Certified Quality Analyst (CQA)
Certification Provider
American Society for Quality (ASQ)
Best For
Quality Analysts, Quality Auditors, Quality Managers, Quality Engineers, Quality Assurance Specialists, Operations Managers with quality focus
Description
The Certified Quality Analyst (CQA) is a professional credential offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) that validates an individual's comprehensive understanding of quality analysis and control. This certification focuses on principles of quality auditing, including the auditing process, methods, and techniques, as well as quality tools and continuous improvement strategies. Earning the CQA demonstrates a commitment to quality practices and a proficiency in analyzing and resolving complex quality issues within organizations.
Includes Certification
Yes
Prerequisites
A minimum of eight years of work experience in the field of quality analysis, with at least three years in a decision-making position. This experience must be in a full-time, paid role.
A completed degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ, which can reduce the eight-year experience requirement. For example, a diploma from a technical or trade school can reduce the requirement by one year, an associate degree by two years, a bachelor’s degree by four years, and a master’s or doctorate by five years.
Proof of professionalism through endorsements, which can be from a current or past supervisor, a client, or a peer.
Understanding of the CQA Body of Knowledge, which includes topics such as auditing fundamentals, audit process, auditor competencies, audit program management and business applications, quality tools and techniques, and risk management.
Passing the CQA examination, which is a multiple-choice test that assesses the candidate's understanding of the CQA Body of Knowledge.
Maintenance of the certification through recertification, which requires 18 recertification units (RUs) every three years or re-taking and passing the examination.
