How to Get Six Sigma Certification
Six Sigma is a proven methodology for improving processes and achieving improvements in an organizational setting. Some companies offer Six Sigma training and certification for employees. Other individuals will need to seek training and certification from an independent source. Learn the process required to obtain Six Sigma certification if your employer does not offer it or you are not eligible for their program.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with internet access
- Data analysis program such as Minitab
- Signed affidavit for any completed Six Sigma projects
Instructions
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Select A Certifying Organization
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Clarify your objective in obtaining Six Sigma certification. Are you looking to enhance your career opportunities and salary level? Or perhaps you are seeking expertise and credibility for a move into consulting, speaking, or writing on process improvement or a related topic. Knowing your objective will help you assess your options.
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Establish which level of certification you are seeking. Although other levels are offered, traditionally Six Sigma certification refers either to Green Belt or Black Belt level certification. The time commitment, expense, and expectations differ depending on which level you choose.
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Determine the method of training and instruction you prefer. Some training programs offer online options, others require onsite attendance at classes. In both cases, completion of actual DMAIC projects is required in addition to passing an exam.
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Evaluate the independent agencies offering Six Sigma training and certification and choose the one that best meets your needs. Options to consider include Motorola (the originators of Six Sigma), i Six Sigma, Six Sigma Online, and American Society for Quality. Considerations include cost, time commitment, availability of online training, and the credibility of the certifying organization.
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Complete your application to the program and pay any required fees. Costs range from several hundred dollars to over $10,000, so be prepared to make the necessary financial arrangements.
Complete Certification Requirements
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Complete the course of study offered by your chosen organization. You will receive training in process measurement and improvement, the DMAIC method, statistical analysis, and team dynamics, among other topics. You will be working with data using a statistical software package which may be provided by the organization as part of your program, or you may need to obtain one for yourself.
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Study for the certification exam. You will likely be provided with an outline clarifying which material is covered by the exam, but be prepared for questions on any of the material you have learned. You should be told in advance what minimum score is required to continue in the program and for certification.
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Select and plan your Six Sigma projects. In some cases only one completed project is required, for other programs you will need to complete two or more. You may be able to conduct a project within your work environment. If not, speak with your program advisor about other options such as working on an internship basis for another organization.
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Complete your projects and meet the minimum requirements for certification, whether in terms of cost savings, defect reduction, or some other measure. In many cases a signed affidavit from your project sponsor or champion will be required.
Apply For Certification
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Review the process for your certifying body and follow it exactly. Submit your project results in the requested format, and complete any paperwork.
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Pay any required fees. You may need to pay a small fee for certification in addition to the cost for the training program.
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Wait for your results. Your certifying agency should be able to tell you when you can expect to find out if you were successfully certified.
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Tips & Warnings
Do some research online to find out about the different agencies that offer training and certification Do additional research online or through your employer to evaluate the agency's credibility and reputation
Do not expect this to be a quick and easy process. Six Sigma certification represents quite an achievement and requires commitment and development of skills.
