Online Course

E M 570 Systems Improvement: Integrating TOC, Lean, and Six Sigma

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Start

June 4, 2024

Duration

8 weeks, Online

Price

Non-Refundable Application Fee: US$90
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Admission

Enroll now as an Undeclared Graduate to start taking classes this Summer.

Course Description

This course aims to teach leveraging Theory of Constraints, Lean, and Six Sigma to achieve integrated systems-level improvement. 

The Theory of Constraints (TOC) is used for identifying a system’s limiting factor and focusing efforts to eliminate that constraint in order to improve throughput, reduce inventory, or lower operating expenses.  Next, Six Sigma is a problem-solving methodology that uses the structured approach of Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control to reduce variability. Finally, Lean is a management approach that focuses on continuous improvement and respect for people in order to improve the performance of a system by eliminating waste. 

Semester Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
Location: Global Campus

Course meets at times posted via web conferencing software.

Required for:
Certificate: Six Sigma Quality Management

Elective for:
Master’s Degree

Gain Expertise in

  • Theory of Constraints
  • Lean 
  • Six Sigma 
  • Workforce Engagement 

Course Objectives

Students will learn to synergistically apply TOC to identifying what to improve, the Six Sigma structured problems solving approach to reduce variability, and Lean tools for reducing waste and managing continuous improvement.  They will also learn workforce engagement is the key to long-term system improvement.   

Learning Outcomes

Upon satisfactory completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • Apply the Theory of Constraints to improve the throughput of a system 
  • Apply Lean Tools to reduce waste in a system 
  • Apply Six Sigma problems solving techniques to reduce variability 
  • Engage their workforce to ensure they are healthy, happy, and productive 
  • Improve systems by integrating TOC, Lean, and Six Sigma methodologies 
  • Develop a management approach that integrates TOC, Six Sigma, and Lean that promotes workforce engagement.

Lectures are live and interactive

Delivered 2x/week—early evening

Each live session is recorded

Instructor

Applicants to the ETM program must have the following:

Minimum requirements:

  • a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • a transcript*
  • at least one letter of recommendation**
  • a personal statement
  • a résumé showing work experience

Learn more about the Master of Engineering and Technology Management.

Minimum requirements:

  • a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • a transcript*
  • a personal statement
  • a résumé

Because the certificates consist of regular graduate courses, admission to the graduate school is still necessary.

Learn more about ETM certificate programs.

* The ETM program is designed for working professionals, and we highly value your work experience and determination. We may be able to offer provisional admission to those who do not meet the Graduate School’s minimum 3.0 GPA requirement. Please contact us at etm@wsu.edu for more information.

** The program accepts both academic and professional letters.

Start your Application

Important Dates

Applications are typically due two months prior to the start of the semester. The Priority Deadline for Spring 2025 is Friday, November 15th, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.


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Explore the Curriculum Further

To find out more, please fill in the form or email etm@wsu.edu.

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