About
The ASQ Master Black Belt (MBB)® certification is a prestigious credential that represents career excellence in the field of quality management and Six Sigma. This certification is designed for professionals who possess exceptional expertise and leadership abilities in quality improvement methodologies. Achieving the MBB certification signifies not only mastery of advanced Six Sigma practices but also recognition from peers as an industry leader committed to the advancement of quality standards and continuous improvement.
CERTIFICATION BODY: American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Learning Objectives:
The MBB certification program is designed to provide candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the highest levels of quality management. Upon completion, certified professionals will be capable of:
- Leading enterprise-wide quality initiatives and complex Six Sigma projects.
- Mentoring and coaching other Black Belts and teams to ensure successful project execution.
- Implementing innovative and advanced data analytics methods to drive continuous improvement.
- Contributing to the development and deployment of organizational competencies and project portfolio management strategies.
Exam Information:
- Eligibility:
- Must hold an active ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB).
- Must have at least 5 years of SSBB or MBB experience, or 10 completed Six Sigma Black Belt projects.
- Examination:
- 110 multiple-choice questions (10 unscored).
- Performance-based assessment covering the MBB Body of Knowledge.
- Total exam duration: 5.5 hours (5 hours 20 minutes for multiple-choice, 2.5 hours for performance-based).
- Test Delivery:
- Administered twice a year (July and November) via computer-based testing (CBT) through Prometric.
Re-Certification:
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years.
- Requirements:
- Demonstrate ongoing involvement in quality improvement activities.
- Complete prescribed continuing education hours set by ASQ.
Purpose: Ensure MBBs stay current with industry advancements and maintain expertise.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the MBB certification, candidates must:
- Hold a current ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) certification.
- Meet one of the following experience requirements:
- At least five years of experience in the role of SSBB or MBB, or
- Completion of 10 Six Sigma Black Belt projects.
- Successfully complete the portfolio review process, which includes evidence of technical experience, innovation, mentoring, and teaching.
Target Audience:
The ASQ Master Black Belt certification is intended for professionals who have a deep commitment to quality improvement and leadership within their organizations. Ideal candidates include:
- Senior Six Sigma Black Belts (CSSBB)
- Experienced MBBs
- Quality leaders and professionals with extensive experience in Six Sigma methodologies
- Individuals who are responsible for leading large-scale quality initiatives and mentoring other Black Belts and teams.
Curriculum:
The curriculum for the Master Black Belt certification focuses on advanced topics essential for leading and managing quality improvement initiatives at the enterprise level. Key areas of study include:
- Enterprise-wide Planning: Strategies for aligning quality initiatives with organizational goals.
- Organizational Competencies for Deployment: Developing competencies across the organization to support continuous improvement.
- Project Portfolio Management: Managing a portfolio of quality projects to maximize organizational impact.
- Training Design and Delivery: Effective methods for designing and delivering training to build organizational expertise.
- Coaching and Mentoring Responsibilities: Leadership and mentoring techniques to support the development of Black Belts and teams.
- Advanced Data Management and Analytic Methods: Applying advanced data analysis methods to drive quality improvements and innovation.
Achieving the ASQ Master Black Belt certification is a significant accomplishment and a testament to an individual’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to quality excellence.