Quality Control Schools Overview
Quality control is the process of evaluating and regulating production processes to ensure they meet requirements and standards according to industry and the law. This can be applied to manufacturing processes, clinical or product trials, and food processing. Quality control is similar to quality assurance, and many programs integrate these two concepts together. Quality control training is offered at various levels, from a certificate to a master's degree.
| Degree Level | Requirements | Program Length |
|---|---|---|
| Quality Control or Quality Assurance Certificate | High school diploma or equivalent | Around 30 credit hours |
| Associate of Science in Quality Assurance, Associate of Applied Science in Quality Engineering Technology | High school diploma or equivalent | 2 years |
| Bachelor of Manufacturing Management in Quality Management, Bachelor of Science in Quality Assurance | High school diploma or equivalent | 4 years |
| Master of Science in Quality Assurance, Master of Science in Quality Management, Graduate Certificate in Quality Management | Bachelor's degree in quality control or related technical field | 2 years |
Quality Control Certificate Programs
Certificate programs in quality control are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions; usually, these positions have to do with inspecting mechanical systems to make sure they are performing up to standard. Students take an introductory course in quality control, as well as other courses in technical drafting and AutoCAD, math, and manufacturing. Certificate programs typically require around 30 credit hours. Applicants usually need at least a high school diploma or equivalent to be accepted.
Quality Control Associate's Degrees
Associate's degrees in quality control may be termed quality assurance or quality engineering technology, which is similar to an engineering technology program, but more focused on teaching quality inspection. While courses in math, AutoCAD, and manufacturing are included, associate's programs expand upon concepts learned in a certificate program. Courses in Six Sigma, project management, and general studies such as communication, psychology, and economics, are required.
These programs also prepare students for entry-level quality control positions, but they're also designed to transfer to a bachelor's program. Associate's degrees typically last up to 2 years and, varying by program, require up to 65 credit hours.
Quality Control Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor's degrees in quality control include a Bachelor of Manufacturing Management in Quality Management, Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems, or a Bachelor of Science in Quality Assurance. These programs are for students who would like to advance to management or supervisory positions in quality control, assurance, design or technology.
Some programs offer students the chance to specialize their education to fit their professional or personal interests. Internships are included as well. Students commonly take courses in metrology, project management, Six Sigma, quality auditing, as well as general education courses. Bachelor's programs typically last 4 years and required around 120 credits.
Quality Control Master's Degrees
Quality control master's degrees include a Master of Science in Quality Assurance and a Master of Science in Quality Management. Graduate certificates are also available for those who do not wish to pursue a degree. Master's programs are usually designed for working professionals to increase their skills and advance in their careers. These degrees usually last 2 years and require up to 36 credit hours, depending on the program.
Students typically take courses in quality and project engineering, operations management and quality management. Master's programs and graduate certificates require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree; some schools require the degree to be in a field related to quality control or another technical field. Graduates of master's programs can advance to manage quality control in organizations or design and implement programs, among other opportunities.
