Six Sigma Belt Comparison

Choosing the right Lean Six Sigma certification level can shape the types of projects you manage, the skills you develop, and the career paths available to you. Whether you’re just starting out or advancing toward senior leadership, understanding the difference between Yellow, Green, and Black Belts will help you select the training that best fits your goals.


Which Six Sigma Certification is Right for You?

Six Sigma Global Institute (SSGI) works directly with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies and academic institutions to offer industry recognized Lean Six Sigma training and certification programs. All programs are 100% online, self-paced and include certification exams.


PRICE

COURSE LEVEL

COURSE FOCUS

AVG. COMPLETION TIME

CONTINUING ED

(PDUs/PDCs)

SELF-PACED ONLINE TRAINING

INDUSTRY APPROVED CERTIFICATION EXAM

SUMMARY

Yellow Belt

$299

Beginner

Learn the basic tools of Lean Six Sigma

1-2 Weeks (20 Hours)

21 PDUs | 21 PDCs

Become familiar with the methodology and basic tools of process improvement.

green belt

$399

Beginner - Intermediate

Utilize Lean SIx Sigma tools within project teams

3-5 Weeks (60 Hours)

60 PDUs | 45 PDCs

In-depth comprehensive training for applying Lean Six Sigma tools and concepts.

black belt

$499

Advanced

Management focused for leading Six Sigma projects & teams

4-7 Weeks (90 Hours)

91 PDUs | 45 PDCs

Manage teams and lead projects to successful completion utilizing advanced Six Sigma tools.

master black belt

$699

Expert

Become a Lean Six Sigma mentor & coach

4-7 Weeks (90 Hours)

96 PDUs | 45 PDCs

Master the discipline of Lean Six Sigma at the highest level and educate others.

Pricing Table WordPress Plugin

Green Belt vs Black Belt: Key Differences

While both Lean Six Sigma Green Belts and Black Belts play important roles in process improvement, they differ in scope, responsibility, and required expertise. A Green Belt typically leads smaller projects or supports larger initiatives under the guidance of a Black Belt. Training is focused on core Lean Six Sigma tools, data analysis, and practical problem-solving skills.

 

In contrast, a Black Belt oversees complex, cross-functional projects, applies advanced statistical methods, and drives strategic organizational change. Black Belts often hold leadership positions and dedicate more time to improvement work, while Green Belts balance project responsibilities with other duties.

 

Understanding these differences can help you choose the certification that best aligns with your career goals.

 

For a detailed breakdown of every Six Sigma belt level, visit our Six Sigma Belt Levels Guide.

Understanding the Different Six Sigma Belts


Six Sigma Rolessix sigma belt roles

*Note: material from previous belts will be covered. For example, if you enroll into the Green Belt, material from the Yellow Belt will be covered at the beginning of the Green Belt. There are no prerequisites, you can enroll into whichever belt you’d like outside of the Master Black Belt.

 

Still unsure about which Belt is right for you? Learn more here

New to Lean Six Sigma?

Learn more about Lean Six Sigma in the video below – “What is Lean Six Sigma“.

Six Sigma Salary