Six Sigma Principles from Coursera

This course is for you if you are looking to learn more about Six Sigma or refresh your knowledge of the basic components of Six Sigma and Lean. Six Sigma skills are widely sought by employers both nationally and internationally. These skills have been proven to help improve business processes and performance. This course will introduce you to the purpose of Six Sigma and its value to an organization. You will learn about the basic principles of Six Sigma and Lean. Your instructors will introduce you to, and have you apply, some of the tools and metrics that are critical components of Six Sigma. This course will provide you with the basic knowledge of the principles, roles, and responsibilities of Six Sigma and Lean.

Every module will include readings, videos, and a quiz to help make sure you understand the material and concepts that are studied. You will also have the opportunity to participate in discussions and peer review exercises to give you the opportunity to apply the material to your daily life.

Our applied curriculum is built around the latest handbook The Certified Six Sigma Handbook (2nd edition) and students will develop /learn the fundamentals of Six Sigma. Registration includes online access to course content, projects, and resources but does not include the companion text The Certified Six Sigma Handbook (2nd edition). The companion text is not required to complete the assignments. However, the text is a recognized handbook used by professionals in the field. Also, it is a highly recommended text for those wishing to move forward in Six Sigma and eventually gain certification from professional agencies such as American Society for Quality (ASQ).

What's inside

Syllabus

Six Sigma Foundations, Principles, Roles and Responsibilities

Welcome to the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Specialization! Six Sigma skills are widely sought by employers both nationally and internationally. These skills help to improve business processes and performance. Your team of instructors, Dr. Bill Bailey, Dr. David Cook, Dr. Christine Scherrer, and Dr. Gregory Wiles, currently work in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology at Kennesaw State University. They have collaborated to create a specialization that is all encompassing of the Six Sigma methodologies for both Yellow and Green belt. Completion of this specialization will provide you with the knowledge to either continue to full Six Sigma certification or simply advance your knowledge professionally. In this module you will be introduced to the foundations of Six Sigma, the purpose of lean, and the value to the organization as a whole.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops knowledge of a foundational toolset in Six Sigma

Taught by four doctors with experience in Six Sigma and Engineering

Expands on six sigma foundations and applies these concepts to lean principles

Includes access to online course content, projects, and resources

Introduces students to the DMAIC process, a critical component of Six Sigma

Requires an additional textbook which adds cost to enrollment

Reviews summary

Solid introduction to six sigma basics

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in Six Sigma principles. Many found it well organized and easy to follow, appreciating the clear explanations and structure. Students commented on the practical approach, finding the concepts and tools valuable for career and applicable to real-world situations. It is widely seen as an excellent introductory level course, effectively covering the fundamentals. However, a small number of reviewers felt it lacks real-world depth and found some content potentially outdated. Overall, it's highly recommended for beginners.

Best suited for beginners; covers basics.

"This is a very basic introduction to Six Sigma."

"An excellent introductory level course for someone wanting to gain basic knowledge."

"It is a good overview of Six Sigma principles."

"I feel it covers the fundamentals of Six Sigma well."

Builds a strong understanding of Six Sigma.

"Provides a good foundation to Six Sigma."

"I gained a comprehensive foundation for Six Sigma"

"It gave me basic knowledge of the principles..."

"It's good for learning about the basic principles of Six Sigma"

Concepts and tools are useful for career.

"I highly recommended this course, very practical approach."

"It was very useful in understanding real-world applications of Six Sigma"

"The concepts are presented in a practical manner and are very helpful."

"I learned relevant tools and examples applicable to real-world scenarios."

Course is well-organized and easy to follow.

"The course was well organized and easy to follow."

"I found the structure of the course very good and easy to understand."

"Lectures were presented well and were easy to understand."

"It was informative and easy to follow."

Some noted material may be outdated.

"Content is outdated and not current for real world application."

"I found the information provided is outdated and not current."

"It feels like the content hasn't been updated recently."

May lack depth for advanced learners.

"Course is superficial and lacks real world depth."

"It is too theoretical, without mentioning how to apply it to real world."

"I felt it lacks real world context."

"While great for a basic intro, I think more advanced students may find it too simple."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Six Sigma Principles with these activities:

Organize Course Content

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Create a well-organized repository of lecture notes, assignments, and other materials to enhance your review and understanding.

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Create a dedicated folder for the course
Save and categorize all course materials
Use a note-taking system to summarize key points

Infographic: Six Sigma and Lean

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Create a visual representation to summarize the principles and benefits of Six Sigma and Lean.

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Research and gather information
Design and create the infographic

Online Six Sigma Training

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Supplement your learning with additional online resources and tutorials to enhance your understanding of Six Sigma concepts.

Browse courses on Quality Management

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Search for online training platforms
Choose a reputable course
Complete the online training

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Discussion Forums

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Engage with peers to discuss course concepts, share experiences, and enhance your understanding.

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Join the discussion threads
Post your insights
Respond to peers

DMAIC Practice Exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology through hands-on exercises.

Browse courses on DMAIC process

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Gather a team
Identify a process
Apply DMAIC steps
Present findings and recommendations

Six Sigma Improvement Plan

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Develop a comprehensive plan to implement Six Sigma principles and improve the efficiency of a business process.

Browse courses on Process Optimization

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Identify an area for improvement
Collect data and analyze the process
Develop an improvement plan
Implement the plan
Monitor and evaluate the results

Six Sigma Problem-Solving Competition

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Participate in a competition to test your understanding of Six Sigma and showcase your problem-solving abilities.

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Find a relevant competition
Form a team or participate individually
Prepare for the competition
Present your solution

Career center

Learners who complete Six Sigma Principles will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Six Sigma Master Black Belt

A Six Sigma Master Black Belt is a highly skilled professional who leads and manages Six Sigma projects. This role requires a deep understanding of Six Sigma principles and methodologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this role and advance your career in quality management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Six Sigma Master Black Belt

Six Sigma Black Belt

A Six Sigma Black Belt leads and executes Six Sigma projects to improve processes and reduce defects. This role requires a strong understanding of Six Sigma principles and methodologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this role and advance your career in quality management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Six Sigma Black Belt

Lean Manufacturing Engineer

A Lean Manufacturing Engineer designs, implements, and maintains systems to improve manufacturing processes. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing Six Sigma methodologies to reduce waste and improve efficiency. This course will provide you with the foundational knowledge of Six Sigma principles and tools that are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Quality Manager

A Quality Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality management systems. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to improve quality and reduce costs. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a solid foundation for a successful career in quality management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Manager

Continuous Improvement Manager

A Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for developing and implementing continuous improvement initiatives. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to identify and eliminate waste. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a strong foundation for a successful career in continuous improvement.

See salaries and explore the career path for Continuous Improvement Manager

Process Engineer

A Process Engineer designs and optimizes production processes. This role involves using Six Sigma methodologies to identify and eliminate waste, improve quality, and increase productivity. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will give you a competitive edge in this in-demand field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Process Engineer

Quality Assurance Analyst

A Quality Assurance Analyst is responsible for ensuring that products and services meet quality standards. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to identify and resolve quality issues. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a solid foundation for a successful career in quality assurance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst

Operations Manager

An Operations Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and controlling the operations of an organization. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to improve efficiency and productivity. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a valuable foundation for a successful career in operations management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to manage projects and ensure successful outcomes. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a valuable foundation for a successful career in project management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business processes and identifying opportunities for improvement. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to identify and resolve business problems. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a strong foundation for a successful career in business analysis.

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Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support decision-making. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to improve data quality and analysis. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a valuable foundation for a successful career in data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Consultant

A Consultant provides professional advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to help organizations improve their processes and performance. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a valuable foundation for a successful career in consulting.

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Manufacturing Engineer

A Manufacturing Engineer designs, develops, and implements manufacturing processes. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to improve efficiency and productivity. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a strong foundation for a successful career in manufacturing engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer

Industrial Engineer

An Industrial Engineer designs, improves, and installs integrated systems for managing industrial production. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to improve efficiency and productivity. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a valuable foundation for a successful career in industrial engineering.

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Quality Control Inspector

A Quality Control Inspector is responsible for inspecting products and services to ensure that they meet quality standards. This role often involves using Six Sigma methodologies to identify and resolve quality issues. The knowledge and skills you gain from this course will provide a solid foundation for a successful career in quality control.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Control Inspector