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Six Sigma Certificate Online Prepare for Black Belt Certification
Program Overview Why get a Six Sigma certificate online?
Are you working in manufacturing or a production-oriented industry, or just want to specialize in Six Sigma? Gain the knowledge you need to become a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, and enhance your project management skills, and with the help of an online Six Sigma Black Belt Graduate Certificate from Southern New Hampshire University.
Skills you'll learn:
- Six Sigma principles and the DMAIC model
- Basic lean enterprise concept applications
- Leadership techniques to be an agency of change
- Project management practices
- Team assignment methodologies
- Efficient process implementation and analysis
Courses & Curriculum Six Sigma certificate online classes that can help you earn a coveted certification
This 4-course program teaches you how to use the DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) approach to identify the root causes of process inefficiencies and eliminate them. It can be completed in as few as 6 months, and its 12 credits can be applied toward our master's in project management degree if you decide to continue your education.
Note: The completion of this program neither guarantees to help satisfy the eligibility requirements for taking a Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam nor ensures a passing grade on a Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam.
Online six sigma degree courses
The Six Sigma online graduate certificate program is especially beneficial to individuals working in manufacturing and production-oriented industries, as well as consumer-facing roles. This program is also appropriate for individuals with bachelor's degrees in different fields—like STEM or another area of business—looking to specialize in Six Sigma. QSO 625 also helps students to prepare for the Six Sigma certification exam.
Courses may include:
Applied Statistics for Managers
Course ID:
QSO 530
This course will provide the students with statistical tools and techniques that will enable them to make an immediate impact in their careers. This course will be realistically oriented and numerous business examples and cases will be analyzed.
Six Sigma Quality Management
Course ID:
QSO 620
This course is designed to provide an understanding of the design and implementation of quality control and improvement systems. It is an introduction to current quality management approaches, statistical quality control and quality improvement techniques. ISO-9000 also will be discussed. Case studies and the use of computer technology will be integral to the course.
Six Sigma for Black Belt Certification
Course ID:
QSO 625
This course teaches advanced concepts in Six Sigma while incorporating Lean Management tools. Students learn waste elimination, value stream mapping, Six Sigma roles and responsibilities, team management, and the various elements of the Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) phases of a Six Sigma project. The Design for Six Sigma (SFSS) approach to design a new process is also reviewed. The course is designed to help students prepare for a Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam. However, it neither guarantees to help satisfy the eligibility requirements for taking a Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam nor ensures success on a Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam.
Project Management
Course ID:
QSO 640
This course includes the study of concepts, tools, and practices of project management. The course adopts a managerial process approach to Project Management, which consists of initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing the project. Major topics will include project scope, project time, project cost, project quality, project risk, project resources, project communications and how to be an effective project manager. Cases are utilized to integrate the learning in the course and provide decision- making experience for the student.
Visit the course catalog to view the full Graduate Certificate in Six Sigma Black Belt curriculum.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Get Credit for Prior Learning
You've earned it. Now take advantage of it.
If you already have the following certifications, you may be eligible to waive certain courses, helping you save time and tuition.
- Active Six Sigma Black Belt Certification for QSO-625: Six Sigma for Black Belt Certification
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: Nov. 10, 2025 | Feb. 2, 2026
Next term starts:
August 25, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience
Our faculty members carry with them decades of experience in management. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in a field that's always changing.
Dr. Deane Desper
Dr. Deane Desper has worked as a logistics manager for more than 30 years. He is a Project Management Institute (PMI) Agile Common Practitioner and PMI Authorized Training Partner. He holds a SCRUM Foundations Professional Certificate, as well as a certification as a Project Management Professional by PMI.
Position
Adjunct Professor
Joined SNHU
2015
Education
- BS in Business Management from National Louis University
- MBA from South University
- DBA in Leadership from Walden University
"(SNHU is a) great institution with a wonderful staff and faculty to support you through your educational journey."
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell began her SNHU career in 2005 as an adjunct faculty member before taking a full-time position in 2014. She has more than 15 years of experience developing and teaching programs in finance, business and economics, and has worked in hybrid, traditional and online academic programs, government agencies and in the private sector.
Dr. Buzzell’s research interests include digital ethics, finance technology, cryptocurrencies, and the future of finance and blockchains. She has published in several journals, conference papers and blogs on topics including mortgage-backed securities, finance technology, Brexit and more.
Dr. Buzzell earned a bachelor’s in business administration, an MBA, a master’s in finance as well as a PhD in International Business.
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
This certificate is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on the ACBSP accreditation page.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
This certificate is not eligible for federal financial aid. Students seeking alternatives to federal financial aid can explore tuition assistance, grants and scholarships, as well as private loans. To learn more about private loans, visit our Funding Your Education with Student Loans page.
Online certificate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 12-credit certificate
Full- and part-time students
$659
$1,977
$7,908
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students*
$470
$1,410
$5,640
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online Six Sigma certificate?
Six Sigma is one of the most commonly used quality management methods in the modern business world, and Black Belt certification is a way to show off your expertise. Finishing your graduate certificate and earning the distinction as a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt could help give you a competitive advantage in the job market, because the corresponding skills are useful to professionals in manufacturing, engineering, operations and executive positions.
Occupations
After completing our Six Sigma certificate program, you might explore the following positions.
General/Operations Manager
Lead the planning and policies that help organizations reach their goals efficiently, while overseeing large strategic initiatives and directing daily business operations.
Industrial Production Manager
Coordinate, plan and direct production operations within an organization, in addition to streamlining the production process through scheduling, budgeting and data analysis.
Management Analyst
Find ways to increase efficiency in an organization and analyze data to advise managers on how they can improve their businesses by reducing costs and increasing revenue.
1.1 million
Openings projected nationally each year, on average, for management occupations through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
$116,880
Median annual pay nationally for management occupations as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my Six Sigma certification?
Multiple organizations administer Six Sigma certification exams. If you're looking to become a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB), the American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a well-known organization with global recognition.
To receive your Six Sigma Black Belt certification from the ASQ, you'll have to first meet some requirements:
- 3 years of full-time employment that demonstrates on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the CSSBB Body of Knowledge
- 1 completed Six Sigma project with a signed affidavit
If you do not have 3 years of work experience, you can opt to submit signed affidavits for 2 Six Sigma projects you've completed instead.
Before sitting for the exam, you'll want to study. Depending on your years of experience and how much time you can allot for studying each week, this could take you a month, a year or anywhere in between.
Southern New Hampshire University's graduate certificate in Six Sigma Black Belt can help you master the competencies outlined in the CSSBB Body of Knowledge. This 4-course master's-level program is completely online, giving you the flexibility to complete it while working full time.
Finally, you'll then take the multiple-choice exam online. This 165-question exam tests your awareness of the CSSBB Body of Knowledge. By taking the exam for Six Sigma certification online, you'll receive your pass/fail results immediately.
Can you get a Six Sigma Black Belt online?
Yes, you can take the exam for Six Sigma Black Belt certification online after meeting all of the criteria to sit for the exam. Since there is no single authorizing agency that lists a body of knowledge, requirements for Six Sigma Black Belt certification are unique to each certifying body.
The American Society for Quality (ASQ) is recognized as a leader in Six Sigma and provides an online version of the Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) exam. This computer-based test is a scheduled 4.5-hour exam made up of 165 multiple-choice questions.
The ASQ has requirements for sitting for its Six Sigma Black Belt exam. These requirements include 3 years of relevant full-time employment and completion of a Six Sigma project.
How long does it take to get Six Sigma certified?
Becoming Six Sigma certified could take you anywhere from a few months to 3 years depending on your experience, which Six Sigma certification you want and the organization you take the exam with.
One of the most recognized Six Sigma certifications is the Six Sigma Black Belt certification. The American Society for Quality (ASQ) – a respected community of quality professionals – requires 3 years of full-time professional experience and a completed Six Sigma project. If you have met these requirements, you'll want to study and apply to take the exam.
You might want to take a course or program that specializes in Six Sigma Black Belt certification. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) provides a 4-course master's-level certificate in Six Sigma Black Belt to help you prepare for the certification exam. This program provides in-depth information on the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge, helping you build the skills you'll need to pass the Six Sigma Black Belt certification exam.
Even better? SNHU boasts some of the lowest tuition rates in the nation, and the graduate certificate program can be completed entirely online. This makes the Graduate Certificate in Six Sigma Black Belt from SNHU a great choice in preparing for your Six Sigma certification exam.
Is Six Sigma training worth it?
Whether it's Six Sigma education, training or formal certification, it's something worth adding to your resume – especially if you work in environments like manufacturing and supply chain management.
Since its rise in the 1990s, Six Sigma has remained a tried-and-true process in the industry. Having a background in Six Sigma principles, processes and tools could help your career path as it is useful across many industries – not to mention in demand by employers.
Ultimately, the worth of Six Sigma training depends on your goals. There are a few different levels of certification in Six Sigma, including Yellow Belt, Green Belt, Black Belt and Master Black Belt.
Becoming a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt is an impressive feat that qualifies your skills and knowledge in areas such as cost reduction, increasing revenue, streamlining business processes and improving employee buy-in. If you need more education and training before taking your exam, you'll want to look into reputable programs.
Southern New Hampshire University offers the Six Sigma Black Belt Graduate Certificate, an online, 4-course master's-level program designed to help you in preparing for Six Sigma Green Belt and Black Belt certification exams. You'll study topics that help you effectively implement the define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) approach to identify the root causes of process inefficiencies and eliminate them.
This training can help you in 2 ways. First, by earning a graduate certificate, you'll have evidence of formal education that helps qualify your expertise. And, second, if you go on to earn your Six Sigma Black Belt, you'll have a professional certification widely recognized in the world of quality improvement.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/home.htm (viewed May 31, 2024). Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.