UB's TCIE Is Now Enrolling Students for Fall 2009 Green Belt Certification Course

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Professionals looking to earn their Green Belt certification through an approach that combines online learning with classroom-based instruction may now register for the Green Belt Blended Learning course, offered by UB's Center for Industrial Effectiveness (TCIE) in Fall 2009.

Led by Master Black Belt Tom Miller, TCIE's senior business process performance manager, the 10-week program immerses candidates in the initial step of the Six Sigma methodology, which is focused on eliminating waste from any type of company and boosting efficiency.

The session, which runs from Sept. 3 through Nov. 12 before a final exam, costs $2,395. To register, visit http://www.tcie.buffalo.edu/seminars.htm or call (716) 636-2568.

Green Belt Blended Learning features independent online learning and three day-long, in-class sessions taught by Miller. The traditional classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 17, Oct. 22 and Nov. 12, at TCIE in the UB Technology Incubator, 1576 Sweet Home Rd., Amherst.

Students learn to apply the principles and concepts of quality management to a Six Sigma project -- a project driven by data to improve a process -- at his or her company. To earn Green Belt certification, students must complete the project and pass an exam.

An advantage of the blended approach, according to Miller, is that it combines a self-paced curriculum and constant online access with classroom-based sessions, which provide milestone management and peer interaction. Six Sigma tools are demonstrated through business case examples.

TCIE started offering the blended learning program in August 2008 to accommodate the need for greater flexibility among working professionals.

For more information, call the UB Center for Industrial Effectiveness or email Gary Simon at ggsimon@buffalo.edu.

TCIE provides a dynamic link between UB's expert resources and the region's business community. For more information on how TCIE can assist Western New York businesses, go to http://www.tcie.buffalo.edu.

The University at Buffalo is a premier research-intensive public university, a flagship institution in the State University of New York system and its largest and most comprehensive campus. UB's more than 28,000 students pursue their academic interests through more than 300 undergraduate, graduate and professional degree programs. Founded in 1846, the University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities.