Six Sigma Certification: The Definitive Guide

Section 1:

What is Six Sigma Certification?

Understanding Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma revolves around five key principles: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC), which guide the improvement of existing processes. Additionally, there’s Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), which includes methodologies like DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify) for creating new processes or products.

DMAIC

Levels of Six Sigma Certification

The Six Sigma certification ladder consists of several levels, starting from the White Belt, which introduces the basics, to the Master Black Belt, which signifies a high level of expertise and leadership. Each level equips professionals with various skills and knowledge, preparing them for specific roles within projects and organizations.

THE FUTURE OF SIX SIGMA CERTIFICATION

The relevance of Six Sigma certification continues to evolve with business trends, including the integration of Six Sigma principles with emerging technologies and methodologies to address the challenges of the digital age.

Is Six Sigma Outdated?

A common question surrounding Six Sigma certification includes, is Six Sigma outdated? Do companies still use Six Sigma?

The methodology of Six Sigma is being adopted at a faster rate than ever. As the gold standard for companies becomes efficient and effective operations, the principles and framework surrounding Six Sigma plays an integral role in allowing organizations to achieve operational excellence. From silicon valley and leading tech firms, to global banks and healthcare institutions, efficiency is the gold star. And the way to to get there is Lean Six Sigma. That is why now is the best time ever to consider getting Six Sigma certified.

Section 3:

IS SIX SIGMA CERTIFICATION RIGHT FOR YOU?

Making the decision if Six Sigma certification is right for you

Deciding whether Six Sigma certification is worth it involves weighing the potential benefits against the costs and considering your career goals. For those committed to excellence in quality management and process improvement, Six Sigma offers a powerful toolkit.

The choice to seek a Six Sigma Certification hinges on your career objectives. If your ambition is to emerge as a leader, a visionary problem solver, and a crucial contributor to your organization, then embracing Six Sigma might be a prudent decision. Nonetheless, it’s important to consider various factors and ensure your professional growth investments are well-placed.

Six Sigma Salaries

 There are, of course, many factors that determine salaries paid to those who are certified in Six Sigma. Some of these factors include:

• Belt Level
• Years of relevant experience
• Educational Level
• Years with the company

Average Six Sigma Salaries

Note: The numbers shown below are based off of information provided by indeed.com. Several other factors come into play when determining your salary potential, such as prior experience, location, educational background, etc.

Does Six Sigma certification make a difference?

Section 4:

TIME AND COST OF SIX SIGMA CERTIFICATION

The Investment into Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma Certification Online vs In-Person

How Long Does it Take to Get Six Sigma Certified?

The length to complete a specific six sigma certification is dependent upon the topical coverage, prior knowledge, time availiabilty, provider and type of delivery method being offered.

As a general standard you can expect to complete a six sigma program within the timeframes listed below. We also provide links to more in-depth explanations on how long does it take to get six sigma certified?

The answer is not quite straightforward because it depends upon a person’s background and the amount of time that can be devoted to studying for the exam. But here is an approximation. Let’s assume an individual has little training in engineering, math or the sciences.  In addition, assume they have little experience in quality control.  Using this as the baseline it will take about two to four weeks to earn a Yellow Belt, and about 6 to 12 weeks to earn a Green Belt.

Now consider a person who does have experience in quality control or has taken recent courses in the physical sciences.  The Yellow Belt should take between one to two weeks, the Green belt should take between four to seven weeks and the Black belt, assuming that person has already earned a Green Belt, should take between six to 12 months.

Cost of Six Sigma Certification

When researching Six Sigma training and certification, you will notice a wide range of price offerings. As previously mentioned this can be dependent upon the delivery method such as on-line, instructor led or in-person. However still, prices can vary significantly between providers.

To get a better sense of pricing and why some options are more affordable than others you should consider the following.

Six Sigma Certification Cost Factors

University Providers

University based offerings such as those offered through Villanova and Purdue are priced on the high end. The reason comes down to the name associated with the certification (universities historically charge higher prices) as well as the overhead costs universities incur. In addition, many universities have third-party organizations who offer their certification programs or partnerships with professors. In both of these cases, the university is subject to paying out royalties and fees. With all things considered, these are the general reasons why universities charge a high price when it comes to Six Sigma certification.

Third-party training materials

An interesting fact that many people do not realize is that 75% of online Six Sigma training providers do not develop the training internally. Instead they are using third-party training resources. Because of this agreement with a third-party agency, these training providers are paying fees for each and every sale. This results in the providers raising their prices to allow for profits to be made.

Recognition

A common question often asked is, are all certification providers and certifications equal?

Not at all. There are many providers who have no name behind their programs and educational materials. You should always see if a website offers an about us page that includes details about the specific individuals within the organization, especially the course developer. If you stumble on a website that lacks this information, you should proceed with caution. There are also a number of other industry approvals and accreditations you can take into consideration such as Project Management Institute (ATP). Also look to see if the provider has forged any recognized partnerships within industry. This is one of the best signs that your certification will be well respected by employers.

Section 5:

Levels of Six Sigma Certification

Understanding the Six Sigma Belt Levels

Six Sigma Belts

Six Sigma certification is divided into belts, which represent different levels of expertise. Each belt is associated with a professional certification. These levels range from Six Sigma for beginners to Six Sigma for experts.

While some institutes offer a White Belt certification, this certification is usually achieved within 30 minutes of minimal training. Because of this, there is little weight of importance within industry placed on this level of certification. However, like many things in life, a little is better than nothing.

The most popular Six Sigma certifications

Yellow Belt: Introductory into process improvement concepts and tools.

Yellow Belts can work with Six Sigma teams and assist in data collection, analysis and implementation of results. It is the first step in the path to even higher levels of Six Sigma certification.

Green Belt: Intermediate-level program for those looking to work within process improvement teams.

The Green Belt level covers the full range of topics that represent the Six Sigma body of knowledge. Those who have earned this level of certification work under the supervision of a Black Belt.

Black Belt: Advanced program for those looking to lead and mange continuous improvement projects.

Black Belts has developed proficiency in the complete body of knowledge associated with Six Sigma and can lead small projects.

Master Black Belt: Subject mater expert that is prepared to coach and lead organizational wide initiatives.

Master Black Belts have developed proficiency in the body of knowledge and are capable of managing large-scale projects supervising those who hold Yellow through Black Belt certifications.

Which Six Sigma Certification Should I take?

Some common questions for those considering Six Sigma certification are, Which belt should I take? Can I go directly to the Black Belt? Is it fine to skip belts?

The answer to these questions depend on a number of factors such as:

• Educational background
• Prior experience
• Pre-existing level of knowledge
• Current job role

Below we provide you with a general guideline on choosing which Six Sigma Belt is best for you.

Option 1: Yellow Belt

Take the yellow belt first if you are new to this discipline, have little experience in process management, and have an educational background that placed less emphasis on math and science.  

Why do we recommend the Yellow Belt?

It is important that your first foray into Six Sigma be successful, so starting at the Yellow Belt level will be quite approachable and also build your confidence in an area that may be new to you.  In fact, it may not even be necessary for some people to go beyond the Yellow Belt. They may only be peripherally engaged in process design and management and only need the basic fundamentals to sharpen their skills as they interact with operational people or move up the management ladder.

Option 2: Green Belt

The Green Belt is more challenging than is the Yellow belt because it relies on basic statistical concepts to support the design and management of operational processes. But even if statistics is not your strong suit, this should not deter you.  However, you must find a course that focuses on concepts as well as statistics. If you don’t understand the concept, then mastering the statistical tools that support the concept can be very challenging and even frustrating.  On the other hand, if you first understand the concept the statistics becomes much more manageable.  

Why do we recommend the Green Belt?

The Green Belt serves as one of the most popular Six Sigma certifications. It is the perfect intermediate program for those who are serious about diving into process improvement and looking to earn a credential that stands the test of time and differentiates them from the competition. If you are a project manager or seeking to become more involved in roles that open the door to leadership possibilities, this level of certification is for you.

Option 3: Black Belt

A Black Belt course should only be taken by those who some prior experience and who have earned a Green Belt. It requires a more in-depth understanding of statistics and often also requires a higher score to pass the certification exam.  In general, those with a math, engineering or science background have an easier time at the Black Belt level, but a background of this nature is definitely not necessary to take the course. It just may take a little longer to master the material. 

Why do we recommend the Black Belt?

It is critical that managers and leaders have the tools and resources availabe develop efficient processes and deliver high quality results through projects, services, products and customer service. If you have previous experience in process improvement or have been involved in these types of projects but have not received formal training, the Black Belt could be the perfect program. This advanced level certification dives into statistical tools and methods used to Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control processes. It is an essential for any leader who is looking to take their performance and career to the next level.

Option 4: Master Black Belt

The Master Black Belt course is only available to those who hold a Black Belt certification. It is an industry requirement that you must first obtain a Black belt, prior to earning a Master Black Belt. This program is intended for those who want to become subject matter experts and lead Yellow through Black Belts. It is also applicable for senior level managers who are running company wide improvement initiatives.

Why do we recommend the Master Black Belt?

For those seeking the highest possible level of approval in Six Sigma, the Master Black Belt will give you a complete 360 view on process improvement and various management tactics to lead organization wide continuous improvement initiatives.

Popular Six Sigma Tools for Each Belt Level

Section 6:

How to Get Six Sigma Certified

The Six Sigma certification process

You have 3 main steps to make when it comes to getting six sigma certified.

The 3 steps in the certification process are:

1. Choosing training and certification provider
2. Studying the training material
3. Take the certification exam

Note: Some providers like IASSC do not offer training. So you will have to find a training provider separately and pay an extra fee. If you choose such a provider, make sure that there approved training provider list includes institutes located within North America if earning a six sigma certification from a U.S. recognized institute means something of value to you.

Choosing a Six Sigma Certification Provider

When selecting a Six Sigma certification or training provider, several aspects should be evaluated. Consider everything from customer feedback to the reputation of the person conducting your training. It’s important to ensure that the program is not just well-known but also provides you with the hands-on skills needed to apply the learned concepts effectively.

Six Sigma Accreditation

It is important to recognize that there is no official or centrally recognized authority that authorizes accreditation in Lean Six Sigma.  Wikipedia states that, ”There is no standard certification body, and different certification services are offered by various quality associations and other providers against a fee.” 

To assure that a reputable provider is chosen, several issues need to be explored.

• Is the company reputable?  Is it trusted? Better yet, is there a face or actual name behind the training? Believe it or not a significant majority of online Six sigma providers use generic third party training materials, so we urge the utmost caution when you stumble upon a provider who does not mention who a name or person associated to their training or organization. A great way to gauge trust is to preform a search directly on LinkedIn and hear feedback directly from the source (alumini).

• Is the focus on learning or just on passing the exam? Be careful here, because if the focus is just on passing the exam, the usefulness and shelf life of the course is likely to be very short.  If the course just focuses on the exam with no broader context that helps you understand how these skills can be used, the course may have very little long-term value to you. There is a big difference between reading a book on basic swimming skills and actually swimming! So, reading the material is not enough. Look for context, examples and cases.

Some training programs are very technical and rely on equations and formulas. For example, the standard deviation, a measure of process variation, can be represented as a formula. But the real learning is beyond the formula. It is an understanding of how the standard deviation is a measure of process variation and how that can help in monitoring and controlling process output. This concept is at least as important as the formula. Why? Because the concept will shape how you focus on a problem when engaged in a project.  Once engaged, the formulas can always be accessed from the training material.

So, it might be advisable to look for a training program that focuses on concepts first and formulas second.

Top Institutes for Six Sigma Certification

Below is a list of the best Six Sigma certification providers. You can view pros and cons about each provider.

Maintaining and Advancing Your Six Sigma Certification

Does Six Sigma certification require renewal? What are the requirments?

Depending on where you get trained and certified, there are a few requirements that might be present that you should take into consideration before choosing a six sigma certification provider. There is no set industry standard for any of these items.

These items include:

• Renewal
• Exam Retake Fees
• Requirments

Renewals

Some providers make it required that you renew your certification every so many years. In addition, this is almost always associated with a fee that must be paid in order to maintain your certification. Unfortunately, not all providers are the same and just like any other industry there is nickel and dimming that goes on which results in companies trying to suck you into securing revenue models.

Exam Retake Fees

One item that can be very annoying for those trying to achieve six sigma certification, is the separate fees associated with exam retakes. Once again this varies depending on the provider, however there are many institutes that charge per exam attempt.

Requirements

Some institutes require prior experience, signed documents of project approvals and or previous Belt completion in order to advance to a certain Six Sigma certification level. Make sure you read the requirements set forth by each provider as this varies considerably.

Moving Up the Six Sigma Ladder

Once you have achieved Six Sigma certification status, it might be of interest to you at some point in the future to consider taking on a higher level belt. Each certification belt (White, Yellow, Green, Black, Master Black) builds off the preceding belt level. They have been designed to take you from basic introductory (White Belt) to expertise (Master Black Belt). Each level brings with it new responsibilities and opportunities for career advancement.

Section 7:

Six Sigma Certification in Various Industries

Which industries and job roles use lean six sigma?

Is Six Sigma used in Different Industries and Job Roles?

Sigma Case Studies: Real-World Examples

See how Six Sigma is applied in the real-world.

Taking a look at the application of Six Sigma methodologies unveils groundbreaking transformations across multiple sectors, with remarkable implementations seen at Starbucks, General Electric (GE), and Microsoft. Each narrative showcases a distinct path towards harnessing Six Sigma for operational refinement, efficiency enhancement, and elevating customer satisfaction.

Section 8:

COMPARING SIX SIGMA WITH OTHER QUALITY MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATIONS

What is better? MBA, PMP or Six Sigma certification?

While Six Sigma focuses on reducing process variation and improving quality, it is often compared with other methodologies like Lean management for its focus on efficiency and waste reduction, and PMP for its emphasis on project management skills.

Despite its widespread adoption, Six Sigma is not without its critics. Some argue that it can be overly complex or rigid. However, when properly implemented, it provides a structured framework that can lead to significant organizational and personal benefits.

What is better Six Sigma certification or PMP?

Six Sigma Certification and Project Management Professional (PMP)® Certification cater to different aspects of business management, focusing on process improvement and project management, respectively. While both certifications aim to enhance business outcomes, their approaches and areas of application distinguish them significantly.

The main differences between the two certifications can be summarized as follows:

• Focus Area: Six Sigma certification concentrates on improving process efficiency by reducing defects and variability. In contrast, PMP® certification is focused on managing and delivering projects successfully according to predefined objectives.
• Methodology: Six Sigma utilizes DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify) frameworks for process improvement, whereas PMP® relies on the structured approach of project management phases and processes outlined in the PMBOK® Guide.
• Application: Six Sigma principles can be applied to enhance operational processes across various departments within an organization. PMP® certification is specifically tailored to individuals responsible for managing projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the stakeholders’ satisfaction.

Combining your PMP with a Six Sigma Certification

Despite these differences, both certifications share the common goal of improving business performance. They can complement each other, with Six Sigma providing tools for process optimization and PMP® equipping professionals with the skills to manage projects efficiently. Professionals who possess both certifications can leverage their unique combination of skills to identify areas for improvement and apply project management techniques to implement effective solutions, ultimately benefiting their organizations and advancing their careers​​​​.

What is Better Six Sigma certification or an MBA?

Choosing between pursuing a Six Sigma certification and an MBA involves considering your career goals, industry, and the specific skills you wish to develop. Both paths offer valuable benefits but cater to different professional needs.

Both an MBA and Six Sigma certification can significantly enhance your career, but they serve different purposes. If you’re aiming for a broad understanding of business and aspire to leadership or managerial positions, an MBA might be the right choice. If your goal is to specialize in process improvement and operational efficiency, a Six Sigma certification could offer the targeted skills you need.

Combining Your MBA with a Six Sigma Certification

Interestingly, combining an MBA with Six Sigma certification could provide a competitive edge, blending strategic business management skills with specialized process improvement techniques. This combination can make you exceptionally valuable to employers, equipping you with a comprehensive skill set to drive both strategic initiatives and operational excellence within organizations​. In today’s business environment, an MBA may not be enough, so it is essential to taker the extra steps needed to stand out from the competition.

Section 9:

SUCCESS STORIES: TESTIMONIALS FROM SIX SIGMA CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS

How Six Sigma can help advance your career

From manufacturing to healthcare, getting Six Sigma certified can make a significant difference in your career trajectory. Take a look at some of the Six Sigma success stories that Six Sigma Global Institute has received from various clients across multiple industries.

Section 10:

How to make the Most of Your Six Sigma Certification

Put your certification to work

Those with Six Sigma credentials need to be proactive in using those skills to make a real contribution to organizational performance.  The best way to do this is to find an opportunity within your organization that will benefit from either an improvement in efficiency or an improvement in quality outcomes or both.  Find out as much as possible about the project. Create a SIPOC chart and draw a Value Stream Map. Document the problem. Use data. Propose how you would improve the situation.  Above all, be proactive.  Find an opportunity, follow the DMAIC framework and show management that you are logical thinker and capable of solving problems.

Follow these steps:

• List on LinkedIn
• Share your Credential Badge
• Add your Title to your Email Signature
• Add Designation to your Resume
• Incorporate into Job Interview Discussions

If, on the other hand you are looking for a new job and are engaged in telephone interviews or in-person interviews, keep on the lookout for Six Sigma opportunities. Ask questions. What problems have you had lately? What concerns have your customers raised? How do you think your operations can be improved? What do your competitors do that needs to be explored so that you stay competitive?

The way to find opportunities is to ask questions and be curious. You will be amazed at how many opportunities you will discover. 

Now, your objective here is not to be a professional consultant and solve a major problem on the spot, but to let them know that you’re training in Six Sigma can help solve real problems.  And, to let them know that you are competent is this critical area.   

Section 11:

FAQs About Six Sigma Certification

Frequently asked questions about Six Sigma certification

Section 12:

Six Sigma Resources

Top Six Sigma Resources

If you’re interested in earning a Six Sigma Certificate, consider earning your Lean Six Sigma Certification from Six Sigma Global Institute. This program is available fully online in a self-paced format. Developed by Dr. Barry Shore from the University of New Hampshire Peter T. Paul Business School, an award winning McGraw Hill author, SSGI is an industry trusted Inc 5000 company, PMI (ATP) and a Baldrige Foundation partner.

If you’re still doing your research, here are few more resources for Six Sigma:

ASQ

Six Sigma Salaries

Six Sigma Case Studies

Author | Six Sigma Certification: Definitive Guide

Barry Shore PhD( Chief Learning Officer | SSGI )

Professor Emeritus, University of New Hampshire, Peter T. Paul School of Business

With over 40 years’ experience in industry and teaching, Professor Shore has earned a reputation as one of the leading authorities in Six Sigma and Project Management. His pioneering work in Project Management dates back to General Electric and later Hewlett Packard.

Dr. Shore has written over 100 peer reviewed papers published in leading scholarly journals, four books published by McGraw Hill Book Company and Holt, Rinehart and Winston, and hundreds of articles in trade publications. McGraw Hill honored him as a prize winning author for his book in Operations Management. He is also an honoree member of the Cosmos Club.

Dr. Shore has taught at universities such as Henley Business School, Renmin University China and Naples Federico Segundo. He has consulted for top organizations around the world, including Westinghouse, Chase Manhattan Bank, Timberland, United States Navy, Deutsche Telecom (Germany) and Doosan Heavy Industries (South Korea). As the Chief Learning Officer at SSGI, Barry has been responsible for certifying over 100,000 professionals in Six Sigma.