Top 10 Quality Consultant Certifications

Certifications are a great way for quality consultants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in their field. They provide evidence of a consultant’s qualifications, technical skills, and expertise in the area of quality management. Certifications help employers identify qualified candidates who possess the necessary skills to meet the needs of their organization. Additionally, certifications can help consultants secure better job opportunities and higher pay rates. Employers often prefer to hire consultants with certifications as they view it as an indication that the individual is committed to their profession and has invested in improving their own skillset. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that they are getting a qualified professional who understands industry best practices and standards.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Quality Consultants and explains how they can help to advance a quality consultant's career.

What are Quality Consultant Certifications?

Quality consultant certification is a type of professional certification that is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills and credentials needed to become a quality consultant. Quality consultants are professionals who help organizations improve their products or services by identifying areas of improvement, developing strategies and implementing solutions to meet quality standards. Quality consultants are in demand in many industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance and hospitality.

A quality consultant certification program will typically include courses on topics such as quality management systems, process improvement techniques, problem solving and root cause analysis. The courses will also cover the basics of Six Sigma methodology or other quality management systems such as ISO 9001. Additionally, participants may learn how to use software tools to analyze data and develop reports that can be used to track progress towards goals.

By obtaining a quality consultant certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to providing high-level consulting services that adhere to industry standards. This can help them stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or seeking new clients. Such certifications can also give organizations peace of mind that they are working with a professional who has the knowledge and experience necessary to tackle their quality challenges.

Pro Tip: When choosing a quality consultant certification, make sure to verify the credentials of the organization offering the certification. Look for certifications that are accredited by industry standards and organizations such as The International Quality Federation (IQF) or The American Society for Quality (ASQ). Additionally, consider what type of experience and expertise is needed to obtain the certification.

Related: What does a Quality Consultant do?

Top 10 Quality Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Quality Consultants today.

1. Certified Quality Consultant (CQC)

Certified Quality Consultant (CQC) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise and knowledge of individuals in the field of quality management. CQC is issued by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing quality principles, tools, and techniques in all industries.

The CQC certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in quality management. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by ASQ and complete a project demonstrating their mastery of quality principles. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as process improvement, design of experiments, statistical process control, and total quality management.

To become certified as a CQC, applicants must first join ASQ and pay the membership fee. Then they must register for the exam and submit an application form with details about their work experience in quality management. After submitting their application form, applicants will receive an email from ASQ confirming their eligibility to take the exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Quality Consultant (CQC) varies depending on the type of membership chosen with ASQ. A basic membership costs $99 per year while a full membership costs $229 per year. The cost of taking the CQC exam is $599 plus any applicable taxes or fees.

In total, it usually takes around 6 months to become certified as a CQC after joining ASQ and registering for the exam.

2. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

The Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to provide individuals with an understanding of quality improvement principles and techniques, as well as the ability to apply them in their own organizations. The CQIA certification requires a minimum of three years of relevant work experience and passing an examination.

The CQIA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, root cause analysis, data collection and analysis, and project management. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge in all these areas in order to pass the exam.

It typically takes between two and four months to prepare for the CQIA exam. Candidates should become familiar with ASQ's Body of Knowledge (BoK), which outlines the topics covered on the exam. They should also review any related course materials they may have taken in school or online. Additionally, it is important to practice answering sample questions so that candidates can become comfortable with the format of the exam.

In order to take the CQIA exam, applicants must first register with ASQ and pay an application fee of $125 USD. The actual cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, most exams cost approximately $250 USD. Once registered for the exam, candidates will receive instructions on how to schedule a time at one of ASQ's approved testing centers.

Once candidates have passed their CQIA exam, they will receive their official certificate from ASQ within six weeks. This certificate will serve as proof that they have achieved this professional certification and can be used when applying for jobs or promotions within their organization or industry.

3. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in quality management. It is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing quality tools and techniques. The CQM certification focuses on the application of quality principles, practices, and tools to improve organizational performance.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the requirements for the CQM certification. To get certified, you must first become an ASQ member and then pass two exams: one on basic quality concepts and principles, and one on advanced topics in quality management. You will also need to have three years of professional experience in a related field.

The cost of the CQM certification depends on your current ASQ membership status. If you are not an ASQ member, you will need to pay $170 for your first year's membership fee plus $429 for each exam ($858 total). If you are already an ASQ member, you will only need to pay $429 for each exam ($858 total). Renewing your membership after your first year costs $150 per year.

4. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CSSBB program is designed to provide an understanding of Six Sigma tools and techniques, as well as how to apply them in real-world situations. It also provides knowledge on how to lead and manage successful projects using the Six Sigma approach.

The program typically takes about four months to complete, depending on the individual’s commitment and the availability of courses. There are both online and classroom-based courses available, with some being more comprehensive than others. The cost of the program varies depending on which course you choose, but can range from $2,000-$5,000 USD.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that test knowledge on topics such as process improvement strategies, data analysis techniques, project management principles, and quality management systems. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply Six Sigma principles in a practical manner by completing a project or case study prior to taking the exam.

5. American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Engineer (ASQ-CQE)

The American Society for Quality – Certified Quality Engineer (ASQ-CQE) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of quality engineering. The CQE certification is designed to measure the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those working in quality engineering roles. It is intended to provide employers with assurance that certified individuals possess the necessary qualifications for successful performance in their job roles.

In order to become certified, applicants must pass an examination administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics related to quality engineering such as statistical analysis, design of experiments, process improvement, and reliability engineering. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $450 USD.

Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements prior to taking the exam. These include a bachelor’s degree in any field or an associate’s degree with five years of relevant work experience; or a high school diploma with seven years of relevant work experience.

Once certified, CQEs are required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits (CECs). CECs are earned by attending conferences, workshops, seminars, webinars, and other approved activities related to quality engineering. CECs must be earned at least once every three years in order for certification to remain valid.

Overall, becoming an ASQ-CQE requires dedication and hard work but can provide significant benefits in terms of career advancement and recognition within the quality engineering community.

6. International Register of Certificated Auditors – Quality Management System Auditor (IRCA-QMSA)

The International Register of Certificated Auditors – Quality Management System Auditor (IRCA-QMSA) is a certification program offered by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA). It is designed to provide assurance that auditors possess the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to conduct effective quality management system audits. The IRCA-QMSA certification is based on ISO 19011:2018, which provides guidance for auditing management systems.

The IRCA-QMSA certification process typically takes four to six weeks to complete. To get certified, an applicant must first register with IRCA and pay the applicable fee. After registering, applicants must then attend a two-day training course that covers topics such as principles of auditing, audit planning, audit execution and reporting. After completing the course, applicants must pass an online exam in order to become certified.

The cost of obtaining the IRCA-QMSA certification varies depending on the country in which it is obtained and the type of training chosen. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD for the registration fee and training course combined.

7. ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification

ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to audit organizations for compliance with the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) standard. This certification is offered by various organizations, such as the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA).

The ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification is a five-day training course that covers topics such as the principles and practices of auditing, the structure of QMS standards, and techniques for conducting an effective audit. The course also includes practical exercises in which participants practice their auditing skills. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate from IRCA demonstrating their proficiency in auditing QMS systems.

To get ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification, you must first complete an approved training course. After completing the course, you can then apply to take the IRCA exam to become certified. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on where you take your training course and how many exams you need to take. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,500 - $3,500 USD for the entire process.

8. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to lead improvement projects, analyze data, and use Lean Six Sigma tools to improve processes. It is designed for professionals who want to become proficient in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and principles.

How long does it take to get it?

The length of time required to obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification will vary depending on the program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs require between four and eight weeks of study or training.

How to get it?

In order to obtain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must complete a course or program offered by an accredited organization. These courses typically include instruction in the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma, project management, process improvement techniques, data analysis methods, problem solving strategies, and more. After completing the coursework or training requirements, individuals must pass an exam in order to earn their certification.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification can vary depending on the provider and type of program chosen. Generally speaking, most programs range from $1,500-$3,000 USD.

9. Total Quality Management Professional Certification

Total Quality Management (TQM) Professional Certification is a certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the principles, processes, and tools of Total Quality Management. It is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The TQM Professional Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical application project. The written exam covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and performance measurement. The practical application project requires applicants to develop and implement a quality management system in their organization or company.

The TQM Professional Certification typically takes between six months to one year to complete. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application that includes their resume and cover letter. Once approved, they can then take the written exam at an ASQ-approved testing center. After passing the written exam, applicants must then complete the practical application project within six months before being awarded the certification.

The cost of the TQM Professional Certification varies depending on your country or region. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees for taking the written exam or completing the practical application project.

10. Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award Examiner Certification

The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award Examiner Certification is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the evaluation and assessment of organizations in the pursuit of excellence. This certification is offered by the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program, which is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The certification process takes approximately four months to complete and involves both online coursework and an on-site exam. The online coursework provides an overview of the Baldrige criteria and how to use them when evaluating organizations. The on-site exam tests knowledge gained from the coursework as well as experience in assessing organizations for performance excellence.

To become certified, individuals must first register for the certification program through NIST’s website. After registering, individuals will be provided access to the online coursework, which must be completed before taking the on-site exam. Once all requirements are met, individuals will receive their official examiner certification from NIST.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on individual circumstances; however, it typically ranges between $2,000 - $3,000 USD per person.

Do You Really Need a Quality Consultant Certificate?

The short answer is, it depends. Quality Consultant Certificates can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in quality management and process improvement. However, if you are already an experienced professional in the field of quality management and process improvement, then a Quality Consultant Certificate may not be necessary for you.

Before deciding whether or not to pursue a Quality Consultant Certificate, it is important to consider the purpose of obtaining such a certificate. If you are looking to use the certification as a means of demonstrating your knowledge and expertise to employers, then obtaining one could definitely prove beneficial. A Quality Consultant Certificate can help set you apart from other job applicants by showing that you have taken the initiative to gain additional education and training in this specific field. Additionally, having such a certification could open up new career opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable without it.

On the other hand, if your goal is simply to increase your understanding of quality management concepts and techniques, then taking courses or attending workshops may be enough. It is also important to note that some employers may not require applicants to hold this type of certification at all – so research each job opportunity thoroughly before making any decisions about whether or not you need one.

Ultimately, the decision whether or not to pursue a Quality Consultant Certificate should come down to personal preference and career goals. If you feel like such a certification will help you advance in your current career path or open up new opportunities for yourself, then it could certainly be worth considering.

Related: Quality Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Consultant Certifications

Q1. What is a Quality Consultant Certification?

A1. A Quality Consultant Certification is a formal recognition of an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of quality management. The certification shows that the individual has achieved a certain level of expertise and can provide expert advice and support to organizations looking to improve their quality management systems.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Quality Consultant?

A2. To become certified as a Quality Consultant, you need to pass an examination administered by an accredited certifying body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam covers topics such as quality control, process improvement, project management, and customer satisfaction.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Quality Consultant?

A3. Becoming certified as a Quality Consultant can help you demonstrate your expertise in the field to employers or clients and open up new career opportunities. It also allows you to stay up-to-date on best practices in quality management and provides access to professional development resources from certifying bodies like ASQ.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Quality Consultant?

A4. The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on which certifying body you choose and how much time you have available for studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements for certification with most certifying bodies like ASQ or ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Certification Program (LACP).

Q5. What are some common job titles associated with Quality Consulting?

A5: Common job titles associated with quality consulting include Quality Assurance Manager, Process Improvement Manager, Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor/Consultant, and Continuous Improvement Manager/Consultant.