Pursuing A Quality Management Career Without a Degree

• Quality managers are in demand, and degree programs in quality assurance management are relatively new and not always required.
• Certifications based on workplace experience are available and cost around $700, including study materials.
• Starting as an inspector is considered a good entry point into Quality Assurance. It provides valuable practical experience on the floor before moving into management.

The forum thread discusses various insights and advice on pursuing a quality management career without a degree. It highlights that quality managers are in demand and notes that degree programs in quality assurance management are relatively new and not always required. Instead, certifications based on workplace experience are available and cost around $700, including study materials.

One major challenge is that job market requirements are often set by individuals who may not fully understand the value of certifications over degrees, making it challenging to pass initial job screenings without a degree listed on a resume. However, professionals in the field have successfully worked in Quality Assurance (QA) for years without a degree by obtaining multiple certifications. These certifications are more valuable for the knowledge gained than the certification itself. However, employers often appreciate certifications like the Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSB), even if not directly used.

Starting as an inspector is considered a good entry point into Quality Assurance, providing valuable practical experience on the floor before moving into management. It’s beneficial if an employer is willing to subsidize education or certifications, often requiring a commitment to stay with the company for a period. Certifications can be obtained through self-study at a reasonable cost.

Employer support is crucial, as they may subsidize education or certifications in exchange for a commitment to work for a specific period. Maintaining certifications is essential for career progression and positive employer perception. Quality Assurance is a diverse field with various paths and specializations, and professionals should weigh the long-term benefits of staying with an employer that invests in their growth versus moving to a larger company where they might be restricted to a narrower discipline.

In summary, while a degree may help pass initial job screenings, gaining certifications, practical experience, and employer support are viable paths to advancing in a quality management career without a degree.

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