What is Six Sigma Certification: A Complete Guide

January 27, 2025
what is six sigma certification
Quick Summary

Quick Summary

  • Six Sigma certification entails learning about project management, leadership, and change management components.
  • The certification has different levels in the form of belts, statistical process control such as green, yellow, and black belts.
  • The Six Sigma certification cost depends on the level you choose to study and the institute you enrol in.

Table of Contents

Six Sigma is a set of management techniques that help organisations attain exceptional quality. Industries aim to boost operational efficiency and reduce defects in tasks. Six Sigma understands this requirement and enables you to learn strategies to enhance performance levels. You must also stay updated with the latest trends in Six Sigma to understand the latest methodologies that help with business growth. That is why you should enrol in Six Sigma Certification to learn more about various techniques and strategies. The certification helps in your professional development, equipping you with skills to streamline processes. It also enables you to identify defects and improve organisational efficiency.

The Six Sigma certification course is essential for professionals because it provides them with the necessary Six Sigma tools to lead strategic initiatives. In this article, we will learn more about the certification, its levels, cost, and other details.

What is Six Sigma Certification?

Six Sigma certification refers to a set of credentials that verify your expertise in the Six Sigma method. Various schools and institutions offer training in this method to prepare you for a certifying exam. The certification aims to teach the Six Sigma philosophies, principles, tools, and technologies. Completing this certification indicates that you have achieved a particular level of knowledge to implement Six Sigma methodologies.

These methodologies use various statistical concepts and tools to identify defects or variations in any process. They aim to improve the performance of a product or service in several business environments, ultimately leading to improved lead retention and attracting more prospects.

That is why it is crucial for professionals to pursue a Six Sigma certification online. The course leads to increased efficiency and customer satisfaction, which is why the certification is important across industries for its ability to improve processes. For instance, Six Sigma certification for mechanical engineers enables them to optimise manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and improve product quality. This leads to better innovation across engineering processes.

Levels of Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma certification levels categorise themselves in the form of belts. Each belt level represents different degrees of expertise and leadership within Six Sigma methodologies. These include:

what is six sigma certification

White Belt

Professionals who have not undergone a formal certification program or training can consider the white belt certification. It involves a single session that provides an overview of relevant Six Sigma methods. The course also enables you to learn to contribute to efficient, reliable business outcomes.

White-belt-certified professionals have crucial responsibilities, like collecting and analysing data. These data types usually align with operational processes and business performances. These professionals assist in identifying patterns and trends based on data cost–benefit analysis.

Yellow Belt

A yellow belt Six Sigma certification suggests that you already have exposure to its concepts. It means you may have already attended training sessions earlier. The yellow belt helps you develop the knowledge you need to work on a project with other team members.

Your responsibilities may involve guiding limited-scope projects and assisting other managers at higher belt levels.

Green Belt

The Six Sigma green belt certification is for professionals in roles like healthcare administration, financial management, and project management. It helps you learn performance metrics and tools like control charts and Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). You become ready to take charge of projects as a professional after this Six Sigma certification course. It enables you to make connections between LSS concepts and the goals of your organisation.

Black Belt

You can take your skills to the next level with the Six Sigma black belt certification. You can undertake this course after completing your green belt training. This advanced training also requires previous knowledge of LSS strategies. It means you must know how to plan, lead, and explain more complex projects across organisations. 

A black belt course enables you to take on responsibilities like driving organisation-wide changes and deploying Lean principles. Your role also involves analysing statistics and deploying Six Sigma methodologies across business processes.

Master Black Belt

A Six Sigma professional with leadership and problem-solving skills can become a master black belt. This designation indicates that you can have a broad view of strategy throughout a business. You will also be capable of coordinating project teams across an organisation.

The roles and responsibilities of master black belts include coaching other black belt and green belt professionals. You can also be an internal consultant for Six Sigma’s strategic direction across organisations.

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Lean Six Sigma Certification

Lean Six Sigma certification focuses on teaching a fact-based, data-driven philosophy of improvement across businesses. This course aims to teach you how to value stream mapping defect prevention over defect detection. This enables you to learn how to drive customer satisfaction and bottom-line results by promoting the use of work standardisation.

Six Sigma Vs. Lean Six Sigma Certification

CategorySix Sigma CertificationLean Six Sigma Certification
FocusReducing defects and improving qualityCombination of defect reduction and waste elimination
MethodologyDMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control)Integrates DMAIC with Lean principles
ToolsEmphasises statistical tools and techniquesUses both Lean tools, like 5S, value stream mapping, and Six Sigma tools
ObjectiveReducing process variation and improving process controlImproving efficiency by eliminating waste and reducing variation
PhilosophyQuality control through defect reductionQuality control through waste reduction and defect reduction
ApproachFocuses on process improvement through statistical cost–benefit analysisIntegrates process improvement with a focus on flow and waste reduction
Certification LevelsWhite Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black BeltYellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt, Master Black Belt
ImplementationWithin specific projectsBroader application across various processes
Training ContentStatistical cost–benefit analysis and process improvementCombination of Lean principles and Six Sigma statistical cost–benefit analysis

Lean Six Sigma certification has several benefits, which include:

Stand Out Across Applications

Adding the Lean Six Sigma certification to your job application shows you can help improve business operations. This gives you a significant advantage over other candidates who do not have similar skills.

Gain Real-world Experience

Lean Six Sigma training enables you to deliver a real-world improvement project with support and mentoring. It means you can build the expertise to manage lean projects and implement process improvements across businesses.

More Job Opportunities

Having a Lean Six Sigma certification on your resume means you are committed to continuous improvement. You also have the required knowledge and skills to impact an organisation positively. Hence, the certification makes you more marketable and helps you get more job opportunities.

Here is an overview of the Lean Six Sigma certification process. It  usually involves integrating Lean principles with Six Sigma methodologies. This helps you focus on both quality improvement and waste reduction. The certification enables professionals to streamline processes and eliminate inefficiencies across businesses.

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Six Sigma Certification Process

There are some crucial steps involved in the Six Sigma certification process. These include:

Understand the Management’s Organisational Philosophy

You must understand whether your organisation or industry requires a Six Sigma framework. This involves knowing the industry’s organisational philosophy. You can pursue the course if you feel Six Sigma can help your organisation prevent product defects.

Choose Between Six Sigma and Lean Sigma

Six Sigma and Lean Six Sigma may work towards the same goal but have different functionalities. Understand the difference between both practices and select the one that suits your organisational needs.

Check Out Your Belt Level

As mentioned earlier, Six Sigma certification has different belt levels depending on your level of expertise. Choose the belt level that suits your requirements and get started with your course.

Learn About the Six Sigma Steps 

The levels related to the Six Sigma methodology require varied tools and techniques. You must analyse the methods related to the certification course and undertake tests accordingly.

Enrol in a Training Course and Get Your Certification

The final step is to enroll in a training course of your choice after selecting your belt level. Then, you must undertake the associated test to get the final certification.

Here are the requirements and prerequisites of each Six Sigma certification level.

  • White Belt: Basic understanding of Six Sigma concepts
  • Yellow Belt: Basic understanding of Six Sigma concepts
  • Green Belt: Involvement in process improvement projects
  • Black Belt: Leading process improvement projects, Green Belt certification
  • Master Black Belt: Extensive project leadership experience, Black Belt certification

Here are some recommended courses and study materials for Six Sigma.

Courses:

Study Materials: 

  • Six Sigma White Belt Certification Training Manual 
  • Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification Training Manual 
  • Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Training Manual 
  • Six Sigma Black Belt Certification Training Manual 
  • Six Sigma Master Black Belt Certification Training Manual 

How to Get Six Sigma Certification?

Here’s a straightforward guide on how to get your Six Sigma Certification:

  1. Know the Different Belt Levels
    Pick the certification level that fits your career aspirations and experience:
    • Yellow Belt: Basic level, good for beginners.
    • Green Belt: Intermediate, manages smaller projects or supports Black Belts.
    • Black Belt: Advanced, leads significant projects and teams.
    • Master Black Belt: Expert, oversees large-scale projects and mentors others.
  2. Select a Certification Provider
    Find a trustworthy certification provider, like:
    • ASQ (American Society for Quality)
    • IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)
    • Simplilearn (great for online options)
  3. Complete the Necessary Training
    • Sign up for a Six Sigma training program that matches your certification level.
    • Training can be online, in-person, or a mix of both.
    • You’ll learn about Six Sigma methods, including DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), tools, and stats.
  4. Get Hands-On Experience
    Join or lead Six Sigma projects to put your knowledge into practice.
    For Green Belt or Black Belt, many certifying bodies require you to be involved in real projects as part of the certification.
  5. Get Ready for the Certification Exam
    Go over study materials, take practice tests, and boost your grasp of Six Sigma concepts and tools.
    Some certifying bodies offer prep materials or sample questions.
  6. Take and Pass the Exam
    Book and take the certification exam with your chosen provider.
    The exam usually has multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge of Six Sigma methods, tools, and problem-solving abilities.
  7. Complete Project Requirements (for Higher Levels)
    For Green Belt, Black Belt, and Master Black Belt, you might need to submit proof of completed Six Sigma projects.
  8. Get Your Certification
    Once you pass the exam and complete any necessary project tasks, you’ll earn your Six Sigma certification. Make sure to showcase it on your resume, LinkedIn, and other professional platforms.
  9. Keep Your Certification Active (if needed)
    Certain certifying organizations, statistical process control such as ASQ, may ask for recertification or continuing education to keep your certification valid. Stay involved with Six Sigma practices and take part in ongoing projects to keep your skills fresh.

Benefits of Six Sigma Certification

There are several benefits of Six Sigma certification that help professionals enhance their career prospects. These include:

Career Advancement Opportunities

The Six Sigma certification is highly regarded across several industries. It also helps showcase your commitment to quality and excellence. That is why several companies may consider you for leadership roles to lead critical projects.

Increased Earning Potential

Employers recognise the value stream mapping of Six Sigma professionals in driving operational excellence across businesses. This ultimately drives operational excellence and helps achieve cost savings. The business, in turn, offers you higher salaries for your specialised skills.

Improved Skills in Quality Management and Process Improvement

The Six Sigma certification process provides training in quality management and process improvement. You learn to apply statistical tools and methodologies to identify and eliminate defects and optimise processes. These skills are critical for improving the quality of products and services in any business environment.

Several industries value stream mapping the Six Sigma certification. Here is a look at some of these industry names and their associated roles

Manufacturing

Roles: Quality Control Manager, Process Engineer, Operations Manager

Healthcare

Roles: Healthcare Administrator, Process Improvement Consultant, Quality Improvement Manager

Finance

Roles: Financial Analyst, Risk Manager, Process Improvement Specialist

Information Technology

Roles: IT Project Manager, Quality Assurance Analyst, Process Improvement Consultant

Top Reasons to Get Six Sigma Certification

Here are some great reasons to consider getting Lean Six Sigma Certification:

  1. Career Growth: Earning a Six Sigma certification can lead to better job opportunities in areas like process improvement, quality management, and leadership roles across different sectors.
  2. Skill Enhancement: It helps you develop strong problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills that are in high demand in today’s workforce.
  3. Increased Salary Potential: Professionals with Six Sigma certification often earn more because of their ability to boost efficiency and cut costs.
  4. Boosted Efficiency: The training teaches you how to spot inefficiencies in business processes, minimize waste, and optimize operations.
  5. More Job Options: Many companies prefer to hire candidates with Six Sigma certification, especially in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and finance.
  6. Worldwide Recognition: Six Sigma certification is acknowledged globally, making it a valuable asset for those aiming to work in international companies.
  7. Leadership Skills: Advanced Six Sigma certifications, like Black Belt and Master Black Belt, focus on developing leadership, mentoring, and strategic decision-making abilities.
  8. Impact on Business Success: Certified Six Sigma professionals play a key role in helping organizations improve quality, save costs, and enhance customer satisfaction, making them invaluable to the team.
  9. Applicability Across Sectors: The principles of Six Sigma can be applied in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, IT, and supply chain.
  10. Personal Growth: The certification journey encourages a mindset of ongoing improvement and boosts your confidence in handling complex business issues.

Pursuing Six Sigma Certification

Six Sigma certification is important because it helps you enhance operational processes and eliminate inefficiencies across organisations. The certification also helps you use Six Sigma methodologies to improve the workflow of any business. As a professional, you can choose this course if you want to enhance your career growth. Doing the certification enables you to gain a competitive advantage in the job market. It also enables you to showcase your commitment to quality and continuous improvement, increasing your value stream mapping to potential employers.

Six Sigma certification also holds long-term value stream mapping because it equips you with several transferable skills. These unique skills apply to all industries, ensuring you remain a valuable asset for businesses.

How Much Does Six Sigma Cost?

Six Sigma training costs can really vary since there’s no standardization in how it’s offered. For instance, if a company decides to train its employees in Six Sigma, they probably won’t charge the employees directly. Instead, they’ll have to cover expenses like hiring qualified trainers, creating the training materials, and the time employees spend away from their regular duties.

If you’re looking to get certified, there are several options available. Purdue University, The Council for Six Sigma Certification, and Project Management Academy all offer certification tests. Project Management Academy has a fee of $495 for the Beginner Yellow Belt, $2,295 for the Green Belt Training, and $3,595 for the Black Belt Training.

On the other hand, The Council for Six Sigma Certification provides a free white belt certification, with costs of $99 for a yellow belt, $159 for a green belt, and $229 for a black belt (the primary certifications—level II ones will cost more).

Tips for Passing the Six Sigma Exam

Here are some tips to help you ace the Six Sigma certification exam:

  • Get a solid grip on the DMAIC methodology.
  • Focus on essential tools like control charts, root cause analysis, and process mapping.
  • Brush up on statistics and data analysis.
  • Take practice exams to improve time management.
  • Study real-world case studies to see Six Sigma in action.
  • Join study groups or forums to share knowledge.
  • Review the Body of Knowledge (BoK) from your certifying body.
  • Focus on definitions and key terms for basic understanding and terminology.

Conclusion

Six Sigma Certification is highly significant for professionals and organizations striving for excellence. It equips individuals with the skills to use statistical tools for quality management, enhancing process efficiency and reducing errors. Certified professionals are seen as experts in problem-solving, making them valuable assets in any industry focused on productivity and cost-effectiveness.

The certification positively impacts career advancement by opening opportunities for leadership roles and higher salaries, as businesses seek trained individuals to drive continuous improvement. It translates to better quality control, customer satisfaction, and profitability for organizations. Professionals are encouraged to pursue Six Sigma Certification, as it adds a strong, versatile competency to their skill set, aligning with the goals of modern businesses.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q1. What is Six Sigma certification, and why is it important?

Ans. Six Sigma certification is a course that recognises expertise in quality management and process improvement. It has its roots in statistical methodology. The certification also focuses on reducing defects and improving the quality of operational processes. It involves rigorous training in various statistical management techniques, like project management and cost–benefit analysis.

Q2. What are the different levels of Six Sigma certification?

Ans. The Six Sigma certification levels are in the form of belts. They include the yellow belt, green belt, brown belt, black belt, and master black belt. Each belt implies a different level of expertise and understanding of Six Sigma methodologies. Achieving higher belt levels shows deeper knowledge.

Q3. How much does Six Sigma certification cost?

Ans. The Six Sigma certification cost depends on the belts you choose for your course. Currently, the white belt course is free. The yellow belt and the green belt cost ₹8274.51 and ₹13,289.36, respectively. Meanwhile, the Six Sigma black belt certification cost is ₹19,140.02. You may have to pay a little more for advanced certifications.

Q4. What are the benefits of obtaining Six Sigma certification?

Ans. A Six Sigma certification is beneficial for both companies and individuals. The course usually emphasises quality and efficiency. It means you can gain experience in project management and advance your career if you become Six Sigma certified. The certification can also lead to higher earning potential and make you a valuable professional.

Q5. How do I choose the right Six Sigma certification course?

Ans. Consider the study material, the cost of training for taking a certifying exam, and the exam format when choosing your course. This also involves verifying the reputation of organisations certifying your Six Sigma credential. You can find more information from the reviews posted in the Council for Six Sigma Certification’s provider directory.

Q6. What does it mean to be Six Sigma certified?

Ans. Achieving the pinnacle of manufacturing excellence means delivering products without errors 99.99966% of the time. To reach this goal, Six Sigma training emphasizes the creation of management processes that consistently produce nearly flawless outcomes, whether in manufacturing or any other business endeavor.

Q7. What does 6 sigma stand for?

Ans. Six Sigma gets its name from the statistical term “sigma,” which represents one standard deviation within a data set. The concept suggests that a process should only produce defects after six standard deviations have been accounted for. When a process operates at Six Sigma quality, it means that there are only 3.4 defects for every million opportunities, showcasing an exceptionally high level of precision and reliability.

Q8. What is the main purpose of Six Sigma?

Ans. Six Sigma focuses on pinpointing and minimizing errors while enhancing the efficiency of business operations. Its main goal is to ensure customer satisfaction, and to reach this aim, a variety of techniques are employed to boost the performance of products or business processes.

Q9. सिक्स सिग्मा का मुख्य उद्देश्य क्या है?

Ans. सिक्स सिग्मा का प्रयोग गलतियों की पहचान और उन्हें कम करने के साथ-साथ व्यावसायिक प्रक्रियाओं की कार्यक्षमता को बढ़ाने के लिए किया जाता है। इसका मुख्य लक्ष्य ग्राहक की संतुष्टि है, और इस लक्ष्य को हासिल करने के लिए किसी उत्पाद या व्यावसायिक प्रक्रिया के प्रदर्शन में सुधार लाने के लिए कई तकनीकों का उपयोग किया जाता है।

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