Top 10 Quality Systems Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a Quality Systems Manager's job market profile. Certifications demonstrate a commitment to professional development and can be used as evidence of specialized knowledge and experience in the field of quality management. Quality Systems Managers with certifications have a better chance at landing highly sought-after positions and promotions, as employers recognize their dedication to the profession. Additionally, certifications provide recognition for accomplishments that may not be otherwise visible on a resume or during an interview. Certifications also serve as proof that the Quality Systems Manager has met certain standards of competency and knowledge, which is essential for any position in the quality management field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Quality Systems Managers and explain how they can help advance a quality systems manager's career.

What are Quality Systems Manager Certifications?

Quality Systems Manager Certification is a professional certification that helps individuals demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to quality management. It is designed to give managers the tools and skills they need to effectively manage quality systems in an organization. Quality Systems Managers are responsible for driving continuous improvement, developing and implementing quality systems, managing customer complaints, and providing leadership in the areas of quality assurance, process control, and risk management.

The certification provides a comprehensive understanding of quality management principles, processes, and techniques. It covers topics such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control (QC), Risk Management, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Statistical Process Control (SPC) and more. By obtaining this certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in these areas to employers or customers and set themselves apart from their peers. With this certification, individuals will be able to demonstrate their ability to develop effective processes that will help organizations achieve high levels of performance and customer satisfaction. Additionally, the certification provides a framework for continual improvement within organizations by emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision making and process optimization.

Overall, Quality Systems Manager Certification can help professionals become more effective leaders who are prepared to drive organizational excellence through improved quality management practices.

Pro Tip: To become a certified quality systems manager, it is important to stay up to date on the latest trends and developments in quality management. Additionally, be sure to take advantage of available resources such as conferences and seminars to increase your knowledge and skillset in the field. Lastly, don't forget to network with other quality professionals in order to build relationships that could help you further your career.

Related: What does a Quality Systems Manager do?

Top 10 Quality Systems Manager Certifications

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

1. ASQ Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

ASQ Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate an understanding of quality management principles and practices. The CQM certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge in areas such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and team building.

The CQM certification requires applicants to pass a three-hour exam that covers topics such as quality systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and team building. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and can be taken at any ASQ-approved testing center or online.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having a minimum of five years of experience in quality management or related fields; having earned a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution; and passing the CQM exam with a score of at least 70%.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CQM exam. Applicants are encouraged to use study materials provided by ASQ or other organizations to help them prepare for the test.

The cost of taking the CQM exam varies depending on where it is taken and how many times it needs to be taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 per attempt.

2. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality engineering. The CQE credential is designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in quality engineering principles, practices, and tools.

To become a CQE, one must pass the ASQ Certified Quality Engineer Exam. The exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality planning and control, product/service design and development, process improvement, and statistical methods.

The exam typically takes 3-4 hours to complete and is offered at various locations throughout the year. To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have a minimum of 8 years of work experience in one or more areas of quality engineering or management. Candidates may also qualify if they have a bachelor's degree in an applicable field with at least 5 years of work experience in one or more areas of quality engineering or management.

The cost for the CQE exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it generally ranges from $400-$600 USD.

3. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 Lead Auditor is a certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to audit an organization’s Quality Management System (QMS). The ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to audit a QMS in accordance with the ISO 9001 standard.

To obtain the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification, individuals must successfully complete both a training course and an examination. The training course typically takes two to five days depending on the provider, while the examination is typically two hours long.

In order to be eligible for the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in quality management systems or related fields. Additionally, applicants must have completed an approved lead auditor training course within the past five years.

The cost of obtaining the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification varies depending on the provider and location of the training course. Generally speaking, however, it can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD per person.

4. Exemplar Global Certified Quality Management System Professional (CQMSP)

Exemplar Global Certified Quality Management System Professional (CQMSP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an in-depth understanding of quality management systems and the ability to apply them in a variety of contexts. This certification is intended for professionals who are responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and auditing quality management systems.

The CQMSP certification requires successful completion of two examinations: one on the principles of quality management systems and another on the application of those principles. The exams are administered by Exemplar Global and can be taken at any approved testing center. The cost of each exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken.

In order to become certified, applicants must first complete an online application form that includes information about their educational background, work experience, and other qualifications related to quality management systems. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by Exemplar Global's Certification Board. If approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exams.

The entire process from start to finish typically takes six weeks or less once the application has been approved. The cost of becoming certified as a CQMSP depends on where you take your exams; however, most countries charge between $500-$700 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

5. ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an in-depth understanding of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology and its application to problem solving. It is designed for professionals who are responsible for leading improvement projects, guiding teams, and managing process improvement initiatives.

The CSSBB certification requires two years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and must be completed within four hours.

To get the CSSBB certification, you must first become a member of ASQ by registering online. Then you need to complete an online application form and submit it along with your resume and other supporting documents. Once your application is approved, you will be able to register for the exam. You can take the exam at any ASQ-approved testing center or through a proctored online exam.

The cost for the CSSBB certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ASQ. For members, the cost is $399 USD; for non-members, it is $499 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam at a testing center or using a proctoring service if taking it online.

6. American Society of Quality Control Managers (ASQCM) Certified Quality Systems Manager (CQSM)

The American Society of Quality Control Managers (ASQCM) Certified Quality Systems Manager (CQSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of quality systems management. The CQSM credential is intended for those who are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing quality systems in their organizations.

In order to become certified as a CQSM, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as quality system design and implementation, process improvement, customer satisfaction and service delivery, risk management, and organizational change management. Applicants must also have at least three years of experience in a quality-related role.

The exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $400 USD. In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain education requirements. These include having either a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university with at least 24 semester hours of coursework related to quality systems management; or having at least five years of documented experience in a quality-related role.

Once certified, CQSMs must renew their certification every three years by completing 40 hours of continuing education activities related to quality systems management. The renewal fee is $150 USD.

7. American Society of Quality Control Managers (ASQCM) Certified Process Improvement Manager (CPIM)

The American Society of Quality Control Managers (ASQCM) Certified Process Improvement Manager (CPIM) is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to lead process improvement initiatives. It is designed for those who are responsible for developing, implementing, and managing process improvement projects. The CPIM certification demonstrates an individual’s understanding of the principles of process improvement and their ability to apply them in real-world situations.

To obtain the CPIM certification, an individual must complete a series of three exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, and Execution and Control of Operations. Each exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as supply chain management, project management, quality control, operations management, and process improvement. The exams can be taken online or in person at ASQCM-approved testing centers.

The cost to take all three exams is $1125 USD. This fee covers the cost of registration for each exam as well as access to study materials and practice tests. Depending on an individual’s experience level and study habits, it may take up to six months or more to prepare for the exams and successfully pass them all.

Once an individual has passed all three exams they will be awarded the CPIM certification from ASQCM. This certification is valid for five years before renewal is required.

8. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional Certification

The Project Management Institute’s (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced professionals in the field of project management.

To obtain the PMP certification, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. The requirements include: a four-year degree (bachelor’s or equivalent), at least three years of project management experience, and 35 hours of formal project management education.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that cover five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of the PMP exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, it typically costs around $555 for members of PMI and $405 for non-members.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded your PMP certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification status after this period has expired you must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years.

9. International Register of Certificated Auditors’ Lead Auditor Certification

The International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Lead Auditor Certification is a professional qualification for auditors who want to demonstrate their expertise in the field of auditing. It is designed to provide assurance that the auditor has the knowledge and skills required to carry out effective audits of management systems.

To obtain this certification, you must first complete a training course, which usually takes between five and seven days depending on the complexity of the system being audited. The course covers topics such as audit principles, techniques, and methods; audit planning; conducting an audit; reporting; and follow-up activities. Once you have completed the training course, you must then pass an examination administered by IRCA in order to be certified as a Lead Auditor.

The cost of obtaining IRCA Lead Auditor Certification varies depending on the type of system being audited and where it is located. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 USD or more for a full certification program.

In addition to completing the training course and passing the exam, you must also have at least three years’ experience in auditing management systems in order to qualify for IRCA Lead Auditor Certification.

10. International Register of Certificated Auditors’ Internal Auditor Certification

The International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA) Internal Auditor Certification is a professional qualification that demonstrates the knowledge, skills and competencies required to be a successful internal auditor. It is widely accepted as a benchmark for internal auditing standards and is recognized by employers worldwide.

To obtain the IRCA Internal Auditor Certification, individuals must first complete an approved IRCA training course. The duration of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically takes between three and five days. During the course, participants will learn about the principles of internal auditing, how to plan and execute audits, how to report audit findings and more.

Once they have completed the training course, participants must pass an examination in order to receive their certification. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk management, audit planning and reporting techniques.

The cost of obtaining the IRCA Internal Auditor Certification varies depending on the provider and may include additional fees for exam registration or study materials. Generally speaking, however, it can range from around $1,000 to $2,500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Quality Systems Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. If you are a quality systems manager, or are looking to become one, then having a Quality Systems Manager Certificate may be beneficial. It can provide evidence of your qualifications and demonstrate that you have the knowledge and experience necessary for the job.

In addition, having a Quality Systems Manager Certificate can give you an edge over other applicants during the hiring process. Companies may view it as additional evidence that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to manage their quality system. It can also help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired.

Finally, having a Quality Systems Manager Certificate can be beneficial for advancing your career within the field. Companies may view it as proof of your commitment to professional development in quality systems management, which could lead to more responsibility or higher pay. It can also open up opportunities for further study or specialized training courses in quality systems management.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Quality Systems Manager Certificate depends largely on your individual circumstances and goals in the field. However, if you are serious about quality management or want to advance in the industry, then having this certification may be worth considering.

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FAQs About Quality Systems Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Quality Systems Manager Certification?

A1. A Quality Systems Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the management of quality systems, as well as their ability to lead teams and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Q2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Quality Systems Manager Certification?

A2. Generally, requirements for obtaining a Quality Systems Manager Certification include completion of courses or seminars related to quality systems management, including topics such as risk management, process improvement and regulatory compliance; successful completion of an exam; and experience in the field of quality systems management.

Q3. How long does it take to complete a Quality Systems Manager Certification?

A3. The amount of time required to complete a Quality Systems Manager Certification varies depending on the type of program chosen and the individual's experience level; generally, most programs require between 6 months and 1 year to complete.

Q4. Is there an exam associated with a Quality Systems Manager Certification?

A4. Yes, most programs require individuals to take an examination in order to obtain their certification. The exam typically covers topics related to quality systems management such as risk assessment and management, process improvement and regulatory compliance.

Q5. Are there any continuing education or recertification requirements associated with a Quality Systems Manager Certification?

A5. Yes, most certifications require individuals to recertify every three years by completing additional courses or seminars related to quality systems management or taking examinations that demonstrate their ongoing knowledge in the field