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College of Engineering

Lean Six Sigma

Certificate

Streamline your problem-solving skills and boost efficiency with Northeastern's Graduate Certificate in Lean Six Sigma. Learn how to optimize processes, cut out waste, and focus on quality to boost business success.

Program curriculum Explore College of Engineering
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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part Time
Duration
1 - 1.5 Year(s)
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes
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Program overview

Lean into six sigma quality

Ready to become a champion of efficiency? The Graduate Certificate in Lean Six Sigma at Northeastern is your ticket to mastering lean manufacturing thinking and Six Sigma strategies. In just four targeted courses, you’ll learn how to optimize processes, eliminate waste, and improve overall quality.

This program dives into real-world applications, empowering you to make a measurable impact on any organization’s continuous improvement initiatives. With real-world experience and a focus on data-driven decision-making, you’ll be ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

  • Complete four in-depth courses focused on lean manufacturing and Six Sigma concepts.
  • Learn tools and techniques to identify and solve quality control issues across an enterprise.
  • Use this certificate as a gateway to a master’s degree and explore new career opportunities.
  • Boost your earning potential-certificate holders report an average 25% higher salary (source: Washington Post).

Lean Six Sigma expertise is in high demand. Companies everywhere are looking for pros who can optimize processes and enhance quality. With this certificate, you’ll gain a competitive edge and open doors to roles in quality control, process management, and more.

Northeastern’s signature experiential learning model puts you right in the action. Work through real-world challenges and gain professional experience in diverse industries. Our co-op program connects you with companies big and small, from corporate giants to innovative startups, where you’ll apply your Lean Six Sigma skills and make a real impact.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

Applications received after the stated deadline dates will be accepted and processed as quickly as possible; however it may not be possible to have a decision rendered in time for the applicant to begin taking classes for the desired term if admitted.

Applications submitted by the referenced dates will receive full consideration for the referenced term. Applications received after the referenced dates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.


Fall Semester Entry

Early ActionDecember 1
Final Deadline International Students outside the USJune 1
Final Deadline: International Students Inside the USJuly 1
Domestic applicantsAugust 1

Spring Semester Entry

International Students Outside the USNovember 1
International Students Inside the USDecember 1
Domestic ApplicantsDecember 1

  • Completed online application form

  • Two letters of recommendation

  • Transcripts from all institutions attended

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • GRE is not required for terms starting during the 2023-2024 or 2024-2025 academic years

  • Statement of purpose

  • Resumé

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for international applicants

  • The application fee is waived for all new applicants applying to any of our Master of Science or Graduate Certificates for the fall 2025 and spring 2026 application terms.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Learn to lead with lean thinking and Six Sigma methods, turning inefficiencies into opportunities for improvement.

Become a process pro

Master the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma to streamline operations, eliminate waste, and drive quality throughout any organization.

Hands-on quality control

Apply statistical methods and lean tools to real-world business processes, enhancing your ability to make data-driven, quality-focused decisions.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Degree building

Stack your certificate

Earning a graduate certificate is a fast and affordable way to acquire specialized skills while building toward your master’s degree. Upon completion of this certificate program, you may be able to apply your credits to an eligible master’s program, saving time and money on your degree.

Some of the eligible master’s programs for this certificate include:

Contact an enrollment counselor to learn more about eligibility requirements.

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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $30,864
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid
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