research Thesis is €3,500 so the total cost of the programme (12 modules) is €16,000. Fees include all course materials, text books and exam fees.
Application
Course commences in January and September. Applications open from May and November. Details and online application form are available on the website www.ul.ie/ulearning.
Information
Eithne Connolly at ulearning@ul.ie or 061-213360
