Strategic Quality Management - Lean Sigma Systems

This Masters programme is also available as an apprenticeship with up to 80% fees paid by SOLAS & HEA. To find out more about whether you are eligible for apprenticeship funding, please https://www.ul.ie/gps/professionalflexible-programmes/apprenticeships

(M) Microcreds available:

Modules listed within the Programme Content with an (M) beside them are MicroCreds and can be taken independently.

For Professionals Who

Are responsible for or actively engaged in organisational improvement and development through the use of quality management.
Wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practical application of quality management tools and techniques.
Seek recognition as a Master Black Belt in Lean and Six Sigma.

How It Works

The course is delivered over 2 years with a prescribed progression route. ?

Students complete 6 taught modules, 2 work based projects (one in lean and one in six sigma) and an Enterprise Improvement project/dissertation

The Masters in Strategic Quality Management, Lean Sigma Systems is a 2 year programme, but applicants who have already completed either or both Specialist/Professional Diplomas in Lean and/or Six Sigma at the University of Limerick can apply to be enrolled directly to Year 2 of the Masters and complete within one year.

Enterprise Improvement Project
Completion of the MSc programme requires a substantial industry-based Enterprise Improvement Project (EIP), to be reported in the form of a Journal Article. The EIP requires the application of the concepts, tools and techniques of both lean and six sigma covered throughout the programme and carries an expectation of helping participant organisations realise a significant benefit that impacts their strategic and operational direction.

This benefit should be clearly stated in the project scope and with a specific target around process optimisation that aims to reduce process defects and waste, and to provide a framework for culture change.

Black Belt
The University of Limerick and several leading Irish companies designed this course to meet the standards of a black belt. While there is no single authority that issues Black Belts in Lean or Six Sigma, the industry group and university carried out extensive research in designing this course to ensure that the course met the general standards that are expected of a Masters Black Belt holder.

Successful participants will receive a letter from the University of Limerick stating that their capability is at Master Black Belt level.

Year 1

Semester 1
Lean Thinking/Lean Tools 1
Leadership & Change Management

Semester 2
Lean Thinking/Lean Tools 2
Lean Project/Lean Healthcare Project

Year 2

Semester 1
Quality Science Introduction (M)
Problem Solving Tools and Techniques (M)

Semester 2
Quality Science Advanced
Six Sigma Project

Summer
Enterprise Improvement Project

Note on programme routes
There are a number of routes through the Masters in Strategic Quality Management, Lean Sigma Systems.

Enrol directly and complete within a two year timeframe OR

Having completed either the Professional Diploma in Lean Systems OR the Professional Diploma in Six Sigma, be enrolled directly to Year 2 of the Masters and complete the remaining modules in one year (in tandem with the Enteprise Improvement Project/Thesis) OR

Having completed both the Professional Diploma in Lean Systems AND the Professional Diploma in Six Sigma be enrolled directly to Year 2 of the Masters and complete the Enterprise Improvement Project/Thesis in one year.

(M) A MicroCred is a single module within a larger further award (eg. Certificate, Diploma, Masters). By taking a micro-credential you may be eligible to apply for a credit exemption should you progress to study for a further award.

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 Professional Diploma in Lean Systems and/or Six Sigma are eligible for exemptions from those modules on this programme.

What to Include with your Application
Delays in receiving these documents will affect the progress of your application.

Photo or Scanned original copy of your transcripts for all years of study. (Graduates of UL need only provide us with their Student ID number.)

Photo or Scanned copy of passport to verify ID and full legal name.

A copy of your most recent CV.

Applicants who do not have English as their first language may satisfy English Language requirements:

If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice

If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:

• English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
AND
• English language competency certificate

2 years part-time.