The first step in determining which six sigma certification is best for you is to determine your level of experience. If you are relatively new to the field of six sigma and have not spent years training and working with the methods, then it may be best to choose a course which is more generic and easier to follow. You can become certified in as little as two months, although this depends upon your level of experience. Those who have spent years learning the ropes and refined their techniques can take much longer to reach certification. Keep in mind that certification is not necessary for a job, but it certainly can help attract the right candidates.
Your next consideration should be whether you want to be certified in six sigma methodologies or a specific method. Many companies prefer to hire individuals who have spent time mastering concepts and implementing methodology. For these jobs, six sigma certification is almost essential. It also demonstrates that you understand the tools, metrics, and processes within the discipline.
Which six sigma courses is right for you depends on what kind of field you want to work in. Are you interested in helping design and manage manufacturing facilities? Would you like to be involved with engineering, operations, quality control, or manufacturing? If you have no background in these disciplines, then you will need to spend some time in college learning them. Some colleges will even allow you to take a basic course in statistics and apply it to the job of your choice. This will give you the base that you need to learn about six sigma courses.
Six Sigma Certification is available through many different institutions. Try to find one that offers programs in your field so you can see if it is a good fit. Most employers are willing to accept certifications from companies that compete for their contracts. To find out which employers are seeking employees, visit the Human Resources Department at your company and find out what they are looking for.
If you do not have the opportunity to take courses in a classroom, then you will likely find that there are many companies that offer online training for six sigma professionals. These programs usually last between two and four weeks and require you to complete lab activities and other assignments on your own. If you choose this option, be sure that you choose a company that can guarantee you certification since most do not offer it. This certification is not only proof that you have completed the training, but it also makes it easier for you to get higher paying positions once you finish your studies.
There is also a possibility that your employer will hire you with the help of a six sigma certification that they themselves are not offering. For instance, defense contractors often times use the training of a master black belt in order to ensure that they are doing things right. Your employer may decide to take this route because it is cheaper than getting an official six sigma certification. However, if your interest lies in getting the certification, then it is important to make sure that you do everything necessary to get it before starting.
Once you have received your six sigma certification, there are many different ways in which you can utilize it. The most important thing is to remember that it is simply the first step to success. Just because you have received the certification does not mean that you are finished. It will allow you to do what it takes to become a leader in your field and gain more clients and opportunities. The only way that you will know for sure is by actually doing the training and gaining further knowledge about the process.