Entry requirements

The minimum entry-level required for this course is as follows:

a first or a good second-class honours degree in security, management, accounting, business, finance, investment or banking related subjects from a recognised university or,
a recognised professional finance qualification with relevant work experience

Mature students

Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from suitably qualified students.

Months of entry

January

Course content

The MSc in Operational Excellence is a unique and dynamic programme designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to drive efficiency, innovation, and continuous improvement within organisations. Through a combination of academic rigour and practical application, this programme prepares you to lead operational transformations and solve complex business challenges. Credits from the MSc in OpEx permit a Blackbelt accreditation with the “International Lean Six Sigma Institute” and Fellowship membership with the “Institute of Continuous Improvement for Public Services”.

This two-year, part-time MSc is specifically designed for practicing managers working, or aspiring to work, in operations/business improvement/transformation and other areas aligned towards operational excellence. All participants should have considerable experience as they will be expected to contribute ideas and share experiences.

The University of Buckingham prides itself on the support it provides to its students, and this has been reflected in appearances in the National Student Survey for student satisfaction for 7 consecutive years. Graduates of the MSc in Operational Excellence will not only gain a world-class academic qualification, but the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification by the renowned “International Lean Six Sigma Institute”. This is available for only a modest additional certification fee provides the practitioner authority. Furthermore, the credits from the MSc in OpEx steering a fellowship membership with the “Institute of Continuous Improvement for Public Services” awards the management validation.

The philosophy of this course is “learning by doing”. Most modules are designed around real-life situations encountered within organisations that demonstrate the concepts and theories of the module in action. The programme is designed to develop middle and senior managers and professionals who can improve the performance of their organisations by implementing the concepts of Continuous Improvement. It is a highly innovative and essentially practical programme, which provides the optimal learning environment, that is, allowing students to develop skills and knowledge by “doing”.

Course Highlights

Practical application – Learn how to apply operational excellence principles in real-world business environments.
Focus on the various Operational Excellence methodologies such as Lean, Lean Six Sigma, agile and Continuous Improvement.
Industry-focused curriculum – Engage with case studies, best practices, and methodologies used by leading global organisations.
Expert-led teaching – Benefit from insights shared by renowned academics and industry professionals.
Career advancement – Gain a highly respected qualification that opens doors to senior management and leadership roles.

Industry accreditations

Upon completion of the MSc in Operational Excellence, you will have achieved credits for the BlackBelt in Lean Six Sigma (LSS). This is awarded by the prestigious “International Lean Six Sigma Institute”, incorporating a minor certification cost only. Equally, credits from the MSc in OpEx will enable fellowship membership with the “Institute of Continuous Improvement for Public Services”.

Course breakdown

This part-time two years MSc programme consists of:

Taught Modules – Covering key areas such as Lean Six Sigma, process improvement, supply chain management, and organisational change.
Industry Engagement – Guest lectures, company visits, and real-world projects with businesses striving for operational excellence.
Research Project – A final dissertation where you apply advanced research methodologies to solve a real operational challenge.
The Programme consists of 180 credits at level 7 incorporating a 15,000-word dissertation accounting for 60 credits.

Year 1

You will build a strong foundation in Operational Excellence through core frameworks, value flow analysis, and quality management. The year emphasises innovation, leadership, and cultivating a high-performance organisational culture. Sustainability and strategic alignment are also explored, preparing students to identify improvement opportunities and lead transformative change.

Year 2

Year two focuses on performance measurement, benefits realisation, and strategic alignment. You will gain practical research skills to critically assess operational initiatives and support evidence-based decision-making. A major emphasis is placed on independent learning through a 60-credit dissertation, enabling you to apply your knowledge in solving real-world operational challenges and advancing excellence across sectors.

Information for international students

We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.

The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.

Fees and funding

UK students

From £5150

International students

From £8240

Please check our website for current tuition fees, scholarships and bursaries.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MSc
part time
24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Business Admissions
Email: info@buckingham.ac.uk

Phone: +44 (0)1280 820227

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MSc Operational Excellence