Lean Six Sigma Belt Levels Explained
A clear pathway for developing continuous improvement capability
Lean Six Sigma Training and Certification
Compare Yellow, Green, Black and Master Black Belt courses and choose the level that fits your role and experience.
Yellow Belt
Green Belt
Black Belt
Master Black Belt
Foundation Level
Understand Lean Six Sigma fundamentals and confidently support continuous improvement initiatives and project teams.
Practitioner level
Lead structured improvement projects using DMAIC methodology and deliver measurable performance improvement.
Advanced
Practitioner Level
Lead complex, cross-functional improvement and drive sustained change through advanced analysis.
Expert Consultant,
Adviser and Trainer
Coach belts, influence leaders and embed continuous improvement across the organisation.
Which belt level is right for me?
This level suits professionals and team members who are new to Lean Six Sigma and want a practical introduction to improvement concepts. It works well if your role involves contributing to improvement rather than leading it.
Designed for professionals who are expected to lead improvement projects, this level supports those delivering measurable results within a process, function or team.
Best suited to experienced practitioners, this level supports those leading complex, cross-functional improvement and change initiatives where advanced analysis is required.
Aimed at senior improvement professionals, this programme supports those responsible for building capability, coaching belts and shaping improvement strategy.
What will I be able to do after each belt?
A clear understanding of core Lean Six Sigma concepts allows you to support improvement work using practical tools, data collection and process thinking.
Through structured application of DMAIC, you develop the ability to scope, plan and deliver improvement projects and make confident, data-led decisions.
With advanced analytical and problem-solving capability, you can diagnose complex performance issues and lead change through resistance.
At this level, the focus shifts to coaching others, guiding deployment decisions and designing systems that embed continuous improvement.
What role will I play in improvement projects?
Participation is typically as an effective team member, supporting analysis, problem solving and implementation activities.
Responsibility centres on leading defined improvement projects end-to-end, with clear accountability for results.
Leadership extends to high-impact, cross-functional projects, along with coaching teams and managing stakeholder expectations.
You oversee portfolios of improvement work, coach Green and Black Belts and help shape how improvement is governed and sustained.
How deep does the analysis go at each level?
Learning is focused on fundamental Lean and Six Sigma tools that highlight waste, variation and improvement opportunities.
Application of statistical and process analysis tools enables root cause identification, validation of improvements and performance control.
More advanced statistical and analytical techniques are applied to complex, high-risk performance challenges.
Selection and adaptation of advanced methods becomes central, linking analysis to strategic and organisational decision-making.
How much leadership and influence is expected?
Collaboration within teams supports the adoption of improved ways of working.
Project leadership requires building local commitment and maintaining momentum throughout delivery.
Change leadership becomes a core expectation, including coaching others and addressing resistance.
Influence extends to senior leaders, with a focus on developing capability and sustaining long-term improvement.
What do I earn on certification?
Successful completion results in Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification.
Certification is awarded as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.
Achievement is recognised through Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
Completion leads to Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification.
What are the pre-requisites to start?
An interest in developing basic continuous improvement skills is sufficient to begin.
Entry typically requires an interest in developing practitioner-level improvement capability.
Prior Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification is required.
Eligibility requires Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
Delivery formats available
- Self-paced eLearning
- Instructor-led Virtual Classroom
- Face-to-Face Classroom Training
- On-site Group Training
- Self-paced eLearning
- Instructor-led Virtual Classroom
- Face-to-Face Classroom Training
- On-site Group Training
- Instructor-led Virtual Classroom
- Face-to-Face Classroom Training
- On-site Group Training
- Blended Learning combining virtual, classroom and coached application
Meet the Our Learners
We’ve got 100’s more quotes like these. Read’em, or try the Bootcamp and see the difference yourself.
Program Features
The quickest, easiest and most engaging way to get individuals and companies on track with Lean Six Sigma concepts and tools.
In-person and virtual workshops
Ready-to-use job aids, tools and templates
Peer-to-peer learning forums
Distinctive digital learning content
Expert coaching support
Nudges, reminders and micro learning
Excellent for remote teams
Auto-translate curriculum and instruction
Multi-channel; eLearning, virtual, face-to-face or in-house
Make progress in less time and deliver results quickly
Tailored learning solutions for companies
Mobile friendly
Highly practical
Join our Lean Six Sigma community
Practice exams
World Class Lean Six Sigma Certification
We don’t just deliver training.
We train to deliver business results.