How long will it take me to get certified?
The answer to this question is, “it varies”.
That may be a frustrating answer to begin with, but please do read on.
We will give you a clear picture of what is involved so that you can start to plan out how long your six sigma black belt certification will take.
Factors Affecting Your Certification Timeline
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A Black Belt Takes Time
Unlike some of the other six sigma belt levels, achieving a six sigma black belt takes time.
It is a credential that can transform your career, so it’s worth committing to however long it takes to reach your definition of black belt success.
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Certification Option
As you have probably gathered, there are many different six sigma black belt certifications and training courses available.
There are self-certified training courses, where the provider will award their black belt qualification upon successful completion.
There are also independently certified options, where the provider will help you prepare to sit a six sigma black belt exam with a respected, international accreditation body.
Prime examples here include ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).
These two differing factors can impact how long it takes to achieve your six sigma black belt certification.
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Style of Training
You will also need to factor in what kind of training you’ll be attending.
Self-Led Online:
There are self-led, online training options for six sigma black belt certification.
These may be suitable for those who have years of experience and familiarity with lean six sigma. However, they can be overwhelming for anyone who wants to really develop their skill and confidence through training.
Practical Programmes:
Other programmes offer a blended approach of practical and theoretical learning.
There is no getting around the theory that must be covered in order to become a six sigma black belt.
However, many training courses will balance this with practical application of the knowledge to a live or hypothetical project.
Over the years delivering our black belt course, we have found that this practical approach, working with a project is the most effective and efficient way to ensure knowledge retention and confidence in each participant.
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Study & Exam
Most six sigma black belt certifications will include an exam. You will need to factor in study time to prepare for your exam and time for the exam itself.
When you attend a multi-module six sigma black belt training, there is often a gap of days or weeks between modules. This can help you get a head start on studying, shortening the gap between completing training and sitting your exam.
Six sigma black belt exams usually take between 4 and 4 and a half hours. This is just a guideline based on market leaders ASQ and IASSC in 2020, so be sure to check the duration of the exam you’ll be sitting.
Six Sigma Black Belt Certification: An Estimated Timeline
Although we cannot provide you with a set timeframe for achieving your six sigma black belt certification, we can give a guideline based on our own lean six sigma black belt training, which is:
- A multi-module programme.
- Blending theoretical and practical learning.
- Preparing for the ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) exam.
- 5 months: Our programme takes place over 5 months. It is 14 days in total, with 3 or 2-day instalments per month.
- 8 – 12 weeks: A study period follows training. You’ll have access to an online ASQ exam simulator, which will support your exam preparation. The study period length varies for each candidate, so our 8 – 12 week indication is simply a guideline.
- 4.5 hours: When you’re ready, schedule your ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt Exam. The exam is 4.5 hours in total.
A six sigma black belt certification is worth the time you take to earn it. Make your decision based on what you want to gain from training and certification.
Plan Your Timeline
If you’re ready to begin your journey towards becoming a skilled, qualified black belt, it’s time to learn more.
Visit our course webpage to read more details about our programme, download a brochure, and view upcoming dates.
You can also get in touch with our team to ask any questions you may have about becoming a black belt.
Call us (Freephone 1800 910 810 or Dublin 01 861 0700) or ask a question online.
