Top 10 Process Improvement Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important way for process improvement specialists to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the job market. Certifications provide tangible evidence that a specialist has the necessary qualifications to perform a job effectively. They also indicate a commitment to staying current on best practices and industry trends. Additionally, certifications can help process improvement specialists stand out from other applicants in the job market by demonstrating their commitment to professional development and growth.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available to Process Improvement Specialists and explain how they can contribute to career growth.

What are Process Improvement Specialist Certifications?

Process improvement specialist certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in process improvement techniques. It is designed to provide specialized knowledge and skills related to process improvement and help individuals become more effective at improving organizational processes. The certification tests an individual’s understanding of different process improvement tools, such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Total Quality Management (TQM), as well as their ability to apply them in specific situations.

The certification can help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in process improvement to potential employers or customers, allowing them to stand out from the competition. It can also help individuals improve their own performance on the job by teaching them about the most up-to-date techniques for improving processes. Furthermore, because it is a recognized credential, having it can give individuals access to higher paying jobs or promotions within their current organization. Finally, having this certification can provide individuals with access to a network of professionals who are experts in the field and can provide valuable advice on how to further improve processes within their organization.

Pro Tip: Before committing to any process improvement specialist certification, make sure to research the requirements and program offerings of multiple certifying organizations. Each organization may have different requirements and levels of certification, so it is important to find the right one that best fits your needs.

Related: What does a Process Improvement Specialist do?

Top 10 Process Improvement Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Process Improvement Specialists today.

1. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in process improvement. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes, reduce waste, and increase customer satisfaction. The certification is offered by many organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), and the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI).

The certification typically requires between 40-60 hours of training, depending on the organization offering the certification. Training can be completed in either an online or classroom setting. In order to receive the certification, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as process improvement, project management, data analysis, problem solving, and more.

In order to get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must have at least three years of work experience in a related field. They must also complete a pre-test assessment to demonstrate their understanding of Lean Six Sigma principles before taking the exam.

The cost of Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on which organization you choose to take it through. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 USD.

2. Certified Process Improvement Professional (CPIP)

Certified Process Improvement Professional (CPIP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of process improvement principles and techniques. The CPIP certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CPIP certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam includes multiple-choice questions covering topics such as process improvement principles, tools and techniques, quality management systems, and organizational change management. To earn the CPIP certification, applicants must pass the online exam with a score of at least 70%.

The hands-on project requires applicants to develop and implement an improvement project in their own organization or in another organization where they are employed. This project should demonstrate the applicant's knowledge of process improvement principles and techniques.

It typically takes about one year to complete all requirements for the CPIP certification. Applicants must register for both the online exam and the hands-on project separately.

The cost for taking the online exam is $395 for ASQ members and $495 for non-members. The cost of completing the hands-on project varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member; it ranges from $500-$3000.

3. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of quality improvement principles and practices.

The CQIA certification requires passing an exam which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, problem solving and root cause analysis, measurement and analysis, customer satisfaction, and project management. The exam must be taken at an authorized testing center.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the CQIA exam. During this time, it is recommended that candidates take courses or attend workshops in order to gain knowledge in the areas covered on the exam. Candidates should also review textbooks and other materials related to quality improvement principles and practices.

The cost of the CQIA certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees charged by the testing center.

4. Lean Manufacturing Certification

Lean Manufacturing Certification is a certification program designed to help organizations improve their manufacturing processes by reducing waste and increasing efficiency. The certification focuses on the principles of Lean Manufacturing, which include identifying and eliminating waste, streamlining processes, improving quality, and increasing customer satisfaction.

The Lean Manufacturing Certification program typically takes between three to six months to complete. The exact length of time depends on the complexity of the organization’s processes and the number of employees that need to be trained. During this time, participants will learn about the principles of Lean Manufacturing, how to apply them in their own environment, and how to measure progress towards goals.

To get Lean Manufacturing Certification, individuals must first complete an approved training course. This can be done either online or in-person depending on the provider. After completing the course, participants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost for Lean Manufacturing Certification varies depending on the provider and type of course taken. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$2,000 per person depending on the length of the course and any additional materials needed (e.g., textbooks).

5. Total Quality Management Certification

Total Quality Management (TQM) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the principles and practices of total quality management. TQM is an approach to organizational management that emphasizes continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, and the involvement of all stakeholders in achieving organizational goals.

How long does it take to get it?

The time frame for obtaining TQM Certification varies depending on the individual's experience and background. Generally, it takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete the necessary coursework and pass the certification exam.

How to get it?

In order to obtain TQM Certification, individuals must first complete a training program or course in total quality management. After completing the course, they must then pass an examination administered by a certifying body such as ASQ (American Society for Quality).

How much does it cost?

The cost of TQM Certification varies depending on the certifying body and type of training program chosen. Generally, programs range from $500-$2,000 USD.

6. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in quality engineering, quality assurance, and related disciplines. The CQE credential is highly sought after by employers, as it demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills to ensure that products and services meet customer requirements.

To become a Certified Quality Engineer, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, statistical methods, process control and improvement techniques, product design and development processes, inspection techniques, and problem solving methods. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CQE exam, applicants must have at least eight years of experience in one or more of the areas covered on the exam. Applicants may also substitute education for experience; however they must have at least four years of professional experience in addition to their educational qualifications.

The cost of taking the CQE exam varies depending on where you take it; however it typically costs between $400 and $500 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual fee associated with maintaining your certification which currently stands at $50 USD per year.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most sought-after and recognized certification for project managers. The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and experience to successfully lead and direct projects.

To become a PMP, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. You must have at least three years of experience leading and directing projects, with 4,500 hours in leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $405-$555 USD for members of PMI or $555-$1,095 USD for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam, you will need to complete 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain your certification. PDUs can be earned through attending workshops or conferences related to project management or reading books related to project management.

8. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQA certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in auditing, quality assurance and control. It is a widely recognized credential that validates an auditor’s ability to conduct effective audits of quality systems.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CQA exam. This includes studying the material, taking practice tests, and attending review courses. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as auditing principles, audit planning and preparation, audit execution and reporting, process improvement techniques, and quality system fundamentals.

To get certified as a CQA, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. You must also have at least three years of work experience in quality assurance or auditing within the last 10 years before you can take the exam.

The cost of getting certified as a CQA varies depending on where you take the exam. The ASQ charges $399 for members and $599 for non-members to take the exam.

9. ISO 9000 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9000 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification program that helps auditors to become certified as Lead Auditors in the ISO 9000 Quality Management System. The ISO 9000 Lead Auditor Certification provides an understanding of the principles and practices of auditing, enabling auditors to conduct internal and external audits of quality management systems based on ISO 9001 requirements.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete. It consists of a combination of self-study, online courses, and classroom training. During the classroom training portion, participants learn how to plan, conduct, report and follow up on an audit in accordance with ISO 19011 guidelines.

To get certified as an ISO 9000 Lead Auditor, individuals must meet certain prerequisites such as having at least three years’ experience in a quality management system or two years’ experience as an auditor. Additionally, they must pass an exam administered by a certifying body approved by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

The cost of becoming an ISO 9000 Lead Auditor varies depending on the certifying body chosen and other factors such as travel costs associated with attending classroom training sessions. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $4,000 USD to become certified.

10. ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CMQ/OE certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage quality and organizational excellence initiatives in any organization. It is designed for professionals who are involved in leading, implementing, and managing quality or organizational excellence initiatives.

The CMQ/OE certification requires passing an exam, which consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, leadership, and team building. Candidates must also have at least five years of experience in a supervisory role in a quality-related field.

To get certified as a CMQ/OE, individuals must first submit an application to ASQ. Once approved, they can register for the exam online or by mail. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; typically it costs around $400-$600 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certificate from ASQ within 6-8 weeks.

Overall, becoming certified as an ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those who wish to advance their careers in quality management or organizational excellence.

Do You Really Need a Process Improvement Specialist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Process Improvement Specialist Certificate depends on your goals and current career path. If you are already employed in the field of process improvement, then having a certificate may help you move up in your current organization or make yourself more marketable to other employers. It can also provide credentials that will show potential employers that you have the knowledge and expertise to be successful in the process improvement field.

On the other hand, if you are just starting out in process improvement, then a certificate may not be necessary. Most employers understand that experience is more important than any type of formal training when it comes to process improvement. Furthermore, there are many online resources available that can teach you the basics of process improvement without needing an official certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Process Improvement Specialist Certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If having a certificate will give you an edge over other candidates or open new doors for advancement within your current company, then it might be worth considering getting one. However, if a certificate isn’t necessary for what you want to do or won’t add any value to your job search, then it might be best to focus on gaining experience instead.

Related: Process Improvement Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Process Improvement Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is a Process Improvement Specialist Certification?

A1: A Process Improvement Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in process improvement. It involves completing a course or series of courses and passing an exam to demonstrate mastery of the subject matter.

Q2: What skills does a Process Improvement Specialist need?

A2: A Process Improvement Specialist needs to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as experience with process improvement techniques such as Lean Six Sigma and Kaizen. They should also be familiar with project management principles and software tools.

Q3: How long does it take to become certified?

A3: The length of time needed to become certified varies depending on the type of certification program chosen. Generally, most certifications can be completed within 6 months to 1 year.

Q4: Where can I find information about the different certifications available?

A4: Information about the various certifications available can be found on websites such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), American Society for Quality (ASQ), International Quality Federation (IQF), and other organizations that offer certification programs.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

A5: Most certification programs require some prior knowledge or experience in the field, but this varies depending on the type of program chosen. Additionally, some programs may require applicants to take specific courses or pass certain exams before being eligible for certification.