Lean Six Sigma Black Belt ISO 18404 Training Course (inc MiniTab)

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Syllabus

This ten-day course includes five days of training for Yellow and Green Belt. If you have already completed your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification within the past three years, you can attend just the last three days of training.

Throughout our CEPAS Black Belt Lean Six Sigma certification, you will cover a wide range of topics, which include:

Day 1 

• Lean Fundamentals

• Six Sigma Fundamentals

• Voice of the Customer (VoC)

• SIPOC

• Introduction to Value and Value Stream Mapping

• Identifying Waste

• Introduction to Flow and Pull

• Root Cause Analysis

• Exam Practice Quiz

Day 2

• DMAIC methodology

• Introduction to Six Sigma Statistics

• Measurement System Analysis

• Introduction to Statistical Process Control (SPC)

• Exam Practice Quiz

Day 3

• Introduction to Minitab

• Pareto Charts and the 80/20 rule

• Kano Analysis

• Pugh and other X-Y Matrices

• Six Sigma Statistics

• Measurement System Analysis 

Day 4 

• Process Capability

• Inferential Statistics

• Correlation and Regression Analysis

• Intro to Hypothesis Testing

• Design of Experiments

• Mock exam practice

Day 5

• Review of mock exam and exam preparation (See ‘Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Classroom Exams’ for more info)

Day 6 

• The Role of a Black Belt

• Advanced use of DMAIC

• Risk Analysis for Black Belts

• Change Management

• Hypothesis Testing Non-Normal Data

• Advanced Regression Analysis

Day 7 

• Advanced Design of Experiments

• Fractional Factorial Experiments

• Response Surface Methods and Method of Steepest Ascent / Descent

• Prep Black Belt exam #2 (equivalent to Green Belt)

Day 8 

• Review of mock exam

• Final exam preparation

• Exam

Days 9 and 10

• MiniTab Software Training 

Learning outcome

At the end of the training, you will be able to:

• Utilise a wide array of analytical and graphical tools associated with Six Sigma (at the Black Belt level)

• Correctly select, utilise and interpret the results from several core analytical tools

• Demonstrate a robust knowledge of the correct usage of objective data in improvement projects

• Begin to develop the competencies required by ISO 18404:2015 through knowledge and practice of a series of technical tools

The Black Belt exam, as defined by ISO 18404:2015, will test and verify your knowledge of Green Belt skills, knowledge, and competencies. 

Yellow Belt Exam

• Exam format - Online proctored, multiple-choice  

• Number of questions - 50

• Duration - 50 minutes

• Pass mark - 38/50 (75%)

Green Belt Exam 

• Exam format - Online proctored Multiple-choice  

• Number of questions - 60

• Duration - 50 minutes

• Pass mark - 45/60 (75%)

Black Belt Exam 

• Exam format - Online, Proctored multiple-choice, Closed book

• Duration - 60 minutes

• Number of questions - 70

• Pass mark - 53/70 (75%)

The training package includes 1 Free Examination Resit. Exam results are given within five working days.

Exam Requirements: 

• Photo ID (Passport, Driving Licence)

• Laptop or PC with internet connection 

• Webcam and Microphone

• You must be alone and not have any study materials around you. The examiner will check this before your exam starts.

Scheduling for your exam can be booked up to 3 days after registering with ProctorU. Full instructions will be provided upon redeeming your exam voucher. 

We recommend taking the CEPAS Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification Exam within the first six weeks after your course completion date. Please note that the exam voucher fee is included in the classroom course fee.

There is also a Black Belt annual maintenance and re-certification cost. For UK residents, the annual maintenance cost is £42, and the re-certification cost is £119. These are paid every five years. Fees vary by country.

Our Lean Six Sigma training course for Black Belts would be ideal for individuals who currently hold a Green Belt certificate and want to advance their knowledge and experience. 

This Black Belt training course is also suitable for individuals with little to no experience looking to move into a project management role as a Lean Six Sigma professional.

• Earn a globally recognised certification: All our Lean Six Sigma courses are globally recognised and accredited by CEPAS, a prestigious Bureau Veritas company and a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification.

• Gain knowledge from industry experts: Benefit from unparalleled instruction by leading figures in project management. Our courses provide in-depth insights, incorporating the latest trends and practical applications in the field.

• Empower Your Career with Key Skills: Our training equips you with the essential skills and confidence to use and apply Lean and Six Sigma tools and methodologies effectively. This will significantly improve your ability to optimise business processes and increase operational efficiency.

• Immersive Learning Experience: We provide all participants with an inclusive and supportive learning atmosphere. You'll have unlimited access to our comprehensive study materials and participate in engaging classes and informal discussions to enhance your learning experience.

• Increase Your Earning Potential: Certified Lean Six Sigma professionals are highly sought after in the job market. Achieving your certification opens the door to more lucrative job opportunities.

• Connect with Industry Peers: By enrolling in our programme, you'll become part of an expansive community of professionals with similar interests. This network is an invaluable resource for career growth and opportunities.

• Guaranteed Success on Exams: Our courses result from over ten years of expertise in developing effective training programs, leading to high exam pass rates. Should you not pass your exams, we offer a retraining opportunity at no extra cost, giving you peace of mind.

What is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt?

A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is an advanced-level certification that signifies expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Black Belts leads complex process improvement projects, mentors Green Belts and other team members, and uses statistical analysis to drive organisational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance quality. 

What is ISO 18404?

ISO 18404 is an international standard that provides guidelines for implementing and managing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. It helps organisations improve performance by reducing waste, enhancing quality, and increasing efficiency. The standard also defines the competencies needed for roles like Green Belts and Black Belts, ensuring the effective application of these improvement methodologies.

What are the key responsibilities of a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt?

Black belts take on senior job roles. Some of their responsibilities include:

• Leading Complex Projects: Black Belts manage and lead large-scale, complex Lean Six Sigma projects that aim to improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance quality within the organisation.

• Mentoring and Training: They mentor and train Green Belts, Yellow Belts, and other team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and ensuring the effective application of Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

• Statistical Analysis: Black Belts perform detailed statistical analysis to identify trends, root causes of problems, and areas for improvement, utilising tools such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control).

• Strategic Planning: They contribute to strategic planning and decision-making processes, aligning Lean Six Sigma projects with organisational goals and objectives.

Can I go straight to Lean Six Sigma Black Belt?

This Black Belt training also includes training for Green and Yellow Belts. Anyone, including those without a background in Project Management, can enrol.

How long does it take to complete Black Belt training?

We have short training periods for all our Lean Six Sigma training. This Black Belt course takes ten days to complete since it also includes training for Green and Yellow Belts.

How much is Lean Six Sigma Black Belt training?

This varies according to the training method and training provider. For the exact price, please refer to our product pages.

Is a Six Sigma Black Belt certification worth it?

Yes, obtaining a Six Sigma Black Belt can be highly valuable for professionals. It opens up advanced career opportunities, such as roles in quality management, process improvement, and operational leadership. 

Black Belts often command higher salaries and are recognised for their expertise in driving organisational efficiency and reducing waste. Additionally, the certification enhances leadership skills and provides in-depth knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, making it a significant asset for career advancement. 

How long does a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt course take?

Our Lean Six Sigma certifications are valid for life. However, we recommend that you take a refresher course.

How do I get my Lean Six Sigma Black Belt?

You can get your Black Belt certification by completing your ten-day training and passing the three sets of exams (which include the exams for Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and Green Belt).

What level is the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt?

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is an advanced-level certification. Black Belts have in-depth expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and tools, allowing them to lead complex projects, mentor Green and Yellow Belts, and drive significant process improvements within an organisation. This certification is above the Yellow Belt and Green Belt levels and below the Master Black Belt level in the Lean Six Sigma hierarchy.

How much can I earn with a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma? 

Black Belts in the UK have an average annual pay of £55k. However, this can vary according to experience and the specific industry you are employed in (source: payscale).

How many questions are on the Sis Sigma Black Belt exam?

The Six Sigma Black Belt exam has 180 questions, but the specific number may vary depending on the certification body.

Is the Six Sigma Black Belt exam hard?

The Six Sigma Black Belt exam can be challenging, however, with proper preparation, many candidates find it manageable.

What score do you need to pass the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt exam?

To pass the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt exam, you generally need a score of 75%. However, this requirement may vary slightly depending on the certification body, so checking their specific passing criteria is best.