The six sigma certification process is broken down into several levels. At the lowest level, there are a Black Belt, Green Belt, and then Master Black Belt and so on. At each level of Six Sigma there is a set of certification exams that must be taken in order to achieve the title of Six Sigma Master Black Belt or Master Green Belt. Once you have successfully completed the certification exam for the level in which you are seeking, then you will become a Six Sigma Certified Professional.
So, which six sigma certification is most recognized? In short, Green Belt training is the most common in the United States, but other countries recognize Six Sigma as well. For example, Grecian industries in Italy use Six Sigma to improve production efficiency. Germany even requires all its banks to be Six Sigma certified! Regardless of where you live, there are generally six sigma green belts in the world. This makes them professionals who have completed the basic training and who can help you with your own business or education needs.
The next level after six sigma green belt is a black belt, which is achieved by enrolling in a full time program. During this time, students will learn the material and be trained in the newest methods and concepts. At the end, students will have earned an official Six Sigma Green Belt certification. At this level, there will be some Six Sigma Black Belts who continues on to become Black Belts without continuing their education. These individuals, of course, already have the Six Sigma Black Belt title.
Green Belt certification is the first level of Six Sigma available. Students can complete a project and receive a certification. While it doesn’t qualify them for a job, it is still a great way to get your foot in the door and show potential employers that you are dedicated to improving your career. Once you complete black belt training, you can become a black belt.
Yellow Belt certification is the next step up from the green belt. It takes two to four years to complete the program and this certification is not recognized in most states. However, the benefits of this certification are great. Once you become certified, you will have the Six Sigma Black Belt title, which is one of the highest titles in the Six Sigma organization. You will also have the knowledge and tools to become an expert. Yellow belts don’t get as much recognition as they deserve, but you’ll definitely feel the difference in the office.
Green Belt certification is great, but Six Sigma Black Belt training is where the real action is. Six Sigma Black Belts understands what Black Belts do and Black Belts understand what Green Belts does. Together, they form the foundation of Six Sigma and their leadership roles are essential in developing Six Sigma projects.
When you are choosing which Six Sigma certification is most recognized, keep your business goals in mind. There are a variety of certifications out there, but not all of them will apply to your needs. You may want to become certified in human resources or sales because these are the types of services that help your business to grow and succeed. You might want to become certified in information technology because Six Sigma courses can include training for managers who are integrating technology into their office. Maybe you are a data analyst who wants to become a project leader who focuses on Six Sigma projects. You’ll have no trouble finding the certification that suits your needs.