| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Course Overview
The course is intended for those who wish to focus their skills with a view to moving into specialist and hybrid lean roles, e.g. internal lean consultants, waste minimisation specialists, process optimisation advisors. It is also suitable for those who wish to upskill and specialise. On completion of the course, graduates will have highly marketable, up-to-date knowledge and skills relevant to product, process and service optimisation and improvement. Expertise in Lean and Six Sigma is currently in strong demand across all sectors.
The specialist diploma awards are particularly suitable for students requiring medium-term upskilling for career advancement or for those interested in focused study in this subject area for personal or topical interest. The specialist diplomas are linked to the degree cycle of the modular programme in Science & Technology Studies which allow students to specialise by choosing from a range of electives. These elective modules are also available as independent awards which students may take for the purposes of upskilling or retraining in the area of Automation & Control, Medical Device Science, Lean & Quality Systems
and Corporate Environmental Planning.
The Specialist Diploma in Lean & Quality Systems is approved by Engineers Ireland as a CPD learning opportunity and contributes 600 hours towards an engineer’s CPD requirement.
Students are provided the opportunity to take the American Society for Quality (
ASQ
) green belt online exam to enhance their studies to a Green Belt Qualification.
Mode of Study:
Online LearningApplications open from 1st April 2023.
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Applications System. This course is listed under
Adult Learning & CPD Courses Application
.
Please visit our How to Apply page for Application tips and Supporting Documents information.
Assessment is through assignments, written examinations and in some cases practical laboratory sessions. Exams take place at the end of each semester. All modules from the course will be individually assessed.
The course is delivered online on a part-time basis. Candidates will receive learning materials in online format for each module. Materials will be specifically designed for independent study and will be supplemented by supporting reading material and interactive learning resources where appropriate. The course requires attendance online for approximately 10 hours per module, mainly on Saturdays.
Program Outline
Course Outline
The Lean and Quality Systems (Specialist Diploma) consists of four inter-related taught modules and a project (chosen in consultation with their project supervisor), to allow individuals to up-skill in a particular area or study in a highly focused area of interest. See module descriptions below:
Lean Thinking/Lean Tools
The module provides an overview of the Toyota Production System (TPS) and the 5 Lean Principles. Learners examine the main components of the TPS system including Just-in-Time (JIT) and cellular manufacturing. The module covers the main lean tools including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, and Standard Work. The principles behind each of the tools and the various elements involved in effectively using these tools is discussed.
Quality Science - Six Sigma
This module introduces the concept of Quality Science. Learners will gain an understanding of the Six Sigma methodology, and gain a foundation in the statistical methods and statistical thinking that forms the basis of the Six Sigma process. Learners build on this foundation so that they have the confidence and statistical skills necessary to visualise and interpret data. Learners develop a working knowledge of the statistical package Minitab.
Problem Solving Tools & Techniques
The Problem Solving Tools and Techniques module gives learners an understanding of the tools and techniques used by organisations to implement Six Sigma projects. Learners analyse problems and learn how to target areas applicable to Six Sigma methodologies.
Enterprise Modelling & Simulation
Enterprise modelling is the process of building models of whole or part of an enterprise using process models, data models, resource models and/or new processes etc. Enterprise modelling deals with the process of understanding an enterprise and improving its performance through creation of enterprise models. It is based on knowledge about the enterprise, previous models and/or reference models.
Lean & Quality Systems Project
In this project the learner will complete a literature review on a topic that is relevant to both the course and to their own work. The learner will develop a project plan and execute a practical research project using well established research methodology methods. Students will be allocated an academic supervisor who will work with them to offer guidance and ensure the successful completion of the project. This module will enable the learner to develop their project management skills, team-working and communication skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Expertise in Lean and Six Sigma is currently in strong demand across all sectors. On completion of the course, graduates will have highly marketable, up-to-date and confidence-building knowledge and skills relevant to product, process and service optimisation and improvement. They will have practiced, and been assessed on, a range of technical and transferable skills which will be beneficial at the personal, enterprise and community levels. If graduates so wish they can progress to the BSc in Science and Technology Studies (NFQ Level 8) with credit for their studies. In this case they will be exempt from one elective stream in the Degree cycle.
Who’s Suited to This Course
The specialist diplomas are primarily intended for students who already have a Science or Engineering related diploma or degree and who wish to up-skill or become expert in one of the specialist areas as offered through these one-year diploma courses.
About University of Galway
Founded in 1845, we've been inspiring students for 178 years. University of Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top quality teaching.
University of Galway
Overview:
University of Galway, formerly known as National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway / NUIG), is a research-led institution with a strong commitment to high-quality teaching. Established in 1845, it has earned international recognition for its academic excellence and vibrant research community. The university is known for its commitment to sustainability, ranking #1 in Ireland for sustainable development in the Times Higher Education World Rankings.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Accommodation Advisory Service:
Assists students in finding suitable accommodation.Campus Activities:
Provides opportunities for students to engage in various activities, including sports, clubs, and societies.Student Support:
Offers a variety of support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Study Abroad:
Facilitates international study opportunities for students.International Office:
Provides support and guidance to international students.Mature Students:
Offers specific support and resources for mature students.Students with Disabilities:
Provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.Student Ambassador Programme:
Connects students with prospective students and provides opportunities for leadership development.For Parents and Guardians:
Offers information and resources for parents and guardians of students.Access Student Information:
Provides access to student information systems and resources.Life in Galway:
Offers information and resources about living in Galway city.Student Life and Campus Experience:
University of Galway offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
- A welcoming and supportive community.
- A wide range of extracurricular activities and opportunities for personal growth.
- A beautiful campus located in the heart of Galway city.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
- A strong sense of community and belonging.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Commitment to Sustainability:
University of Galway is a leader in sustainability, offering a learning environment that cares for the planet.Research Excellence:
The university boasts a vibrant research community tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time.Global Recognition:
University of Galway is internationally recognized for its academic excellence and research.Beautiful Campus:
The university is located on a beautiful campus in the heart of Galway city.Vibrant City:
Galway is a vibrant and welcoming city with a rich culture and history.Academic Programs:
University of Galway offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts, Social Sciences, & Celtic Studies
Business, Public Policy and Law
Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences
Science and Engineering
The university is particularly strong in areas such as:
Medicine
Engineering
Business
Arts and Humanities
Celtic Studies
Other:
- The university has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach.
- It has a large and active alumni network.
- The university is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
The provided context does not include information about the following sections:
Fees & Funding:
Modes of Study:
Open Days:
Scholarships:
Applicants should have a Diploma at NFQ Level 7 of 90 ECTS minimum, in a Science, Engineering or Technical area, or otherwise prove that they satisfy the prerequisites of each of the modules as listed in the course outline section.
Entry requirements for part-time students can be found in our
FAQs
section (i.e. age, english language requirements etc.).