12 June 2007 53/ 07

 

A Flexible Approach to Business Degrees

 

Southampton Solent University is launching a new course to meet the needs of busy professionals who cannot take time off work to study for a Masters course. The MSc programme in 'Six Sigma', the established quality management standard pioneered by communications giant Motorola, will give employees the chance to increase their skills through flexible weekend study.

 

The course has a unique 'roll on, roll off' structure which allows students to join and leave the course at different times of the year according to how busy they are. Lectures at the University are held eight weekends per year, on Saturdays and Sundays to minimise interruptions to the working week. Students can complete the course in as little as 14 months, or extend their studies.

 

Eric Miller, Academic Leader in the Faculty of Technology, says,

"When we were developing the course, the feedback we had from businesses and employees was that traditional modes of studying, such as day release, were disruptive to their operations. This unique approach enables employers to increase the skills and expertise within their organisations, in a way that is convenient for both the business and the employee."

 

The Six Sigma quality management approach is the de facto industry standard qualification and methodology in manufacturing and the service sector. The programme has two courses: MSc Six Sigma Quality (Manufacture)| and MSc Six Sigma Quality (Service).|

 

Entry to the programme is through a good undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent work-related experience. The cost of the programme is £3,700 with a discount for more than one student attending from the same organisation.

 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES TO JENNY DASHLEY, PRESS OFFICER, 023 8031 9040

 

More Southampton Solent University news can be found at: www.solent.ac.uk/news/|