Why Lean?

Micro-credentials are short courses that are usually offered on a flexible basis. They are accredited and assessed by SETU or MTU. Our courses range from 1 to 5 credits. As a guide, a standard undergraduate module is 5 credits. In general, you can expect between 5 to 10 hours of class time for a 1 credit module and 24 to 36 hours for a 5 credit module, spread over several weeks. Micro-credentials can be offered at any level on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), ours are at level 6 (Higher Certificate Level), level 7 (Ordinary Degree Level) or level 8 (Honours Degree Level). The courses are delivered on a flexible basis, to fit into the demands of a busy working life. Most of our programmes are delivered on a fully online basis with the learning taking place on a synchronous basis (i.e. live online classes) or asynchronous basis (i.e. pre-recorded material that you can view in your own time).

The aim of this micro-credential is to introduce the learner to the concept of Lean and how Lean can enable process improvement in organisations.

This micro-credential offers a tailored and agile response for public and private organisations vis-à-vis their current and future skills needs in the area of Lean and Continuous Improvement. According to the South-Eastern Regional Skills Forum (December 2021), skills needs in Lean and process improvement continue to be identified in many sectors in the region, including the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors.

In the aforementioned context, and since 2010, the School of Business at SETU has developed and successfully delivered its portfolio of Lean Enterprise and Operational Excellence programmes at Levels 7, 8, and 9 of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

This micro-credential is a Level 6 Single ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) Credit providing a formative introduction to the concept of Lean for an envisaged population of learners who, to date, have had minimal if any exposure to Lean thinking and practice.

Level 6 on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and 1 ECTS Credit (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System)

On successful completion of this micro-credential, students should be able to:

  1. Describe the concept of Lean and why it can enable the effectiveness and efficiency of processes in organisations.

 

On this course, learners can expect to: 

  • develop an understanding of the concept of Lean and the “Why” of Lean.
  • develop an understanding of the concepts of Value and Waste in Lean and from a Process perspective.
  • develop an understanding of the practical application of Lean from review of pertinent case studies and videos.

 

Candidates will have an award at level 5, or equivalent, in any discipline along with at least one year of organisational experience.

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit evidence of competency in English per SETU English Language Requirements.

Learners complete the micro-credential over six weeks at a guided, self-directed pace. A time commitment of approximately 4 hours per week is required of learners to adequately engage with, internalise and reflect on their learning.

  • 100% Online delivery.
  • Combined synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded).
  • Duration: six-week period.
  • Part-Time Block Release, at times, and a pace convenient for the learner.
  • Encompasses recorded lectures, complementary reading and video materials, and independent self-directed learning.
  • Online assessment and learner feedback

The fees for this course is 80% funded through the Human Capital Initiative  

The cost of the course to the student is €56. To check if you are eligible for the funding please follow this link (external site - Higher Education Authority). If you have any doubts, please contact us. 

Applications are to the South East Technological University. 

Apply Here (this link brings you to the website of SETU)