What should I expect from the training course?
The Lean Six Sigma program provides training on how to use the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) methodology to solve problems within your organization. Lecture topics include many proven Lean Six Sigma problem-solving methods and statistical tools, which are reinforced through hands-on learning exercises.
Do I need to complete the Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt course before the Green Belt course?
No. The Yellow Belt course is not a pre-requisite for the Green Belt course. It is intended to provide front-line staff, shop floor operators, etc. with a strong foundation in the Lean Six Sigma methodology so they can effectively support improvement efforts in the organization.
Do I need to complete the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt course before the Black Belt course?
Yes, completion of Green Belt training (through UH or another reputable provider) is required because our program is designed such that the Black Belt course builds directly on of the concepts taught at the Green Belt level.
Is a project required to be completed in conjunction with a training course?
No. While completing a Lean Six Sigma project in conjunction with your training course is highly encouraged to provide participants with practical experience regarding the application of what is learned in the course to solve real-world problems, it is not required.
Please note that projects are not assigned. Participants are responsible for identifying and completing projects on their own. There is no deadline for project completion. As discussed in our courses, Lean Six Sigma projects should be scoped to last 4-6 months.
What is the goal of projects completed in conjunction with a training course?
The goal of the projects completed in conjunction with a training course is for participants to demonstrate their ability to apply Lean Six Sigma tools/methods using the DMAIC approach to solve a real-world problem that results in some benefit for the organization (financial or otherwise) in which the project is conducted.
Will I be certified upon completing the course and who is the certifying body?
While the University of Houston — Technology Division at the Cullen College of Engineering’s Lean Six Sigma program was designed based on the ASQ (formerly the American Society for Quality) body of knowledge, the certifications earned through this program are issued by the University of Houston (not ASQ). Please note, however, that if you wish to also pursue certification through ASQ, which some previous course participants have done and have performed well on the exam, you will need to see the certification information for ASQ. Please refer to the following documents for more information about the certification process and exams for the University of Houston — Technology Division at the Cullen College of Engineering’s Lean Six Sigma program:
- Yellow Belt course certification exam details
- Green Belt course certification process and exam details
- Black Belt course certification process and exam details
Once certified, what period of time is my certification valid?
Those individuals certified through the University of Houston — Technology Division at the Cullen College of Engineering's Lean Six Sigma program are certified for life. There is no recertification process required.
What are the course prerequisites?
There are no specific pre-requisites. It is, however, highly recommended that potential participants consider the following issues before enrolling in this course.
Lean Six Sigma training involves the use of statistical analysis, but this content is taught at a practical level so everyone can understand and learn. Through hands-on learning exercises, participants work as teams to collect data. Then, participants utilize the step-by-step instructions provided in their training manual to analyze their data using a statistical software package. Finally, the instructor reinforces the interpretation of this analysis in class.
Please note that potential participants should be fluent in English (written and spoken). A minimum TOEFL score of: 79 IBT, or 213 on the computer based exam, or 550 on the paper based exam, is a good guideline to determine if English language skills are adequate. Evidence of test scores, however, is not required to enroll in this certificate course.
Potential participants are encouraged to read through all the information on our website to determine if a particular course is right for you. If you still have questions, please contact us and we will be more than happy to discuss the details of the course with you personally.
What does the course fee cover?
- Training manual (provided in electronic format through our learning management system)
- Software (JMP statistical software, when applicable)
- Quick reference guide (when applicable)
- Instructional content and/or time
- Certification exam (1 attempt)
- On-campus parking (for hybrid/blended and face-to-face delivery formats only when held on campus)
- Refreshments (for hybrid/blended and face-to-face formats only when held on campus)
Do you offer tuition payment plans?
Payment is due in full at the time of registration in order to secure your spot in the course.
Can I use Veteran benefits or financial aid toward these courses?
Unfortunately, at this time our programs are not eligible for Veteran benefits or financial aid.
What is not covered by the course fee?
- Project consultation meetings with the instructor outside of class and/or after the course has ended
- Final project review (can be scheduled subsequent to the course – additional fees apply)
Will a letter of completion be provided for my employer?
Upon completion of the course, you may request a letter printed on UH letterhead that states whether or not you passed the course and gives your final grade. Grades for the Lean Six Sigma program are based solely on the certification exam given at the end of the course. Failure to take this exam will result in a failing grade for the course.
Do you accept financial aid or other grant funding?
It depends on the requirements of the financial aid or grant funding program. While most grants are for college credit courses, some may cover non-credit professional development courses/certifications. Please review the program's requirements to determine if funding can be used toward non-credit professional development courses/certifications. If your funding source will not allow you to pay for the course online via credit card, please contact us for alternate payment arrangements.
Sallie Mae now offers personal loans to pay for professional development and continuing education courses. Please visit Sallie Mae's website for more information.
Please note that all course fees must be paid in full by the posted deadlines. For more information as to how to apply for the Sallie Mae student loan, please contact our office of financial aid at 713-743-1010 and select option 3.
Will I receive a 1098-T tax form for the course?
You will need to contact your CPA or a local tax office for instructions on how to file educational fees paid on your taxes.
Will this course require much studying and preparation?
Yes. Due to the difficulty of the level of information and the comprehensive nature of the course, participants are expected to dedicate additional time for studying, class preparation, and projects.