Distance

Six Sigma

Network: 
ULearning Skillnet
Location of Course University of Limerick
Trainer University of Limerick
Methods of Assessment Programme completion requires a substantial industry based project, reported in the form of management report. The expectation that the project would realise savings of at least €30,000 for the participant organisation. The project will require the application of the concepts covered in the course. The output of the project should involve a significant benefit to the company. The Student, Supervisor and Company will agree the success metric for the project as part of the topic selection process.

Examples of success metrics could include:

the improvement of a specified performance indicator by an agreed amount.
the quantifiable addition of value to process or service which was the focus of the project.
a cost saving of the order of €30,000 which must be verified by the company, or in the case of a Small to Medium Enterprises, (SMEs, <250 employees), project savings must amount to 0.1% of annual turnover.
An example could be a kanban system that could result in cost savings through inventory reduction to the value of €50,000, or an increase in machine efficiency by 5%, or a reduction process cycle time by 10%.

Further Enquiries Susie Boekhout at ulearning@ul.ie or 061-213360
Entry Requirements Relevant primary degree/recognised professional qualification and 1-3 years relevant industrial experience
Or
Portfolio of evidence of prior qualifications in quality management together with the application of learning or competence (e.g green/black belt project reports, reflective papers or journals). Two references from appropriate signatories in the candidate’s organisation will be accepted as evidence. Candidates may be required to attend an interview prior to enrolling on the programme.
Course Content The diploma will provide education and practical application to a Black Belt level in Six Sigma. The course will enable participating companies gain competitive advantage through the application of Six Sigma principles to drive improvement with measurable results. A company-based project will form a key element of the programme, ensuring the integration of the various concepts in the participants’ workplace. This project will need to result in significant cost savings for the organisation.

This programme forms part of the MSc in Strategic Quality Management Lean Sigma Systems. Those who have completed this programme may continue on to the MSc.

Financial Support This course has been approved by ULearning Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 25% for students whose company is a member of the ULearning Skillnet network.

There are also a limited number of free places available for unemployed students who meet the required criteria by ULearning Skillnet.

Please note there are only a limited number of subsidies available for both employed and unemployed students.

Jobseekers please be advised that the Department of Social Protection (DSP) has no mandate to extend welfare support to clients undertaking NFQ Level 9 Programmes. Such programmes cannot be approved by DSP, and on that basis are designated SKN-E. Notwithstanding the above, we may offer a NFQ L.9 place to a welfare recipient. This is conditional on our network informing the individual, during the recruitment & selection phase, that the:

Welfare payment must be relinquished should he/she wish to pursue the programme

Trainee must inform the Social Welfare Local Office (SWLO), prior to commencement, about his/her intention to undertake an SKN-E programme, so that the Office can take the necessary steps to review/withdraw payment

Unfortunately, Skillnets cannot seek exceptional approval from DSP for any jobseekers that wish to accept a place on one of the ULearning Skillnet Level 9 courses.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment This programme takes 10 months and is run over two semesters, each 15 weeks, with 10 weeks project write up upon completion of the taught element.

Enrolment September each year

Subjects Taught Programme Structure:
The programme comprises four taught modules and a company based project.

Quality Science I
Problem Solving Tools & Techniques Quality Science II Quality Science III/Advanced Statistics

Duration This programme takes 10 months and is run over two semesters, each 15 weeks, with 10 weeks project write up upon completion of the taught element.
Course Fee Fees for the programme are €4,950 and include all course materials, text books and exams.
Course Web Page: 
http://www.ul.ie/ulearning/ulearning_courses/six_sigma.htm
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
Yes

Six Sigma Green Belt

Network: 
ULearning Skillnet
Location of Course IT Sligo
Trainer IT Sligo
Learning Outcomes There will be a progression path for those students who pass the modules and wish to continue on with a degree in Quality or Manufacturing Management at IT Sligo. Students who meet the eligibility criteria to enter the full degree programme can therefore upgrade skills in specific areas while still earning credits towards a final degree award. On successful completion of the three Six Sigma modules, the student will receive a Level 7 HETAC Certificate in Lean Sigma Quality (15 credits).
Further Enquiries ULearning Skillnet:
Phone: 086 0214825
Email: info@ulearning.ie
Entry Requirements There is no prerequisite to study this programme. It is recommended that applicants have a Leaving Certificate or equivalent due to the Statistics covered in the course syllabus. Applicants must also be in a position to carry out a Six Sigma green belt project with an employer.
Course Content Six Sigma Green Belt provides participants with enhanced problem-solving skills, using the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) model. This certification is in great demand by companies across all sectors in either manufacturing, pharmaceutical, healthcare or service sectors. It is suitable for all levels within the organisation from supervisor and technician through to engineering and management level.

Certification to Green Belt is organised through an Irish based training company and Quality America Inc. Quality America Inc, is one of the premier providers of Six Sigma Training and consultancy in the US and internationally with over 3,000 students trained and certified to date. More than 50 organisations, colleges and universities use their Six Sigma instructor materials. The Green Belt programme is based on the ‘Six Sigma Demystified’ text by Paul A. Keller, Vice President Quality America.

Financial Support This course has been approved by ULearning Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 25% for students whose company is a member of the ULearning Skillnet network.

There are also a limited number of free places available for unemployed students who meet the required criteria by ULearning Skillnet.

Please note there are only a limited number of subsidies available for both emloyed and unemployed students.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment The Six Sigma Green Belt course commences in September and January each year.
Subjects Taught The programme comprises of three modules:
■ Six Sigma I Introduction and Quality Tools
■ Six Sigma II Applied Statistical Control
■ Six Sigma III – Project
Duration 1 Year
Course Fee €1,800, OR €650 per 5 credit module (Plus €200 external Green Belt exam and workshop)
Course Web Page: 
http://odl.itsligo.ie/engineering/six-sigma-green-belt-15-credits/
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
No

Technology Management

Network: 
ULearning Skillnet
Location of Course Galway, Limerick, Cork
Trainer AUA - Atlantic University Allicance
The Atlantic University Alliance (AUA), is a consortium of three Universities on the Atlantic coast of Ireland - NUI, Galway, the University of Limerick and University College Cork.
Methods of Assessment The programme is offered over 2 years (4 semesters) on a part-time basis. Students will have a formal assessment at the end of each semester and will be required to produce a thesis based on a project carried out within their company.
Learning Outcomes Develop knowledge and understanding of the increasingly important area of technology management

Build the management and leadership capabilities of companies and individuals in this area
Enable graduates to facilitate organisational change and sustainable improvements at the enterprise level through competitive work systems and effective knowledge management

In order to achieve these aims, module assignments and the final year thesis are company-based to enhance their benefit to the company and to the student.

Further Enquiries ULearning Skillnet:
Phone: 086 0214825
Email: info@ulearning.ie
Entry Requirements Applicants are expected to hold a primary honours degree or equivalent and have at least 3 years of industrial experience. Candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria may apply for the postgraduate Diploma in Innovation Management or the postgraduate Diploma in Technology Commercialisation. On successful completion of either of these programmes, students may apply for entry to the MSc Technology Management with exemptions.
Course Content MSc in Technology Management - Masters Major Award Level 9
The MSc in Technology Management is a distance learning masters programme. It will provide participants with an insight into the role of technology management within the Irish and international economy. The MSc is a targeted response to a clearly identified need in specific occupations and sectors of the economy. The programme aims to develop students’ knowledge of product innovation, technology transfer, and research &, development (R&,D) processes, thus enabling participants and companies to gain competitive advantage through their technology.

The programme will bring together lecture material on strategy, policy (both national and international), recognised methodologies and skills and exploitation processes to enable participating companies to make fully informed decisions relating to all aspects of technology. Graduates of the programme will be able to guide their companies to exploit technology effectively. In so doing, it is expected that graduates will aspire to the highest level of management.

The programme aims to:
Develop knowledge and understanding of the increasingly important area of technology management

Build the management and leadership capabilities of companies and individuals in this area

Enable graduates to facilitate organisational change and sustainable improvements at the enterprise level through competitive work systems and effective knowledge management

In order to achieve these aims, module assignments and the final year thesis are company-based to enhance their benefit to the company and to the student.

Financial Support This course has been approved by ULearning Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 25% for students whose company is a member of the ULearning Skillnet network.

There are also a limited number of free places available for unemployed students who meet the required criteria by ULearning Skillnet.

Please note there are only a limited number of subsidies available for both employed and unemployed students.

Jobseekers please be advised that the Department of Social Protection (DSP) has no mandate to extend welfare support to clients undertaking NFQ Level 9 Programmes. Such programmes cannot be approved by DSP, and on that basis are designated SKN-E. Notwithstanding the above, we may offer a NFQ L.9 place to a welfare recipient. This is conditional on our network informing the individual, during the recruitment & selection phase, that the:

Welfare payment must be relinquished should he/she wish to pursue the programme

Trainee must inform the Social Welfare Local Office (SWLO), prior to commencement, about his/her intention to undertake an SKN-E programme, so that the Office can take the necessary steps to review/withdraw payment

Unfortunately, Skillnets cannot seek exceptional approval from DSP for any jobseekers that wish to accept a place on one of the ULearning Skillnet Level 9 courses.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment 2 Years part-time, enrolment September each year
Subjects Taught Innovation Management
• To understand innovation as a management process and determine how innovation an be identified Analysed, monitored and implemented within organisations.
• To develop critical understanding of the techniques for diagnosing the need for innovation and change.
• To identify what is required to empower individuals in the area of innovation.

Managing Technology Projects
• To gain an understanding of the systems approach to management and balance traditional problem solving with systemic thinking.
• To understand project management through handling technology-related work as project work.
• To apply the tools and techniques of project management to maximise the successful delivery of technology.

Product Design and Development
• To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of process and product development from concept to implementation **or** market introduction in the case of new products. This understanding should be based on knowledge of the various methodologies and tools used by product **or** process development teams. The methodologies and tools will be presented in the context of various models of the overall process and will be illustrated with industrial case studies.
• To provide an overview of today’s process and product development environment, including consideration of Extended Enterprise, Virtual Enterprise, Vendor-Customer co-design and co-makership issues. The nature and operation of shared design and manufacturing partnerships.

Innovation and Technology Transfer
• To provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to forecast the future technological needs of their organisations, to evaluate the possible sources of new technology, and to manage the transfer of new products and processes, into *or* out of their organisations.

• Participants will develop the ability to identify new technology platforms of potential strategic importance and to successfully assimilate such platforms into their firms.
• The module will also address the different mechanisms through which firms can gain the maximum return from technologies that they have developed. These include patents, licensing, and trading in technical know-how.

Marketing Technology Products
• To provide an understanding of the key marketing concepts in business generally and technology in particular.
• To be capable of analysing markets for technology products/services.
• To produce a marketing plan for a technology company (their own *or* another actual company).
• To provide the participant with an understanding of the selling process.

Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Present a curriculum in the area of Technology Innovation &, Entrepreneurship that reflects the needs of the user.
• Provide easy to access, state of the art reference material in the area of Technology Innovation &, Entrepreneurship to help learners to understand the essential fundamental concepts involved in the discipline.
• Equip participants with the values, best practices, skills and supporting tools necessary to effectively design, develop and deploy technical projects in their organisations and to empower users to autonomously apply these concepts and tools.
• To provide information on project managing an innovative idea
Technology Finance and Capital
• To ensure that participants understand how investment decisions are made in large corporations and in SMEs. This is a key issue for executives seeking to persuade their superiors *or* Boards of Directors of the efficacy of particular investments in equipment and other assets. It is also a key issue for producers of equipment and other assets since these tools are generally used to guide investment (and hence purchasing) decisions.
• To ensure that participants understand how financial assets (debt and equity claims) are priced in order to build credible proposals for bank and venture capital investment.
• To develop an appreciation of the relation between new manufacturing technologies and cost structures. New manufacturing technologies result in a radical realignment of cost structures and hence impact upon many operational and strategic decisions.

Strategy ,&, Management of Technology
• To introduce participants to the basic theoretical and empirical contributions of management theory and practice, including operations management.
• To provide participants with an overview of the strategy process from conceptual and applied perspectives, introducing the concepts, theories and techniques of strategic management.
• To investigate the main components of strategic management, product life cycles and new technological developments.
• To provide insight into the impacts of value chain analysis, supply chain management and first mover advantages on the competitive dynamics of an industry.
• To highlight the impact of strategic alliances, licensing agreements and corporate venturing on technology leadership.
• To introduce participants to the nature, functioning and evolution of manufacturing, communications, information and emergent technologies in todays global society, allowing participants to assess the impact of technological change.
• To outline the importance of national and international technology policy in the pursuance of a technology driven core competence, including the impact of innovation systems on national and regional groupings.
• To equip participants to contribute effectively to the strategy process and operations function from a direct line *or* staff position.

People Management for Technology Organisations
• To understand the human resource contribution to organisational effectiveness and culture management.
• To evaluate the range of internal and external factors shaping group dynamics, management choice and organisational development.
• To understand the dimensions of the psychological contract and its implications for organisational effectiveness.
• To create awareness of the relationship between quality systems and the development of world-class competitive capabilities: speed, cost, dependability, quality and innovation.
• To develop understanding of HRM problems associated with delayering, team working, re-engineering, downsizing and the introduction of technical change.
• To provide a range of tools and techniques useful to diagnose, audit and resolve human resource problems associated with technology management initiatives.
• To equip participants with an understanding of the complexity of mobilising change initiatives within organisations.
• To equip participants in understanding and utilising the political and power bases within organisations and the role of leadership in managing innovation and implementing change.

Information System &, Software Management
• To consider the role of information technology in actual product development. The material covered here would include prototyping, product data management systems, workflow systems and case-based reasoning (CBR).
• To develop a knowledge about electronic commerce and electronic work and discuss its application to supply chain management.
• To consider how information technology might support the actual management of product development. The material covered would include knowledge management systems, computer-mediated communication, intranets, groupware, and issues to do with knowledge creation, storage, transfer and reuse.
• The objective of this module is: to consider the role of information technology in organisational development, to consider how information technology might support the actual management of continuous improvement in a process/service life cycle, to consider how IT can support the development of the organisation.

Lean Tools &, Techniques
This module will explain the concepts behind the Lean tools, and will examine the various elements involved in effectively using these tools to support the organisation''s Lean transformation. The aims of this module are:
• To describe what Lean actually means
• To inform you of its contextual perspective
• To provide students with a working knowledge of many of the main tools available within the Lean toolbox
• To describe Organisation Planning approaches
• To explain and provide students with Process techniques to support Lean implementation
• To explain how to build quality into the manufacturing process
• To describe and explain the extended Lean enterprise.

Six Sigma
This module will introduce and use the Statistics appropriate for master black belt level Six Sigma. Delivery will include a practical application of software tools to undertake statistical analysis.

Areas covered include:
• History and development of traditional quality control techniques, Statistical quality control, inspection and detection methods, Taguchi and the design of metrics
• Fundamental Statistics, Basic distribution theory, Graphs, histograms, location, spread, Box-plots
• Statistical Process Control, Various types of control charts for both variable and attribute data
• Basic Six Sigma Statistics, T-tests, Regression, Decision making under uncertainty, hypothesis testing and analysis of variance
• Introduction to Design of Experiments
• Advanced Six Sigma Statistics
• Process capability indices
• Introduction to Reliability Theory
• Design of Experiments Fractional and factorial designs
• Taguchi methods, EVOP (evolutionary operation) experimentation.

Duration 2 years (4 semesters)
Course Fee €7,900 each year for two years. The fee includes registration, exam and tutor fees, course material, meals and refreshments during seminars held at the distance education locations.
Course Web Page: 
http://www.aua.ie/default.aspx?treeid=66
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
Yes

Innovation Management

Network: 
ULearning Skillnet
Location of Course Galway, Limerick, Cork
Trainer AUA Atlantic University Alliance
The Atlantic University Alliance (AUA), is a consortium of three Universities on the Atlantic coast of Ireland - NUI, Galway, the University of Limerick and University College Cork.
Methods of Assessment The programme is offered over 12 months on a part-time basis. Students will have a formal assessment at the end of each semester and an in-company project to complete.

Examination and Assessment:
Sample Exam Papers, Assignments, Self Assessment Questions and Answers E-Tutor support- available for each programme module.

Learning Outcomes On completion of the course participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to enable them to:
Identify, develop and understand the skills necessary to manage innovation at both operational and strategic levels in their organisation;
Familiarise themselves with business process improvement methods and simulation tools;
Present a professional innovative idea to their peers with the potential to improve business at their organisation.
Further Enquiries ULearning Skillnet:
Phone: 086 0214825
Email: info@ulearning.ie
Entry Requirements An undergraduate Degree 1st or 2nd Class Honours in any discipline + 1 year of relevant industrial experience; or

Ordinary or 3rd Class Honours Undergraduate Degree + 3 years of relevant industrial experience; or

Recognised Professional Qualification + 3 years of relevant industrial experience.

Course Content Specialist Diploma – Innovation Management (Postgraduate)
Innovation is about ideas, and the transformation of those ideas into value creating outcomes – into products, processes and services. Innovations include breakthrough ideas that lead to new products or services, and incremental ideas, which improve the way processes, are undertaken, or products are manufactured. It is also about the creation of new knowledge, and the use of that knowledge. Innovation is the key to future business prosperity and can take place in all areas of the business process. Innovation has been linked to increased market shares, higher growth rates and greater profitability for businesses. This course has been designed to provide an innovative programme to industry whilst encouraging and delivering innovation knowledge through the individual to their organisations.

The programme is offered over 12 months on a part-time basis. Students will have a formal assessment at the end of each semester and an in-company project to complete.

The following is a module outline for each 15 week semester:
Managing Innovation and Change
Managing Technology Projects
Enterprise, Product Modelling Simulation
Product Design & Development
Project

The programme is delivered using a blended approach, that is, a combination of distance/online learning materials combined with face-to-face tutorials and seminars. The online element facilitates the learning in tandem with the distance-education, hard-copy materials and periodic classroom contact. Students will be required to attend seminars on average once per month. Tutorials are organised on a rotating basis at either NUIG, UL or UCC.

The blended learning approach contains the following elements:
Traditional distance education format hard-copy course material, textbooks, course notes and reading lists face-to-face study groups expert seminars scheduled during each semester

Online learning system available 24 / 7 containing
Module Content - module material in a downloadable format
Module Documents – study schedules, PowerPoint slides and case studies
Library – online catalogue searches, journal articles, electronic databases

Financial Support This course has been approved by ULearning Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 25% for students whose company is a member of the ULearning Skillnet network.

There are also a limited number of free places available for unemployed students who meet the required criteria by ULearning Skillnet.

Please note there are only a limited number of subsidies available for both employed and unemployed students.

Jobseekers please be advised that the Department of Social Protection (DSP) has no mandate to extend welfare support to clients undertaking NFQ Level 9 Programmes. Such programmes cannot be approved by DSP, and on that basis are designated SKN-E. Notwithstanding the above, we may offer a NFQ L.9 place to a welfare recipient. This is conditional on our network informing the individual, during the recruitment & selection phase, that the:

Welfare payment must be relinquished should he/she wish to pursue the programme

Trainee must inform the Social Welfare Local Office (SWLO), prior to commencement, about his/her intention to undertake an SKN-E programme, so that the Office can take the necessary steps to review/withdraw payment

Unfortunately, Skillnets cannot seek exceptional approval from DSP for any jobseekers that wish to accept a place on one of the ULearning Skillnet Level 9 courses.
Enrolment and Start Dates Comment 1 Year Course with enrolment in September
Subjects Taught Managing Innovation and Change
To understand innovation as a management process and determine how innovation an be identified analysed, monitored and implemented within organisations
To develop critical understanding of the techniques for diagnosing the need for innovation and change
To identify what is required to empower individuals in the area of innovation.

Managing Technology Projects
To gain an understanding of the systems approach to management and balance traditional problem solving with systemic thinking
To understand project management through handling technology-related work as project work
To apply the tools and techniques of project management to maximise the successful delivery of technology

Enterprise Modelling and Simulation
To focus participates on business process re-engineering and business process modelling. It will also introduce simulation as a modelling technique for business process improvement
Provide a platform for participants to understand their organisations current goals, strategies and their business process environment. It will also provide information on how to establish business process improvements and what is required to support these improvements

During the course of this module uptake it is envisaged that participants would formulate an improvement proposal (CASE STUDY) which defines how their organisation can transition to a future business process improvement, and identify the tools, systems and processes required to implement change

Product Design and Development
To provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of process and product development from concept to implementation or market introduction in the case of new products. This understanding should be based on knowledge of the various methodologies and tools used by product or process development teams. The methodologies and tools will be presented in the context of various models of the overall process and will be illustrated with industrial case studies.

To provide an overview of today’s process and product development environment, including consideration of Extended Enterprise, Virtual Enterprise, Vendor-Customer co-design and co-makership issues. The nature and operation of shared design and manufacturing partnerships

Projects
The project phase of the Diploma is an opportunity to pursue a relevant activity related to Innovation Management. Each participant will be required to prepare a proposal; plan and manage the project; collect, analyse and use data where necessary; present their results; and write the project report. It is imperative that the participant receives support throughout the project, including guidance on how to write a professional report.

Duration 1 year
Course Fee The diploma fee is €3,950 for the year. The fee includes registration, exam and tutor fees, course material, meals and refreshments during seminars held at the distance education locations.
Course Web Page: 
http://www.aua.ie/post-grad-diploma-innovation-management-course-structure
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
Yes

Technology Commercialisation

Network: 
ULearning Skillnet
Location of Course Galway, Limerick, Cork
Trainer AUA (Atlantic University Alliance)
The Atlantic University Alliance (AUA), is a consortium of three Universities on the Atlantic coast of Ireland - NUI, Galway, the University of Limerick and University College Cork.
Methods of Assessment The programme is offered over 12 months on a part-time basis. Students will have a formal assessment at the end of each semester and an in-company project to complete.
Learning Outcomes The Diploma in Technology Commercialisation aims to:
equip participants with state of the art reference material to support module topics such as innovation and technology transfer, marketing technology products, technology entrepreneurship and finance and capital;
assist participants to develop technology commercialisation activities within their organisation, realise the potential of innovation and gain a greater understanding of the commercialisation process.
Further Enquiries ULearning Skillnet:
Phone: 086 0214825
Email: info@ulearning.ie
Entry Requirements An undergraduate Degree 1st or 2nd Class Honours in any discipline + 1 year of relevant industrial experience; or

Ordinary or 3rd Class Honours Undergraduate Degree + 3 years of relevant industrial experience; or

Recognised Professional Qualification + 3 years of relevant industrial experience.

Course Content Specialist Diploma Technology Commercialisation - Specialist Diploma Minor Award Level 9

This course will provide information and guidance to potential entrepreneurs and give Irish industry the business planning skills and knowledge needed to commercialise new technologies, products and services, and to secure project finance. Students will also undertake a project module which supports the learning modules in a more active manner and aids their understanding of the commercialisation options available to an identified venture.

The programme will enhance students' understanding of venture capital financing, along with business planning, business management, marketing and technology development. It is envisaged that this course will also allow participants the opportunity to expand their networks with individuals, companies and agencies involved in Technology Commercialisation.

The programme is offered over 12 months on a part-time basis. Students will have a formal assessment at the end of each semester and an in-company project to complete.

The following is a module outline for each 15 week semester:
Innovation and technology Transfer
Marketing Technology Products
Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Technology Finance and Capital
Project
The programme is delivered using a blended approach, that is, a combination of distance / online learning materials combined with face-to-face tutorials and seminars. The online element facilitates the learning in tandem with the distance-education, hardcopy materials and periodic classroom contact. Students will be required to attend seminars on average once per month. Seminars are organised on a rotating basis at either NUIG, UL, or UCC.

The blended approach contains the following elements:
Traditional distance education format
1.hardcopy course material, textbooks, course notes and reading lists
2.face-to-face study groups
3.expert seminars scheduled during each semester.
Online learning system available 24/7 containing
1.Module Content - module material in a downloadable format
2.Module Documents – study schedules, PowerPoint slides and case studies
3.Library – online catalogue searches, journal articles, electronic databases
4.Examination and Assessment: Sample Exam Papers, Assignments, Self Assessment Questions and Answers
5.E-Tutor support- available for each programme module.

Financial Support This course has been approved by ULearning Skillnet for a fees subsidy of up to 25% for students whose company is a member of the ULearning Skillnet network.

There are also a limited number of free places available for unemployed students who meet the required criteria by ULearning Skillnet.

Please note there are only a limited number of subsidies available for both employed and unemployed students.

Jobseekers please be advised that the Department of Social Protection (DSP) has no mandate to extend welfare support to clients undertaking NFQ Level 9 Programmes. Such programmes cannot be approved by DSP, and on that basis are designated SKN-E. Notwithstanding the above, we may offer a NFQ L.9 place to a welfare recipient. This is conditional on our network informing the individual, during the recruitment & selection phase, that the:

Welfare payment must be relinquished should he/she wish to pursue the programme

Trainee must inform the Social Welfare Local Office (SWLO), prior to commencement, about his/her intention to undertake an SKN-E programme, so that the Office can take the necessary steps to review/withdraw payment

Unfortunately, Skillnets cannot seek exceptional approval from DSP for any jobseekers that wish to accept a place on one of the ULearning Skillnet Level 9 courses.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment 1 Year part-time, enrolment September.
Subjects Taught Innovation and Technology Transfer
To provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to forecast the future technological needs of their organisations, to evaluate the possible sources of new technology, and to manage the transfer of new products and processes, into or out of their organisations;
Participants will develop the ability to identify new technology platforms of potential strategic importance and to successfully assimilate such platforms into their firms;
The module will also address the different mechanisms through which firms can gain the maximum return from technologies that they have developed. These include patents, licensing, and trading in technical know-how.

Marketing Technology Products
To provide an understanding of the key marketing concepts in business generally and technology in particular;
To be capable of analysing markets for technology products / services;
To produce a marketing plan for a technology company (their own or another actual company);
To provide the participant with an understanding of the selling process.

Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Present a curriculum in the area of Technology Innovation & Entrepreneurship that reflects the needs of the user;
Provide easy to access, state of the art reference material in the area of Technology Innovation & Entrepreneurship to help learners to understand the essential fundamental concepts involved in the discipline;
Equip participants with the values, best practices, skills and supporting tools necessary to effectively design, develop and deploy technical projects in their organisations and to empower users to autonomously apply these concepts and tools;
To provide information on project managing an innovative idea

Technology Finance and Capital
To ensure that participants understand how investment decisions are made in large corporations and in SMEs. This is a key issue for executives seeking to persuade their superiors or Boards of Directors of the efficacy of particular investments in equipment and other assets. It is also a key issue for producers of equipment and other assets since these tools are generally used to guide investment (and hence purchasing) decisions;

To ensure that participants understand how financial assets (debt and equity claims) are priced in order to build credible proposals for bank and venture capital investment; To develop an appreciation of the relation between new manufacturing technologies and cost structures. New manufacturing technologies result in a radical realignment of cost structures and hence impact upon many operational and strategic decisions.

Projects
The project phase of the Diploma is an opportunity to pursue a relevant activity related to Technology Commercialisation. Each participant will be required to prepare a proposal; plan and manage the project; collect, analyse and use data where necessary; present their results; and write the project report.

Duration 12 months on a part-time basis
Course Fee The diploma fee is €3,950 for the year. The fee includes registration, exam and tutor fees, course material, meals and refreshments during seminars held at the distance education locations.
Course Web Page: 
http://www.aua.ie/content.asp?ID=69
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
Yes

Accredited Psychometric Testing

Network: 
Trainers Learning Skillnet
Location of Course Nationwide - Blended Learning
Trainer Talent Q
Learning Outcomes Psychometric Testing within Organisations (BPS Level A & B)

Assessing Ability and Personality in Organisations

We have joined forces with Talent Q, a leading provider of online psychometric assessments and training, to offer members specially discounted rates on accredited psychometric training courses

These cutting-edge psychometrics training courses (previously known as Level A & B) are fully accredited to the new British Psychology Society (BPS) testing standards and are available via a number of flexible, cost-effective formats.

Uniquely with Talent Q you do NOT have to first complete Level A before doing Level B. If you prefer, you can save time and cost, skip Level A and fast-track to do Level B.

Further Enquiries Bookings

If you are interested in booking onto Assessing Ability or Assessing Personality in Organisations or would like further information about which course format is best for you please contact:

Dom Crotty M.Sc
Senior Client Partner
Mob: ++353 (0)87-2230188
IMI Campus
Sandyford Road
Dundrum
Dublin 16

domcrotty@talentq.co.uk

www.talentq.co.uk

Course Content Assessing Ability in Organisations (Level A).
This course is fully accredited by the BPS, and awards Occupational Test User: Ability Certification (previously known as Level A).

Participants gain the key skills and knowledge needed to effectively use and administer ability tests in the workplace. Such tests include Verbal, Numerical and Logical reasoning tests that are widely used to support selection & recruitment as well as Learning & Development. Participants will receive training in the use of Talent Q’s Elements suite of ability tests.

This course is divided in to three parts.
• sessing ability at work: This section cover the essentials of psychological testing, historical and contemporary perspectives on ability in the workplace, job analysis techniques, fairness and diversity in testing and advances in adaptive testing techniques.

• ychometric theory: This part of the course covers the fundamentals of psychometric theory, including the statistical concepts that underpin all psychometric assessments. These statistics help us understand test results as well as being able to evaluate how useful and appropriate any given test is.

• actitioner skills: The final part of the course focuses on developing the practical skills required to be an effective practitioner. This includes the administration, interpretation and feedback of Talent Q’s Elements ability tests (verbal, numerical and logical reasoning).

Assessing Personality in Organisations (Level B)
This course fulfills the BPS requirements to award Occupational Test User: Personality Certification (Previously known as Level B)

The course include specific qualification training in the use of Talent Q’s Dimensions personality assessment questionnaire and related reports.

This course is divided in to three sections:
• Personality at work: This covers the theories that inform our understanding of personality, the various methods used to assess personality in the workplace and the background to the Dimensions personality questionnaire. It also illustrates the importance of fairness and diversity in assessment and the key responsibilities of the practitioner in assessment contexts.

• Psychometric theory: This part of the course covers the fundamentals of psychometric theory, including the statistical concepts that underpin all psychometric assessments. These statistics help us understand assessment results as well as being able to evaluate how useful and appropriate any given personality questionnaire is.

• Practitioner skills: The final part of the course focuses on developing the practical skills required to be an effective practitioner. This includes the administration, interpretation and feedback of Talent Q’s Dimensions personality questionnaire.

Financial Support Skillnet Funding Awailable
Enrolment and Start Dates Comment Blended Learning
Subjects Taught Assessing Ability in Organisations (Level A)

This course is fully accredited by the BPS, and awards Occupational Test User: Ability Certification (previously known as Level A).Participants gain the key skills and knowledge needed to effectively use and administer ability tests in the workplace. Such tests include Verbal, Numerical and Logical reasoning tests that are widely used to support selection & recruitment as well as Learning & Development. Participants will receive training in the use of Talent Q’s Elements suite of ability tests.

Assessing Personality in Organisations (Level B)

This course fulfills the BPS requirements to award Occupational Test User: Personality Certification (previously known as Level B) and provides participants with the key skills and knowledge needed to assess personality in the workplace.

Personality questionnaires are an effective predictor of performance at work, providing valuable support for both individual and group development. They offer powerful insight into what drives an individual’s behaviour and personality and how they prefer to interact with others at work.

Participants will learn how administer personality assessments and how to use a variety of related interpretive reports to support individual and group learning & development across a wide range of applications that includes team building, conflict management, leadership assessment and development, communication skills, sales and negotiation skills.

The course include specific qualification training in the use of Talent Q’s Dimensions personality assessment questionnaire and related reports.

Comment Benefits

1.Cost-effective – High quality, accredited assessment training at a price to suit you

2.Flexible – Our blended learning approach allows trainees to work at their own pace, avoiding lengthy absence from the workplace

3.Pragmatic – Throughout all our training courses we draw on real-world examples of how our clients have used and applied psychometric assessment for the recruitment and development of talent in their organisations

4.Supportive – Our team of chartered occupational psychologists are on hand throughout your training, providing advice, support and expertise

5.Comprehensive – From introductory workshops through to experienced practitioner courses, Talent Q’s comprehensive training portfolio is suitable for all levels of assessment expertise.

Number of Places 20
Course Fee (Level A)Assessing Ability in Organisations (16-20 hours self-directed learning plus half-day classroom-based assessment)
TLS Member: €1,020
Non-member: €1,200 (Usual Price: €1440)

(Level B)Assessing Personality in Organisations (20-24 hours self-directed learning plus half-day classroom-based assessment)

TLS Member: €1,275
Non-member: €1,500 (usual Price: €1770)

Combined courses (Level A & B): (36-40 hours self-directed learning plus 1-day classroom-based assessment)

TLS Member: €2,100 - Save over €1000
Non-member: €2,500 (usual Price: €3110)

Course Web Page: 
http://www.trainerslearningskillnet.com/Accredited_Psychometric_Testing-recordid-236-objectid-1152-z-event_summary.htm
Available to Job Seekers: 
No
Certified: 
No

IFA Fresh Milk Producers Committee

Network: 
Farm Business Skillnet
Location of Course Onlin
Trainer New Horizons Ireland, Strand House, 22/24 Strand Street Great, Dublin 1
Methods of Assessment Online Evaluation of course - and Skillnet Evaluations
Learning Outcomes Proficiency in e-mail and Outlook
Eligibility Member of IFA Fresh Milk Producers Committee
Further Enquiries Celine Reynolds
Farm Business Skillnet Network Manager
Tel: 01 426 0324
Mob: 086 687 8648
Email: celinereynolds@ifatelecom.ie
Entry Requirements none
Course Content ICT Web TV Online Training - MS Outlook - Levels 1 to 3
Financial Support 50% Funded by Skillnets and 50% funded by IFA Member Services for FMP Committee Members
Enrolment and Start Dates Comment Will be available on line from 11th February 2013
Subjects Taught MS Outlook
Duration Each Level (1 to 3) is 8 hours on line - 24 hours in total. Course will be open on line for 6 months
Number of Places 15
Course Fee Free to Members of FMP Committee - €75 to anyone else
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
No

Food Science & Technology - Certificate in

Network: 
Rural Food Skillnet
Location of Course UCC Cork
Trainer UCC Food Industry Training Unit
Methods of Assessment Examinations
Regulations governing the Examination for this programme, including pass and progression standard, award of honours (where appropriate), exemptions, rules governing supplemental and repeat year examinations, the time of examinations and associated Examination Boards to approve programme results are contained in the Marks & Standards section of this document.
Further Enquiries Centre for Adult Continuing Education, University College Cork
t: 021-4902301
Entry Requirements Admission:
• Applicants should hold NFQ / FETAC Level 5 qualification or have appropriate
experience / qualifications in a food related area as deemed relevant by the
Academic Director and Programme Manager.
• Applicants should have at least two years experience working in the food area.
Course Content Aims and Objectives (First Year)
• To provide students with an understanding of
- chemistry and the chemistry of foods,
- microbiology and the microbiology of foods,
- food processing technology,
- food engineering
- human nutrition

• To apply the knowledge and understanding acquired on the course in a work
related assignment
Aims and Objectives (Second Year)

• To provide students with an understanding of
- the chemistry of foods
- the role of microorganisms in relation to the quality and safety of foods
- the principal processes used in the manufacture of foods
- the principal unit operations in food process engineering and outline the principals of process instrumentation and control
- the core concepts of marketing food and the management of innovation
- the relevant food legislation, the organisations involved in food safety control in Ireland and the main food safety issues for food businesses

• To apply the knowledge and understanding acquired on the course in a work related assignment Candidates who successfully complete First Year may opt not to proceed to Second Year and may exit the programme with a Certificate in Food Science and Technology.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment 01/01/2013 for 01/09/2013
Subjects Taught Year 1 - Certificate
Students must take modules to the value of 30 credits:
Module Code Module Title Credit Weighting
FC1800 Food Chemistry 1 - 5 credits
FS1800 Food Microbiology 1 - 5 credits
FT1800 Food Technology - 5 credits
FN1800 Food Engineering - 5 credits
NT1800 Nutrition - 5 credits
FS1802 Work Related Assignment 1 - 5 credits
Duration 2 Years
Year 1 - Certificate
Available to Job Seekers: 
No
Certified: 
Yes

Organics - Distance

Network: 
National Organic Training Skillnet
Location of Course Distance Learning
Trainer Various
Methods of Assessment Assessments for Food Crops are:
· Five short assignments
· Project where you grow a crop and record various aspects of how it went.

Assessments for Soil Science are:
· Written exam at the college in February
· 5 short assignment

Further Enquiries Sean McGloin
Network Manager
Mob: 086 172 8442
Tel: 071 964 0688
Email: info@nots.ie
Course Content Working in partnership with An tIonad Glas in Dromcollogher, this distance learning option is available from October 2013. Choose from nine modules which will be available to study from a location that suits you. All you need is access to the internet and the ability to take part in two practical experience days per module - one in the spring and one in the summer.

The modules are nationally certified by FETAC and count towards a certificate in Organic Horticulture (CHXXX: Horticulture).

The modules that are available for study include:
• Organic Production Principles
• Organic Food Crops
• Soil Science and Growing Media
• Plant Science
• Plant Identification
• Sustainable Development
• Alternative Enterprises (Sustainable Woodland and Forestry, Organic Poultry and Organic Food Processing)
• Communications
• Work Placement (10 days if completing full certificate).

Our Organic Basics course gives you all you need to get growing successful organic crops. Two FETAC level 5 modules are included – Organic Food Crops and Soil Science and Growing Media:

Crops and Soil Science and Growing Media:
This module goes into the detail of how to grow specific fruit and vegetable crops organically. It’s the most popular module and together with Soil Science and Growing media gives you a sound introduction to organics. It specifically recommends the best techniques and varieties for growing in Irish conditions.

When you successfully complete this module you will:
· be capable of preparing and cultivating a site suitable to food crop production
· have acquired skills in propagation, cultivation and harvesting of food crops
· be capable of selecting weed, pest and disease control measures appropriate to specific situations.

The project for the Food Crops module is to grow a tasty organic crop in your garden (or window-sill)!

By completing this module you will have had the satisfaction of producing and eating your own organic crop – as well as observing and recording the whole process.

Soil Science and Growing Media:
The soil is the most important part of an organic system (except for you)! Organic growing begins and ends with the soil – it’s critical to everything we do – by developing a healthy soil you’ll find you grow healthier crops and that the work of gardening gets easier. This module will give you the skills to understand your soil and how to improve it. You’ll also learn about the best ways to improve fertility organically with compost and other organic fertilisers. Understanding the soil and fertility is crucial to becoming a good organic grower.

When you successfully complete this module you will be:
· be familiar with the origins, characteristics and properties of
· be capable of manipulating the properties of soil to support crop production
· appreciate the importance of the practices and requirements of soil nutrition and cultivation for organic crop production
· care and foster a respect for the environment as a finite resource.

Enrolment and Start Dates Comment Starts October 2013
FETAC Code C20193: Food Crops
C20055: Soil Science & Growing Media
Subjects Taught Topics include:
· Planning, ground prep, yield and year round supplies
· Overwintering crops
· Protected cropping: growing in polytunnels and under cover
· Rotations and the vegetable families
· Seeds and seedlings
· Fruit and orchards
· Harvesting, storing, eating, cooking and selling!

Soil Science and Growing Media
Topics include:
· Soil origins profiles, and Soil Types
· Soil drainage and erosion
· Soil water, air and temperature + Irrigation
· Soil nutrition and soil pH and liming
· Nitrogen cycle and nitrogen fixation
· Soil Ecology
· Organic matter
· Cultivation, Dig and no dig
· Compost
· Organic manures and fertilisers
· Green manures
· Mulches
· Soil-less growing media and liquid feeds.

Course Web Page: 
http://www.nots.ie/courses.php
Available to Job Seekers: 
No
Certified: 
Yes

Construction Informatics

Network: 
CITA (Construction IT Alliance) Skillnet
Location of Course Dublin Based (distance learning course)
Trainer Dublin Institute of Technology
Methods of Assessment Project Based
Eligibility Open to applicants who meet the entry requirements, and are successful at selection interview.
Further Enquiries Suzanne Purcell
CITA Skillnet Manager
office: 01 470 4440
mobile: 086 047 4869
email: spurcell@cita.ie
Entry Requirements The minimum entry level is an honours 2.2 undergraduate Level 8 degree or its equivalent.

Selection will be made on a combination of an interview and by using particular criteria which demonstrates the candidate’s academic achievement, employment experience and interest in the programme.

Careers or Further Progression Engineering, Architectural, Building Services, Structural, Technician, BIM Specialist
Financial Support Assistance can be provided to applicants who meet the funding eligibility criteria. Contact CITA for details CITA Skillnet can offer a limited number of free places to Jobseekers on this course, subject to conditions.
Enrolment and Start Dates Comment Enrolment Date: 01/04/2013
Start Date: 30/08/2013
Subjects Taught MSc in Construction Informatics
• eBusiness in Construction
• CAD Information Systems
• Building Collaborative Technologies
• Virtual Construction
• Building Automation
• Integrated Masters Project
• Computer Mediated Construction
• Energy Integrated ICT
• Dissertation
Duration 5 Semesters (2 1/2 years) Part-time (Distance Learning)
Comment Limited number of places for Jobseekers available - Contact CITA Skillnet for more information - (01)470 4440
Number of Places Limited. Please contact Suzanne Purcell for details spurcell@cita.ie or call +353 1 470 4440
Available to Job Seekers: 
Yes
Certified: 
Yes
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