Six Sigma vs PMP: How to Choose the Right One in 2024?

Getting a Professional certification to work in any industry is a must today. Recruiters often list a few certifications in their job description as an eligibility criterion for applying for a job role. Because having a well-recognised certification, ensures the potential employer of your skills and knowledge about the industry.   

For jobs in Project Management, employers often look for project managers with either Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, Six Sigma certification, or sometimes even both. Due to this, many are confused about what certification to take up.   

PMP is the most popular certification in Project Management that deals with entire Project management as a subject. But there are other project management certifications like six sigma certification that deal with more specific areas of management.   

This blog will help you understand the similarity and differences between Six Sigma vs. PMP certification. We will also provide guidelines to help you choose between PMP or Six Sigma or if you have to take up dual certification. 

Table of Contents  

1) Comparison Between Six Sigma vs PMP

   a) What is the Six Sigma Certification?

   b) What is the PMP Certification?

2) Similarities Between PMP vs Six Sigma

3) Differences Between PMP and Six Sigma

4) Six Sigma vs PMP: Eligibility Criteria

5) Six Sigma or PMP – Tips for Choosing the Right Certification for You

6) PMP vs. Six Sigma – Which will be your choice?

7) How can you Benefit from Dual Certification?

8) Conclusion

Comparison Between Six Sigma vs PMP

Six Sigma vs PMP has become a hot topic of debate in recent years as the professionals are getting confused in deciding which certification to pursue. Both PMP and Six Sigma support the advancement of your career in Project Management. Both professional certifications will help you showcase your skills, expertise in managing projects and industry knowledge. Now let's get into the specific details of both these certifications.

a) What is the Six Sigma Certification? 

Six Sigma is an industrial engineering quality methodology utilised mainly for managing manufacturing processes. Six Sigma is based on statistical analysis and quality control, demonstrating your ability and expertise in the Six Sigma approach to Project Management. This methodology reduces defects and production errors and increases customer satisfaction through process redesign and measurement.   

Each level in this certification represents a coloured "belt" for which you can earn a certification. Six Sigma master black belt is the highest level of certification. Six Sigma consists of several levels commonly known as belts at the project level. All Six Sigma belts are levels under the master black, but you can obtain these certifications in any order you wish. The various Six Sigma belts are – white belt, yellow belt, green belt, and black belt.   

The "cause and effect diagram" (or "fishbone diagram"), often known as an "Ishikawa diagram" after its inventor, Kaoru Ishikawa, is a tool used by Six Sigma practitioners.  

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b) What is the PMP Certification?  

A Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate is one globally recognised Project Management credential. PMP certification is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). You can earn this credential to showcase your skills and expertise in managing projects from the beginning till completion. Unlike Six Sigma with various levels of certification, PMP is a single certification. It is mainly recommended to those just starting their career in Project Management.   

In the PMP exam preparation process, you will learn the best practices of Project Management, problem-solving skills and concepts, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, controlling and closing the project. To gain this certification, you must pass the PMP exam, which is considered one of the most demanding professional exams. You may have to consider getting PMP certification training to help you prepare for this exam. Check your eligibility before taking up the PMP exam, as PMI prescribes a comprehensive eligibility criterion for PMP certification.   

Want to gain a certification that demonstrates your Project Management skills and experience? Sign up for PMP Certification Training! 

Similarities Between PMP vs Six Sigma

Here is a list of similarities between both Six Sigma and PMP certification: 

1) Both certifications are globally renowned 

2) Both refer to bodies of knowledge – Lean Six Sigma for Six Sigma certification and the PMBOK Guide for PMP certification

3) Both certifications will help you to improve process performance 

4) Both these certifications employ a five-phase methodology 

5) Both these use similar tools like charts and fishbone diagrams 

6) These both methodologies bring businesses an equal amount of value 

7) Companies mostly look for professionals with either of the certifications 

8) Though both these certifications apply core principles of Project Management differently, their focus is on improving Project Management approaches.  

9) The level of expertise that you will gain in Project Management is equal to both the certifications 

10) Both these certifications offer the potential for higher incomes when compared to other Project Managers without these credentials 

Differences Between PMP and Six Sigma

Now that we know the similarities between Sigma and PMP certification, let's see what sets them apart – the differences.   

Six Sigma vs PMP: Methodology
 

Six Sigma vs PMP: How to earn the certification?

To earn the PMP certificate, PMI requires 35 contact hours or a CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) certificate, irrespective of your educational background. 

Along with these, you must have the following: 

A) Minimum of 3 years of work experience in Project Management if you hold a bachelor’s degree 

B) Minimum of 5 years of work experience in Project Management if you have a high school diploma or associate degree 

There is no particular certifying body for Six Sigma. As we have discussed earlier, Six Sigma has different certification levels, each with other educational requirements. It is generally recommended that you train with a highly qualified Lean Six Sigma trainer/institution before you take the Six Sigma exam.   

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Six Sigma vs PMP: Maintaining both the CertificationsLean

Lean Six Sigma certification does not have any expiration date. The PMP certification should be renewed every three years, and PMI requires you to earn Professional Development Units (PDUs) for PMP certification renewal.

Six Sigma vs PMP: Time Required for Preparation

Generally, you will require three to five weeks of preparation to gain the Six Sigma certificate. Comparatively, this duration is higher for PMP certification. You will need two months to a year of practice to attain the PMP certificate.   

Six Sigma vs PMP: Industry Applications

Six Sigma principles are used in organisations such as Amazon, Motorola, General Electric, and Ford Motor Company. Principles of PMP, such as Project Management processes and knowledge areas, are used in IT, construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and banking and finance. 

Six Sigma vs PMP: Hierarchy
 

A multi-tier structure is followed by Six Sigma, denoted by belts that are of different colour codes. Let us discuss each of them:

White Belt: It is the introductory certification for Six Sigma. Once you complete this certification or belt, you will understand the basics of Six Sigma. 

Yellow Belt: It will help you acquire knowledge to improvise processes using tools.

Green Belt: An expert Six Sigma belt or certification will be achieved once you complete this certification.

Black Belt and Master Black Belt: The Black Belt certification will give you the capability to coach others in Six Sigma specialisation.

When it comes to PMP certification, the learners must follow a certain hierarchy of PMI that includes the following: professional Project Management, Skill Training, and complete knowledge of the Institute's Project Management Body of Knowledge (also known as the PMBOK Guide).

Start your preparation from here – sign up for the Introduction to Project Management course!      

Six Sigma vs PMP: Eligibility Criteria

You need to have more than three years of relevant work experience to become eligible for Six Sigma exams. 

According to PMI, there exist two types of eligibility criteria.

a) If you have obtained a bachelor's degree or a global equivalence, then the eligibility criteria are a minimum of three years of applicable work experience and a Project Management training or CAPM Certification of time duration equal to 35 hours.

b) If you have obtained a high school diploma, associate degree or its global equivalence, then the eligibility criteria are a minimum of five years of applicable work experience and a Project Management training or CAPM Certification of time duration equal to 35 hours.

In PMP Certification, learners must match the PMI eligibility requirements which include Professional Project Management Training and thorough knowledge of PMBOK Guide.

Six Sigma vs PMP: Administrator

The administrators for Six Sigma are recognised worldwide by the America Society for Quality (ASQ) and the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), even though there does not exist any single body of administrators. In addition, Six Sigma helps in Operations Management. In terms of PMP, it is administered by Project Management Institute.

Six Sigma vs PMP: Validity

For Six Sigma, there exists no expiry date. Whereas the certification for PMP can take many years to complete. Once in three years, the certificate can be renewed through prescribed professional development units.

Six Sigma or PMP – Tips for Choosing the Right Certification for You

To solve your confusion about choosing either of these certifications, start by assessing the pros and cons of each of these certifications. The pros and cons will differ based on the career path you set for yourself. Neither of these certifications is better than the other. You have to make an informed decision by understanding the different areas each of these focuses on. In addition, the value that both certifications will add to your resume will remain the same. Both these certifications will help you earn more in your career than other peers without the certificate.

Choosing either of these certifications depends on several factors. Read these tips carefully to help you in selecting the proper certification for you: 

1) Career Goals – consider how these certifications can contribute to your career path and goals. For example, PMP is suitable if you want to become a PMP-certified Project Manager. Whereas if you're going to advance your career in Operations Management or Quality Control/Assurance,  you may find Six Sigma more suitable. Consider your current job role and how you want to advance your career before considering the certifications.     

2) Professional Knowledge – evaluate your knowledge of implementing PMP principles or Six Sigma methodology. 

3) Career Opportunities – Employers look for Project Management professionals with either or both certifications. PMP is suitable across many career fields across industries resulting in various options. Whereas, Six Sigma also has diverse opportunities but its specifically suited to manufacturing processes. 

PMP vs. Six Sigma – Which will be your choice?

Now that you are clearer on the details of both Six sigma Certification and PMP Certification, their eligibility requirements, and career advancements, you can always have the will to decide which certification you want to pursue. Both have their own strong and weak points, but ultimately it is your personal choice. What is most important here is the career you want to consider for yourself. Choosing any of the certifications is not easy, and ultimately this decision is based on a number of factors. You have to consider your career trajectory and the future career options that can help you the most and excel you to the top of your field.

Also, check out our blog to prepare the top PMP interview questions to ace your interview!

How can you Benefit from Dual Certification?

An organisation is benefitted when they employ an individual who is well-versed in both PMP and Six Sigma methodologies. If you choose to do both certifications, Six Sigma will help you identify a problem, whereas PMP skills will help you with an effective solution. You will be employed at a high-level position with a higher pay grade if you have dual certification. Additionally, you can also apply for executive management roles. As discussed earlier, both PMP and Six Sigma bring similar benefits by improving process performance by employing a five-phase methodology.      

Having a dual certification will help you shift your career in any direction from Project Manager to even in management positions in quality control/process improvement. Your networking opportunity will expand with PMP as PMI members get to network with project managers worldwide. Additionally, you will develop your networking opportunity by joining the organisation from where you take the Six Sigma training.   

Register in our Six Sigma Training to excel in your career in Quality assurance!

Conclusion 

Consider the factors above-mentioned before taking up either or both certifications, as obtaining a certificate will require your investment of time, dedication and money. We hope we have provided you with all the information you require to decide on the Six Sigma vs PMP certifications. Comment below if you need more information or have doubts about these certifications.