Certificate Program Overview

The Black Belt Six Sigma Program is designed for adult working professionals
who aim to manage work-related projects, to achieve a skill set relevant to what is
generally understood as “six sigma applications” and to apply the “best practices”
of six sigma in actual projects.

The Black Belt body of knowledge is generally understood to be the middle level in
a three-part hierarchy of knowledge (in ascending order): green belt, black belt,
master black belt.

It is worth noting that the accepted sense of what constitutes the black belt level
of knowledge, and what is consequently expected of an earned black belt had
changed over time. Originally, black belt programs almost exclusively emphasized
statistical knowledge and analysis. In the 21st century, it is more generally thought
that black belts must acquire leadership, project management, and project-related
financial analysis skills in order to “explain” project results to senior management.
NGSU prerequisites for entry into the Black Belt program are thus derived what
appear to be “success indicators” from the applicant’s background and
experience.

The Admissions Process: Overview

NGSU will require evidence of the prerequisites from every successful applicant.
However, as an accredited higher educational institution, NGSU understands that
each and every applicant has varied ways to make valuable contributions, and will
treat each applicant as an individual.

All applicants can be assured that an experienced NGSU admissions advisor will contact every applicant. Applicants may also contact studentservices123@ngs.edu with questions.

NGSU does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, creed, sexual orientation, religion or Vietnam-era service.

Prerequisites

• 5 years minimum of work or military service
• Familiarity with the principles and best practices of quality systems
• Project Management experience as team leader or team member
• Familiarity with data gathering concepts and techniques
• Familiarity with statistical concepts and best practices
• Access to the internet and a computer for personal use that is adequate
to process required software and assignments.

Note: Applicants for NGSU “dual credential” programs, which award both a degree and a
          certificate, must fulfill pre-requisite requirements for admission for both programs.

Policies

1. Billing will occur 30 days prior to the start of the program.
2. Payment is due in full prior to the program
3. NGS reserves the right to cancel or reschedule the program based on low
enrollment.
4. The National Graduate School retains ownership of all materials delivered by
instructor during the program. Only participants who have completed the
program may use the materials. They may not be duplicated or reproduced
without written consent of NGS.

Completion Requirements

• Satisfactorily complete the certificate program of study with a minimum
cumulative grade point average of 3.0, with no grade lower than a “C”
• Meet prerequisite requirements
• Successfully complete the certificate project
• All tuition and fees must be paid in full

Note: Students enrolled in NGSU “dual credential” programs, which award both a
degree and a certificate, must fulfill certificate completion requirements to receive
certificate.

Note: Students enrolled in NGSU “dual credential” programs, which award both a
degree and a certificate, must fulfill degree requirements to receive diploma.

Term of Validity

The NGS/U Black Belt Certificate is “Valid for Life”. NGS/U understands the bodies of
knowledge in the field is changing and expanding. The School recommends, but does
not require, the return to the institution for current programs after three years, to
assure the students have the most contemporary and newest knowledge available.