Top 11 QA Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a QA Supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, expertise and experience that employers look for when hiring. Certification programs provide an opportunity to learn the skills necessary to succeed in quality assurance and gain recognition within the industry. They also provide validation that the supervisor has achieved a certain level of knowledge and competence in the field of quality assurance. Certifications give potential employers confidence that their QA Supervisor is qualified and knowledgeable, which can be invaluable in a competitive job market.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available for QA Supervisors and to explain how they can help improve their career prospects.

What are QA Supervisor Certifications?

QA Supervisor Certification is a professional designation that can be earned by individuals working in quality assurance and control. It is designed to provide supervisors with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to lead a quality assurance team. This certification helps supervisors identify areas of improvement, develop processes to ensure quality standards are met and maintained, create an environment conducive to continuous improvement, and manage the overall performance of the team. QA Supervisor Certification also provides supervisors with an understanding of how to utilize various tools such as root cause analysis, corrective action plans, and process audits. Through this certification, supervisors will gain a better understanding of how to effectively manage their teams and ensure that all quality standards are being met. Ultimately, QA Supervisor Certification provides supervisors with the skills necessary to lead their teams in achieving success while maintaining high standards of quality assurance.

Pro Tip: When considering a QA Supervisor Certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and their requirements. Make sure that the certification you choose is relevant to your job and provides a comprehensive understanding of quality assurance processes. Additionally, ensure that the program is accredited by an industry-recognized organization.

Related: What does a QA Supervisor do?

Top 11 QA Supervisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to QA Supervisors today.

1. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in auditing quality systems. The CQA certification is based on the ASQ Body of Knowledge, which covers topics such as auditing principles, techniques, and tools; quality system standards; management systems; and customer satisfaction.

The CQA certification requires that applicants pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in quality assurance and/or auditing, with at least three years of direct experience in auditing.

To prepare for the exam, applicants can take an ASQ-approved training course or study independently using ASQ materials. Applicants can also join local ASQ chapters to network with experienced professionals and gain access to resources such as study groups and practice exams.

The cost of the CQA certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $399 USD for the exam fee plus $50 USD for each additional retake if necessary. For nonmembers, the cost is $599 USD plus $50 USD per retake if necessary.

2. Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize and promote quality management excellence in individuals and organizations.

The CMQ/OE certification requires passing an exam that covers nine areas of quality management: customer focus, leadership, strategic planning, human resources, process management, performance measurement and improvement, supplier relationships, information analysis, and decision making. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become certified as a CMQ/OE, you must have at least eight years of experience in quality management or organizational excellence. You must also meet the educational requirements set forth by ASQ. These include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent work experience.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Additionally, there are fees associated with maintaining your certification which range from $50-$100 USD per year.

Overall, becoming a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence can be a great way to demonstrate your commitment to quality management excellence and help further your career in the field.

3. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved mastery in the principles and tools of Six Sigma. It is an advanced-level credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to lead and manage projects, analyze data, and improve processes.

The CSSBB program typically takes between two to four months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and commitment. To become certified as a CSSBB, individuals must first successfully pass an exam administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as project management, process improvement strategies, statistical analysis techniques, and quality control methods. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

Once an individual has passed the exam they will be awarded their Certified Six Sigma Black Belt designation. This certification is valid for three years after which time recertification will be required in order to maintain it.

4. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification for quality engineers, which is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the field of quality engineering. The CQE credential is a globally recognized symbol of excellence in the field of quality engineering.

The CQE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as statistical analysis, design of experiments, process improvement techniques, and quality assurance principles. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes about three hours to complete.

To become a Certified Quality Engineer, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least eight years of work experience in the field of quality engineering or related areas, including at least three years in a leadership role. You must also have an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The cost to take the CQE exam varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $395 for ASQ members and $495 for non-members. There are also additional fees associated with taking the exam if you need to reschedule or retake it.

5. ASQ Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

The ASQ Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and understanding of quality improvement principles. The CQIA certification is designed to recognize individuals who have the skills necessary to improve processes, products, and services in any organization.

The CQIA exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to quality improvement methods, tools, and techniques. To qualify for the certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in a quality-related field or have completed an approved course in quality improvement.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to prepare for the CQIA exam. Preparation materials include books, online courses, practice tests, and study guides.

To obtain the CQIA certification, applicants must pass a written exam administered by ASQ (American Society for Quality). The exam fee is $295 per attempt. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from ASQ within four to six weeks.

6. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification program that is designed to help individuals learn the skills and knowledge necessary to audit organizations for compliance with the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) standard. The certification is awarded by accredited training providers and is recognized internationally.

The ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification program typically takes between 3-5 days to complete, depending on the provider and the course content. To get certified, you must attend an accredited training course, pass an exam, and demonstrate your ability to audit an organization's QMS. Depending on the provider, there may be additional requirements such as completing a project or taking part in a workshop.

The cost of ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on the provider and location of the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500 - $4,000 USD for a full 5-day course.

Overall, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to audit organizations for compliance with the ISO 9001 Quality Management System standard. It typically takes 3-5 days to complete and costs between $1,500 - $4,000 USD depending on the provider and location of the course.

7. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to use the Lean Six Sigma methodology in order to improve processes and reduce waste. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is designed for individuals who have already achieved a basic understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology and are looking to further their knowledge and skillset.

The certification process typically takes between three and six months, depending on how much time the individual can devote to studying and preparing for the exam. In order to obtain the certification, individuals must complete a series of courses that cover topics such as problem-solving techniques, data analysis, project management, and change management. After completing all of the required courses, individuals must then pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on which provider you choose. Generally speaking, most providers charge between $1,000-$2,000 for the entire program.

8. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) is a professional certification that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of reliability engineering principles and practices. The CRE certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in the field of reliability engineering.

The CRE certification requires passing an exam, which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as reliability fundamentals, reliability modeling and analysis, system design and integration, and maintenance management. The exam must be taken at an ASQ approved testing center. It typically takes two to three months to prepare for the exam, depending on the individual's background knowledge and experience.

In order to become certified as a CRE, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements set by ASQ. This includes having at least five years of professional experience in the field of reliability engineering or related fields, or having completed an accredited degree program in engineering or science with at least five years of professional experience in the field.

Once these requirements have been met, applicants can register for the exam through ASQ's website or by calling their customer service line. The cost for taking the exam is $450 for members of ASQ and $550 for non-members.

9. International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Lead Auditor Certification

The International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Lead Auditor Certification is a globally recognized certification that certifies an individual’s ability to lead, plan, and execute management system audits. It is designed to ensure that auditors have the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out effective management system audits in accordance with international standards.

To gain IRCA Lead Auditor Certification, individuals must complete a training course and successfully pass an exam. The length of the training course depends on the type of audit being undertaken and can range from two days to five days. The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from around £1,000-£2,500.

In order to get IRCA Lead Auditor Certification, individuals must first be registered with the IRCA as a Certified Auditor. This involves submitting an application form with evidence of relevant qualifications and experience. Once approved by the IRCA, individuals can then book onto an approved training course and take the exam at its conclusion.

The cost for taking the exam is usually included in the cost of the training course but can also be taken separately for around £400-£500. Upon successful completion of both parts, individuals will receive their certificate which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed through re-certification or continuing professional development (CPD).

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), which is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of project management.

The PMP Certification requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing. The certification also requires applicants to have a minimum of 4500 hours of experience in leading and directing projects as well as 35 contact hours of formal education related to project management topics.

It typically takes 3-6 months for an individual to prepare for the PMP Certification exam. This includes studying for the exam, completing the application process, and taking practice exams.

In order to get certified as a PMP, an individual must first apply online via the PMI website. Once approved by PMI, they must then schedule and pass the 4-hour long PMP Exam with a score of at least 61%.

The cost for taking the PMP Exam varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of PMI. For members, it costs $405 USD while non-members pay $555 USD. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials such as books or courses.

11. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE).

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in software quality engineering. It is designed to help software development professionals understand the principles of software quality assurance, and to apply them in their daily work.

To become certified, individuals must pass an examination administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as software quality assurance, process improvement, project management, and risk management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CSQE exam, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in software quality engineering or related fields. They must also have at least one year of professional experience in each of the following areas: software development life cycle; process improvement; testing methods; and risk management.

The cost of the CSQE exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $595 USD. In other countries, prices may vary due to taxes and other fees.

Once an individual has passed the CSQE exam, they will receive a certificate from ASQ indicating their achievement. This certificate will be valid for three years from the date it was issued. After three years, individuals must retake the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

Do You Really Need a QA Supervisor Certificate?

No, you do not need a QA Supervisor Certificate in order to work in quality assurance. Many companies will hire individuals with the necessary experience and knowledge for the job without requiring a certificate. However, having a certificate can be beneficial if you are looking to advance in your career or apply for higher-level positions. A QA Supervisor Certificate can demonstrate that you have achieved a certain level of proficiency in quality assurance and have the skills required to lead a team of quality assurance professionals. It is also good for networking and staying up-to-date on industry best practices. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they want to pursue a QA Supervisor Certificate.

Related: QA Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About QA Supervisor Certifications

1. What are the benefits of obtaining a QA Supervisor Certification?

Answer: A QA Supervisor Certification can help to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in quality assurance processes and procedures. It can also open up new job opportunities, provide professional recognition, and lead to increased salary potential.

2. What is the cost of obtaining a QA Supervisor Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a QA Supervisor Certification will vary depending on the certification program chosen, but typically range from $500-$1500.

3. What are the prerequisites for obtaining a QA Supervisor Certification?

Answer: Prerequisites for obtaining a QA Supervisor Certification vary depending on the certification program chosen, but typically require at least two years of experience working in quality assurance or related fields as well as completion of an approved training program.

4. How long does it take to obtain a QA Supervisor Certification?

Answer: The time required to obtain a QA Supervisor Certification will depend on the certification program chosen, but typically range from 6-12 months.

5. Is there an exam that must be taken in order to obtain a QA Supervisor Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require successful completion of an exam in order to receive your certification.